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Kimberly may be getting ready for her next New Hampshire escape, and
this blog has been discontinued. Thanks for visiting and happy travels!
 August 11, 2007
And we happened upon this one morning, actually looking for another place I had in mind - some place I am sure to blog in the near future - but as coincidence or fate would lead us to this tiny haven, Nicole and I sat down to a tasty little morsel in the most quaint of quaint places...The City Room. Do not let these photos fool you - we got there during the lull between breakfast and lunch, and minutes after these photos of emptiness, the tiny place filled right up with what were obvious locals, seemingly not even needing the menu to order.
My fresh garden salad was made with vegetables as fresh as I would have had at home, and my chicken salad sandwich was prepared perfectly. Coffee was scary hot and the service came with a smile. For a menu filled with what's fresh, and an atmosphere that says stay as long as you like, Nashua's The City Room is the ideal early day eatery. August 7, 2007
I have made mention of my beloved before, but not with my own photos to back up such eccentricity in a world that otherwise appreciates so little of it....ah, My Friendly Toast...I mean, not mine per se, but I wish it were.... So when you're in or around Portsmouth, wait, forget that...when you are any where and want something great and healthy to eat, in a place that you will never forget, think Friendly Toast, and get there. The FT is like a glorified diner experience, with wholesome menu options, including countless vegetarian dishes. Of course the name is derived from its bread baked on the premise - sliced thick as filet cuts, and toasted to perfection - the anadama is my absolute favorite, and a loaf of that goes home with me every time. My kids came with on our last visit and lo and behold, cooking and preparing allergy free food was a no hassle wonderland for us all. Baked fries, fresh fruit bowl the size of Texas and grilled chicken - just like Mama makes at home.
As for the total experience, you can never bore of simply looking around you. A thrift store-memorabilia-ephemera-antique-flea-market and amusement park all rolled into one, complete with servers and miscellaneous staff who are pierced and inked more than any of FXs late night reality show personas. Kids and adults alike wander around and usually spend a fair amount of time in front of the funny mirrors near the bathroom, or petting the stuffed fox-coyote thing standing on a back booth, or mesmerized by the neon lights flickering in the highest of corners. And to this day, not once has a mannequin's leg fallen from the ceiling into your quesadillas. Have some fun and go explore the Friendly Toast...maybe we'll see you there this weekend even!
July 22, 2007
If you're an avid reader of mine, would rather drink lye than miss an entry, then you'll not be surprised to find yet another Comman Man post. And if you're a die-hard fan, then you'll also know that one of my sons has multiple food allergies...therefore, for the tried and true groupie, you'll have already assessed that maybe this new CM post has a different angle to it than my past accounts. Indeed my friends, The Common Man in Lincoln, NH now goes down as my favorite allergy friendly joint in all the land of Granite!
Going out to eat is an absolute treat for my family, as making sure my son's food is safe can be nerve-wracking. Quite familiar with all of Alex Ray's restaurants, when it came time for dinner after hiking for hours at the Lost River, I thought, well we could try the Comman Man? It was exactly 4pm, a bit earlier than the typical dining crowd, but I entered the back of Lincoln's Common Man anyway, to ask if serving us was even an option. A woman with a vacuum seemed the most approachable, as she turned off the machine as she saw me coming. I had told her about Ry and she kept nodding her head, "Yes, Yes, of course, we can do anything...and not do anything," she winked when asked if they had ways of making fries GF - which takes both time and effort. I told her that even baking them was fine, and she suggested with excitement to pan fry them separately in olive oil and salt - "Yummmm," she said. Sold. [Come to find out - after dinner - that this beloved vacuum-er was the General Manager!]
We three sat at a checkerboard table, and came to meet John, our server. As if I don't feel like a pain in the rear enough when I ask for dressing on the side, or less salty marinades - I can't even begin to tell you my hesitancy to talk to a server about cooking for allergies. Over and over I stress with huge eyeballs and firm, albeit strange, hand gestures, "so his is dry grilled, separate utensil, fries are baked and no bun, no cheese, oh, wait, no lime in his club soda either. Yada, yada, yada..." Who the heck would want to serve us, and who wants to listen to my crazy mother redundancy?! Well we know Carol does, but now you know John does too! Take note Alex Ray, give these two a day or three or more off...their courtesy and service were unparalleled. I actually sat back, crossed my legs and didn't think twice about Ryan's food...a first. Thank You Carol [The Infamous Woman with Vacuum], for getting us in there, and Thank You John [A Server From a Mother's Dream] for taking my son into your utmost consideration. I hereby christen the Lincoln Comman Man the Fave of the Allergy World.
[Hmmm, seems I forgot to mention the FOOD we ordered and enjoyed...well, you know what I'm gonna say about that because you remember me telling you already - remember, this was another perspective of the Common Man!] July 15, 2007
I'll never forget my first time at C.R. Sparks - it was to see a neighbor play at The Charles Club. Blue Therapy rocked the house, but I remember being distracted by the aromas wafting back from the Main house's kitchen. Some time passed, and visiting C.R. Sparks became a must for a night out. My friend Karin and I escaped recently, enjoyed a few menu must-haves and sipped an excellent Malbec from Pannotia Vineyards, as we closed the place...ahh, thanks again C.R. Sparks.
Ordering is not an easy task at C.R. Sparks. The menu has the perfect amount of choices, so as to never overwhelm the patron, and the staff is always knowledgeable about the choices. So we moms knew we had to choose something we do not make at home for the kiddos, so my much loved scampi woodfired pizza was out - oh that was hard, but to replace it with brilliantly prepared Sesame Crusted Tuna was not a tough second. Roasted asparagus salad, spinach and strawberry salad, and all finished with a decadent Artisanal cheese plate and more Malbec. This was so not home!
May 20, 2007
As the sun emerges, so do the people. And along comes the need to be social and merry as well. Lots of locals bring their cordial mugs to an old side street [Middle Street] in Milford, now the location for Kilkenny Pub, to enjoy other's company and a nice old pint. What is special about this pub? Kilkenny's tries to be nothing other than itself - this is not the place to come as a tourist, or shall I say ACT like a tourist. It is indeed the place to come to kick back, relax and be one like a local. The perfect post antique shopping, pre-dinner drink joint a town could offer. Wish I had met you there just once Joe Mamone, may you never be forgotten...
May 14, 2007
So my boys have been sick - 2 weeks combined time nursing a viral thingie-ma-who-gee. I've been sick for three days now. Just sitting here waiting for this viral thing to exit my temple. I am still trying to figure out who made me eat broken glass, so that I can partake in eating again. And this brings me to thinking about good ole home cooking. And this brings me to thinking about good ole George's Diner...probably the most overlooked place, due to the onslaught of giant fancy Mills and all their offerings, to dine in Meredith, NH. The only thing more shocking than George's mouth watering All-You-Can-Eat Friday Fish Fry, is that they have a web site...not the kind of joint you'd expect have a website. But anyway, George's fulfills that need for a true diner experience...small, cramped, creamers in bowls and a waitstaff probably named Flo and Betty - not to mention serving liver, onions and bacon [that's where I draw the line!]. What I remember most is the Thursday special - New England Boiled dinner. Despite my healthy, organic choices day to day, it takes nothing to persuade me to honker down on a slab of pot roast, half head of cabbage and one of my favorites - beets! And there is no future for the Diners left in America if they do not serve Bread pudding for dessert. I am heading up to Meredith in a couple weeks for a retirement dinner [on a Thursday hint hint], but something tells me I may just have two dinners that night! Got to get to George's soon!
January 7, 2007
Hmmm....what's this?
It's the Midfield Cafe at the Nashua Airport! Owner Sandy Adams has created an airport restaurant in the second floor of a hangar that welcomes both you and me, and the pilots whose planes buzz below on the tarmac. Besides close-up views of planes and copters, the Midfield Cafe offers a nice little selection of breakfast and lunch choices. There are many specials offered, as well as, many choices for the pint-sized pilots in our life. Breakfast and lunch only, and great outdoor seating when the weather's good [like our January 6th 70 degree day yesterday!] - which has been every day of late! Don't be like me and plan to go every Tuesday...they are closed on Tuesdays.
December 12, 2006
A friend, going through a divorce, needs to find a place open to have dinner with her two nearly adult children on Christmas Day in the Deerfield area, but couldn't find anywhere. Can you help in this quest? Thank you!!! Bettie... Tell your friend my first thought is to check out Wentworth by the Sea in New Castle. While it's not near Deerfield, it's also well under an hours drive. And going to the coast during winter is one of the biggest treats in New England. There is a gorgeous Christmas brunch option, as well as, dinner options here. What a wonderful friend you are for asking...happy holidays! December 2, 2006
A few weeks ago, my friend Tina and I happened upon the sign of Manhattan on Pearl in Nashua. We were planning on a night at Michael Timothy's, but were taken in by the announcement of tapas and decided that Manhattan on Pearl would be our first hosts this night.
The night was young and we proved to be quite boring in picking our tapas. We were starving and didn't want to be disappointed, so I am thinking that is why we chose some familiar standbys...Gambas Al Ajillo [the sautee was so good we sopped up every bit with bread] and Calamari Frito [the best calamari I have ever had - it was surely the cilantro, serrano chiles and spicy chipotle aioli sauce!] paired with our second ever Espresso Yourself Martini [ever had an espresso martini? such a treat]. FABULOUS. I can't talk about the entrees or the table service, but the huge bar and its waitstaff are being highly recommended as I loved my first visit to Manhattan on Pearl.
November 27, 2006
Yes, yes, the turkeys long gone...looonnggg gone and the trees tied to the roof tops prove it. Is it me, or does everyone get their tree in NH? Anyway, it all means shopping needs to seriously begin [except for me since my husband taught me how much fun it is to do ALL our shopping 2 or 3 days before Christmas!]....but I realize all of you, are not us, so take note of 11 jolly spots to get warmed up with a pint before you hit the shops... 11. Martha's Exchange, Nashua - great microbrews, live music and social scene 10. The Gaslight, Portsmouth - my favorite brick oven pizza 9. The Bull and Bier House, Plymouth - funniest corner building going, but great fajitas and salad bar 8. Peter Christians Tavern, New London - you could walk in here with your John Deere mesh hat or your pressed, pleated chinos and Lacoste polo and be welcomed the same way. Delicious quiche and baked buffalo wings. 7. Murphy's Bar and Grill, Sunapee 6. Horsefeathers, Conway 5. American Flatbread, North Conway - all yum. 4. Amigos Mexican Cantina, Milford - the best non-pre-mixed margarita I have had in many moons. 3. The Shaskeen, Manchester - traditional Irish music and tar black Guinness. Yum. 2. Buckleys, Merrimack - best onion rings ever made...and Mojitos with fresh mint galore! and 1. The Rusty Hammer, Portsmouth - very homey with great beer on tap and hot sandwiches. November 8, 2006
It's coming! No, not Christmas! - please get your bearings...Thanksgiving - the best holiday of the year by far! With all the trimmings and coordinating of family schedules, won't it be nice to sit down for some coffee and pie after a long week, an even longer day of toiling by the stove?...wouldn't it be even nicer if those pies were from someone else's blistered hands and pastry cutter! Order today and take a break! 1. Crosby Bakery - I hear these guys can even accomodate Gluten Free products! - 603-882-1851 2. Frederick's Pastries - Try their pumpkin torte! 3. Jake's Old Fashioned Ice Cream - A Mainstay for Ice Cream yes...but pies as well! You might consider these guys for your December holiday needs too! 4. Mile High Apple Pie - Don't let the name fool ya - there's more here than apple! 603-883-7111 5. Dutch Epicure - Blogged last Fall! 6. The Pie Guy, Amherst- For only $10 per pie, you can adorn your holiday menu with any of the following delicious varieties: Old Fashioned Apple, Pecan, Pumpkin, Strawberry Rhubarb, Triple Chocolate Chunk, Cherry Crumb and Blueberry. To place an order, simply contact Margo at 673-4409 7. The Pie Guy, Plymouth, NH - Different Pie Guy, same game! 8. Kristen's Bistro and Bakery, Keene - From scratch,... every little morsel tastes of homemade heaven [ok, says my Keene friend anyway!] Lovely Lovely Pies! October 22, 2006
Looking for something new to do this weekend? Been wanting to learn something about wine ever since Sideways? What about where to bring your love on their birthday or anniversary? Yep...I know there's never any place different...but there is, and it's time for everyone to come unwind at Unwined!
I've visited Unwined with my husband, with girlfriends and just recently with some family. It seems like no matter the occasion, Unwined has an atmosphere right for you, or an event, like the Blind at Unwined Tasting a few weeks ago. Owner Scot Kinney offered 6 wines, a variety of appetizers and juicy morsels of information on these 6 wines. All participants make guesses of varietal, vintage, region, and winery and the novice with the most correct answers takes home a lovely bottle of vino...and let me tell you, you can have zero previous knowledge of wine, and go home a winner. My brother is living proof! The menu is short and sweet, but can surely please most any diner. My favorite menu item is the signature fondues. Cheese or chocolate with a variety of dippers, and you can pay per person. With over 200 wines in stock, both the novice and seasoned imbiber will be pleased. The atmospheric eccentricities, varied wine list, including Sake, and its personal meet and greet from the owner, make Unwined a sure bet time and again.
June 21, 2006
In the season of polka-dotted bikinis, you would think that abs would take precident over our apps. But that didn't happen at the Common Man in Merrimack last night. In fact, I thought Karin and I were going for a beer and to watch some of the Sox game. I should have known better and remembered when it's the Common Man, it's always apps over abs!
My readership surely knows about my love for the Common Man. It's a place where the atmosphere of historic homes and barns and all their exposed beams, crooked flooring and creaking stairs lures me every time. It's that powerful, influential kind of atmosphere that can transform your mediocre Chicken Ceasar salad into an artful culinary exultation! That is, of course, if you like that kind of atmosphere. Alas, thank goodness the Common Man has a menu to match its interiors - unique, varied and full of old world charm.
We sat upstairs in the lounge in order to peek at the Sox game from time to time. We wanted to order the mussels, but our very nice waitress guided us over to the mussels on special - made in a lemon soy broth. I'm not sure but we may have set records in cleaning that offering, so as any food lover would do, we took our crusty french bread and sopped up the broth. That is until our best ever crab cake arrived. I am a crab cake freak, and besides the indulgent half dozen that Karin's chef husband, Claude, brings me twice a year, the Common Man's crab cakes are my favorite in the state. Please help yourself and order them as an app or a meal! So seek out the Common Man for a great bar menu, better dinner menu and unparalleled atmosphere in this area. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable [last night they filled us in on the old home being part of the Underground Railroad, and that the ghosts remain!] and full or energy too which can always round out the dining out trip. You can even take a memento of cheese, white chocolate or a vintage Life cover home with you for a few extra dollars. See you there for sure!
May 11, 2006
Seems like all the trends point in the same direction...or maybe that's just in my world. Last year I got into Power Yoga, which inevitably gets you into thinking about the food you buy, cook and serve, and then my son got diagnosed with too many food allergies to list. So my full time job now seems to know about every local market, shop or restaurant talking about healthy food, and a healthier way of life. With talk of Global Warming, pesticides, Growth Hormones, phthalates, etcetera, my line of thinking shifts naturally to making better choices, not only for my son and his allergies, or for me to improve my practice, but for my whole family's general health. And this all brings me to talk about a wonderful local natural foods store that makes much of this possible... we are all moving Earthward.
So in your daily, weekend or summer travels, keep in mind that Earthward sits conveniently on Route 101A in Amherst, NH - probably only 10 miles or so west of Route 3 North. Their shelves are stocked for every person's allergies, celiacs and, of course, those organic food seekers as well. Not to mention their natural products from supplements to cleaners to nutrition books. No one says you have to stop off at Wendy's or McDonald's while traveling, nor should you settle any less eating away from home. Pack a cooler on your way through NH and stock up at Earthward to really take care of yourself and your family.
March 28, 2006
With low carb diets still kicking around, the bagel of the 80s surely is not the bagel of the 21st century. However, when disregarding those ludicrous fad diets, or wanting to splurge because of one, Hot Rize Bagel cafe will fit the bill! What you eat is made in their very own kitchen [can you imagine?!], and the freshness and warmth of a bagel can make all the difference.
If you have some time to kill, and sipping some Green Mountain coffee, and nibbling a sesame bagel seems appealing, Hot Rize is also a great atmosphere to consider. Exposed brick, wooden tables, antiquated photos and books all around, ...it is surely a great morning spot to contemplate your day ahead.
Hot Rize offers up to 16 varieties of bagels (my favorite: the hard to find, deep, dark pumpernickel) with spreads that include zesty cucumber, olive & horseradish, or even eggs, cheese and bacon. Better yet, I go here for lunch, and rarely pass up smoked lox, cream cheese and red onion on a pumpernickel [of course] - the salmon is stacked up to an inch some days, and is always fresh. Who needs NY!? [well, except you Karin!] Hot Rize Bagel Cafe
March 21, 2006
I've wandered along the alley ways and main streets of downtown Portsmouth more times than I can remember. It's the kind of place you can go any day, any season, in any weather and have a memorable experience. You know it's a great town when the day's toughest decision will be where you will quench your thirst and thrill your palate. So as Spring arrives, and strolls seem more doable, and the salty air beckons you, let me make it somewhat easier on you and tell you where to eat when visiting. Truth be told, there are many more than 4 great eats in Portsmouth, but as the crow flies, so do my cravings...and the following are my specials of the day... Friendly Toast Jumpin’ Jays Fish Cafe Gas Light Co Muddy River Smokehouse If you decide to stay [a very likely story], please head over to the Sise Inn. It's a local B&B, within walking distance to any in-town affair, with rates that are especially affordable in early spring. Rooms range from standard everything to a roomy suite with french doors and jacuzzi tub. The common rooms are cozy and comfortable, the breakfast nook healthy and bountiful, and the staff are perfectly personable. March 20, 2006
It's one of those places found in the opposite direction from everything, yet is so worth the reverse direction, and going back to find it. Santos Dumont Coffee Cafe is a dream to hang out in for a while, a day, or some evening during their many live music hostings. Situated on the Milford/Wilton line, the renovated old school house has established itself for the morning, noon and night crowds. Its interior walls were only moved to let in natural light, every tone of warm tangerines and autumn earth ragged on its walls, and the perfect combination of furniture, old and new, topped off with updated lighting complete the ambience. Oh, right, wait a sec...this isn't This Old House, this is a New Hampshire Travel Blog, so let me get to the point. The cafe's coffee [which is the best of A & E Roastery] and its light casual fare, as well as, ice cream, make Santos-Dumont a must stop destination.
So I gave you This Old House, now I give you the History Channel. Locals tell me that the man centered on the cafe's logo and signage, is Alberto Santos-Dumont, Europe's premier aviator. In 1906 Santos-Dumont was Europe's Orville Wright, as he first manned a powered, and controlled flight. What business does he have on the sign of such an establishment?...Well, they went on to say that it has been found out that Santos-Dumont funded his aviation endeavors through his thriving Brazilian coffee bean trade. Had Hughes even known. So warm yourself up with an A&E coffee, fresh bagel, your latest great read, and a cozy couch at Santos Dumont's....nothing will transition you into Spring better...because when the temps rise again, repeat the aforementioned except bring it on outside to their deck or garden benches. And of course, if you can't part with today's little black book, there is free wi-fi. Life is good.
Santos Dumont Cafe February 10, 2006
I am in the minority of women that do NOT get worked up over Valentine's Day. Of course, this is because I am married. I do recall some odd memories of being single, wishing and hoping some white knight would carry me off into La-La land. After all, I am a romantic! Ok, ok, let me not forget where this message began....yes, yes,... I do not see the point in such a holiday. If it weren't for Hallmark, there would be far fewer, ah millions, disappointed come Tuesday. Nevertheless...it is done, it is coming, and this is where you can find romance in NH on the 14th.... 5 Best Dines on the 14th And let's not forget to pull-the-old-package-out-from-under-the-table trick...oldie but a goodie! 5 Best Nooks to Shop at BEFORE the 14th [better late than never does not apply to this holiday, or any other for that matter!] And let's remember that flowers and chocolates are pretty boring... 1. Attrezzi, 78 Market Street, Portsmouth, NH - Sign up for a couple's cooking class, watch a cooking session, or just stroll in and eye the gorgeous kitchen and home wares, caress the wine labels and smell the cheese. You haven't seen a place like this before. Food is always romantic! February 8, 2006
I used to live in a tiny town up north, about 15 minutes from the original Common Man in Ashland. For 4 years, friends, colleagues, family and I walked into the restaurant like we owned the place. That's how you feel when you frequent such an establishment. You know the faces, their names, a chair moved and you know, you never need to use the menu. Menus are for strangers. The Common Man makes a 'regular' out of you. Ah, yes, The Common Man. I miss it up there.
Good news is that it's right off 93 North, Exit 24 to be exact, so it's quite accessible to those seeking out the big country up north for the weekend. And even if there are no plans to hit the slopes, then I would suggest a lovely New Hampshire drive, straight north on 93, for a lovely dinner, or camp out in the upstairs lounge, that could pass as any lodge's common room. Working wood stove, leather chairs, books, board games, comfy couches and darts...it's all here, at the Common Man.
The Lounge has something different every night... 5 1/2 Rules If you go: 2. Fast for at least 28 hours. 3. AS much as you like to order the apps...save your money and stick to the complimentary cheese spreads and crackers just past the hostess station. And don't be fooled, go upstairs to find a 20 pound block of fromage! 4. The basket of fresh crusty bread, and sweet date nut bread is beautiful paired with a body warming Merlot. 5. Don't get caught up in the too good to be true specials of Mahi Mahi or marinated swordfish [like Tina did!]...Order simple, leave the fish to the coastal shacks, and stick to beef...the Uncommon steak never lets you down, and it's perfect matched with garlic mashed potatoes, and the Uncommon salad. And finally... 5 1/2...don't bother ordering dessert...when you decline, your waitress will come back around with a basket of white chocolate chunks, that she'll gladly heap in the center of your table. Enjoy the Common Man in Ashland, it is like no other!
January 25, 2006
I'm positive that most of you begin the new year with a steadfast confidence that this is the year for change. Change in body, mind and outlook. We're full of hope, iPod running with us at the gym, passing up Chili's for fresh veggies at home, and we may have just started reading Oprah's newest book selection. Ah, what a great ride. Now it's 25 days into the month [dieters speak in days rather than months, much like a pregnant woman speaks in weeks], and so much for that whole line of diet thought. It's winter, the snow banks are high for once this year. I'm seeking out ecstasy. Food. Let's go out in style. 1. The Italian Farmhouse Carb LOAD! This old farm house is a haven for pastas, homemade bread and wine. The rooms of the house were not opened up much, so you eat while thinking Grandma May is going to come through the kitchen door with your piping hot fettucine alfredo! 2. The Muddy River Smokehouse Just like its name, its ribs, pulled pork and meat meat meat beer beer beer. Its downstairs is its cellar - dark and mysterious - and there is often great live music down there. I suggest if you're going to blow it, do it right, visit on a Monday! 3. Loaf and Ladle OK, so maybe not huge entrees, or even those dishes swimming in oils and butters, but this small cafe can serve up the biggest bread bowls, filled with homemade creamy soups. Its healthy here, but healthy can mean blowing the diet when portions are slurped down, and carbs are over the top. If you're into live music in tiny unsuspecting spots, call ahead and see who's playing...Ani DiFranco used to play here in the early 90s! 4. India Palace Order of Chicken Curry please, Tomato Shorba Soup, 3 orders of garlic naan, oh and throw in some Lamb Saag, wait, no Saag Paneer, and.....my latest phase is Indian food. It's almost all I think about. When I am not thinking about cheese that is....able to spice every dish low, medium, hot and very hot here....hot is HOT. All you can eat lunch buffet too....thank goodness my kids don't like Indian. and 5. The French Bistro My neighbor Lucie truly knows the chef/owner, where he lived in France and who he learned to cook with. Yes, the book seems correct, French Women Don't Get Fat, however, when American women eat French food, the fat is digested into instant cellulite. WHO CARES! The French Bistro serves up the french fare, with a wine and cheese shop on its way....I'm going on the French Diet! January 18, 2006
There's something nurturing about eating something warm and filling in the cold weather. I don't know about you, but I know I pretend that my body simply needs these things just to stay warm. Nonetheless, a fresh from the oven, crunchy on the outside, downy soft on the inside, soccer ball sized bagel or toast fits the bill for the best morning comfort food for me. If breads were on the low end of the Weight Watchers scale, I'd be microscopic by now! New Hampshire has come into its own with delicious morning breads. My favorites... Nashua Merrimack Amherst Milford Hanover Concord Durham Keene Manchester North Conway Portsmouth The Bagelry (two locations) The Bagel Works January 10, 2006
There's no better title to this entry other than the name of the place itself...Cooking Matters. It does matter! Living in a world of preservatives, fast food, and trans fats, cooking at home has become popular once again? It's been just 10 days since we all wrote our new year's resolutions, and I am sure that some where in the top three are: exercise more, eat healthier and some how help the Red Sox win another Ring. As a good percentage of us are well on our way to the ideal body, the one we've always dreamed of, the one that could rival any lead actress on Desperate Housewives or put Gabe Kapler to shame, we could all use some help in the kitchen to improve the food we cook at home, so that eating in, feels like eating out. Minus the tip!
The Main Street shop offers just what you'd expect. Myriad salts, spices, oils, and finishing sauces, and also surprises you with jams, hots, canned veggies [like Rick's Picks!] and healthy treats for the Maxine or Fido in your life. The store is sizeable with every wall and aisle shelf healthfully stocked with gorgeous bottles, old fashioned jars and squat cans. Chips, biscotti, biscuits and parmesan cheese sticks - every item complements the next. The next time I plan a gift basket, I am heading to Cooking Matters - even the presentation is worth a look, or many!
A cold case houses pates, artisan cheese and meats as well, the perfect selection for an evening soiree, post baptism gathering or wedding shower. Cooking Matters also provides high bar tables and stools lining its huge mains street windows, the almost standard cafe wi-fi for those who like to work with a little ambiance, and pour your own coffee, with flavors to match any palate. It's noticeably a popular spot for the area's morning coffee-and-pastry crowd, offering a roster of light breakfast and lunch choices throughout the day, as well as sidewalk tables when the weather's amenable.
Growing up, downtown Nashua used to be the place to get mom's errands done. Cooking Matters took over a landmark site, as it used to house the lunch counter at Woolworth's. This stylish spot and gourmet shop has made a mark on Main Street as a much needed and delightful additon. Visit, sample and sit awhile. Get inspired, get cooking and meet those new year's goals. And if you're eating better, shouldn't Wilson be too! Cooking Matters
December 28, 2005
The holiday is gone, but the chocolate remains in this house. I've been mowing down on Hershey, Mars, Lindt and some Hawaiian treats like toffee, chocolate covered Macadamia nuts. When you love chocolate, it's all good, however, you always know when something is even better...that's where Swan Chocolates fits in. Before Christmas, I encouraged last minute shoppers to hit the Swan shop in either Merrimack or Nashua, NH...well, again, I am encouraging you to get out and make it a box of Swan truffles for New Year's. The New Year should always be celebrated with the best. Get started on the right foot, and get in to Swan!
With your New Year's party just days away, walk in the door with confidence. Tote a chocolate covered bottle of wine or Champagne - made to order! The staff at Swan is as divine as its product, and is able to pair a grape to a cocoa bean with expertise and enthusiasm. Imagine yourself offering guests a New Year's memory that will not be forgotten.
Let's not forget desserts! The gelatos and fresh roasted coffees offer a taste for every palate! Heck, rent a chocolate fountain, grab a bag of pretzel rods, fire engine red strawberries and dried apricots for dippers and make headlines! And if you're not the center stage kind of guy, find your pleasure in simplicity as well, which allows for you to bring that signature Keepsake box of truffles...there will be no disappointment. Happy New Year's everyone...be safe and see you in January 2006! November 15, 2005
Here's where coffee gets simple. Fresh roasted beans make the freshest cup of coffee. If socially aware in the least, then it gets even simpler. Beans bought through Fair Trade and grown on organic farms, makes that cup taste even better. The locals know that a steaming cup of A&E joe, comes with a side of good conscience. Sure, there's no drive-thru or wall of donuts to be had, but again, I said there was good conscience. A&E Roastery will be your new favorite place.
Carving a niche in the coffee game seems far fetched, but A&E has proven it's attainable in several ways. A&E offers a Custom Coffee Club membership which sends fresh coffee to your doorstep. With several Club offers, there is a price that fits everyone's budget, with fresh micro-roasted coffee costing less than 25 cents a cup! A fun twist to the coffee muffin match, is A&E's Roast & Toast program. Your cup can be paired with a hearty slice of toast made from Mont Vernon, NH's own Good Loaf breads - made organic and natural as well.
A&E is also host to several area bakers, including: Kizo Cakes from New Boston, NH [granola bars]; House on the HIll, Mont Vernon, NH [spiced nuts]; Jake's, Amherst, NH [biscotti]; and Amelia's Kitchen, MIlford, NH [baked goods]. Be sure to give the greatest host gift this Thanksgiving, the perfect coffee to pair with the pumpkin, apple and mince meat pies. A&E Roastery is having their Thanksgiving Sale November 21st-23rd, where you will find 20% all coffees and teas. A&E Custom Coffee Roastery October 17, 2005
Is a cookie a cookie? A cake a cake? NO, No, no...at the Dutch Epicure Bakery in Amherst, NH, you'll find the Mercedes of the cookies, the Lenox of the cakes, and the Tiffany of the pastries. Owners Michael and Rita Ciola have built their business on providing the customer with quality.
When it comes to cookies, I can eat them by the pound - maybe that's why I love the Dutch Epicure. They sell their cookies by the pound! Made from top quality ingredients, the cookies boast no artificial ingredients or preservatives [same can be said for all their products]...enough reason to eat even more! And with a list including almond tuiles, chocolate chip, Linz, and pecan diamonds, need you ever want Nabisco again? I don't think so. And if planning a wedding is in your future, come to the Dutch Epicure for your custom wedding cake. A corner of the shop is dedicated to this lovely venture featuring an album with many ideas. Keep in mind that you'll need table centerpieces as well, and why not feature a chocolate sculpture, with assorted cookies or finger pastries surrounding the base, on each! If I could do it over again, I would forego the meal and just have a wedding of desserts!
Lastly, a bakery is simply not a bakery without bread. Exquisite is a loaf of bread to complement the sharpest of Manchegos, the sweetest of figs or the boldest of soups. Take note of the weekly bread schedule and plan your meals around your bread! Daily loaves include: Sunday - Irish Soda Bread
www.DutchEpicureBakery.com The Dutch Epicure Bakery Hours: October 6, 2005
The only thing typical about J.Beaner's Coffee House and Cafe is that, yes, it does serve coffee. Other than that, the almost 3 year old [February '06], privately owned J.Beaner's is a pure treat for the senses. Smell the 10 plus loose tea leaf flavors, fondle the shallow dishes filled with coffee beans, lose yourself in the cozy fireplace, transport yourself to old Harlem with the smooth jazz, and of course, ooh and ah when the veggie quiche, cranberry orange scones or green tea chai awaken your palate.
When I first stepped through the doors of this venture, my thoughts were that someone finally had the guts to bring a 'little city' north bound, to help offset the hideous suburban sprawl along Route 101A. For that alone I am thankful for this establishment - it just helps that there are many other reasons to love this place. Businessmen and women especially love the free internet access. They sip their joe and tear at their breakfast burritos while their laptops buzz and whirr to the uploading of that morning's several hundred emails. Moms of all ages bust in with purpose, moving tables and chairs to form impromptu circles of recently deployed freedom, as several child care and preschools surround J. Beaner's. And even the 'active adults' within the community have opted to forego the #2 combo at Dunkin' Donuts, for an Earl Grey and berry scone. Late afternoons and evenings create a different buzz as those cruising home after work, are thinking they would rather have a third root canal, than go home and cook. J. Beaner's offers several meals on the go, as well as catering, for more planned occasions! Nights can be lively here too as open mic nights have proved quite popular. Also, recently added was an outdoor deck providing albeit, the not too scenic views of Rte 101A traffic, but offering fresh air and natural light nonetheless. Well worth the visit, stop in to J. Beaner's on your next leaf peeping tour, antiqueing adventure or spontaneous drive to find an idyllic Main Street community, and let them delight your senses. September 22, 2005
Merrimack, NH claims the rights to a frozen legacy - King Kone. The tiny family run shop stands out on 336 DW Highway as its 1950s teal and neon yellow sign reverberates off the white, castle like structure. With lines 20 deep of bouncing children, tattooed-armed bikers, country clubbers, or those who just bought their condo in the 'active adult' community, this landmark is a must. The days are numbered now for King Kone, but the chance for ice cream awaits from 3pm-9pm daily through Columbus Day.
It's quite evident to anyone traveling through New Hampshire, that the number of ice cream stands come close to outnumbering even our beloved Dunkin Donuts franchises. However, the good thing here is that locally owned ice cream shops far outnumber the occasional chains of Ben & Jerry's or new-comers such as Bruester's. King Kone carries the old standbys, but it rotates other flavors such as coffee, banana, strawberry and raspberry. Twisting those flavors together resulting in specialties like cobana and bananaberry. For under $2, you can choose a life of risk and order a large cone. The young teens waiting on your every milky whim will stare you right in the eye, and politely ask, "Are you sure you want a 'large'?" The regulars will giggle upon hearing the order, and the girls inside the castle grow excited to fulfill that enormous request. As the cone is built, the window will be opened as high as it can go, and the foot tall cone will be carefully placed in your trembling hand. Act as if you expected it, leave proud and the others in line will bow to you. Where else can you have ice cream, your ego boosted and your wallet left full?
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