Eat

5 Surprising Culinary Uses for Lavender to Make Your Summer Pop!

by TheSpot July 5, 2023

written by TheSpot

After our visit to Field & Flock Lavender Farm, we were inspired to create recipes to embrace the season. Lavender farms are in bloom and we came up with five surprising easy uses for lavender to get your summer in gear at the beach, on the deck, or in your sunroom. Here’s a little fun fact. The word July derives from Julius Caesar. Hence the month of July represents an imperial figure of antiquity and purple symbolizing nobility and power. Don’t forget that here in the United States 4th of July is celebrated with the red and blue and combined you guessed it… makes purple! So while this misty flower is experiencing it’s peak bloom, why not make your summer pop with lavender in culinary recipes?

The fragrant smell of lavender serves as an instant de-stresser. That’s why it’s no surprise that people are re-discovering the benefits of lavender in tea, honey, and baked goods. Imagine waking up in your happy place relaxed and rejuvenated? Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate lavender in some of your dishes. Lavender is delicate and aromatic therefore makes a great companion to meats, fishes, and desserts. We recommend using the buds of the flower and preferably dry while adding to certain foods. You may very well find them at a fancy hotel, restaurant, or your favorite cocktail lounge but most likely accompanied with a steep price tag. Can you make your own and add a little fun while doing so? Absolutely! The good news you won’t have to travel far and wide for exotic ingredients. Mid-summer is the time for beach picnics, backyard barbecues, or she shed moments for yourself. Sit back, taste the sunshine, and indulge in your favorite treat!

Lavender Sugar -This is rather easy. Simply add dried lavender buds to sugar and keep in a small mason jar to set aside for baking. Make your favorite cookies, cupcakes, or basically any type of dessert that is lavender inspired. A teaspoon in your coffee adds hints of floral notes.
Lavender Tea -Add dried lavender buds in a diffuser while boiling tea. Once tea is hot, add the diffuser in your favorite tea for an added bonus of unwinding and calmness
Lavender Ice Cream – You can actually make your own lavender infused ice cream. All that is needed is a bit of milk, heavy cream, add in some dried buds and oila!
Lavender in the Oven – I started using lavender as a seasoning several years ago and it upped my cooking game for my family. Because this flower is so aromatic, less is definitely more. Roasted chicken, lamb, and fish with this fine seasoning is a game changer!
Lavender Inspired Beverages -The possibilities are endless. Lavender ice tea, lavender lemonade, or lavender mojitos if you want to kick it up bring friends and summer together like bees to lavender honey. See what I did there?

http://culinary-lavender-recipes

July 5, 2023

La Llorona Cantina Mexicana

by TheSpot May 5, 2023

written by TheSpot

It seems Cinco de Mayo celebrations are held anywhere with food and beverage and a Latin flair. For a little history lesson, Cinco de Mayo is the day that Mexico defeated France in the Franco-Mexican War back in 1862. We know it as May 5th, the day we partake in our favorite Mexican fanfare. The Mexican food scene in Philadelphia exploded in recent years. Taquerias, restaurants, and cafes offering Mexican cuisine, Tex-Mex and other varieties are sprouting in neighborhoods and corners that were left void. In some cases, many of these eateries contribute to revitalization. Increasingly as there are more spaces introducing menu items beyond nachos and burritos, Philadelphians have a new love affair with Mexican food.

There is one restaurant that is not only known for authenticity but receiving rave reviews. La Llorona Cantina Mexicana, strives to meet authentic Mexican in a warm setting in the heart of South Philadelphia. Adrienne Salvatore-Markey, owner of the previous establishment the Thirsty Soul, transformed the location on from trendy bar to one of Philly’s most talked about must try restaurants. Located on Passyunk Avenue, they’re one of the few places to have ample indoor and outdoor seating but their menu selection is what sets them apart. In addition, you’ll find imported Tequilas and Mezcal that you won’t find outside of Mexico.

Plates such as Tlayuda and entrees such as Calabacitas and Pollo En Sul Mole, will. not only heighten the palate but will make you question what you have been missing all this time. They also offer an enviable drink menu specializing in premiere tequila and mezcal plus inventive cocktails. The passion fruit margarita and inolvidable are sure to hit the sweet spot. The care and attention to detail of the ingredients. the slow cooked pork and beef, the splash of citrus that shapes the dish is why La Llorona Cantina Mexicana is our pick this month. Don’t just make plans for Cinco de Mayo but anytime is a reason to celebrate.

May 5, 2023

Eat For Family Health Uncategorized

The Power of Food: How Cooking Can Bring A Community Together for a Good Cause

by TheSpot March 23, 2023

written by TheSpot

It’s no secret that Philadelphia is known as a superlative city for dining. North to South, Fishtown, and reaching far into the counties, our restaurant scene rivals New York and other nouveau foodie towns. Our diversity from Armenian, Cuban, to French and Italian, is a rainbow of gustatory feasts. We spoke to local Chef Maria Campbell, Founder of Cooks Who Care, on how she is using the power of food and dining to bring mental health awareness to our region.

As the Philadelphia dining scene was growing and evolving in recent years, Scott and Maria Campbell, a husband and wife team, founded the organization six years ago as a vehicle to better serve the restaurant community. Both chefs by trade, they began their not-for-profit organization initially as a resource to help industry professionals achieve basic health needs.

Through qualitative research, in addition to creating a YouTube channel of over 100 conversations, the couple found a pattern that the very people taking great care to prepare our optimal dining experiences, were neglecting their own health and well-being. Their research indicated that health, particularly mental health, was at the center of burnout and other challenges. We spoke to Maria at length about how mental health awareness evolved over the years and more specifically after the era of Covid-19.

It must be aforementioned that Maria is a strong advocate in brining mental health awareness front and center of conversation. Maria is full of insights and puts the work in everyday to bring forth this awareness. According to Maria, as with mental health awareness in general terms, industry professionals lacked the proper language to describe their internal battles. That is to say, chefs, servers, bartenders, etc. were reluctant most of the time to admit any suffering and internalized any mental challenge they were experiencing. Maria and her husband Scott looked for a way to change that.

Maria Campbell Founder of Cooks Who Care

Maria cites a couple of events that prompted more openness about mental health and suffering. One was the death of celebrity chef, Anthony Bourdain. It was then she began receiving messages thanking her for her work. The second event was when Covid-19 came about. Essentially the restaurant community ceased worldwide. During this time, industry personnel began to feel empowered to express feelings of anxiety and depression. As Maria described, there was now language to better define mental health awareness but more importantly to say that it was okay not to be okay.

Perhaps for the first time, these challenges although difficult were being heard and addressed as well give those suffering a safe space. Maria believes a lot of good came about pertaining to working conditions and health and well-being on the job. As Maria says, “Covid allowed permission to have a life.” She believes that today the working model has changed the industry at large. Examples including better working hours and increased health benefits.

Maria and Scott are working to set up mini grants to fund mental healthcare. The Campbells also put out Cooks Who Care Cook Book of 500 limited editions printed which 100% of the proceeds are towards the fund. Maria also set up a series of special events entitled “Break the Ice Nights.” Participating restaurants are allocating a portion of the proceeds towards the grants that Maria and Scott are hoping to procure.

The Spot recently spent a “Break the Ice Night” at Oloroso, a Townsend Wentz owned restaurant, in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. Specializing in Spanish tapas such as croquetas and grilled octopus, it was an excellent way of being introduced to a restaurant while supporting a good cause. Maria stated how thrilled she is by how the restaurants are rallying together to participate in these events and the amazing support they have received.

As we talked, savored our plates, sipped on hearty red wines from Portugal, and even struck up a conversation with a stranger, it was an experience that served as a reminder that community and conversation is alive and well in the City of Brotherly Love.

For more information on how to support this good cause, visit cookswhocare.org. The Campbells are also holding a fundraiser raffle tto reach their financial goal of $15k. The drawing is on March 30^th so there is time to donate at https://bit.ly/Raffle_CooksWhoCare. Lastly, for a free sample of Cooks Who Care Cook Book, sign up for our newsletter today! Hurry as it is available in limited supply.

We will continue to follow Maria and Scott Campbell and more events are in the works. The Philly dining scene is lively and thriving and if there is one thing we do best, it is to raise our glasses to support our communities.

March 23, 2023

Eat For Family For Her

Five Ways of DIY Event Planning

by TheSpot December 30, 2022

written by TheSpot

As home entertainment becomes more sophisticated each year with technology, Americans are opting to create their event experiences at home or party space. Rather spend top dollar on a night out and feeling dissatisfied, there are ways to host an event that is budget friendly The advent of home and cooking channels has given us opportunities to flex our cooking skills or hosting a girls night in with flair. The New Year is coming up quick so we spoke to Senior Director of Events at BCA Philadelphia, Michelle Mazer, about some diy event planning tips.

There was a time where your friend group thought nothing of spending a $100 on a New Year’s Eve package at a bar with top shelf liquor and not much else. Today it’s not hard to imagine that coming out of a pandemic and inflation so high, the pre-packaged bar scene isn’t so appealing. So how can you host a fab party at home or party space and not bust your budget? Michelle gave us some ideas which we think are just fab.

DIY Gourmet Cheeseboard

Often times you could be dining at a restaurant and the cheeseboard can almost be the cost of an entree. Well with a little creativity on the grocery list, you can probably create something for half the price. Take out your plain ole’ wood cutting board and dress it up with about 3 types of cheeses to give some variety. Add water crackers, nuts, and fruit like grapes and strawberries… Voila! Go really gourmet with adding a couple of marmalade jars to pair with the cheese. Heck, you can even give it a holiday boost by adding cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.

Homemade Succulent Centepieces

Candles and centerpieces pull together the table and gives your party that wow factor. Who doesn’t love pretty flowers on beautiful linen? Small succulents can be anywhere from $2-$5 and you can find an array of containers in dollar and craft supply stores. Add some winter greens and solid color candles to upgrade your style. The little extra makes some great photo ops and party goers love a beautiful backdrop.

Mismatched Dinnerware

What you may think is out is actually in. There are no rules on matchey matchey styles anymore. As a matter of fact, mismatched is in! Mismatched plates and chargers, colored glasses, stretch your imagination and for a colorful dining space or buffet table. Try different colored cloth napkins. We’re talking diverse patterns and textures. It’s all about being stress free and making it a fun environment. These items can easily be picked up a thrift stores or your nearby Goodwill at deeply discounted prices

Picture Frame Table Settings

Setting a picture frame on the tables can be set up for fun games or just having fun with friends and family. Do couple photos, your pets, or include your favorite pics of a memorable vacation. Some game ideas like True or False and Charades can be fantastic ice breaker based on your picture frames.

Lottery Ticket with a Penny Attached

Who doesn’t love a game of chance? Scratch Offs are an easy fun option and serves as a little break in the party by a simple scratch off. Attach the penny with a piece of scotch tape and place it under the plate for a pleasant surprise for your guest. It’s a fun way of saying thank you for coming out and spending time with you.

Michelle Mazer is a Senior Director of Events at BCA Philadelphia. Inquiries about her work can be directed on her social media outlets.

December 30, 2022

Eat For Her

Spirits for the Season

by TheSpot December 21, 2022

written by TheSpot

Company parties, Friendsgiving, or Family Sit Downs call for holiday cocktails or mocktails that heighten the senses. Candy Canes and egg nog, gingersnap, fruits and herbs. Get inspired by seasonal ingredients that are good for your spirit and soul. The Spot came up with holiday cheer to brighten up the holidays!

Partridge in a Pear Tree

The Holidays are dazzling and add zing to our step. Here is a cocktail that is refreshing and with a winter crisp refreshing taste.

3oz of Rum (or Spiced Rum)
2 oz of Pear Juice
1 oz of Ginger Beer
Rosemary or thyme for garnish
Combine the liquids in an average cocktail glass about 5-6 ounces and place the rosemary or thyme into the glass as a garnish effect

Christmas Stocking Punch

Whether you have been naughty or nice, this cocktail will certainly bring the sweetness to the holidays.

3oz of vodka
2 oz of blood orange soda (or other fruit flavored soda)
1/2 oz of sparkling water
Rasberry and/or mint for garnish
Combine the liquids for sparkling consistency
Add rasberry and mint for garnish

Santa’s Egg Nog

Santa has been working all season long and definitely needs a pick me up. This egg nog will give Santa the extra boost for his big night of the year

4 oz of Egg Nog (preferably original or old fashioned)
1 1/2 oz of Sambuca (Romana Black works wonderfully)
Gingersnap or sugar Christmas cookie
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Pour egg nog and add Sambuca stirring gently to mix
Add the cookie on top and cinnamon stick for garnish

All of these can exclude the liqueurs and compensate the non alcohol ingredients for great tasting mocktails. Enjoy!

December 21, 2022

Eat

Proof Positive Way to Dine

by TheSpot August 1, 2022

written by TheSpot

The fall of 2021, The Harris Poll conducted a poll where 1 in 5 Americans reported “heavy drinking” related to pandemic stress. As restrictions began to ease and restaurants were working diligently to bring back the dining scene, a new alternative cropped up creating buzz in the Philly restaurant scene. Volstead by Unity, a 100% vegan and serving zero proof non alcoholic beverages, is a healthy alternative for diners that are accustomed to less choices when dining out.

The Volstead by its mere concept, is changing the very idea of quality as well as serving a dual purpose of addressing mental health and recovery in the community. There can be a few challenges while dining out. It can be somewhat of an unfulfilled experience with limited menus and overpriced cocktails. The Volstead offers a robust menu that you download on your phone. They are conscious of waste therefore eliminating paper menus seems to be a trend that surely will become more popular.

What is even more interesting are the zero proof drink menus. Upon looking at the menu, it seems like the normal wine, beer, and cocktail selections you would see in any restaurant. The Volstead offers these drinks but non-alcoholic and zero proof. I chose a Surely Sparkling Rose which I detected no difference in taste and texture. There were so many choices on the menu but I decided on Mediterranean sliders. I was curious and my waiter explained that the sliders were made of beet and other plants.

Aside from the menu and selections, Volstead by Unity is forging a new path in the restaurant world. This restaurant is gaining a loyal following not just by offering an alternative but a variety for all. Eating for sustainability, eating for a mission, and eating for a purpose.

August 1, 2022

Eat For Family

Old World New World

by TheSpot July 4, 2022

written by TheSpot

The South 9th Street Italian Market in Philadelphia is undoubtedly one of the stand out neighborhoods in the country. Many big cities across the U.S. contain a Little Italy section or area dedicated to the history of immigration. Many of the businesses are generational spanning over several decades.

What makes the South 9th Street Italian Market special? Let’s take a little walk down history lane. By historical accounts, the Market was founded by Antonio Palumbo, an Italian immigrant who opened a boarding house for other immigrants in the late 1800s. Shortly thereafter, businesses and an outdoor market sprang up. Such businesses were butchers, cheese shops, and bakeries offering the highest quality products.

Today many of these shops remain the same family started from previous generations. Butchers, seafood purveyors, cheese shops, and world class bakeries proudly advertise their establishments going strong for over a century. The South 9th Street Italian Market was put on the map when it was immortalized in the film Rocky. The fictional character is seen running down 9th Street which has come to represent the grit and toughness of Philadelphians.

What is 9th Street like today? Simply known as 9th Street to locals, the market extends from Federal up to Fitzwater. The outdoor market still exists by diverse ethnic groups as well as restaurants, taquerias, and specialty food stores. You can put all of those establishments on your list and make a day trip out of it. There are tours available that will not only explain the history of the Market, but will make local stops to sample some of the world’s best specialty shops. Pick up some cheeses from around the world at Claudio’s and Di Bruno Bros. Find out why Sarcone’s bread is so good that restaurants have it flown across the country. Pick up a pastry from Isgro’s that are so heavenly, they personally attended to the Pope during his stay in Philadelphia. Have dinner at the historic Ralph’s Italian Restaurant that now holds the title of oldest Italian restaurant in the country. Of course, we can’t forget the annual Italian Festival held each May which in recent years saw the return of the grease pole.

Plan your visit in the spring, around the holidays, or on a beautiful summer or fall day. There is always something to see, something to do, and something to eat. See history 100 years in the making and make it a part of your history.

July 4, 2022

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