THE GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIP
FOOD&
TRAVEL EXCLUSIVE WITH
GUY FIERI
SAFEST PLACES TO VISIT
DISPLAY UNTIL DECEMBER 15TH, 2020
THIS FALL
DISCOVER OUR
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
FALL 2020
ENJOY SAFE TRAVELS AGAIN WITH THE GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIP
S
ince we last published in the spring of 2020, the world has been turned upside down in many respects. Fear and uncertainty gripped the world in a manner that had never been seen before. However, at long last there seems to be some light at the end of the tunnel as promising developments have surfaced. The travel and hospitality industries, which have experienced billions of dollars in lost revenue, are slowly but surely making a comeback. After months of dealing with stay-at-home orders, travel restrictions, mass quarantines and governmental shutdowns, hotels and resorts in popular tourist destinations are cautiously beginning to welcome guests once again, complete with new guidelines in place. Hospitality officials have put safety and well-being at the top of their priority list and have gone to great lengths to ensure that they are abiding by all governmental mandates. In most cases they have surpassed these guidelines. Bradley Kiesendahl, C.E.O. of Woodloch Pines Resort in the Pocono Mountains, puts it best. “Maintaining the health and safety of our guests and staff is of paramount importance to us, and we are committed to going above and beyond to protect them during these unprecedented times.”
02 | FOOD &TRAVEL FALL 2020
America, like most countries throughout the world, is comprised of resilient and innovative people who have demonstrated strength, resolve and compassion during these past six months. Those who work in the travel and hospitality sectors are no exception. Their commitment to bringing back travel should be applauded. As a result, people are “free to roam” once again, albeit by adhering to cautionary measures. No matter where your travels may lead you, be they near or far, please be sure to take some time to savor the journey. With warmest regards,
Roger Sands Editor
Fresh Air & Friendly Locals
RIDGELAND IS READY WHEN YOU ARE WITH Mississippi’s finest shopping, outdoor recreation, culinary finds and lodging! • • • •
35 Miles of Trails for Cycling, Walking, Running and Exploring 105 Miles of Barnett Reservoir Shoreline Natchez Trace Parkway National Park Boutique Shopping, Outdoor Dining and Brand Hotels committed to safety pledges
For more information about visiting Mississippi, explore visitmississippi.org, #VisitMSResponsibly. Save the Date for October 10, 2020! - Eurofest Automobile & Motorcycle Show - Natchez Trace Century Ride
ROAD TRIPS ARE BACK IN VOGUE.
Pg. 69
FOOD&
T R AV E L PUBLISHER Sam Wattam V.P. ADVERTISING Chris Stolpe chrisstolpe@foodandtravelinc.com EDITOR Roger Sands editor@foodandtravelinc.com PRODUCTION Kyeden Faith artwork@foodandtravelinc.com PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Cindy Watttam DIGITAL DIRECTOR Jonathan Gray digital@foodandtravelinc.com SUBSCRIPTION MANAGEMENT Faith Morgan subs@foodandtravelinc.com fullfillment@foodandtravelinc.com WEB DESIGN Jacob Rese digital@foodandtravelinc.com
FOOD & TRAVEL Magazine is published quarterly, Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter by Food and Travel Inc. 7553 Gunn HWY #335. Tampa, FL 33626 Subscription charge is $15.00 per year/ USA, $25 for Canada and $40 for international. For subscription inquires, email us at subs@foodandtravelinc.com. VOL#7 ISSUE #3
04| FOOD &TRAVEL FALL 2020
ADVENTURE ON. Just play it safe.
Discover the great wild open north of the park. Leave the beaten path behind for the trail less traveled, and far more than 6 feet of distance. Feed your innate curiosity with nature’s finest, frolic in a fabled small town, a winding river, or a valley that goes on forever. Live your life in full color. Just play it safe, pack a mask and travel smart. Adventure awaits.
Start discovering now. Get your FREE Travel Packet by calling 1.800.736.5276 or going to VisitYellowstoneCountry.com/Safety Madison River
departments Fall 2020
In This Issue
10
RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT
16
CULTURAL CUISINES
19
FALL RECIPES
26
AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN
40
FOOD TRAVEL TRENDS
Culinary greatness isn’t confined to such famous food destinations as New York City, San Francisco or New Orleans.
A self-proclaimed global nomad, Hanan Sayed Worrell has resided on four continents and travelled extensively, allowing her to move adeptly between cultures and cuisines.
Fall brings with it an abundance of natural flavors, often harvested directly from farms or gardens. From pumpkin spice to cinnamon to apple, recipes that burst with gastronomic goodness are sure to please both amateur and professional chefs.
A Beloved Culinary Media Conglomerate - Teaching home cooks how to be successful in the kitchen.
Top Ten Chefs - According to top chefs, epicureans can expect to find several experimental food concepts on their plates this year.
FOOD&
T R AV E L 06 | FOOD &TRAVEL FALL 2020
This is a journey that’s meant to be shared. In person. In all its glory. With the people you love. No distractions. No schedules. Just you and the open road. Every mile taking you further and further from routine. Find out more at VisitBillings.com/great-american-road-trip.
Fall 2020
CONTENTS Features
37
HOTTESTS HOTELS
47
WINE LOVERS
55
TASTE TEXAS
64
EXLUSIVE WITH GUY FEIRI
69
THE GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIP
The Hottest New Hotels of 2020 - New hotels are popping up around the world at a record-breaking pace. These hotels which are opening their doors this year are more than eager to serve travelers. Wine loving travelers today are flocking to Chile to experience its diverse wine valleys.
Everything is big in Texas, including the flavors of their many home style meals that are served with Texan hospitality.
Affable Guy Fieri, with his spiked hair and wide smile, has become the face of the Food Network.
As the country begins to bounce back from uncertainty, road trips have quickly become the vacation of choice for many travelers.
FOOD&
T R AV E L 08 | FOOD &TRAVEL FALL 2020
Restaurant SPOTLIGHT Small Town Restaurants,
Big Time Flavor
Culinary greatness isn’t confined to such famous food destinations as New York City, San Francisco or New Orleans. In fact, you’ll often discover creative chefs preparing innovative meals at small towns throughout the country where fresh-from-thefarm or recently cultivated garden products are easier to come by, thus resulting in gastronomic delights.
Topsoil, Travelers Rest, South Carolina Topsoil
was founded by three friends, including Chef Adam Cooke, who wanted to connect with their food in a more meaningful way. Their classroom is a 16 acre farm in Travelers Rest, and their mentors are a handful of passionate neighboring farmers. They have built a thriving operation that has given them a valuable perspective and respect for the hard work that small farms do daily to put food on tables and picnic blankets. Their menus celebrate the seasons and always begin with phone calls to farmers. This honest connection with the people that grow the food they prepare is what they want to share the most. To these three friends, Topsoil is something much greater than a kitchen and market, it is a love letter to long growing seasons and hard working small farmers. Cooke says, “I have always found cooking and eating vegetables to be the most rewarding experience, especially when it accompanies close relationships with the farmers. It’s easy to be creative in the kitchen when I’m so closely tied to the ingredients.” 10 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
The Cookery, Dobbs Ferry, New York The Cookery is an Italian gastropub where Chef/Owner David DiBari and his team apply soulful Italian cooking principles to all that inspires them. The menu changes daily and has very few boundaries. At The Cookery, the mission is simple: Cook great food and have fun doing it. The Cookery offers joyously carnal dishes in a high-energy environment. Think herds of nose-to-tail fare, hand-rolled pastas, whole suckling pig dinners and anything from Pearl Jam to a little Method Man for your ears. DiBari is also Chef/ Owner of The Parlor, a Neapolitan pizza restaurant, also in Dobbs Ferry, Eugene’s Diner & Bar, a feel-good diner inspired restaurant and bar surrounded by nostalgic 1970’s basement décor in Port Chester, DoughNation, a mobile woodfired pizza truck that spins perfectly blistered Neapolitan rounds. Chef David DiBari’s passion for restaurants developed while he was working a variety of teenage restaurant jobs: dishwasher, busboy, and “oyster bitch” at a Peekskill wedding venue. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, he earned positions at Windows on the World, Patroon, David Bouley’s Danube, Mario Batali’s Babbo, Zuppa and Eastchester Fish Gourmet. Named Westchester’s “Best Chef” 2015 by Westchester Magazine, DiBari can usually be found in his restaurants, carving whole pigs at The Cookery’s tables or slinging his artfully crafted pies at The Parlor.
FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 23
Taste of the Community, Edisto Beach
How small-town restaurants focus on local community and local sourcing when it matters most. Natchez Trace Parkway Walking Trail
L
ocated just south of Charleston, SC, Edisto Beach is a smalltown beach community that relies heavily on tourism. During the midst of the initial outbreak of COVID, Edisto Beach was shut down completely to anyone who was not a resident. In a place where tourism begins in the spring, to say it made an impact on the local businesses would be an understatement. Relying on the support of the local community, Edisto Beach restaurants managed to survive the shutdown. If you were fortunate enough to grow up on Edisto like local restaurant Ella & Ollie’s co-owner Katherine Rushing, then you understand that the sense of community the Island shares is a truly special thing. Four years ago, she and her husband, Brandon Rushing (Executive Chef and co-owner), were living and working within the restaurant industry in Charleston, SC. Ready for a change, they started discussing stepping away from their jobs and opening their own restaurants. There was no question as to where they
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wanted to be. Their first restaurant, Ella & Ollie’s, opened on Edisto Beach in 2016. Edisto is place full of amazing people and there was never any doubt that while establishing their businesses there, they also wanted to give back as much as they had been given. Jane Edwards is the local public school on the Island where 100% of the students are on free or reduced lunches. For some of those children their only well-balanced meals come from the school. When the pandemic shut down the schools and indoor dining, they realized they had a great opportunity in front of them. Katherine and Brandon found themselves with a lot of free time and a lot of unused food, so they reached out to the school. They decided to start making breakfast and lunches for the Jane Edwards kids. The program gained traction quickly and within two weeks they were feeding 90 kids. It was extremely satisfying to be able to help in some small way while also being able to show the children the importance of well-balanced meals and healthy eating patterns.
Ella & Ollie’s, the Rushing’s flagship restaurant, is a southern seafoodinspired restaurant focused on delivering fresh local ingredients. Their second restaurant on Edisto Beach, E&O Taco, opened in 2018. Open for lunch, E&O Taco offers a Lowcountry take on traditional taqueria fare with Latin-inspired cocktails. Their third restaurant, and newest concept, is The Briny Swine. Opened this past spring, the Briny Swine offers up a combination of fresh seafood and smoked meats in a newly renovated spot with a great view overlooking Big Bay Creek and the marshes of Edisto. Oysters at the Briny Swine come from LowCountry Oyster Company. They’re harvested within two miles of the restaurant and delivered by boat to the restaurant within five hours of harvest. In addition to wanting to give back to the community, Katherine and Brandon also feel it’s necessary to showcase local purveyors. It’s extremely important to them that they support other local businesses as best they can. They made the decision from the beginning to only use local shrimp from the Edisto Beach’s fish market, Edisto Seafood, as well as the fruits and veggies from local farmers on the Island. They are proud to say that several of the dishes at their restaurants come from within ten miles. Nothing beats shrimp from local shrimping boat Sarah Jane, grits from the Geechie Boy Mill, or anything that comes out of the ground over at Rooting Down Farms on John’s Island. To give back to the place that’s given them so much didn’t seem like a nice idea, it just seemed like a necessity. All of the local restaurants on Edisto Beach are now focused on getting back to “normal.” But what is normal? Maybe no one knows. For now it means offering a safe environment that still affords your customers a place they can relax in while on vacation enjoying fresh, local ingredients throughout the experience. Visit Edisto Beach and you will experience something much more than great food. You will experience community. FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 13
Fine Dining, Activities Galore and More:
Welcome to
Rabun County
V
isitors to Rabun County are often faced with a dilemma. Where to begin? With so many activities from which to choose, not to mention the vast array of dining options, it can be difficult to select a starting point. But fear not. You can’t go wrong no matter where you begin.
Rabun County, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, is Georgia’s northeastern most county. It claims the title of the state’s Farm-to-Table Capital and five Best Chef America award recipients. But with four wineries, two distilleries, resorts, golf courses, three state parks, rivers, lakes, trails and more than two dozen waterfalls, there is so much more to bring you here than just the amazing dining. Let’s start with the wineries. Tiger Mountain, 12 Spies, Stonewall Creek and Terra Incognita all create award winning varieties from their own vines, including Malbec, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Manseng. The soil is ideal at this elevation and as a result, the vineyards not only boast about their fabulous wines, but also of their spectacular views. Tours and tastings are available where anyone can enjoy both at the same time. For those who prefer their libations a bit stronger, R.M. Rose and Moonrise Distilleries offer an interesting selection of finely crafted, small batch artisan spirits along with a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
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Are you an outdoor adventurer/weekend warrior? Then you belong in Rabun County. Three state parks, Tallulah Gorge, Black Rock Mountain, and Moccasin Creek, provide countless hiking and biking trails that end in awe-inspiring views of vast mountain horizons, rocky cliffs and chasms or stunning waterfalls. With rivers and lakes galore, you can spend your day on waters white or calm, rafting, kayaking, jet skiing, paddling, fishing or simply cruising around and soaking in the moment. You can fly through the tree tops over 250 feet off the ground at the Highlands Aerial Park or you can saddle up for a casual horseback ride through the woods and across cool streams at the Dillard House Stables. Shoppers will discover antique shops, flea markets, eclectic galleries and specialty shops for those who revel in making unique acquisitions. There are the farmers’ markets, where “fresh” and “local” are the norm. Discerning travelers will find that Kingwood, Sky Valley and Waterfall Country Clubs offer top-of-the-line golf, exquisite spas and luxurious accommodations, while there is a wealth of other options for budget conscious travelers. From primitive camping and campgrounds to historic B&Bs and quaint cabins or chalets, there is room for everyone. Foodies can rejoice in Rabun County, which offers a wide assortment of dining choices from award winning barbeque to traditional Southern home cookin’ and everything in-between. But Farm-to-Table is why they’re on the map. Beechwood Inn (chef David Darugh), Lake Rabun Hotel (chef Travis Cintron), Julep Farms (chef Shaen Ferren), Rabun Manor (chef James Weaver), The Red Barn Café at Tiger Mountain Vineyards (chef Leon Lemoine), The Chophouse at LaPrades (chef James Reaux), The Farmhouse at Waterfall (chef Vince Scafiti) and Fortify Kitchen (chef Jamie Allred), are where the action is happening. Each chef creates a unique menu inspired by what the day’s local harvest offers. The presentation is as fresh as the ingredients and will satisfy your soul as well as your palate. Meals are paired with wines that come straight from the vineyard either in the backyard or just around the corner. All in all, this quiet little county can boast a dining experience that rivals the likes of Tuscany or Provence, and it’s only just over the hill from downtown Atlanta. So what are you waiting for? Rabun County is rolling out the red carpet for visitors.
FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 15
A Pilgrimage of Cultural Cuisines
A
self-proclaimed global nomad, Hanan Sayed Worrell has resided on four continents and travelled extensively, allowing her to move adeptly between cultures and cuisines, and to relentlessly pursue her hobby as an international urban recipe hunter. As a careful and affectionate observer of Abu Dhabi for a quarter of a century, she is uniquely qualified to guide others on a culinary pilgrimage by way of its streets, homes and flavors.
has emerged to include everything from food trucks to contemporary restaurants. Besides home cooks, Table Tales introduces us to some of the restaurateurs behind this culinary culture of reinvention and collaboration. Whether you like to travel, cook, read, or just have a glimpse of a cast of fascinating individuals, this beautiful, full-color book will take you on a truly global voyage, with eye-popping photos by Martin Nicholas Kunz and Heike Fademrecht.
Worrell grew up in Kuwait and was educated in the United States, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering at Stanford University. Through her professional career she has contributed to several impactful projects in the region, including New York University Abu Dhabi. The connections she has made both professionally and personally form the rich tapestry of friendships presented in her book, Table Tales: The Global Nomad Cuisine of Abu Dhabi.
The culinary sphere of Abu Dhabi has expanded incredibly. In the early 1960s, inhabitants of the sparsely populated fishing village existed on seafood, dates, goat milk yogurt and some imported foodstuffs such as rice. Once oil production began, more imported items arrived, but the selection was limited. The expatriates who came to Abu Dhabi in the mid-twentieth century brought their recipes from home but often found themselves in a cooking experiment when they had to substitute original ingredients with what was locally available. For Emiratis, who welcomed the multicultural communities, native food and customs became infused with flavors and spices from around the globe. As the city grew, cooking and entertaining friends at home became an integral ritual in how people bonded with each other. The eccentric selection of recipes in Table Tales illustrates the diverse global nomad cuisine of the city and the universal nature of a dish served with generosity and love.
Table Tales presents a taste of the cosmopolitan community of the city. With its multicultural population, Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, offers an immense tapestry of cuisines. Table Tales is the story of communities forming themselves through the sharing of food, traditions and culture. The book is organized by decade, showcasing the global nomads who came to call Abu Dhabi home in each decade and the recipes they cherish. Readers also meet Emiratis who share traditional family recipes, inviting us to sample a cuisine that is largely unknown. As the city has grown, a thriving urban food culture 16 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
PLAY A LITTLE, STAY FOR LONGER BRING YO U R D REAM S .
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When it’s time
COME TOGETHER It’s all here. The sights, the sounds, the people and the places of Plano. All ready to welcome you back, when you’re ready.
FABULOUS
FALL RECIPES BY THE LODGE AT WOODLOCH
Fall brings with it an abundance of natural flavors, often harvested directly from farms or gardens. From pumpkin spice to cinnamon to apple, recipes that burst with gastronomic goodness are sure to please both amateur and professional chefs. The Lodge at Woodloch is an exquisite retreat for nutrition-conscious travelers in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania that embodies the culinary philosophy that food not only fuels bodies but ignites passions and nourishes minds. Their “Nurture With Nature� Cookbook by Executive Chef Josh Tomson offers seasonal recipes for body, beauty, and healing, and shares helpful tips for a pantry clean up, choosing foods for the season, a food rainbow, as well as 100 recipes. FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 19
Pumpkin Chicken Chili Ingredients: 1 small onion, chopped 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 ½ pounds ground chicken 2 (15-oz.) cans diced tomatoes, undrained 1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin purée 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder 1 tablespoon cumin 1 (15-oz.) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed 1 (15-oz.) can white kidney beans, drained and rinsed Salt and freshly ground pepper Instructions: Warm oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, jalapeño and garlic. Sauté until tender (about 12 minutes). Transfer to a bowl. Add chicken to pot and cook, stirring, until no pink remains (about 8 minutes). Return vegetables to pot. Add tomatoes, pumpkin, broth, chili powder, cumin and ½ teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in all beans. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until chili thickens slightly, about 30 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
14 |||FOOD 16 20 FOOD FOOD& & &TRAVEL TRAVELSUMMER TRAVEL SUMMER/FALL FALL 2020
Always Catskill-icious.
We’ve always been a destination for wellbeing. And now it’s more important than ever. Come seek the promise of a good meal filled with culinary creations by imaginative chefs, handcrafted beverages by our local mixologists, brewers and distillers, and decadent desserts by master pastry chefs. And when your meal is done, rest your head at an inn, B&B, hotel or vacation rental where safety protocols take priority. That’s Catskills Confidence.
Catskill-icious is just a short drive away so pack your bags and bring your appetite. SullivanCatskills.com #SullivanCatskills #SullivanCatskillsDoveTrail This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
® I LOVE NEW YORK logo is a registered trademark/service mark of the NYS Dept. of Economic Development, used with permission.
Butternut Squash Farrotto Ingredients: 3 Tablespoons earth balance vegan butter, 1 medium butternut squash, chopped into 1/2 inch cubes large bunch of kale leaves torn 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 1/2 cups pearled farro 1 sweet onion, diced 3 large or 4 small cloves garlic, roasted ½ teaspoon chinese 5 spice powder 1 cup dry white wine 5 cups vegetable stock (organic Better Than Boullion), warmed Instructions: Preheat oven to 375o F. On a parchment paper ¬lined baking sheet, toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast about 35 minutes, until squash is tender. Next, toast the farro. Heat remaining olive oil in a large oven¬proof skillet over medium ¬high heat. Add farro and toss to coat. Toast the farro about 1¬2 minutes in the skillet then transfer to the oven to finish toasting for about 6 more minutes. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons vegan butter over medium ¬high heat. Once hot, add the onion and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook about 2 minutes more. Now add 1/2 cup of the wine and increase heat to high to deglaze the pan. Stir once or twice. Reduce heat to medium, and let simmer until the wine is almost evaporated, about 2¬3 minutes. Add farro and about 1/2 cup of vegetable stock to the skillet. Stir and let simmer until almost all liquid is absorbed. Continue doing this, alternating vegetable stock with the rest of the white wine, until your farro is tender, about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, cook your kale by sauteing with a small amount of oil, tossing continuously, until bright green, about 30 seconds. Add 1 clove roasted garlic and season with salt, pepper and Chinese 5 spice. Once farro is tender, stir in the remaining tablespoon of vegan butter, squash, and kale. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
22 | FOOD &TRAVEL FALL 2020
www.TourCayyga.com
The most scenic
Scenic Drives
Discover all that Cayyga Countt has to offier with endless selections of wineries, dining, shopping & more.
Cayyga Countt the Hearr of the Finger Lakes, NY
Gilfeather Turnip Soup
Ingredients: 3 large leeks white parts only, washed well and thinly sliced 2 onions, chopped 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 2 medium turnips, peeled and thinly sliced ½ head cauliflower 2 tablespoons garlic, chopped 3 tablespoons organic Better Than Boullion 1 teaspoon salt 4 quarts rice milk ¼ teaspoon white pepper Instructions: Add oil to a large saucepan over low heat, then stir in the leeks, onions, cauliflower and garlic, saute at a very low temperature, stirring occasionally, until slightly soft. Add the rice milk, potatoes, turnips and salt--bring to a simmer, then cover and simmer for 40 minutes. Puree, then press through a sieve to get a very fine texture. Garnish with chopped chives. 24 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
Tap into our CRAFTY CREATIONS From across the globe to down-home Southern fare, explore what makes Clarksville hip at heart and authentic from the start. Plan your trip today at visitclarksvilletn.com.
America’s Test Kitchen:
A Beloved Culinary Media Conglomerate
Teaching home cooks how to be successful in the kitchen
S
ince its founding in 1993, America’s Test Kitchen has stayed true to its mission to empower and inspire confidence, community and creativity in the kitchen. Millions watch the company’s two shows on public television, read their two flagship magazines (Cook’s Illustrated and Cook’s Country), and rely on their books, websites, videos and podcasts.
America’s Test Kitchen is located in a state-of-the-art Boston facility with 15,000 sq. ft. of test kitchen and studio space. More than 50 test cooks exhaustively test recipes until they arrive at the best version. A panel of 60,000 highly engaged volunteer home cooks provides detailed feedback on their recipes so they know they work every time. They also rate cookware and supermarket ingredients to help home cooks select the best-quality products. The America’s Test Kitchen television show launched in 2001, and the company added a second television program, Cook’s Country, in 2008. The two PBS shows are the highest rated instructional cooking shows on TV. America’s Test Kitchen Kids launched in 2018 and offers books, subscription boxes and a website to educate the next generation of home cooks. America’s Test Kitchen offers 200 videos of their on-air talent such as Bridget Lancaster as well as over 5,000 photos. You can choose to personalize lessons and track progress and learn one-onone with an expert instructor to receive guidance and feedback or you can work on your own. Their “Ask the Instructor” feature enables members to send a private message to instructors. Through the Test Kitchen’s unique instructional approach, you’ll learn the hows and whys behind innovative techniques and classic recipes, all broken down step-by-step. The chefs offer recipe lessons, technique lessons and cooking basics.
26 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
EXPLORE © Wells Horton
a place for your senses to embrace.
Travel Madison County’s countryside to discover extraordinary craftsmanship and the beauty of nature. Gaze upon the changing colors rolling over thousands of acres. Smell the earthy smoke of autumn campfires and the sweet scent of nearby apple orchards. Touch the history that roams all across a 12,000 year old glacial valley. Hear the waterfalls and rivers from winding trails and walking bridges. Taste farm-to-glass brews and some of the state’s best barbeque. Sensing the beauty of every season, it’s in our nature. Let MadisonTourism.com/Fall inspire your next adventure. ® I LOVE NEW YORK is a registered trademark and service mark of the New York State Department of Economic Development; used with permission.
Ultimate Shrimp Scampi
Why This Recipe Works
Our new shrimp scampi recipe uses a few test kitchen tricks to ensure flavorful and well-cooked shrimp, as well as a creamy and robust sauce to pair them with. First, we brined the shrimp in salt and sugar to season them throughout and to keep them moist and juicy. Then, because sautéing the shrimp led to uneven cooking, we instead poached them in wine, a gentler approach that was more consistent. To get more shrimp flavor into the sauce, we didn’t waste the shells; instead, we put them to use as the base of a stock and added wine and thyme. The key was to let it simmer for only 5 minutes, as a longer cooking time resulted in less flavor. For potent but clean garlic flavor, we used a generous amount of sliced, rather than minced, garlic. Just a teaspoon of cornstarch at the end of cooking kept the sauce emulsified and silky. Serves 4 Extra-large shrimp (21 to 25 per pound) can be substituted for jumbo shrimp. If you use them, reduce the cooking time in step 3 by 1 to 2 minutes. We prefer untreated shrimp, but if your shrimp are treated with sodium or preservatives like sodium tripolyphosphate, skip the brining in step 1 and add ¼ teaspoon of salt to the sauce in step 4. Serve with crusty bread. • 3 tablespoons salt • 2 tablespoons sugar • 1½ pounds jumbo shrimp (16 to 20 per pound), peeled, and tails removed, shells reserved • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1 cup dry white wine • 4 sprigs fresh thyme • 3 tablespoons lemon juice • Lemon wedges for serving • 1 teaspoon cornstarch • 8 garlic cloves, sliced thin • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes • ¼ teaspoon pepper • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch pieces • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
deveined,
1. Dissolve salt and sugar in 1 quart cold water in large container. Submerge shrimp in brine, cover, and refrigerate for 15 minutes. Remove shrimp from brine and pat dry with paper towels. 2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in 12-inch skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add shrimp shells and cook, stirring frequently, until they begin to turn spotty brown and skillet starts to brown, 2 to 4 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and carefully add wine and thyme sprigs. When bubbling subsides, return skillet to medium heat and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Strain mixture through colander set over large bowl. Discard shells and reserve liquid (you should have about � cup). Wipe out skillet with paper towels. 3. Combine lemon juice and cornstarch in small bowl. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil, garlic, pepper flakes, and pepper in now-empty skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until garlic is fragrant and just beginning to brown at edges, 3 to 5 minutes. Add reserved wine mixture, increase heat to high, and bring to simmer. Reduce heat to medium, add shrimp, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are just opaque, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and, using slotted spoon, transfer shrimp to bowl. 4. Return skillet to medium heat, add lemon juice–cornstarch mixture, and cook until slightly thickened, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and whisk in butter and parsley until combined. Return shrimp and any accumulated juices to skillet and toss to combine. Serve, passing lemon wedges separately. 28 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
LAUNCH INTO YOUR TEXAS BAYCATION. Birding & Boardwalks Spas & Salons
Food & Family Fun
Seafood & Spirits
Nightlife & Nature
Shopping & Space Exploration
Baycations are Better Visit BayAreaHouston.com
20 | FOOD & TRAVEL SPRING 2020
Kemah | League City | Nassau Bay | Seabrook
Pumpkin Bread Makes 2 loaves Topping • • • • •
5 tablespoons packed (2¼ ounces) light brown sugar 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ⅛ teaspoon salt
Bread • • • • • • • • • • • • •
2 cups (10 ounces) all-purpose flour 1½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda 1 (15-ounce) can unsweetened pumpkin puree 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves 1 cup (7 ounces) granulated sugar 1 cup packed (7 ounces) light brown sugar ½ cup vegetable oil 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into 12 pieces 4 large eggs
•
¼ cup buttermilk
•
1 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped fine
1 For the topping Using your fingers, mix all ingredients in bowl until well combined and mixture resembles wet sand. 2 For the bread Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease two 8½ by 4½-inch loaf pans. Whisk flour, baking powder, and baking soda together in bowl. 3 Cook pumpkin puree, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and cloves in large saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until reduced to 1½ cups, 6 to 8 minutes. Off heat, stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and cream cheese until combined. Let mixture stand for 5 minutes. Whisk until no visible pieces of cream cheese remain and mixture is homogeneous. 4 Whisk eggs and buttermilk together in separate bowl, then whisk into pumpkin mixture. Gently fold in flour mixture until combined (some small lumps of flour are OK). Fold in walnuts. Scrape batter into prepared pans, smooth tops, and sprinkle evenly with topping. Bake until skewer inserted in center comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes, rotating pans halfway through baking. 5 Let loaves cool in pans for 20 minutes, then turn out onto wire rack and let cool for 1½ hours before serving. 30 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
! e v i t a v o n In Strange times call for creative measures. When COVID-19 hit, North Little Rock, Arkansas, adapted. We added the Argenta Outdoor Dining District so more people could enjoy our downtown restaurants. We got our first food truck court, The Filling Station. New chef-driven restaurants like Brood & Barley and Cypress Social opened. North Little Rock debuted beautiful new murals, adding a playful splash of color to downtown. Come on over, enjoy a cold one, and see what we’re up to! Plan your visit at
northlittlerock.org | 501.758.1424
NORTH LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITOR BUREAU
@exploreNLR #ExploreNLR
Weeknight Roast Chicken
Why This Recipe Works
When you want a hands-off, absolutely foolproof way to roast a chicken, this is the recipe to use. In fact, we think everyone should memorize it—it’s that good. Rather than fussing with a V-rack or flipping the chicken, we simply preheated a skillet in the oven. Direct contact with the superhot pan jump-started the thighs’ cooking. Roasting the chicken in a 450-degree oven and then turning the oven off allowed the more delicate white meat to remain moist and tender as the bird finished cooking in the oven’s residual heat. We prefer to use a 3½- to 4-pound chicken for this recipe. If using kosher chicken, do not brine. If brining the chicken, do not season with salt in step 1. For brining instructions, see page 22. If roasting a larger bird, increase the time when the oven is on in step 2 to 35 to 40 minutes. You will need a 12-inch ovensafe skillet for this recipe. Serve with a pan sauce (recipes follow), if desired. If making a sauce, be sure to save 1 tablespoon of the pan drippings.
Serves 4 • 1 (3½- to 4-pound) whole chicken, giblets discarded, brined if desired •
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
•
Salt and pepper
1 Adjust oven rack to middle position, place 12-inch ovensafe skillet on rack, and heat oven to 450 degrees. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Rub entire surface with oil and season with salt and pepper. Tie legs together with kitchen twine and tuck wingtips behind back. 2 Transfer chicken, breast side up, to hot skillet in oven. Roast chicken until breast registers 120 degrees and thighs register 135 degrees, 25 to 35 minutes. Turn oven off and leave chicken in oven until breast registers 160 degrees and thighs register 175 degrees, 25 to 35 minutes. Transfer chicken to carving board and let rest for 20 minutes. Carve chicken and serve.
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Classic French Onion Soup Why This Recipe Works: With too many onion soups, digging through a layer of congealed cheese unearths a disappointing broth that just doesn’t taste like onions. The ideal French onion soup combines a satisfying broth redolent of sweet caramelized onions with a slice of toasted baguette and melted cheese. We wanted a foolproof method for achieving extraordinarily deep flavor from the humble onion—the star of this classic soup. The secret to a rich broth was to caramelize the onions fully. The good news is that caramelizing the onions, deglazing the pot, and then repeating this process dozens of times will keep ratcheting up the flavor. The bad news is what a laborious, hands-on process this proved to be. Fortunately, we found that if we first cooked the onions, covered, in a hot oven for two and a half hours, we only needed to deglaze the onions on the stovetop three or four times. Just one type of onion (yellow) was sufficient, but a combination of three different liquids (water, chicken broth, and beef broth) added maximum flavor. For the topping, we toasted the bread before floating it on the soup to ward off sogginess and added only a modest sprinkling of nutty Gruyère so the broth wasn’t overpowered.
Serves 6 Sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Walla Walla, will make this dish overly sweet. Be patient when caramelizing the onions in step 2; the entire process takes 45 to 60 minutes. Use broiler-safe crocks and keep the rims of the bowls 4 to 5 inches from the heating element to obtain a proper gratinée of melted, bubbly cheese. If using ordinary soup bowls, sprinkle the toasted bread slices with Gruyère and return them to the broiler until the cheese melts, then float them on top of the soup. For the best flavor, make the soup a day or two in advance. Alternatively, the onions can be prepared through step 1, cooled in the pot, and refrigerated for up to 3 days before proceeding with the recipe.
Soup • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 3 pieces • 4 pounds onions (about 6 large), halved pole to pole and sliced lengthwise ¼ inch thick (see note) • Table salt • 2 cups water, plus extra for deglazing • ½ cup dry sherry • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth • 2 cups beef broth • 6 sprigs fresh thyme, tied together with kitchen twine • 1 bay leaf • Ground black pepper
Cheese Croutons •
1 small baguette, cut on the bias into ½-inch slices
•
8 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
1. For the soup: Adjust an oven rack to the lower-middle position and heat the oven to 400 degrees. Generously spray the inside of a large (at least 7-quart) Dutch oven with vegetable oil spray. Add the butter, onions, and 1 teaspoon salt to the pot. Cook, covered, for 1 hour (the onions will be moist and slightly reduced in volume). Remove the pot from the oven and stir the onions, scraping the bottom and sides of the pot. Return the pot to the oven with the lid slightly ajar and continue to cook until the onions are very soft and golden brown, 1½ to 1¾ hours longer, stirring the onions and scraping the bottom and sides of the pot after 1 hour. 2. Carefully remove the pot from the oven and place over medium-high heat. Cook the onions, stirring frequently and scraping the bottom and sides of the pot, until the liquid evaporates and the onions brown, 15 to 20 minutes, reducing the heat to medium if the onions are browning too quickly. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the pot bottom is coated with a dark crust, 6 to 8 minutes, adjusting the heat as necessary. (Scrape any browned bits that collect on the spoon back into the onions.) Stir in ¼ cup water, scraping the pot bottom to loosen the crust, and cook until the water evaporates and the pot bottom has formed another dark crust, 6 to 8 minutes. Repeat the process of deglazing 2 to 3 more times, until the onions are very dark brown. Stir in the sherry and cook, stirring frequently, until the sherry evaporates, about 5 minutes. 3. Stir in 2 cups water, the chicken broth, beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, and ½ teaspoon salt, scraping up any final bits of browned crust on the bottom and sides of the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove and discard the thyme and bay leaf, then season with salt and pepper to taste. 4. For the croutons: While the soup simmers, heat the oven to 400 degrees. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until dry, crisp, and golden at the edges, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
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5. Adjust an oven rack 6 inches from the broiler element and heat the broiler. Set individual broiler-safe crocks on the baking sheet and fill each with about 1¾ cups of the soup. Top each bowl with one or two baguette slices (do not overlap the slices) and sprinkle evenly with the Gruyère. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly around the edges, 3 to 5 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes; serve. FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 27
Book a room with a view.
Camping is just the start. With 24 miles of coastline to explore, dozens of hiking trails and countless outdoor adventures, Florida’s Sports Coast is the perfect place to enjoy the Gulf’s year-round warm weather. Learn to travel safely on Florida’s Sports Coast at FLSportsCoast.com
The
Hottest New Hotels of 2020
D
espite the current environment and competition from established hotels and resorts, along with the ever-growing Airbnb market, new hotels are popping up around the world at a record-breaking pace. These hotels which are opening their doors this year are more than eager to serve travelers.
Nobu Hotel Palo Alto, Palo Alto, California (Opening this summer) Slated to be Silicon Valley’s most anticipated hotel opening in summer 2020, Nobu Hotel Palo Alto will unveil a completely brand-new hotel following its multi-million dollar transformation. The 73-room boutique property is elevating its façade, reception and arrival experience, wellness offerings, meeting venues and amenities, guest rooms and adding a signature Nobu restaurant to reflect the world-renowned standards of Nobu Hospitality with the addition of a 24-hour in-room Nobu dining menu. Standout highlights include high-tech guest rooms with Alexa and Toto Neorest washlet toilets, with 90-inch televisions in the 8th floor Ryokan guest rooms, and an elevated fitness studio with top-of-the-line equipment including Peloton bikes.
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T
he Hotel Drover will be a Marriott Autograph Collection 4-star boutique hotel, part of a $200 million renovation in the city’s most celebrated Stockyards District where travelers can experience authentic cowboy culture at its finest. The Hotel Drover will artfully celebrate the district’s history, honoring its birthright and namesake, legendary cowboys who drove cattle across the plains to market in Fort Worth. As one of the first of several boutique hotels opening in the city in the next couple of years, this 200-room hotel will provide travelers with 97 West Kitchen and Bar offering southern classics, a rustic backyard with fire pits and live music space, 15,000 square feet of meeting space including an upscale barn, a pool area and more.
The Hotel Drover, Fort Worth, TX (Opening in October)
A
The Adero Scottsdale, Scottsdale, AZ
spiring to be guests’ gateway to the outdoors, The Adero will be a basecamp for the adventure enthusiast compelled by Arizona’s spiritual oasis. To complement the property’s 177 guest rooms and suites adorned with metal accents and trail-inspired art, the property will feature direct access to the desert through private trailheads, including a dedicated refuge for hikers and cyclists, equipped with a water station, bike racks and seating. The property’s arrival experience will include a circle drive with an outdoor fireplace and three serene gardens – Sol, Luna and Terra – dedicated to yoga and personal reflection. Similarly, the property’s signature three-meal restaurant, Cielo, meaning ‘sky’, will pay homage to the Navajo community by extending earth-to-table fare using indigenous herbs from the Fountain Hills community garden and boasting one of the best views in Scottsdale.
Alaia Belize (Opening in December) R
emaining a hidden gem for several years, Belize is now at the top of travelers list, recording the fastest growing tourism rates in the Caribbean in 2018. After years of not having any branded residences, the destination will be receiving its first set, including Alaia Belize, Belize’s first Marriott International property. Debuting under the Autograph Collection brand in December 2020 on Ambergris Caye, the beachfront community resort will sit on 20 acres and feature a hotel, as well as two- and three-bedroom condominiums and oceanfront villas available for purchase. Alaia will boast world-class amenities, including a beach club, rooftop suspended pool and lounge (a first for Belize), full-service spa, fitness center, kids club, dive shop and live art gallery, as well as interiors by renowned Brazilian designer Debora Aguiar.
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the open road is calling unbridled nature + self-guided driving tours = perfect road trip
Mississippi Valley Wine Trail
Mid Mod Quincy Driving Tour
Back to Nature + Pet-Friendly Guide
Mural Find + Dine Driving Tour
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On the Great River Road, America’s National Scenic Byway
Off-Grid Stays
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Fall 2020
TEN TOP CHEFS, TEN FOOD TRAVEL TRENDS
L
ured by the eclectic tastes of indigenous cuisine, foodies who love to travel often seek out destinations where they can experience dynamic regional culinary scenes. For many travelers with discerning palates, discovering the latest culinary trends has become a popular form of self-expression. According to top chefs, epicureans can expect to find several experimental food concepts on their plates this year.
Bill Taibe, Owner/Chef, Jesup Hall, Westport, CT Bill Taibe, Owner/ Chef, Jesup Hall, Westport, CT Everything looks lighter and brighter with a focus on vegetables and plant-based options. We will be utilizing vegetables in every way possible; raw, juiced, fermented and 40 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
pickled, in both dishes and cocktails. People are looking to eat cleaner and healthier without sacrificing flavor and creativity.
Justin Taylor, Executive Chef, Park Hyatt St. Kitts
H
ere at Park Hyatt St. Kitts, we take pride in using thoughtfully sourced, local ingredients that speak to our island culture. At our adults-only restaurant, Stone Barn, we serve an exclusive wine list and tasting menu that features signature dishes that showcase our commitment to incorporating sustainably sourced ingredients. For example, our signature Squash Blossom features risotto with notes of citrus and saffron combined with delicious spiny lobster that we catch right here on our docks.
J
an Van Haute, Executive Chef, Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, Middleburg, VA
Anthony Cole, Executive Chef, Chatham Bars Inn, Chatham, MA
I
n 2020 we are seeing broths used in dishes such as Dashi and other bone broths which are a great way to pack flavor into a dish. Homemade broth carries lots of nutrients that are essential to any healthy dish. Vegetables preserved by fermentation and pickling will be seen in restaurants this upcoming year as well. By preserving vegetables unique flavors are coaxed out and probiotics are produced through the fermentation process.
O
ur team’s main focus for 2020 is to incorporate as many local ingredients from our Chef’s Garden into our dishes and ensure we do our best to eliminate waste. Since we are growing most of our own vegetables and fruits on property, we don’t need packaging and the green tops are going straight back to our soils through composting. If we have some produce that we do not end up serving to our guests, our staff enjoys it for our 30-40 person family meal the day after.
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A
Sean Ragan, Chef, Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, FL
very large emphasis is being explored on plant based diets. This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a delicious steak when you need to satisfy that urge. It means that we must look at our current relationship to food and consume everything in moderation. Eating more vegetables from blossom to plate or root to stem is the goal. Practicing root to stem eating, means eating vegetables in their natural state, not peeled nor processed.The Pembroke Room upholds the tradition of proper English Afternoon Tea through the service style, and the beverages and food are served from the Dammann Frères loose leaf tea selection. Depending on the service, a glass of Champagne is available along with finger sandwiches and sweets tier, ending the service with warm scones and clotted cream and jams,
Myk Banas, Director of Culinary, Marriott Convention & Resort Network
A
recent trend I’ve seen at our Nashville resort is vegetable-focused dishes,” said Myk Banas, Director of Culinary for Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, which is part of Marriott’s Convention & Resort Network. “These dishes showcase a specific vegetable or a combination of vegetables as the star of the plate instead of a protein. They’re meant to be enjoyed by everyone, even meat-eaters.” Some examples include cauliflower tikka masala and eat alternatives and meat/plant blend burgers.
Ryan Lory, Chef/Owner, ARDYN Restaurant, New York, NY
T
his year I have seen an uptick in allergies, dietary restrictions and guests on the Keto diet. With the increase of allergies such as glutens and nuts, we have adjusted recipes to stand clear of gluten and to use nuts only as a garnish. I see the beyond meats and impossible meat taking off, but only in fast food and fast casual establishments. Plant based dishes and vegan dishes are definitely on the rise whether it’s sweet potatoes, butternut squash or cauliflower.
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Timothy Meyers, Chef, Ocean House, Westerly, RI
L
ooking ahead to a new year and a new decade I think we’ll see more emphasis on experiential travel and cooking. Aging millennials will continue to become a larger part of the market share of guests, and want to be impressed by every facet of the experience, not simply the quality of the food or table service. This will lead to greater instances of pop-up restaurants, live-action, outdoor, or large-format cooking that presents an element of guest interaction which helps provide a site-specific sense of place.
Scott Cummings, Chef, The Inn at Hastings Park, Lexington, MA
I
t’s all about simplicity of the ingredient and to let that ingredient shine, real substantial food from a local standpoint untainted by mass farming. Also I foresee chefs really making their own milled flours and grains. Lastly as competition for the diner is fierce, you will see a lot more attention to detail in your more casual restaurants along with fine dining detail and technique in a cozier setting.
Bruno Carvalho, Executive Chef, Zemi Beach House, Anguilla
W
ith the rise of cauliflower gnocchi and pizza crusts, we wanted to create a menu offering that caters to our plant-based eaters with a luxurious twist – the cauliflower cappuccino. The versatile vegetable combined with truffle creates a high-end recipe of mouthwatering savors.
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When the stress of life comes, there’s a special place you can escape to and live out any great adventure you choose. Escape to Heber Valley where you can leave the crowds and get your mountain medicine. We love our valley, our mountains, and want to share it with you.
Plan your adventure at GoHeberValley.com
FINGER LAKES COUNTRYSIDES
Yates County
Create your own wide-open escape today Located in the very heart of the Finger Lakes Region, we embrace all the best that New York State has to offer. Recreation, relaxation, tasting and touring – it’s all here.
VISIT FINGERLAKESCOUNTRYSIDES.COM TO EXPLORE AND PLAN #FLXcountrysides @fingerlakescountrysides
Wine Lovers of All Types Flock to Chile and Beyond
hile is ranked among the top ten wine producing nations in the world. Its wine C producing history stems back to mid 16th
century when Spanish missionaries and conquistadores established the first vineyards in the country. The country’s unique geographic location and topography lend itself to be the perfect breeding ground for several varieties of wine. In fact, its vineyards are perfectly incubated by its natural surroundings in every cardinal direction. Wine loving travelers today are flocking to Chile to experience its diverse wine valleys. Located throughout the country, wine aficionados will find an array of regions that produce an exquisite and rich selection of wine. Just like wine has its perfect food pairing – Chile’s wine regions have a perfect traveler pairing. From ‘Novice Wine Enthusiasts’ to ‘Frustrated Sommeliers,’ Chile has a little bit of everything to delight even the most discerning palates. FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 47
Wine Lovers The Soccer Mom Commonly known as: A mother of three that is dedicated to her kids by day and has her hand glued to a wine glass by night. Often heard saying: “Honey, hand me my Olivia Pope-sized wine glass.” Best Chile Wine Region Pairing: Rosario Valley is located within San Antonio Valley and produces some of Chile’s best Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The Soccer Mom will love all the family-friendly options here like Matetic Vineyards, which caters to wine-loving parents and their children, offering alternative activities to distract the kids like horseback riding and grape tasting while parents indulge in a glass or two.
The Novice Wine Enthusiast Commonly known as: The young professional that religiously drinks a glass of wine after work. Often heard saying: “All wine is good wine. I drank wine from a bag in college.” Best Chile Wine Region Pairing: Maipo Valley is one of the most commonly visited and most well-known wine regions closest to Chile’s capital city, Santiago. The valley offers convenience yet exciting experiences like tours that include sampling some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the country, guided bike-rides and exquisite cuisine tastings. This Novice will return home a swirl, sniff and sip expert. 48 2020 30 || FOOD FOOD & &TRAVEL TRAVEL FALL SUMMER/FALL
Discover South Carolina’s Best-Kept Secret
EDISTO BEACH, SC
Edisto Beach has a small-town charm that will make you feel right at home. Our seafood is fresh from the ocean, our creeks are full of dolphins and wildlife, our beaches are calming...come see for yourself what it means to relax and enjoy the simple things in life.
843.869.3867
FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 63
www.edistochamber.com
Wine Lovers The Alchemist Commonly known as: The established millennial that won’t shut up about the CBD infused wine they tried in Amsterdam last summer. This open-minded traveler is seeking off-the-beaten path experiences to become more cultured. Often heard saying: “My co-worker introduced me to the Vivino app and it changed my life.”
The Frustrated Sommelier Commonly known as: The Generation X intellectual snob who refuses to buy a kindle, but really does know a surprising amount of information about wine – and won’t let you forget it. Often heard saying: “Decanting is my sport of choice.”
Best Chile Wine Region Pairing: Atacama Region is located in Northern Chile in the stunning Atacama Desert. This isn’t your typical wine region, making it perfect for The Alchemist. Wine production is done on a much smaller scale here due to the hot and dry climate. However, the region is best known for growing Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. A major draw for our curious traveler is the production of Chile’s national spirit, Pisco, in this area. The Alchemist will definitely opt-in for a Pisco tasting and put it all over their Instagram story.
Best Chile Wine Region Pairing: Colchagua Valley, south of Santiago, is best known for its production of premium French wines like the Carménère which was reborn in Chile. The Frustrated Sommelier will enjoy the many in-depth wine tours available and getting the chance to give their two cents on the exquisite rich bodied reds. This region is also home to some of the most luxurious hotels like Vik Chile located on the grounds of Viña Vik, which stands out for its striking architectural design and world-class 2011 Bordeaux Blend, the perfect stomping grounds for our Frustrated Sommelier.
The Healer Commonly known as: The token hippie aunt that doesn’t make a decision without consulting her acupuncturist. Often heard saying: “I drank wine in my first trimester”
50 32 || FOOD FOOD & &TRAVEL TRAVEL SPRING FALL 2020 2020
Best Chile Wine Region Pairing: The Aconcagua Region is known as one of the most prominent wine regions in Chile and is made up of three different valleys: Casablanca Valley, Aconcagua Valley and San Antonio Valley. The Healer will marvel in the varied options of this region and will gravitate towards vineyards like Emiliana, Chile’s top producer of Biodynamic and Organic wines. The Healer will often return home with a suitcase full of organic wine for holiday gifts.
Slow down
Sip on a glass of award-winning wine Savor a farm-to-fork meal
taste the good life in
caldwell, idaho
Caldwell, located just 30-minutes from Boise, is the destination you’ve been dreaming of this year. You’ll find award winning wineries on the Sunnyslope Wine Trail, bountiful farms stands sprinkled between wide open spaces, and fresh flavors prepared by local chefs in our charming downtown. Order a brochure and plan your trip at
DestinationCaldwell.com
No Matter the Season, the Sunnyslope Wine Trail “Wows” Visitors
A
ll things considered, Caldwell could very well be one of the safest and most enjoyable places to visit. After all, the vast majority of attractions are outside, which makes social distancing quite easy. Widely known for its Sunnyslope Wine Trail, many of the wineries have adjusted to limit capacity and currently require tasting room reservations, resulting in patio seats and conversations with the vintners themselves.
Come savor the agricultural heritage of Caldwell, Idaho
When you think about wine from the Pacific Northwest, Oregon and Washington come to mind. However, Idaho was the first state to plant grapes in this region in 1865 and has been a burgeoning wine region since prohibition ended. The Sunnyslope is an ideal place for growing wine grapes because of its high desert climate and sandy soil which gives vintners an enormous degree of control over how much water the plants receive, helping craft the sweetness of the wine before the fruit is even harvested. The latitude of the Sunnyslope is similar to France’s Bordeaux and Rhone regions. Likewise, many similar grape varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Syrah & Viognier grow well here. Wine varietals made popular by Spain, Italy, and South America also grow well in the Sunnyslope because of its elevation and dry climate. In recent years, farmers have planted Sangiovese, Malbec, Carménère, Albariño, and Tempranillo.
tortillas in-house. For a more casual dinner, The Chop Shop BBQ offers local meats smoked to perfection and side dishes featuring ingredients sourced from local, sustainable farming.
Fall, harvest time, is an ideal season to visit. In addition to vistas of patchwork farmland and vineyards, you can actually experience the harvest for yourself on Nestled in the scenic Snake River Valley, the Sunny- the AgVenture Trail, a farm loop. The AgVenture Trail slope Wine Trail boasts 17 wineries and vineyards, includes farms, orchards, produce stands and other award-winning wines and intimate tasting and dining hands-on agricultural experiences like visiting a u-pick experiences, all framed by panoramic views. Winer- flower farm and touring a small family operated cattle ies also host farm-to-fork dinners in their vineyards ranch. Between wine tastings you can pick fresh during the summer, an al fresco experience that will produce, tend farm animals, or take a cheese-making be the pinnacle of your stay. class. Caldwell, located just 30 minutes from the Boise Airport, offers incredible accommodations without sacrificing the scenery and the area’s rich agriculture heritage. Downtown Caldwell centers around Indian Creek Plaza, a public plaza with fountains and events during the warmer months. Mid-November through January, the plaza transforms into an ice-skating rink and becomes the center of a stunning, one-million holiday light display. And, the food scene mirrors the down-to-earth, homegrown feel of the wine trail. At Amano, a from-scratch Mexican restaurant, Chef Sal offers SoCal, Michoacan, and Oaxacan style Mexican food using local ingredients. They even grind the corn used to make 52 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
Looking to stay overnight or several days? Take your pick and stay in accommodations ranging from bed and breakfasts to boutique guest houses and hotels. Trinity Horse Ranch offers a rustic experience in log cabin next to Lake Lowell. Or, if you are looking for lush accommodations, stay in the Big Idaho Potato H6-ton potato structure converted into a luxury suite. All your options are located within 30 minutes of Caldwell’s countryside. You’ll get a taste of the simple life on your trip to Caldwell, whether you love a glass of finely crafted wine or fresh, local flavors. So why hesitate? Caldwell’s wide open spaces are calling your name. Paid for in part by a grant from Idaho Tourism.
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Taste of TEXAS
VICTORIA, TEXAS
The Great Coastal Texas Barbecue Trail A Taste of Texas BBQ
56 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
T
exas is known for its barbecue. Named one of the “10 Great American Food Trail Road Trips” by Frommer’s Travel Guide, The Great Coastal Texas Barbecue Trail in Victoria, Texas features some of the best barbecue in the state. If you’re looking for true Texas barbecue, this trail is for you.
The Trail Five locally owned barbecue joints make up the Coastal Texas Barbecue Trail. You’ll find the barbecue as varied as the pit masters who create it. Whether it’s the cooking style, the unique sides, or homemade desserts, these folks put their heart and soul into making your experience unforgettable. One of the most popular spots with locals is KB’s BBQ. The guys at KB’s cook their brisket slowly over mesquite with a special spice, creating a deep smoke flavor. A few fan favorites are the loaded smoked chicken avocado, brisket enchiladas, and brisket-topped mesquite smoked burgers! Mumphord’s Place is another BBQ trail favorite. Previously named one of Texas Monthly’s “50 Best BBQ Joints,” the Mumphord brothers
cook the “old-fashioned way” using direct heat with mesquite and oak, giving the meat a milder smoke flavor. The brisket and sausage are some of the best, but for a special treat stop by on Pork Chop Wednesday. Another top barbecue spot is Uncle Mutt’s Bar-B-Q Co. This family-owned joint dates back to the 1980s. Their meat is cooked exclusively with oak – slowly basted and smoked for hours while rotating for an amazing consistency! Try the Uncle Mutt’s Plate with ribs, sausage and chicken. Don’t forget the sides - Uncle Mutt’s offers more than a dozen options daily.
Explore While in Victoria, you can find plenty to do – kayak the Guadalupe River, explore the rich history, and enjoy the diverse music scene, just to name a few. Check out any one of the fived themed itineraries chock-full of recommended activities and plan your true Texas barbecue experience in Victoria!
Learn more at CoastalTexasBBQ.com.
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Taste of TEXAS
beaumont The Best of Both Worlds
O
n the border between Louisiana and the Lone Star State, Beaumont boasts Cajun culture in Texas-sized portions that makes our roots just a little bit spicier than most. 100% unique to the South, it’s a place where you can swim with alligators, go on a swamp safari and see where oil changed the world forever, all before filling up on brisket, Tex-Mex, BBQ crabs, crawfish and brews aplenty. There are beaches, watersports, hiking, biking, and outdoor spaces with room to spread out and breathe. Our nature preserves have plenty of s’pots to stretch your legs without seeing another soul before returning to a nice hotel to rest your head. Architectural marvels abound in the historic downtown, full of murals to photograph, a well-rounded art and cultural escape. A small-town feel with big-city amenities and accessibility, we’re an easy drive destination from Houston (1 hour), New Orleans (4 hours), or Dallas (4.5 hours) and a surprising road trip stop along I-10. And as the Mardi Gras Capital of Southeast Texas, we embody that mindset year-round – all that’s missing is you. Ya’ll ready to laissez la bon temps rouler with us?
Learn More http://visitbeaumonttx.com/thisisbeaumont
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@ mycurlyadventures_
Good Times Ahead. Right Down the Road
SINCE THE DISCOVERY OF OIL at Spindletop in 1901, Beaumont, Texas, has been full-steam ahead. Beaumont has emerged as a quirky town with a something for everyone. Whatever your jam – food, nature, art or history Beaumont has you covered. The short, 90-minute drive from Houston will be worth it. Natural wonders await right off the interstate. Cattail Marsh Scenic Wetlands & Boardwalk includes 900 acres of wetlands, and more than 250 bird species. Tyrrell Park also offers hiking, horseback-riding, golf course, and the Beaumont Botanical Gardens.
Downtown Beaumont is full of hidden surprises, including stunning examples of Art Deco and Victorian Gothic architecture. Murals and light boxes throughout the city showcase the work of local artists. And there are a number of free museums and art galleries to visit. Hungry? The city’s foodie scene runs the gamut, from spicy Cajun to Vietnamese to a homegrown marriage of both. Of course the city offers great Tex-Mex and barbecue joints. You will eat well, in Beaumont, where food speaks a universal language, and community feeds your soul.
Necher River Kayaking With over 20 miles of trails for kayaking, it’s a little bit of a choose your own adventure. Gator Country Adventure Park Hold an alligator one for a bragworthy photo, or go all in and swim with one. Cattail Marsh Wetlands Stroll the boardwalk. Then take in the views from the all-new Wetlands Birding Center. Learn more at VisitBeaumontTX.com.
venues. Capacity over 10,000. 9 . s k c o l B 6
MEET DOWNTOWN. Limitless opportunities.
It’s a new age! Let us introduce you to PROGRESSIVE MEETINGS. Downtown Beaumont offers limitless opportunities within 6 blocks and 9 venues. Spread out with larger spaces and open air options. Choose from historical buildings, museums and more. Let our experienced visionaries help to guide you through our downtown for your next meeting.
MEET INNOVATIVE. MEET UNIQUE. MEETBEAUMONT.COM
Freddie Willard, TDM Director of Sales 800-392-4401 Freddie.Willard@beaumonttexas.gov
Taste of TEXAS
Plano, Texas is B lending historic charm with modern luxury, the city brims with attractions and amenities that make it perfect for a day trip, leisurely weekend getaway, or meeting of any size. Plano’s location just north of Dallas offers easy access to the area’s professional sports, performing arts, museums and the world famous Southfork Ranch. But Plano is also a destination in its own right, with over 55 hotels, more than 1,000 restaurants, world class shopping, a lively arts and nightlife scene, and abundant natural beauty.
With over 1,000 restaurant options inside city limits, there are more restaurants per capita than in San Francisco and New York. Plano also ranked Yelp’s #4 Foodie City in its 2019 list of top 10. Plano is known for its diversity in cuisine options, thanks to the city’s diverse culture. From farm-to-table, sustainable seafood, and even a European-style food hall, Plano has everything from Texas-style BBQ and Mexican to authentic Chinese and Japanese fare. Plano has long been a walkable destination thanks to the Shops at Legacy and its anchor hotel, the Dallas/Plano Marriott at Legacy Town Center, which is within walking distance to over 80 restaurants and various shops. 60 || FOOD FOOD & & TRAVEL TRAVEL SPRING FALL 2020
Truly the Land of Plenty Now, even more options are available in Plano as Legacy West sits just across the highway from The Shops at Legacy. This “city within a city” is the largest mixed use destination in North Texas and is a great place to meet, play, shop, dine, and stay. The 255-acre development boasts plenty of open-air high-end retail, restaurants, and an anchor hotel, Renaissance Dallas at Plano Legacy West. Here, visitors can satisfy every craving, whether for dry-aged steak or modern Asian cuisine, French bistro fare, or a perfect plate of pasta. Across from the Hilton Dallas/Plano Granite Park hotel sits a new 30,000 square foot restaurant park called The Boardwalk where visitors can enjoy eateries featuring a French tea room, Texas-style BBQ, gourmet biscuits, mouth-watering burgers, and even a local brewery and restaurant.
can wander around over 20 stalls to meet local purveyors and sample everything from lobster rolls and sushi to Philly cheesesteaks and duck fat fried chicken. Talk about cuisine diversity and variety, Legacy Hall covers all the bases with Japanese, Indian, German, Italian, Mediterranean, Mexican, French, and American staples. This rotating stall concept allows restaurateurs to develop and perfect their concepts before investing in a full restaurant. There is also an on-site brewery and an outdoor live music and entertainment stage onsite. Legacy Hall was even named the #2 best new food hall in the nation by USA Today in 2019.
Not to be missed is the Downtown Plano Arts District, which was named one of the Top 10 Best Downtowns in America by Livability. com, offering a charming setting for a simple stroll, a unique dining experience, rooftop bars, an afternoon of shopping, or an evening’s entertainment at McCall Plaza.
Restaurants across the nation were among the first businesses to be shut down to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus, but the resilient Plano restaurant community did not skip a beat. From closing one day to offering curbside family meals and sought-after grocery kits the next, many restaurants were able to keep staff employed to assist our community during this time of need. Plano restaurants are taking all safety precautions to make sure visitors are safe while maintaining positive experiences.
For those who can’t decide on where to dine, Legacy Food Hall has it all. In this one-of-a-kind artisanal food hall at Legacy West, visitors
Find more culinary and travel inspiration at visitplano.com. FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 61
Taste of TEXAS
Baycations Are Better for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
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o trip to Bay Area Houston is complete without sampling the delectable cuisine that abounds throughout the region. Straightfrom-the-water seafood, spicy Thai, world-famous burgers and New York-worthy pizza -- the Bay Area is a foodie’s dream destination.
Pier 8 Seafood Fish Market offers about as fresh a catch as you can get without reeling in the fish yourself. The open-air restaurant is set along the water with pelicans diving for their dinner off the shore. Choose your seafood— catfish, shrimp or squid and they’ll fry it to order. Be sure to add a side of fries and grab a spot at a picnic table. Pier 8 is low on frills and high on deliciousness. Under the direction of Super Chef Andrew—a second-generation Thai chef— the multi award–winning Merlion Thai Restaurant & Lounge (merlionrestaurant.com) brings the taste of Thailand to Seabrook. Try the Thai peanut sauce curry or the kao pad.
Seabrook Waffle Company (seabrookwafflecompany.com) is a charm62 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
ing café that serves sweet and savory waffles topped with everything from Nutella to mac-n-cheese. The creativity doesn’t end at the menu items, either. Hand-painted tables are pieces of art, and works by local artists line the walls. The global menu of Main Street Bistro is a mix of local, coastal, Hispanic and Creole cuisine all informed by French-cooking methods and techniques. That’s the first thing you’ll love about Main Street Bistro. The second thing you’ll love is the fact that it’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, so you can keep coming back for more. Good company and good food can be found at Viola and Agnes’ Neo Soul Café (neosoulfood.org). Chef Aaron will whip up a taste of Southern comfort with a dish of red beans and rice, fried catfish, or shrimp and grits. Be sure to ask about the daily specials. Celebrity sightings are commonplace in Bay Area Houston when you’re looking for a good meal. T-Bone Tom’s (www.tbonetoms. com) in
Kemah was featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.” Sampling some of the restaurant’s favorites, host Guy Fieri raved his version of top praise: “That’s a killer. I mean a killer, killer.” Everything at T-Bone Tom’s is made from scratch—including its mouthwatering barbecue sauce— and steaks are hand-cut on-site. Travel Channel’s “Burger Land” heaped praise on Tookie’s (tookiesburgers. com) Squealer Burger, which mixes bacon into the ground beef. The host called its owner, a “hamburger hero.” And while the Squealer got all of the kudos, you really can’t go wrong with ordering a hamburger here. Try A Big Texan—a double-meat hamburger with chili cheese. If you’re more of a surf than a turf fan, Tookie’s sister restaurant in Seabrook (tookiesseafood.com) focuses on seafood. Dine in or carry out at Mediterraneo Market & Café (mediterraneomarket. com) in Nassau Bay. This cozy bistro serves everything from pita wraps and falafel to lasagna and souvlaki. The café is warm and inviting, and it’s likely
that by the time you finish dinner, you’ll feel like family. There’s even a small market to purchase some of your Greek favorites. The Backyard (www.backyardseabrook.com) specializing in unique Mac and Cheese dishes. Enjoy dining with friends & family under the trees while the kids play backyard games. Red Oak Café (www.redoakcafe.com) in League City is a breakfast lover’s utopia of goodness offering meals large enough to share. The Pierogi Queen (www.pierogiqueentx.com) offers up Polish home cooking from Galumpki to Dumplings to Polish Sausage. A trip to Bay Area Houston will definitely satisfy the food lover in us all. For a complete listing of restaurants visit www.visitbayareahouston.com. Stop into our Visitors Center at 604 Bradford Avenue in Kemah for coupons and discounts to local attractions and restaurants 7 days a week.
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Food & Travel’s Exclusive Guy Fieri Interview
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ffable Guy Fieri, with his spiked hair and wide smile, has become the face of the Food Network. The chef, restaurateur, New York Times Best-Selling author and Emmy Award-winning TV host is one of the world’s most recognizable and influential culinary stars. Just how influential is he? In 2019, Fieri received a star on the celebrated Hollywood Walk Fame, a rare feat for a chef, but very well deserved.
He studied abroad in Chantilly, France, and later graduated from the University of Nevada Las Vegas with a degree in Hospitality Management. He then jumped headfirst into the restaurant business, ultimately opening his own casual dining concepts in Northern California.
In 2006, Fieri won Food Network’s popular television competition show, “Next Food Network Star” and was awarded his own series, the Emmy nominated “Guy’s Big Bite.” Since that time, he has taken food television by storm as host of top-rated TV shows including the iconic, Emmy-nominated “Diners, Drive Ins & Dives,” “Guy’s Grocery Games,” “Tournament of Champions” and “Guy’s Ranch Kitchen.”
Additionally, Fieri and his team at Knuckle Sandwich, LLC, have created a thriving culinary empire, opening 75 restaurants around the world. On land and at sea, from the Las Vegas Strip to the Atlantic City Boardwalk, from South Africa to Colombia and from Costa Rica to Dubai, his culinary creations are enjoyed globally.
He recently gave an exclusive interview to Food & Travel. What led you to the Food Network? I gotta be honest with you, this kind of all happened by accident. I really wasn’t much of a TV watcher and was just focused on my family and restaurants. Lori was pregnant with Ryder, Hunter was young, and I had a lot on my plate. And then my buddies got involved and pushed me into making an audition tape. You know I’m not gonna shy away from a double dog dare.
Describe some of your most memorable moments on Triple D. Wow, you know, there have been so many. Meeting the passionate people of the restaurant world is rewarding in itself but then seeing how being showcased on DDD can change the course of their business is the real win. For me, the biggest moments are after the fact, when I hear from people and they tell me how the show has saved their business, helped them grow, taught them something new, brought their family closer, there’s so much to love about what DDD does for folks. But selfishly, if I had to pick one really cool moment that you see on camera it’s when I got to meet my childhood hero, Earl Campbell of the Houston Oilers. He was my idol as a kid and through meeting him on the show, has become a good buddy.
Is there a common theme among your many restaurants? Whether it’s a sauced up fried chicken sandwich at Chicken Guy! on the fly or a full on spread at Guy’s Vegas, my goal is to always deliver great food and a good time. That’s the common theme because it’s not enough to just deliver on part of that. You have a lot of choices out there these days and my team and I want to give you the whole package. 64 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
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When entertaining friends, what are some of your favorite dishes to serve? When I’m with my family and buddies, we seem to always have some go-to dishes that we’ve been doing for years and everybody loves. Of course, we’ll always throw in some curveballs and try new things, but we definitely have the greatest hits: chicken Parm, Bucatini Carbonara, pizzas straight from the wood fired oven, fried rice, roasted cauliflower, dim sum, and reverse seared rib eyes. We are all over the place in the good way.
What is your overall philosophy for preparing delectable cuisine? If it isn’t great, it’s not worth the calories.
Are there any foods you won’t eat? Everybody knows I’m not a big egg fan. I’ll eat ‘em cooked into a dish (like fried rice) but straight up fried or scrambled, no way. I’m not down with the liquid chicken. And forget about beef liver too.
Which cities and countries are among your favorites for food? You know, I used to have regions that I always pointed out, but these days, I’ll tell ya, there’s a lot of great food all over the country. I think food TV has really spread the gospel and gotten people focused on doing really interesting stuff. Chefs have really branched out the American palate has expanded; people are adventurous, and we’re seeing it in our restaurants offerings But let me tell you, 1400 plus locations later, we’re never going to run out of great spots to feature across America. As far as other countries, I love exploring and learning where food came from and look forward to getting this pandemic behind us so we can get back out there. Italy, France, Mexico…I can’t get enough. Hunter and I were supposed to eat our way throughout Asia this past spring but we’ve had to hold off. That trip is a top priority.
Where are your favorite places to vacation? Anywhere with water and sun.
Are there any upcoming projects you can discuss? We’re very lucky to have a lot going on right now even with everything going on. Sammy Hagar and I have a tequila brand called Santo that’s really taking off. If you’re the tequila type, you’re gonna dig it. We’ve been getting creative with TV and have had a lot of fun shooting an at home version of DDD called DDD Takeout where the chefs send the food to me and Hunter to cook. It’s been a blast and people are really liking it. Same goes for GGG…we’ve got an at-home version coming soon. And then I’m really excited about season two of Tournament of Champions. I’m really proud of how TOC came together and am excited to see what the baddest chefs in the country can bring in round two!
Describe what it felt like to receive a star on the celebrated Hollywood Walk of Fame. Surreal. Never in a million years did I think something like that could happen. But it did and I’ll tell ya, to be there on Hollywood Boulevard with my family and a few hundred of my closest friends, it was nothing short of amazing. I just don’t see how I’ll ever be able to beat that. 66 | FOOD & TRAVEL FALL 2020
Exclusive Guy Fieri Interview (Continued)
M A T E A R E I C R A T R D G A I P O N ! R THE TO BILLINGS (Billings to Cody = 105 miles)
TOTAL ROAD CLOSURE CANYON
Southfork Drive - 84 Miles East Yellowstone Loop - 224 Miles Beartooth Loop - 177 Miles Big Horn Mountain Loop - 204 Miles Big Horn Basin Loop - 257 Miles
Photo by Tessa Fowler
THERE’S WIDE OPEN SPACES AND SAFE PLACES ALONG WITH PLENTY TO SEE AND DO Plan your trip today at CodyYellowstone.org or call 1-800-393-CODY
T HE G REAT ARMERICAN OAD T RIP IS
B ACK !
R
oad trips are back in vogue. Once a great American tradition, road trips faded in popularity during the 1970s and 80s as favorable airline fares made it possible for millions of travelers to fly without maxing out their credit cards. Between 1980 and 2000 the number of flights that were booked by Americans more than doubled. As a result, well-known “fly to” destinations like Orlando and Las Vegas boomed with increased visitors while small town America began to feel the economic effects of less tourism. However, as the country begins to bounce back from uncertainty, road trips have quickly become the vacation of choice for many travelers. As a result, vacation destinations like the Pocono Mountains, an easy drive from New York City and Philadelphia, are popular choices for today’s travelers. FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 69
The Great American Road Trip Woodloch Pines is an easy drive from New York and Philadelphia The Pocono Mountains of the 1950s and 1960s were known as the “Honeymoon Capital of the World” because of the influx of newly married couples to the region. Today’s Poconos have evolved into more than a honeymoon haven and now annually attract over 20 million tourists who come to ski, golf, shop, hike, kayak on crystal clears lakes, ride rolling rapids, dog sled through snowy winter wonderlands and play some games of chance. Woodloch Resort, located in the pristine Lake Region of the Pocono Mountains, has been a favorite vacation destination since its inception in 1958. Woodloch Pines, a quintessential family resort within the sprawling Woodloch complex, features a non-stop array of activities including 30 homegrown, social activities scheduled daily. Explore dozens of amenities such as a six sided rock climbing wall, indoor and outdoor pools, bumper cars, go karts, bumper boats, kayaking, snow tubing, ice skating and so much more. An imitation Broadway show caps off the evening. The resort offers a variety of accommodations, including hotel-style units that feature two queen beds and a double pullout couch in one large room, with a view towards the lake complete with private balcony or patio. The Lake Estates are a group of four large and spacious vacation rentals located at the Woodloch Pines property. Each home has five bedrooms and five-and-a-half bathrooms. The Southwoods Vacation Rentals are also four large homes located at Woodloch Pines in a private cul-de-sac opposite the Lake Estates. These homes feature four to six bedrooms and either fourand-a-half or six-and-a-half bathrooms. All of these homes are tri-level and located on the resort’s shuttle route. Golfers can enjoy Woodloch’s 18-hole championship course which winds its challenging way over 6,579 yards. A 9-18 hole course simulator plus a virtual Driving Range allow golfers the opportunity to improve their games during the off season or even during inclement weather throughout the year. Known for delectable family style dining, the traditional way to dine at Woodloch is on the American plan where you’ll enjoy two to three delicious and abundant meals daily highlighted by homemade bakery items and dessert selections. Woodloch is one of the country’s most inviting family resorts with a philosophy of bringing people together for an experience they will always remember. It’s the reason generations of families return year after year.
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Visit Big Sky
MT
// Gateway community to Yellowstone National Park, less than hour’s drive from the West Entrance. // Unparalleled recreation, accommodations, and diverse dining options. // 20 direct daily flights to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). // Know before you go and be Montana Aware.
WHERE ALL ROADS LEAD TO
Adventure
V I S I T B I GS KY.CO M /A B O U T- U S / M O N TA N A AWA R E
The Great American Road Trip
NEW YORK
Madison County
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magine a place of lasting beauty carved by time and tradition, with seasons of ageless stories to tell and new stories to create. A place where your senses will explore the ever-changing landscapes. All nestled in a twelve-thousand-year-old glacial valley. That’s Madison County. And their leaves are turning. This rural area in Central New York State is where you can gaze upon a vibrant sea of red and orange amongst the windmills at the FREE Center in Fenner. And discover the relationship between art and nature when wandering the trails of Stone Quarry Hill Art Park’s 104 acres of conserved land. Or hike the gorge trail at Chittenango Falls State Park and feel the mist at Delphi Falls County Park as you inch closer and closer to the water. And the brisker autumn weather is perfect for wandering through an apple orchard and getting lost in a corn maze at Critz Farms in Cazenovia. Just up the road at Golub’s Our Farm, watch Boris, the pumpkin-throwing catapult, launch a pumpkin 200 feet across a field! Looking for a good scare? Guests at the Brae Loch Inn in Cazenovia have reported a ghostly girl in a long blue dress offering to show them to their room. Thieves and murderers often lurked along the Erie Canal in the 19th century. It’s no wonder many believe the victims’ spirits may still roam the towpath at Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum. Both sites are stops on the New York State Haunted History Trail. Wonderful as all this is, and it is wonderful, it was Madison County’s craft beverage scene that first caught our eye. It all began in the 1880s when New York produced 80 percent of the nation’s hops, with most of them grown in the county and surrounding area. Prohibition (and a few other factors) put an end to that.
A Safe Place To Visit
But now Madison County is experiencing a new beginning at the forefront of the craft beverage movement. Today you’ll find Good Nature Farm Brewery offering “farm to glass” brews in Hamilton. They’re one of the state’s first, and largest, farm breweries. Head to Cazenovia for award-winning wine at Owera Vineyards (try their “Betty’s White”) and award-winning hard cider at Critz Farms Brewing & Cider Company. Or go micro at Canastota’s Erie Canal Brewing Company then round out your experience with a tasting of Applejack brandy at Old Home Distillers in Lebanon. And how’s the food? Check out the Colgate Inn in Hamilton for farm to tavern cuisine by the fireplace and Cazenovia’s Brewster Inn, where all menu items are made from scratch (ask about their Wine Spectator award-winning cellar). And indulge in the “Best Ribs in New York State,” as proclaimed by Food Network, at Ray Brothers Barbecue in Bouckville. All this awaits you in Madison County. But there’s no rush. The county has been here for generations and will be here for generations to come. Its breweries, restaurants, farms and more pleasantly anticipate your arrival. And yes, Madison County’s breathtaking autumn colors will return next year, just as they always have—and always will. Let www.madisontourism.com/fall inspire your next adventure.
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NEW YORK
The Great American Road Trip The Sullivan Catskills-On Track and Confident for Families and Friends This Fall
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ou’ve heard of the Peace Train and the Gravy Train, how about the Milk Train? Because the Sullivan Catskills are so close to the New York metro area, for generations the echo of steam whistles reverberated off the mountains as Milk Trains brought fresh dairy from creameries for daily delivery to “The City.” Today’s health conscious travelers have flipped the journey, making the short drive “upstate” to enjoy dairy, produce and meat fresh from local farms. And, although they can’t board the Mountaineer or Erie Limited for arrival in Livingston Manor or Callicoon, they’re finding easy access to quaint inns, cozy cottages, snug B&Bs, family resorts and a casino. All are part of the Sullivan Catskills’ Catskills Confidence county-wide program of enhanced health and safety measures that complement the area’s natural beauty, traditional warmth, and friendliness. While you can just sit on the porch and relax, feasting your eyes on the autumn colors, it’s so much more fun to get out and play in the leaves! The drive along the Delaware River, on the Sullivan Catskills western
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border, is 70 miles of internationally acclaimed gold, red, yellow, and orange. Taking “leaf peeping” to a higher level, the views are even more spectacular from a canoe, kayak, or raft in the middle of the rapids, or getting your exercise on a trail bike. Driving, boating or biking, the river towns along RT 97 offers antiquing, historic sites, socially distant dining, and takeout. Many of those rails have become trails, joining the wide variety of hiking experiences from family-friendly novice strolls to challenging treks and scrambles. For a truly unique experience, a tour of the Sullivan Catskills Dove Trail is a vibrant outing. Fifty, 7-foot tall Doves commemorating the 1969 Woodstock Music and Arts Festival radiate from the festival site and Museum at Bethel Woods. Each features a commissioned, hand painted tribute to the spirit of the ‘60s that changed the way we look at the world. Download the map at Sullivan Catskills.com. Peace, Love and Doves–a groovy way to spend the day with the kids.
A Safe Place To Visit
And, there’s a trail just for adults, too. On the Good Taste Beverage Trail breweries, distilleries, and wineries present their award-winning beverages in tastings carefully arranged for safe sipping. Try a Two Headed Stout, by the stream where it is reported there is a two-headed trout. Tasters speak highly of Beespoke Gin–grape to glass with pollinator friendly botanicals. Oenofiles find Wood Duck white is delivered direct from the winery via a 100% contactless curbside, pickup box with a sanitizing station–text your order and do a drive buy. The days will grow shorter, the air crisper and a few flakes start whispering down on the peaks as a skim of ice forms on the lakes and ponds. It’s a time to destress with a warm blanket around a firepit, enjoy Catskill-icious cuisine, and savor a brandy. Hiking becomes snowshoeing and skiing, dinner and drinks take a bit longer, it’s OK to doze under a down quilt and sleep in the next morning.
As you drift off for the night, don’t be surprised if your dreams include a steam whistle or two–a reminder that the Sullivan Catskills have always been about an attention to health and hospitality that are more important than ever before. Catskills Confidence continues that tradition. For details on all the Sullivan Catskills food, lodging, and activities visit the trip planner at SullivanCatskills.com to book your fall experience now.
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NEW YORK
The Great American Road Trip
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The Finger Lakes Countrysides Provides a Sense of Tranquility and Connection.
Yates County
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n the heart of the Finger Lakes region lies Yates County, teeming with small town charm and lakeside retreats. Many come to unwind, refresh and reconnect, but leave with so much more.
Whether it’s the smile behind a mask from the owner of a downtown shop, a glass of wine on an outdoor patio overlooking the lake or a hike where we can bond with the outdoors and those close to us. Yates County’s convenient location among the region’s attractions gives visitors the ability to shape their own escape. Your next vacation to the Finger Lakes is filled with endless possibilities! Check out the top things to do when visiting the Finger Lakes Countrysides. Take a hike (or bike). Whether you’re an avid hiker or looking to breathe in the fresh air, you’ll find a serene spot to enjoy. Explore the lakes. Yates County borders 3 different Finger Lakes: Keuka, Seneca and Canandaigua. Visit the wineries. Finger Lakes Wine Country is rated as the best wine region in the US for years! Grab a pint or craft cocktail. There’s no shortage of quality craft beverages. Shop Local. You’ll be welcomed with a smile that is real as they come! Enjoy a scenic drive. The views you see are among the most memorable experiences when visiting here. Indulge in the sweet things in life. Did you know there’s such thing as award-winning ice cream? Enjoy a meal. Agriculture is such a large industry here, so many restaurants utilize locally grown produce and goods to enhance the dining experience. Explore arts, culture and history while you admire the visual bounty and structures. Reconnect and recharge. The Finger Lakes Countrysides will help you to slow down and fill your cup. Visit wwww.fingerlakescountrysides.com to explore more.
A Safe Place To Visit
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NEW YORK
The Great American Road Trip
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Simple Pleasures and Exciting Adventures: Cayuga County Has It All
A Safe Place To Visit
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hether you are looking for a quick getaway or longer excursion, Cayuga County offers endless vistas, world class wineries, winding country roads and eateries featuring gourmet to comfort themed menus to make your escape to the Finger Lakes the perfect one. Breath in the fresh air and falling leaves while exploring unspoiled natural beauty. Driving along Route 90 will invoke simple times and exciting adventures at the same time. Follow this route from the north section of Cayuga Lake and you will discover charming villages, unique shops and wideopen family run wineries. Driving south if you take a detour east, you will find the Apple Station Winery, a quintessential fall stop. Savor their delicious fruit wines, fresh apples and homemade baked goods. Getting back onto Route 90 continuing south it is worth a stop in the village of Union Springs to walk the main street and visit the antique shops and the Frontenac Museum that is dedicated to showcasing and educating its visitors about local history, something that the whole of Cayuga County has in no short supply. Stretch your legs at Heart and Hands Winery. They specialize in stunning views and producing cool weather wines sustainably. You can often find owners Tom and Susan Higgins to chat about the unique climate and soil that produce their Pinot Noirs and Riesling grapes.
Continue your scenic drive into the village of Aurora. In a village that defines the word quaint enjoy a leisurely stroll along the main drag for shops like the Village Market and eateries like the Fargo Bar and Grill. And no drive through Aurora is complete without a stop at MacKenzie Childs. Browse their collections of ceramics, furniture and gifts. Further down Route 90 there is beautiful Long Point Winery featuring Amelia’s Deli serving up salads, sandwiches and soups in a cozy space with plenty of outdoor seating. Perhaps brews are more your style. Make a stop at Aurora Brewing Company, a nanobrewery specializing in unique and hoppy brews. Traveling a bit off the main drive of Route 90 you’ll find Fillmore Glen State Park and 1010 BBQ, it’s worth the detour. Summerhill Brewing back on Route 90 is run by Jeff and Sallee who love to share their passion for the outdoors and nature which shine through at their spot up the hill. All of this is along just one of our endless scenic drives. Discover all this and more in Cayuga County. Visit www.TourCayuga.com to learn more and plan your getaway.
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WYOMING
The Great American Road Trip
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f you’re searching for the real American West, look no further than Cody, Wyoming. This city was founded in 1896 by the most authentic representative of the Old West, Colonel William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody.
Buffalo Bill lived up to the romantic idea of the brave, daring frontiersman. Through his personal exploits and his Wild West Show, he became the world’s most well- known American. It is his name that represents the true epitome of the Old West and has provided a draw to this small western town, where real cowboys still herd cattle and the buffalo still roam. The city of Cody lies about 33 km (20 mi.) east of the Shoshone National Forest, our first national forest, and 86 km (52 mi.) east of the eastern entrance to the nation’s first national park, Yellowstone. It’s hard to tell where Cody ends and Yellowstone begins. That’s because the journey to Yellowstone is all part of the Cody experience. Whichever way you travel to Cody into Yellowstone, it will be an adventure to remember. Nestled at the base of the Wyoming Rocky Mountains, Cody blends the old with the new and offers visitors safety and vast landscapes and adventures without
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sacrificing any of its truly western character. Your CodyYellowstone experience is not complete without exploring the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. The Center is widely regarded as America’s finest western museum. Its 300,000 square feet of exhibition space certainly make it one of America’s largest, featuring five separate museums under one roof. The Whitney Art Museum presents an outstanding collection of masterworks of the American West, including original paintings, sculptures and prints of the West from the early 19th century to present day. The Cody Firearms Museum houses the world’s largest and most important assemblage of American arms, as well as European arms dating back to the 16th century. The Plains Indian Museum ranks as one of the nation’s finest interpretations of the American Indian civilization. The Buffalo Bill Museum contains a wealth of material relating to the life of Buffalo Bill Cody, celebrating his varied career as Pony Express rider, frontiersman, scout, buffalo hunter, rancher, creator and star of the first Wild West Show. The fifth museum, the Draper Natural History Museum is a dynamic state-of-the-art, user-friendly exploration of relationships between humans and nature in the Greater Yellowstone area.
A Safe Place To Visit
CodyYellowstone: The Real West’s Wide Open Spaces
Old Trail Town was created with authentic frontier buildings that were collected from all over the state of Wyoming. Some of these historically documented buildings include the cabin used by Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid and their Hole-in-the-Wall Gang, and Curley’s Cabin, General Custer’s Crow Indian scout that survived the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Yellowstone National Park and the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, Cody is the doorstep to some of the nation’s most scenic country. From awe-inspiring wonders like the Old Faithful geyser and Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone to the lofty peaks, emerald valleys and sparkling lakes of the Beartooth Mountains, the beauty and solitude of this area will take your breath away. West of Cody, The East Yellowstone Valley is home to spectacular landscapes and extraordinary wildlife. A sharp eye might spot elk, grizzly bear, bighorn sheep, moose, or deer feeding along the banks of the streams, on grassy benchlands, or amidst steep mountain cliffs. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a myriad of activities here including horseback riding, hiking, biking, fishing, rock climbing, kayaking, river float trips, golf and camping. If you like outdoor adventure, you are sure to find it in Cody/ Yellowstone! Modern accommodations such as locally owned and chain hotels, bed and breakfast providers, guest houses, cabins, campground and RV parks and guest and dude ranches cater to visitors each year. Fine restaurants, unique western clothing boutiques, and art and furniture galleries are yours to experience and discover. Our perfect blend of wide-open spaces, western history and charm make CodyYellowstone a Great American Adventure.
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WYOMING
The Great American Road Trip
I
Laramie Wyoming
f you’re expecting country music and cowboy boots, that’s what you’ll get in Laramie, Wyoming. But, you’ll also find a beloved vegetarian restaurant, more ethnic bistros than you have ever imagined, craft beer, craft cheese, craft ice cream, and craft chocolate. Unexpected? That’s Laramie, Wyoming. The Downtown district is located next to an active railyard that was once a major stop on the Union Pacific railroad. The pedestrian footbridge joins the east and west sections of the town, and periodically Laramie’s historic buildings rumble as a train passes. If you’re lucky enough to be close when a train comes into town, close your eyes for a minute when you hear its whistle and imagine you have just arrived in Laramie more than a century ago! Here in Laramie, it’s easy to maintain your distance while you experience the wide open spaces of the west. With curbside pickup available and new outdoor dining areas like the Hollyhock Commons, you can dine al fresco or however fits your comfort. Our eateries are committed to
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a safe and relaxed dining experience. Before or after your dinner, take The Historic Downtown Laramie tour. Laramie was a Hell-on-wheels frontier town. Visit historic saloons and step into our quaint Western shopping district with everything from antiques and local art to outdoor outfitters and curious brothel bookstores. For another taste of history, visit the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site, which housed outlaws for 30 years including the infamous Butch Cassidy. Learn about the town’s founders who lived, worked, and made their mark on these mountain. Where the diversity of Wyoming’s only University meets the small town charm of the West, you’ll find a lot of choices in Laramie. Cuisine ranges from vegetarian to steak-house with Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Mexican, and Italian options. Enjoy a pint of creamy locally brewed beer and craft cocktails in the evening. Morning cravings are answered by a variety of coffee shops, cafés, and bakeries.
A Safe Place To Visit
For trails, venture outside our city to quiet escapes in Centennial, Albany, and Woods Landing. Each offer a unique dining experience in the mountains or on the river. From these hubs enjoy any of the area trails for hiking, fishing, mountain biking in summer, or world-class snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. Find out why All Trails Lead to Laramie and check out our Foodie Tour when you visit our website. VisitLaramie.org
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The Great American Road Trip
Sheridan County
WYOMING
Have Your Steak, and Eat It Too
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S
heridan’s culinary scene is having a moment. Out here in northern Wyoming, in the heart of the great state’s cattle country, you will find restaurants serving up some of the finest cuts of steak you have had in your life. Staple establishments like the Rib & Chop House carve up cowboy-quality tenderloin filets, while Wyoming Cattle & Creek dishes a hickory smoked prime rib melt so savory that it should be outlawed. These, and other kitchens, have begun working with a local startup called Truly Beef, owned and operated by Cathryn and Taylor Kerns, whose rangeland heritage is tethered to the Double Rafter Ranch, homesteaded in the 1880s. For thrill seekers after the most authentic Wyoming experience available, there’s nothing like a Double Rafter Cattle Drive. Yet gastro bliss in Sheridan County goes beyond the beef. Rising culinary stars have moved into the mountains from the coasts, and their hitching posts have quickly become beloved by the outlaws and icons of the west. Chef Travis Sorenson has created a restaurant that fuses West Coast sensibilities with Wyoming culinary traditions at birch, where you will find eclectic creations like the Reuben spring roll and milk-braised, bone-in bison short ribs. Uptown Shabby has brought a fresh, whimsical vibe downtown, and dishes absurdly inventive combinations that have no business being as delicious as they are, like the monkey burger (1/2 lb patty, mozzarella, bananas, spinach, onions, peanut butter, served on a cinnamon croissant), and the French BLT (bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado, red onion, maple mayo on homemade French toast).
A Safe Place To Visit
Travelers heading to Sheridan will find sensational pub grub at the likes of The Pony Grill & Bar (try the Bomber Mountain wings, made with local craft ale), and Bistro 307, which serves up incredible smokehouse classics. Breakfast is beautiful business at the 100+ year old PO News and Flagstaff Café, the cozy Jackalope Ranch Café (the boutique next door is famed for providing local artists a space to sell jewelry, fashion designs, and home goods), and the Cowboy Café, where only the adventurous dare take a stab at the elk and bison breakfast skillet.
Down the block in the cozy hamlet of Big Horn, you’ll find the Bozeman Stable Grillroom & Saloon, formerly the Last Chance Saloon, so named as it sits at the base of one of the most notorious mountain roads in the Bighorns. The Last Chance was a beloved hideaway of author Ernest Hemingway (he called it a “clean, well-lighted place”), while today the Bozeman Stable dishes Papa-inspired cocktails, and classics like the Little Goose Canyon mussels. Yes, Wyoming remains landlocked (as far as we know), but it is fun to imagine a clear mountain stream overflowing with mischievous oceanic mollusks. In days past, our trio of mountain lodges – Bear Lodge, Elk View Inn, and Arrowhead Lodge – were remote outposts where weary travelers would bed down on the long road between Yellowstone National Park and Mount Rushmore (Sheridan is roughly the halfway point between the two). Since COVID-19 exposed Wyoming’s legacy of generational social distancing, the lodges have become rustic retreats for folks from across the nation. Indeed, the ideal of Wyoming as a safe space during the madness of 2020 has served to showcase the rich culinary tradition of local cookeries. Opened in the first quarter of this year, the aptly named Welcome Market Hall transformed the historic bones of a 19th century rail depot into a gastronomic concourse that you’d expect to find in a city like Austin or Fort Collins. Also new to Sheridan is Mydland Market, reviving the concept of the neighborhood pub with its location on the north side of town, a place better known for its sweeping Cloud Peak Wilderness vistas and pastoral graces.
And what would any self-respecting foodie town be without a bustling food truck armada? Rumors persist that there are more food wagons in our fair town, per capita, than anywhere in the US. There’s great diversity in the scope of what’s for sale, with southwest and Mexican inspired Bonafide (chef Antonia Miller was named Sheridan’s 2019 Small Business Person of the Year), WYO Thai’s classic south east Asian cuisine, Hetty’s Pizza’s wood-fired pies, and Fired Up’s NYC bites. In case you didn’t know, craft is king out here in Sheridan. Black Tooth Brewing pushed Wyoming’s craft craze into hyperdrive when it opened in 2010, and after one sip of a Lazy Hazy IPA you’ll understand why. Luminous Brewhouse and Smith Alley Public House have since followed suit, while the Koltiska Distillery offers guests an opportunity to sample craft cocktails made with whiskey, gin and vodka, and inspired by more than 100 years of local family lore. All this begs a simple question. Why Sheridan, and why now? This artsy little outdoor playground at the base of the Bighorn Mountains is not just the finest postcard-perfect western getaway in the United States; it is also among the best small towns in the nation to live, work, and raise a family. For the burgeoning culinary kingpin, Sheridan County is where you can have your steak, and eat it too. For a complete list of activities and attractions in Sheridan County, as well as a guide to more than 50 dining establishments, visit us at sheridanwyoming.org Stay up to date on COVID-19 related travel restrictions, public health notices, and safety alerts by visiting our website.
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WYOMING
The Great American Road Trip
Wyoming’s Carbon County
W
hen it’s time to “Get Your West On,” it’s time to head for Wyoming’s Carbon County. Located high on the Continental Divide in south-central Wyoming, this gem sits astride Interstate 80 for easy access from points east and west. Explore Carbon County’s rich history full of colorful characters and infamous outlaws. Take a soak in natural mineral hot springs, fish pristine lakes and rivers, or hit the mountain trails for hiking, biking and horseback rides. Wyoming adventure awaits in Carbon County’s rugged Western towns. This vast 7,964 square mile county takes in the towns of Rawlins (the county seat), Sinclair, Hanna, Medicine Bow, Elk Mountain, Saratoga, Riverside, Encampment, Savery, Dixon and Baggs. You’ll find varied and delicious dining options including juicy western burgers, classic Italian, Thai and signature steaks. Carbon County communities offer a variety of lodging options including cozy cabins, swanky resorts, authentic western ranches, and historic bed and breakfasts to use as the home-base for your adventures!
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Boasting two scenic byways, the North Platte and Little Snake River Valleys, Encampment River, Saratoga natural Hot Springs, numerous designated wilderness areas and the Continental Divide trail, outdoor enthusiasts can seek many types of adventures. Located off the beaten path, visitors will find an abundance of well-known trails passing through Carbon County that are rich with cultural and historic stories of cowboys, Native American culture, fur trappers, emigrants and outlaws. With 10 museums and numerous historic sites there is plenty of history to discover. If you are looking for local culture we encourage you to schedule your visit around one of our exciting annual events. Carbon County has many entertaining local events you might want to attend including rodeos, music festivals, microbrew festivals, concerts, parades, wood-chopping competitions, ice fishing derbies, skijoring races, mountain man rendezvous, and so much more.
A Safe Place To Visit
Take a drive along our scenic byways, we are sure you will appreciate the serene mountains, fertile river valleys, and the exotic high desert - you’ll understand why everyone who has discovered Carbon County as their personal getaway agrees that it is Wyoming’s best kept secret. Discover outdoor recreation paradise filled with crystal clear rivers, natural hot springs, and an extensive trail system for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, nordic skiing or ATVing. Even though you may think of Carbon County, Wyoming as primarily a summer destination there are also lots of great winter activities. Carbon County has fantastic snowmobiling trails and is considered a top destination by snowmobile enthusiasts. Come experience the authentic West and wide-open spaces in Carbon County, Wyoming in any season! Visit wyomingcarboncounty.com for helpful information to plan your vacation.
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MONTANA
The Great American Road Trip
billings, mt
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F
orge your own path to Montana’s Trailhead and let the adventure begin. Born in the shadows of the Rimrocks, fed on the waters of the Yellowstone River, Billings will surprise you as you experience the unparalleled views, just moments from downtown. We all have a bit of foodie in us, so wine and dine in historic downtown Billings, busy with retail and culture by day, and a lively hot spot at night. Whether you are seeking an unforgettable dinner with hand crafted cocktails, award winning burgers, or a breakfast so tasty you will look forward to mornings. Great food is peppered throughout Billings. Many of the city’s restaurants pride themselves on locally sourced ingredients and creative chefs who are sure to impress you. Speaking of locally sourced, Montana has certainly embraced the Craft Beer Scene, and the Billings Brew Trail is the only walkable brewery district in the state. Billings’ boasts six brewer-
A Safe Place To Visit
ies, two distilleries, and one cider house, most of which are within a 1.5-mile radius. To the west of the Brew Trail you can take in two more breweries and a distillery. Within an hour of Billings are two historic National Monuments, Pompeys Pillar National Monument and Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. Pompeys Pillar is the only remaining physical evidence of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, where William Clark inscribed his name in 1806. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument memorializes the site of the Battle of the Little Bighorn which took place is 1876 between the US Seventh Cavalry and Sitting Bull and the Sioux. With over 50 miles of multi-use trails, Billings is an outdoor recreation town. For the mountain biker, Acton Recreation Area or Zimmerman Trail offer miles of trails for varying skill levels without the crowds. Hikers will enjoy it, too. Other popular biking and hiking spots include Phipps Park, Riverfront Park, and Dover Park.
If you need paved trails, Swords Rimrock Park is a perfect place along the Rimrocks especially for sunrises and sunsets. And, don’t forget, some of the state’s best State Parks are best accessed via Billings. Check out Pictograph Cave or Chief Plenty Coups State Parks. You can also rent a paddleboard, walk the trails, or enjoy the beach at Lake Elmo State Park. Family-friendly adventures are around every corner in Billings, too. Start your journey at ZooMontana, the only zoo in the state! ZooMontana is home to more than 80 animal exhibits including Grizzly Bears, Amur Tigers, Red Pandas, Bison, Wolves and more. Most of the animals are rescues. Naturally taking its time getting here, sometime in 2020, ZooMontana will be welcoming its first Sloth. Come meet Winston while you explore ZooMontana which also offers amazing grounds including one of Montana’s only accredited arboretums. Families also love to stretch their legs on one of the many trails at Riverfront Park where you can also cast a line into near-by ponds or the
Yellowstone River. You can check out the Montana Audubon Center and canoe, hike, fish, or bird watch. Want to extend the day? Pack extra pillows and blankets and plan a movie night at the Amusement Park Drive-In Theatre, too. Montana is full of scenic drives, but perhaps none more scenic than the incredible Beartooth Highway. Voted by the American Motorcycle Association and USA Today as the Most Scenic drive in North America, it is your scenic route to Yellowstone National Park. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day, this scenic byway is sometimes open longer depending on the weather. The Beartooth Highway provide breathtaking vistas from start to finish. Reaching a peak of 10,977 feet through the pass, Roadtrippers or motorcyclists will take in Montana’s highest mountain range with 20 peaks over 12,000 feet. Check out VisitBillings.com to start planning your trip! We can’t wait to host you.
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The Great American Road Trip Embrace Your Adventurous Spirit in
MONTANA
Yellowstone Country Montana
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he grandeur of Yellowstone National Park unfolds into Wyoming, Idaho and Montana. Here under the big sky, Yellowstone Country Montana offers three gateways to the park: Cooke City, West Yellowstone, and Gardiner—the only year-round entrance. Yellowstone Country itself is bustling with activities, all offering an adventure-filled getaway. Anglers are drawn to some of the best fly-fishing in the world here. You’ve got almost 1,000 miles of shoreline to fish, with 61 state fishingaccess sites, nine blue-ribbon trout streams and countless spring creeks and lakes. A true, year-round vacation destination, outdoor recreation includes hiking, ATVing, water fun, rock climbing, horseback riding, rodeos, camping/ RVing, and mountain biking. Some of the country’s most scenic drives and motorcycling rides can be found here, too, like the famous Beartooth Highway, an All-American seasonal road and the highest-elevation highway in the Northern Rockies. Experience spellbinding switchbacks, towering peaks, and the “Top of the World.” Yellowstone Country winters are something special, as the region is home to three distinctly unique ski areas, where freestyling finds its roots. Big Sky, offering some of the “biggest skiing in America” and acclaimed as one of the country’s top ski resorts, provides astounding vertical of 4,350 feet, while Bridger Bowl and Red Lodge Mountain extend an authentic Montana ski experience for all skill levels. For sled heads, Cooke City and West Yellowstone feature some of the best snowmobiling terrain on the planet. Culture abounds throughout the region. What inspires an artist to put brush to canvas or words to paper, or to dance? What makes history worth preserving? And what makes a community a place worth visiting? In Yellowstone Country Montana, there’s no question that artists are inspired by the landscape and history that create a rich road forward. The fine folks who live, work and play here are dedicated to nurturing the pulse of Yellowstone Country’s cherished arts and culture scenes.
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One of the most vibrant small towns in the Rocky Mountain West, Bozeman is blessed with an eclectic mix of ranchers, artists, professors, ski enthusiasts and entrepreneurs, drawn here by world-class outdoor recreation, Montana State University, and a slice of Americana. Downtown Bozeman has been an important and historic gateway to the West for more than 100 years, as its merchants have outfitted explorers, miners, ranchers and the U.S. Army with supplies. Today, downtown Bozeman features rows of turn-of-thecentury buildings and more than 100 shops and restaurants line this beautiful and historic retail corridor. Foodies will appreciate a diverse array of culinary marvels. Bozeman’s Blackbird Kitchen makes its own pasta and roasts meats and vegetables in a wood-fired pizza oven. Visitors to the region will find no less than six steakhouses, like Land of Magic Steakhouse in Logan and The Cowboy Bar & Supper Club in Fishtail, serving up some righteous Montana flavor. After a day on the slopes or the river, unwind at a local brew house— Montana’s No. 2 in the nation for breweries per capita, so you’ll have your pick. If you’re seeking a Montana that lets you backpack deep into remote wilderness, make an intimate connection with the land and get away from the noise of civilization, you’re in luck. Yellowstone Country is exceptional in that regard as well. This is a place of infinite wonder and adventure, wherever you roam. There’s more to see and do here than one vacation affords. Yellowstone Country’s “Play It Safe” travel guidelines urge all travelers to know the local public health guidelines before arriving to their destination and understand some services and destinations may be limited. Head to visityellowstonecountry.com/safety for safety guidelines and travel inspiration.
A Safe Place To Visit Old Saloon - Emigrant, MT Alyssa Henry
Madison River Ken Takata
Hyalite Reservoir Andy Austin Beartooth Highway Andy Austin
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MONTANA
The Great American Road Trip
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Recreate, Recharge, Rejuvenate and Reboot at Big Sky, Montana
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ith its endless views and wide open skies that stretch on for miles and miles, Big Sky, Montana is aptly named. And with more outdoor adventure options than you can imagine, Big Sky offers a safe way to experience a socially-distanced vacation for those who are MontanaAware (visitbigsky/about-us/montanaaware). Although known for legendary skiing and easy access to Yellowstone, America’s first National Park, today there are more ways than ever to truly enjoy the Big Sky area and immerse yourself into the great outdoors. Whether it’s escaping into the solitude of the back country wilderness on horseback or by foot, or experiencing adventures in the canyon ravines on idyllic rivers, there are so many options for spending a day in Big Sky throughout the four seasons. With Yellowstone National Park at your disposal, tour operators offer different experiences in order to customize your trip to fit your needs. Whether you’re looking for Old Faithful, wildlife, or waterfalls, Wonderland never fails to impress visitors. A true hiker’s haven, you can take in the vibrancy of the wildflowers, the cool mist of a mountain stream or the fragrant wind blowing through a forest of trees as you make your way through countless miles of scenic trails. Other adrena-
A Safe Place To Visit
line-pumping activities include two zip lining experiences at Montana Whitewater and Rafting Tours, including the Gallatin River location where the scenery includes towering limestone cliffs, pine forest and a rushing river. This is the area where the movie A River Runs Through It was filmed and you zip across the Gallatin River. The mountain bike terrain ranges from mild to rigorous with most trails leading to some of the best views in the Rockies. Slay the singletrack and pedal your way to some mountain peaks and great views with numerous well-maintained trails and mountain bike friendly dirt roads around the Big Sky area. Experienced river guides can take water enthusiasts for halfday or full-day raft trips on some exciting and challenging whitewater sections. Think wave trains and big rides. However, there is nothing quite like exploring Big Sky country on the back of a horse. Jake’s Horses offers a wide variety of trails and rides to suit the tenderfoot or the most experienced rider Throughout the region are numerous fishing holes and walk/ wade access for all experience levels, along with spectacular scenery. Gallatin River Guides offer fly fishing trips that showcase the great waters of Montana and Yellowstone Park. Skiers flock to the region to experience one of the country’s most iconic ski areas, Big Sky Resort, where fresh powder is
almost guaranteed. Big Sky is home to 5,850 acres of skiable terrain and 4,350 feet of vertical spanning across four different mountains. The resort also is home to a scenic Arnold-Palmer designed 18-hole, par-72 course with sweeping views, long drives and the occasional deer, moose, or elk crossing the greens. No matter your culinary tastes, you’re sure to enjoy dining at the many eateries throughout the area. Restaurants in Big Sky, MT are known for wild game, locally-sourced products and creative meals with many options for craft beer, wine and spirit lovers. Chef Eric Gruber of the Lone Mountain Ranch’s Horn & Cantle Restaurant prepares rustic American cuisine in a modern log cabin setting. Looking to stay for a weekend, or perhaps longer? The wide variety of accommodations range from luxurious vacation rentals and cozy lodges to the more traditional The Wilson Hotel – Residence Inn by Marriott. Perhaps the best way to experience the great outdoors is to camp, and there are plenty of private and public campgrounds to suit your style of adventure and comfort. Whether you’re hiking in to a backcountry campsite or parking your RV, you’ll still be able to look up at the stars in the big sky as you’re roasting s’mores. For more information, go to visitbigsky.com. FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 93
NEW ME XIC O
The Great American Road Trip
Las Cruces
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New Mexico
EXPLORE. EXPERIENCE. DISCOVER.
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as Cruces offers a profound combination of cultural diversity, rich agricultural and culinary traditions, and natural beauty that feeds the soul and invites exploration. Located at the crossroads of Interstate 10 and Interstate 25, Las Cruces is also a cultural crossroads of the Spanish, Mexican, Indigenous and American cultures which are reflected in the art, design, cuisine, and cultural activities throughout the area. As New Mexico’s second-largest city, Las Cruces is the State’s southern hub for outdoor recreation, cultural and historical landmarks, arts and music, agriculture, and authentic New Mexican cuisine. The area has a storied agricultural tradition as one of the largest exporters of pecans and green chile in the country and the oldest wine producing region in the United States. In 1629, the first grapevines were planted along the Rio Grande river and were originally smuggled from Spain by monks to make wine for ceremony and sacrament.
A Safe Place To Visit
Given the area’s agricultural roots, it should come as no surprise that modern day Las Cruces features a diverse mix of cuisines, breweries, wineries, coffee shops, and specialty shops that often use the locally grown produce that the region is known for. Las Cruces also enjoys an average of 320 days of sunshine each year and is populated with a wide range of year-round outdoor recreation and cultural activities that offer plenty of safe open spaces to explore for adventure seekers of all ages and abilities. Las Cruces gives visitors a chance to explore the unbridled beauty of Southern New Mexico while immersing themselves in rich cultural and culinary experiences. Visitors can experience the sparkling gypsum dunes at the country’s newest national park, White Sands National Park, explore a variety of trails within the city’s two national monuments, the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument and the Prehistoric Trackways National Monument, tour Spaceport America, the nation’s first purpose-built spaceport, and catch some local flavor at one of the many restaurants serving up delicious, authentic New Mexican food or the biweekly Farmers and Crafts Market of Las Cruces, which, on Saturdays, features eight city blocks of local food and craft vendors. Travelers who enjoy some good photo opportunities to remember their trip can snap selfies at the World’s Largest Chile Pepper at the Big Chile Inn, an homage to the area’s signature chile crop which earned it the title of the chile capital of the world, and the Recycled Roadrunnner, a 20 foot tall and 40 foot long sculpture made from recycled materials as a tribute to New Mexico’s State Bird. The rich cultural history of the area can be experienced throughout the city through art, music, architecture, cuisine and even the people. In the heart of downtown Las Cruces sits the Las Cruces Arts and Cultural District, which includes the original townsite that was founded by Don Pablo Melendres and platted in 1849 by U.S. Army surveyors, led by Lt. Delos Sackett, using a rawhide rope. The district is anchored by an open-air performing arts venue surrounded by a wide variety of museums, galleries, and theaters; 27 arts-related businesses; 14 restaurants; eight historic sites; and about 100 buildings listed on the National Register for Historic Places. Just minutes West of Las Cruces sits the historic town of Mesilla, NM which became part of the U.S. after the 1848 Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo moved the U.S./Mexico border, placing the town within the United States. In recognition of this historic event, the town’s central plaza, which is filled with historic adobe structures that house shops, galleries, and restaurants, features a gazebo and historical marker noting the town’s unique history.
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NEW ME XIC O
The Great American Road Trip
CHAMA: New Mexico’s
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Mecca for Year-Round Fun
ne of the best-kept secrets in New Mexico is the enchanting Village of Chama. With an elevation of 7860 feet, Chama is nestled high in the Southern Rockies, just 120 miles North of Santa Fe. The historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad steam trains leave the Chama depot daily from Memorial Day weekend to mid-October. Riding the railroad is a day trip of exhilarating mountain views and fall colors. Fishing local trout streams and lakes is a leisurely pleasure and for a real experience try Fly fi shing the Rio Chama, which runs the east side of the Village. Hikers and mountain bikers fi nd many trails including the Continental Divide Trail nearby. The Sargent’s Wildlife Area surrounds Chama with meadows and trails for hiking and horseback riding. Hunting adventures with reliable guides are close to town. Chama has a lively Western-style business district with lodging, RV Parks and cozy dining establishments. Located at the junction of highway 17 and U.S. 84 (Take State Hwy 285 north from Santa Fe to Española then take the “Chama Highway”
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(84) north) the Village of Chama is the perfect destination for anyone seeking scenic outdoor recreation. Crowds gather in Chama for the famo us Fourth of July fi reworks display. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers a fi reworks train in the evening. Chama Days, the second weekend of August, is always fun with a softball tournament, family Rodeo, dances and parade. Enjoy our Art Festival every Labor Day weekend and visit with our local artists. Cool times in cool pines are the epitome of summer fun in Chama’s cabins and vacation ranches. Oh, yeah, and it’s an absolute mecca for winter sports, too! Our high mountain meadows are ideal for open space snowmobiling. There are numerous trails for cross country skiers and snowshoeing. For your safety and comfort bring a light Jacket or Sweater for those cool evening walks and check with the local ranger district before heading out to hike. Never travel alone and make sure you are adequately prepared. At these altitudes, the weather can sneak up on you.
A Safe Place To Visit
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MISSISSIPPI
The Great American Road Trip
RIDGELAND, MISSISSIPPI SAFELY SAVOR IN MISSISSIPPI’S HEALTHIEST HOMETOWN
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idway from Memphis to New Orleans, just off the Natchez Trace Parkway, you’ll discover a destination for dining well (and responsibly.) It is where fine dining, fine art and upscale boutiques meet bike trails, boating and more. Ridgeland is a stylish city with an undeniable vitality and energy that makes it hard to sit still, hence earning the destination the title of “Healthiest Hometown of Mississippi.” Ridgeland lives up to that title in more ways than one these days by strictly adhering to the health guidelines set forth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, the safety of visitors and locals alike is a top priority, so without worry, you can explore the surprising array of activities and attractions in this delightful town just north of the state capitol of Jackson. With more than 150 restaurants in Ridgeland, it’s a foodie’s haven along the sparkling shores of the 33,000acre Barnett Reservoir. “There are probably more locally
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owned restaurants in Ridgeland than anywhere else in the state,” says Chef Derek Emerson, a James Beard Award semi-finalist and owner of two popular restaurants in Ridgeland, CAET Seafood and Oysterette and Local 463 Urban Kitchen. Both restaurants are located in Renaissance at Colony Park, a destination lifestyle shopping center with elaborate water fountains and a beautiful open-air European design theme. When not in the kitchen you can find Emerson cycling the Natchez Trace Parkway or Ridgeland’s miles of Multi-Use Trails. Being just a few hour’s drive from the Gulf Coast, you’ll find fresh seafood on many restaurant menus; however, Ridgeland is fast becoming the “Steakhouse Capital of Mississippi.” The city has not only the most steakhouses of any city in the state, but also the best, as the raves of national food critics testify. CNN, Business Insider and Men’s Journal have all branded Ridgeland steaks the best in the state and even the nation. Doe’s Eat Place
A Safe Place To Visit
has been named by the James Beard Foundation as one of “America’s Classics,” and Men’s Journal has crowned Doe’s porterhouse steak “the best thing to eat in America.” Critics at national organizations like MSN and Business Insider have also heaped high praise on the steaks at high-style Ely’s Restaurant and Bar. At Koestler Prime you can even take home a bottle of Koestler’s seasoning for your own steak creations. All in all, there are six locally owned steakhouses from which to choose and all are superb choices.
Med Fish & Grill that is located in the newly renovated Northpark Mall. The “New Northpark” recently underwent a multi-million-dollar upgrade and boasts next generation technology and unmatched Southern charm for a perfect shopping experience for the entire family.
Ridgeland’s restaurants aren’t all about red meat, the city was recognized by Niche.com as one of the healthiest places to live in the state. The city’s mayor Gene McGee, a vegan and avid cyclist, encourages Ridgeland restaurants to offer healthy options.
Over the past 11 years, this event has drawn thousands to the Renaissance at Colony Park to gaze at more than 150 pristine vehicles from luxury brands such as Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Land Rover and Porsche, to name a few. Spectators can stroll the grounds to inspect classic entries up close or even submit their own prized possession—25 years or older—with no entry fee for participation.
Local restaurants utilize fresh produce from two nearby growers in the county, Two Dog Farms and Salad Days Produce. Even carbs are as healthy as can be in Ridgeland; Gil’s Bread bakes handmade artisan breads for many of Ridgeland’s local restaurants. You’ll want to try Crossroad’s Organic Café, Mama Nature’s Juice Bar, along with The
The mild climate makes anytime of the year a great time to visit Ridgeland; however, fall welcomes warm colors, cooler temps and the Renaissance Euro Fest, a classic European auto and motorcycle show.
Make plans to #VisitRidgelandResponsibly and safely attend this outdoor event Saturday, October 10, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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NORTH CAROLINA
The Great American Road Trip
Mountain Views, Fresh Apples & Handcrafted Wine in Hendersonville, NC.
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endersonville, North Carolina, has long been a traveler’s escape. Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, minutes from busier places, like Asheville to the north and Greenville to the south, Hendersonville maintains the quintessential charm one expects of a small town. Surrounding natural wonders beckon visitors outdoors, while abundant apple orchards encourage agritourism and the growing wine region provides a distinct drinking experience. Hendersonville’s elevation is high enough to allow for less-humid summers and several winter snowfalls, but moderate enough that the town experiences all four seasons, each with its own charm. Fall is particularly pleasant as the air becomes crisp and cool and the leaves put on a show with their colors. The famed Blue Ridge Parkway weaves within a few miles of Hendersonville. Follow the linear National Park and pull off at overlooks that provide long-range mountain views. One of the most accessible overlooks in Western North Carolina lies just 15 minutes from downtown Hendersonville. At 3,100 feet in elevation, Jump Off Rock peers into four states. Three easy to moderate hiking trails circle around the rock. Time your visit to sunset and watch the sun sink behind mountain peaks. Throughout the fall, apple orchards buzz with activity. Henderson County leads North Carolina in apple production and consistently ranks within the top producers nationally. Twenty-one orchards, markets and roadside stands along the Crest of the Blue Ridge Orchard Trail invite visitors to experience harvest season. U-pick orchards encourage families to pick their own fruit
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straight from the trees. Many farms grow more than 20 varieties of apples, which gradually ripen at different times and stretch the season from late August into November. Additional farm attractions include hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin patches and barnyard animals. Kids of all ages delight in shooting an apple cannon. On-site bakeries take fresh apples and turn them into tasty confections. Snag an apple-cider doughnut covered in cinnamon-sugar and enjoy it in a rocking chair with a cup of warm cider and a view of the mountains. Jeter Mountain Farm also serves hard cider, made with local apples, in its mountaintop tasting room. In the summer of 2019, Hendersonville received federal designation as Crest of the Blue Ridge American Viticultural Area (AVA). The recognition means the area’s climate, soil composition and elevation are well suited
A Safe Place To Visit
for growing grapes. Six wineries now operate in the region. Most of the wineries are boutique properties that specialize in a personal tasting experience. Vineyards grow European grape varietals, as well as French-American hybrids, and use them to craft fine, dry wines. For a winery with deep roots in the region, head to Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards where the Ward family grows 14 varieties of French vinifera grapes on property that’s been in the family for generations. Nearby Burntshirt Vineyards gives a nod to the area’s apple heritage with its pleasantly sweet apple wine. The winery’s cottage-style vacation rental allows guests to stay steps from the vines. High atop its namesake mountain, Point Lookout Vineyards pours wine and mead in a 4,000-square-foot open-air pavilion with panoramic views. Newcomer Stone Ashe Vineyard opened this summer, bringing a touch of Bordeaux to the Blue Ridge. The vines — chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, petit verdot and riesling — were cloned from legacy vines in France. Each of the wineries offers outdoor seating and plenty of space for social distancing. While Hendersonville feels world’s away, the town is an easy drive via nearby interstates, and the Asheville Airport is 20 minutes away. Lodging options vary from convenient hotels to friendly bed-and-breakfast inns and secluded cabins, cottages and vacation rental homes. To learn more and request a free visitor guide, go to www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org or call (800) 828-4244.
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AR KA NSA S
The Great American Road Trip
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North Little Rock, Arkansas Is On The Food Map
hile the year 2020 has been full of economic uncertainty and concerns about the coronavirus pandemic, the food scene in a small Southern city has surprisingly blossomed.
The 2020 emergence of the coronavirus and the subsequent closing of dining rooms meant North Little Rock restaurants needed to quickly reimagine their business models. Some added pickup and delivery services, others battened down the hatches to weather the economic storm, and still others moved forward with opening new restaurants.
But, according to the North Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau, something curious also happened. Locals rediscovered favorite walk-up dairy bars like Mojo’s or Wink’s with made-to-order burgers and old-fashioned shakes. Restaurants like Flyway Brewing innovated by moving their dining rooms outdoors. People took advantage of patios at Taziki’s Mediterranean Café or Tacos 4 Life to enjoy a meal with friends or family in a safe setting. The social climate raised awareness of and support for excellent Black-owned restaurants like Mr. Cajun’s Kitchen with its “Cajun-ized” shrimp and frog legs and Lindsey’s BBQ and Hospitality House, serving some of the best barbecue in Central Arkansas for more than 30 years. The city’s
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two craft breweries, Diamond Bear and Flyway Brewing, debuted gorgeous new original exterior murals by local artists. Despite national economic uncertainty, new restaurants successfully opened in North Little Rock during the pandemic. And not only chains or franchises; chef-driven restaurants like Brood & Barley, which serves beer-centric culinary creations. Cypress Social, an upscale destination restaurant set on a picturesque lake, has doubled as a wedding venue. And then there’s the burgeoning food scene in Park Hill: North Bar, whose vegan-friendly menu and house cocktails were featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives; The Filling Station, North Little Rock’s first food truck court with a steady rotation of the area’s best food trucks, and Dark Side Coffee Co., a drivethrough coffee shop with a quirky Star Wars theme. Perhaps the most talked about change in North Little Rock’s food scene, brought about by the City of North Little Rock, Argenta Downtown Council and North Little Rock CVB, has been the Argenta Outdoor Dining District, open daily for restaurant patrons to enjoy dining and drinks downtown. Every weekend, downtown Main Street closes to traffic, colorful tents pop up, and live music and delicious aromas waft through the air. With more than ten restaurants and bars on Main Street,
A Safe Place To Visit
Mr. Cajun’s Kitchen.
Cypress Social
patrons have plenty of options, including Southern classics at Skinny J’s, gelato and pizza from Ristorante Capeo, Crush Wine Bar’s exceptional wine list, Reno’s Argenta Café famous cheese dip and po’boys, and Four Quarter Bar’s barbecue. Patrons can even dine under the stars in the beautiful Argenta Plaza, with its modern lighted backdrop, front porch with swings, water features and fun multi-color shadows. If you can imagine a silver lining for restaurants during the pandemic, it may be that people have gained an even greater appreciation for the dining experience: as a grounding comfort when everything else is uncertain; as a welcome distraction, or as a tangible way to support friends in the restaurant industry. For many, especially in North Little Rock, it has been all the above. The future may be unclear, but the desire to share a meal together – even if outdoors or socially-distanced – is here to stay, and North Little Rock continues to serve with a welcoming smile. Now, as the weather starts to cool and the colors start to change, North Little Rock will be the perfect destination for foodies craving both a culinary adventure and natural beauty. To plan your trip to North Little Rock, visit NorthLittleRock.org. FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 103
FL OR IDA
The Great American Road Trip Find Yourself in Perpetual Motion on Florida’s Sports Coast
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hen it comes to outdoor adventure, Florida’s Sports Coast boasts every kind of activity imaginable … and then some. With four amazing cities to explore, Florida’s Sports Coast is an unbeatable destination that offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re tackling tandem skydiving over Zephyrhills or enjoying a hike around New Port Richey, the region is ripe with adventure. Florida’s Sports Coast is home to over 800 square miles that span from coastline to countryside. Adventure seeking travelers can enjoy immense water activities like boating out to Anclote Key Preserve State Park or paddling the waterways of Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park. Dream under open skies on Anclote Key for a truly immersive camping experience, and hear the lapping waves hit the shoreline as you enjoy the serenity of the remote island at night. Hit the trails at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park where avid hikers and trail cyclist can explore miles of trails with guaranteed glimpses of Florida wildlife and avian populations. Hike to a remote campsite or enjoy the convenience of pulling up at one of their cabins or primitive campsites. The Withlacoochee River Park consists of 406 acres, and the Withlacoochee River runs through the park with an abundance of wildlife to see such as Bald Eagles, Swallow Tail Hawks and Gopher Tortoises. If you are looking for some peace and tranquility, this is the place for you. Whether you want to go fishing, camping, biking, kayaking or have a picnic, this park has it all. Experience an ideal social distancing activity while enjoying the fresh air and stunning landscapes with a hot air balloon ride by American Balloons, piloted by Tom and Jessica Warren. TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park, the largest zip line aerial adventure park in Central Florida, offers one person on the course at a time, thus allowing for a safe, aerial adventure.
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A Safe Place To Visit
Culinary options abound throughout the region. Whether you’re looking for something fresh from the farm or straight from the sea, Florida’s Sports Coast is home to some of the tastiest restaurants, cafes and breweries around. Born out of passion for great beer, Escape Brewing Company is the ultimate place to “Escape” to with over 10 beers (plus seasonal brews), including The Other West Coast IPA (Gold Medal 2016 Best Beer of Florida), Goofy Footed Wheat Ale. Whether you’re enjoying a lager in the taproom or grabbing a growler to take home, Escape Brewing Company has the perfect IPA, lager or stout for you. Responsibly enjoy a Sports Coast pilsner, an exclusive recipe born from a partnership between Florida’s Sports Coast and Escape Brewing Company. A well-known destination for shopping and antiquing, there’s no better place to tackle your next shopping spree than on Florida’s Sports Coast- home to some of the finest shopping centers in the Southeastern U.S. like the Tampa Premium Outlets, The Grove in Wesley Chapel and the famous Shops at Wiregrass. Downtown Dade City offers
a quaint southern charm style of shopping with unique boutiques and antique shops. Extend your adventure with a weekend – or week long -- stay on Florida’s Sports Coast. You can score the perfect room or suite at one of the region’s newly constructed hotels. Home to two of Florida’s Sports Coast’s most picturesque and playable golf courses, Saddlebrook is a luxurious resort that offers a wealth of amenities. Easily accessed by major Florida thoroughfares like I-75 and I-275, Florida’s Sports Coast is a 90 minute drive from Orlando and only 30 minutes from Tampa. Florida’s Sports Coast’s abundant outdoor adventures offer the perfect playing field to get out and enjoy nature. Let’s Play! For more information visit: flsportscoast.com
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SOU TH DAK OTA
The Great American Road Trip
Brookings, South Dakota:
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The More You See, The More You Like
hen was the last time you took a vacation that combined adventure, educational activities, a wealth of dining options and culture around every corner? All this and more awaits you in Brookings, South Dakota. In fact, there’s so much to see and do that you’ll want to stay several days or more. Brookings offers a variety of attractions for all ages. Kick off your trip in Brookings, home to South Dakota State University, a well-known agricultural research institution. The Children’s Museum of South Dakota provides a year-round interactive playground for kids to learn, while the Hillcrest Aquatic Center delivers an exciting way to cool off in the summer. Our lively nightlife brings friends together and the art scene is gaining ground at the numerous museums and galleries. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Avenue and see firsthand the early architecture of the historic downtown. With each brick laid and concrete poured, the streets of downtown Brookings tell a story of Classic Revival and Art Deco, along with Beaux-Arts and Romanesque architecture. Or experience the rich, pioneer history at the Brookings County History Museum where more than 45,000 artifacts are on display, and where visitors can travel back in time through old photographs and various newspaper clippings. The Brookings Arts Council encourages community
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connections through the arts by providing a supportive environment for awareness, appreciation, and participation and has been a driving force in completing several new murals in downtown. Spark your imagination at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota, the only one of its kind in South Dakota to feature 44,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space and 4-acres of outdoor prairie, including a full size, animatronic T.Rex on display. The CMSD enhances learning for all children and grownups through play, creativity and discovery. The South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum is dedicated to preserving and inspiring a passion for the history of agriculture, while the South Dakota Art Museum features seven spacious galleries and a collections archive of more than 7,000 works of art including the world’s largest collection of Harvey Dunn’s paintings. Botany lovers must visit McCrory Gardens, a 25-acre botanical garden plus 45-acre arboretum, which feature a main, formal display botanical garden with a variety of different trees, shrubs, grasses, herbs, flowers, and native plants. Go for the bull’s eye at the Brookings County Outdoor Adventure Center, a 29,530 square-foot facility featuring both a firearms range and Olympic-length archery range. While shooting sports is their key focus, the center also is home to SDSU Extension, Brookings County
A Safe Place To Visit 4-H, and the Game, Fish, and Parks. Experience the great outdoors at pristine Dakota Nature Park where kayaking, canoeing, bird watching and nature programming are offered during the appropriate months, while winter brings with it snow shoeing and cross country skiing. Single Track Mountain Biking Trail & Pump Park which boasts three different tracks, suited for all ages and abilities, including a strider track for kids between ages two and five. Culinary offerings abound throughout the region, and no trip to Brookings is complete without a stop at Nick’s Hamburger Shop, a downtown staple since 1929, Nick’s offers mini 2oz burgers, pies and shakes. They even hosts contests for how many burgers a person can eat in one sitting. The South Dakota State University Dairy Bar, which famously invented Oreo Ice Cream in 1979, features ice cream manufactured by students. Visitors can watch the cow-tocone process. Pheasant Restaurant & Lounge, the area’s oldest full-service restaurant, serves classic midwestern meals with a Nordic twist, like Pheasant Salad Sandwiches, lamb chislic, Nordic waffles and Bison burger. Backyard Grill & BBQ piles on the pulled pork, Texas beef brisket, and ribs along with classic southern sides like molasses baked beans, cornbread and potato salad. Perhaps more than anything else, Brookings is a family-friendly destination that welcomes visitors with open arms. The fun and excitement are waiting to be experienced. Learn more at: visitbrookingssd.com
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TENNESSEE
The Great American Road Trip
10 Inspiring Reasons to Visit Clarksville, Tennessee this Fall
From a bustling downtown to relaxing country drives framed by extravagant fall color, Clarksville, Tenn. is a favorite midsouth fall road trip. If your getaway wish-list includes off-the-beaten-path but convenient, affordable with plenty to do, natural beauty and not too crowded, Clarksville checks all your boxes. Let these ideas inspire you to start planning today.
1. The rural Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement is spread over 40 expansive acres. The 16 log structures are filled with authentic furnishings from 1840-1880. Open Friday–Sunday, May–October, tours at the site are self-guided. Random benches and picnic tables invite you to relax and appreciate the timeless surroundings. 2.
Cooler temperatures and lower humidity mean dining outdoors becomes a pleasant experience again! Try Strawberry Alley Ale Works with a main floor balcony overlooking the Cumberland River. The vista from the patio at Liberty Park Grille includes the marina and is another favorite spot to enjoy a magnificent river sunset.
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3. Founded on the river, the city of Clarksville thrived early because of river trade. Residents and visitors alike still love the Cumberland and the many amenities it affords. The paved Cumberland RiverWalk meanders along the rivers curves and bends and connects directly to downtown via the Upland Trail. Enjoy restaurants, a playground, swings and benches, public art and picnic areas alongside scenic river views. 4. Follow the African American Legacy Trail, a 19-point walking and driving trail to historic sites such as the Mount Olive Cemetery and the Port Royal Benevolent Society. Learn about Olympic Gold Medalist Wilma Rudolph and others who contributed significantly to the city’s and nation’s history. 5.
Soak up the splendor of fall color along the nine-mile Clarksville Greenway. The paved trail is ideal for walking, running, biking (bring your equipment or rent on site), or skating. Hop on the converted railbed at multiple access points. Enjoy creek and river views, open fields and dense woods, bluffs, hills and long straightaways -- nature at its finest! Dogs are welcome too, just make sure to keep them on a leash. offers plenty of rural highways and country backroads. Fields are being harvested and tobacco barns can s�ll be found firing the crop that made Clarksville one of the wealthiest ci�es in the na�on in the mid-19th century. You can learn about how the tobacco trade influenced Clarksville’s history at the Customs House Museum and Fort Defiance Civil War Park.
A Safe Place To Visit
6.
Even Tennessee’s fifth-largest city still offers plenty of rural highways and country backroads. Fields are being harvested and tobacco barns can still be found firing the crop that made Clarksville one of the wealthiest cities in the nation in the mid-19th century. You can learn about how the tobacco trade influenced Clarksville’s history at the Customs House Museum and Fort Defiance Civil War Park.
7. Clarksville’s 34-year-old winery, seven craft breweries, distillery, and meadery will all unveil new seasonal offerings in time for fall. Tennessee Valley Brewing’s fall favorite Bastogne Brown, a pecan nutbrown with a hint of vanilla, and King’s Bluff Brewery’s top priority now is Clarktoberfest, a malty fall festival beer brewed in their typical unconventional fashion for old world traditional flavor. Star Spangled Brewing Co. creates an Oktoberfest Marzen beer. Brewed back in March and lagering for over six months, this craft brew will be the pinnacle of their fall festivities.
9.
Dunbar Cave State Park is one of Clarksville’s most popular natural wonders. The cave is settled among 144 acres with hiking trails, wildlife, and a fascinating visitor center. With a seasonal guided cave tour where it’s 58 degrees year around, you can see 14th century Mississippian art.
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Clarksville’s diverse population brings a surprisingly global flair to the city and its food scene. Savor authentic dishes from the Asian realm, the Mediterranean, and Europe, as well as your Southern favorites like BBQ and catfish. See these details and more at visitclarksvilletn.com or download the free Visit Clarksville App to create, save and share your custom itinerary.
8.
From beginning to advanced, find your cycling thrill along one of Clarksville’s designed mountain biking trails. Rotary Park and North Ford Mountain Bike Trail offer exhilarating hills, jumps and tight switchbacks.
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ILLINOIS
The Great American Road Trip
The SeeQuincy area is poised for both safe and invigorating travels this fall.
T
he open road is calling. Miles of wide rolling waters, giant lily pads, inspiring vistas, and distinctive small city tapestries. America’s National Scenic Byway meanders the scenic curves of Western Illinois and the Mississippi River banks of Quincy, the cultural jewel of the heartland.
Now more than ever the road less traveled kindly beckons to America, offering places with space to explore, discover and decompress securely. Quincy and its surrounds are that place. Imagine a weekend retreat in a semi-primitive 2-story tree house with panoramic views of secluded forests or a 200-year old reconstructed log cabin with a cozy stone fireplace. Ten Acre Tree Houses sits just outside historic Nauvoo, Illinois, home to the state’s oldest winery and a new family-owned vineyard as well. One of the country’s premier recreational resorts is located south of Quincy in the scenic hills of Pike County. Heartland Lodge Resort offers signature private cabins or suites surrounded by 1500 acres in the Mississippi River Valley. The trails can be discovered via quiet hikes, bikes, horseback or even Polaris Adventure UTVs. Meal packages provide an abundant menu recognized world-wide with treats like berry cobbler and cinnamon rolls scratch-made by the lodge’s chefs. Enjoy specials and discounts all year in celebration of Heartland’s 25th Anniversary. Newly opened and nestled in the heart of Quincy’s East End Historic District is the Gas Lamp Inn & Eatery. The 1866 structure anchors the corner of one the most prominent intersections in Quincy’s architectural history. It houses three luxurious guest suites, serves gourmet breakfasts and custom cocktails. “Picnics in the Park” on the grounds include vintage picnic baskets filled with delightful bits and a bottle of bubbly. Self-guided driving tours have taken top billing this year among SeeQuincy’s travel options. The tours offer experiences for visitors to enjoy 24/7 on their own terms, from the comforts of their vehicles. The newest tour launching September 2020 is Mid-Mod Quincy featuring 30 premier examples of innovative mid-century modern architecture. It guides design & architecture buffs through commercial and residential areas telling the story of local renowned architect, John Benya. Mural Find + Dine celebrates the artistic diversity and variety of the city through 24 street murals throughout town, ranging from nostalgic ghost murals to striking new creations. Half the fun of this tour are the culinary and libation suggestions paired with mural stops. The SeeQuincy area is poised for both safe and invigorating travels this fall. Travels that are certain to soothe souls, spark creative juices and ignite the wonder of nature. Peruse all the latest tours and attractions via the guides below.
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A Safe Place To Visit
• Mid-Mod Quincy, a new exploration of 30 premier examples of 20th century mid-modern architecture. •
Mural Find + Dine Art hits the wall in this driving tour of 24 eclectic city murals matched with nearby eateries & bars.
• Pet-Friendly Quincy features 40+ participating businesses with paw-friendly patios & shopping with your BFF. •
Free Ride 2020 SeeQuincy loans visitors bikes free in 2020! Choose from a tandem or two treks. Pedal your way through a self-guided tour, or ride alongside the expansive Mississippi.
• The Maine Street Mile Affectionately called the “Smile Mile”, Quincy’s most notable thoroughfare of magnificent architecture, history, shopping, and dining. • Off-Grid Stays Getaway lodges, barns, tree houses, camps and cabins in three counties. • Local Fix Food Guide/ Al Fresco/ Curbit Beloved local eateries with delicious outdoor and curbside options. • Mississippi Valley Wine Trail weaves the locally made offerings of six Western Illinois wineries together.
Request or download complimentary guides today ~ 800.978.4748 | seequincy.com. On the Great River Road, a Cape Air & AMTRAK community.
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The Great American Road Trip
Heber Valley
UTAH
A Safe Haven for the Adventurous Traveler
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eber Valley, Utah, is a melting pot of outdoor activity, creating a safe place to escape the worries of the nine-tofive daily grind while experiencing the great outdoors at its finest. Located in a beautiful mountain valley just a short drive from the Wasatch Front, the area offers outstanding year-round outdoor recreation, including golf, fly fishing, boating, and water sports, plus skiing, snow tubing and other winter sports. In summer, temperatures are usually cool and pleasant. In winter, abundant snowfall makes this a paradise for winter recreation. Fall is a special time of year in the Valley as the summer heat cools down and adventures heat up. Enjoy the scenic fall colors by horseback, train ride, ATV, mountain bike, or a scenic drive. During the month of October you can attend several Halloween events including Sleepy Hollow Wagon Rides, Pumpkin Train, Haunted Houses, a Scarecrow Walk, and more. Hiking, biking and horseback riding are wonderful ways to view the resplendent fall foliage that abounds throughout the region. With both
A Safe Place To Visit Wasatch Mountain State Park and the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, the Heber Valley area offers opportunity to hike trails in beautiful mountain settings. Grab your fishing pole and head to the Provo River, a premier blue ribbon trout fishery with rainbow and brown trout at record lengths. Typical fish are 18 inches or bigger. Now that’s no fish tale. Deer Creek boasts 3,000 acres, and the entire shore is publicly owned with unrestricted access. ATV enthusiasts will love the paved and dirt roads that travel in all directions from Heber Valley through alpine meadows and forested canyons, crossing rocky ridges and meandering streams. Don’t forget your camera to capture incredible views and your binoculars to get a good look at the variety of wildlife that inhabit these mountains. Mirror Lake, Strawberry Valley, Provo Canyon, and the Alpine Loop are all paved drives and recommended for any type of vehicle. Guardsman Pass, the Adventure Highway, and Cascade Springs are dirt roads and conditions vary. No visit to the region is complete without hopping on the Heber Valley Historic Railroad, located on one of the county’s most spectacular mountain settings. The Provo Canyon Limited features a relaxing three-hour round trip along the shores of Deer Creek Reservoir and the base of majestic Mt. Timpanogos, and along the beautiful Provo River, while the Deer Creek Express offers incredible views of the Wasatch Mountains and the wide open vistas of Deer Creek Reservoir. Dining here is an experience to be savored as the Valley is a small community but big on flavor. With over 30 local restaurants there is something new to try every day. Cafe Galleria offers a very cool outdoor dining vibe along Midway Mainstreet serving delicious wood fired pizza and pastas, while Kohler Creamery a four generation dairy farm offering culinary classes to learn to make ice cream, gelato, and different cheeses. Midway Mercantile is offering Wine Dinners for small groups. From car camping to hotel accommodations to renting a cozy AirBNB, visitors will find the perfect place to pillow down. Discover Swiss Charm at the Zermatt Resort, and the Homestead Resort offers history and charm. Camping at Wasatch Mountain State Park is an ideal way to get up close and personal with nature. As vacation destinations begin to slowly reopen by adhering to safety guidelines, it has never been a better time to soak in all that the great outdoors has to offer. Heber Valley awaits your arrival. FOOD &TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 113
The Great American Road Trip
KENTUCKY
Why The Tiny Town Of Cadiz Should Be on Your Road Trip Radar
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f you like small-town charm, outdoor adventures, and dining on delicious, home-cooked meals, then you should pack your bags and head to Cadiz, Kentucky, for a weekend of fun. Located just minutes from the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in the southwest corner of the state, Cadiz is the perfect family-friendly destination for outdoor lovers, with endless options when it comes to hiking, fishing, boating, and touring the scenic region. In town, you can shop for funky vintage goods, listen to bluegrass music, or travel to the stars at the Golden Pond Planetarium. There’s much to do, but some of the best moments come from unplugging and enjoying time in nature without any distractions. It’s a an affordable getaway that can help you recharge and reconnect. Here are just a few reasons why Cadiz should be on your travel radar.
Endless Hiking Adventures
Cadiz is a quick drive away from Lake Barkley State Resort Park and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, where miles of trails wind through woodlands, across meadows, and along lake shores. There’s something for both families or rugged adventurers. The family-friendly interpretive trails near Lake Barkley are fitting for anyone, while the 59-mile North/South Trail at Land Between the Lakes is a challenging multi-day hike for any backpacker.
Wildlife and Lodging with Character
Keep your eyes out for eagles, herons, osprey, and a variety of waterfowl, as these lakes are prime habitat for many birds. With 57,900 acres of water to explore, you have lots of options. Drop a line off the bank or launch a boat from one of the three marinas or various boat ramps on the lake. Go out on your own or hire a guide to help you find the best spots.
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A Safe Place To Visit The Land Between the Lakes is a designated dark zone, meaning that there is very little manmade light to distract you from the brilliance of the night sky. Camping under the stars here is an impressive experience. In addition to the live viewing of the heavens, stop by the Golden Pond Planetarium and Observatory to experience their digital projection system and 40-foot dome overhead. Cadiz is full of many charming places to stay. Lodging options include cottages, hotels, inns, motels, and especially privately-owned vacation rentals. Stay in peaceful secluded valleys, on acres of farmland in old country homes, or even at the luxurious resort at Lake Barkley. Vintage and Antique Shopping If you’re into antiques and rare finds, look no further than the Main Historic District. It’s not your average vintage mall—here you’ll find unique shops with everything from valuable antiques to interesting historical oddities. For the ultimate vintage experience, check out the goods and crafts at the Junque Fest, every Saturday starting in April across from the farmers market. It’s Foodie Heaven If you have a craving for barbecue, pulled pork, country breakfasts, or fried catfish, you’ll enjoy Cadiz’s homestyle country cooking. Triplet’s Barbeque makes one of the best barbeque pork sandwiches you’ll ever have, and Cadiz Restaurant is known for its fried chicken, delicious pies and the under-20-buck ribeye. It’s not all down home cookin’—you’ll find authentic Mexican and even gourmet dishes at Harper House. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s a locally owned restaurant that will satisfy your craving. Written by Jacqui Levy for RootsRated Media in partnership with Cadiz-Trigg County Tourism.
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Savor
RIDGELAND IS READY WHEN YOU ARE WITH Mississippi’s finest shopping, outdoor recreation, culinary finds and lodging! • 35 Miles of Trails for Cycling, Walking, Running and Exploring
FILET MIGNON? RIBEYE? PORTERHOUSE? • 105 Miles of Barnett Reservoir Shoreline Dine well inTrace Ridgeland…the Steakhouse • Natchez Parkway National Park capital of Mississippi. We have dining optionsOutdoor Inside and Out to meet your comfort • Boutique Shopping, Dining and level andHotels our commitment Brand committedto tosafety. safety pledges Formore moreinformation informationabout aboutvisiting visitingMississippi, Mississippi, For explore visitmississippi.org, #VisitMSResponsibly. explore visitmississippi.org, #VisitMSResponsibly. Savethe theDate Datefor forOctober October10, 10,2020! 2020! Save EurofestAutomobile Automobile&&Motorcycle MotorcycleShow Show - -Eurofest NatchezTrace TraceCentury CenturyRide Ride - -Natchez
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