Taste of Schenectady® and Beyond™ Vol 8 • No 2

Thank you to everyone who made the FIRST ANNUAL PASTA & PIZZA EVENT AND BEST-MADE PIZZA CONTEST™ a huge success — hundreds attended!

SPONSORED BY: Ace Endico, Bellevue Cafe, Best Fire Hearth & Patio, Canali's Italian American Restaurant, Broadway Lunch, Capri Imports Italian Deli, Cardona's Market, DeCrescente Distributing Company, Fred the Butcher, Gabriel's Supermarkets, Grände Cheese Company, Homecrest Kitchens, Marcella's Appliance Center, Mastroianni Food Distributor, Pede Brothers Italian Specialty Foods, Price Chopper® / Market 32®, Restaurant Depot, Sal's Quality Meats, ShopRite, Taste of Schenectady® and Beyond™ magazine, Villa Italia Bakery, Zhu's Kitchen, and many of the best pizzeria restaurants in the surrounding area — Annabel's Pizza, Broadway Joe's Pizza, Capri Imports Italian Deli's pizza, Highbridge Pizza, JC'S Slice, Johnny C's Pizza,

Harvest Grain Pizza, Paesan's Pizza, Pizza Michelina, Prima Pizza, West Avenue Pizza — and wood-fired pizzas made by Best Fire Hearth & Patio.

We wish to thank Nick Piccirillo from the Order Sons of Italy in America Gabriele D'Annunzio Lodge # 321 (OSIA Lodge #321 Rotterdam) for helping serve the Sausage, Onions & Peppers we made — as well as for serving Pede Bros.’ ravioli, Canali's Italian Meatballs, and ziti & marinara sauce… Pede Bros. Pasta celebrated 55 years in business this year serving the community.

Thanks for reading Taste of Schenectady® and Beyond™… Please patronize the advertisers, and mom & pop businesses featured.

AMY KOREN-ROTH

Taste & Tour Coordinator

ED WOODS Travel Photographer

DAVID J. LONG Food & Travel Editor

Caribbean Fest , Italiafest(s) , Greek Fest , Stockade Arts Fest , and Zhu’s Kitchen

SIMULTANEOUSLY — The 6th Annual Italiafest in Amsterdam, NY, Little Italy Business Association Street Festa, in Schenectady, Caribbean Fest, in Central Park, Schenectady, 46th Annual St. George's Greek Festival, and historic Dutch neighborhood Stockade Arts Festival, all took place on the same day — September 10, 2022 However, the Greek Festival began on September 9, and ran through 9/11. BTW: We tasted this great Greek pizza (pictured here) in Manchester, VT. ■

Zhu’s Kitchen • Chinese • Japanese • Thai opened in late August 2022, at the former Cusato’s Pizza location at 1700 Altamont Ave, in Rotterdam, NY. Owner Yuki Zhu, and her husband, Shi, and son, Win, originally owned China Star restaurant for 8 years, before selling the Chinese restaurant four years ago to its present owners… Rotterdam residents saw the Zhu family around town and kept asking Yuki when she was going to open another restaurant… When Joe Citone decided to expand Cusato’s Pizza to Hamburg St, the Zhu family purchased the building and converted it into their newest concept, Zhu’s. ■

Simone’s Kitchen Opens Downtown

Chef, Mom, and Wife, Yuki Zhu, and son, Win, sat with us to talk about their Zhu’s restaurant opening.

Pizza Dough Spinning

West Avenue

Pizza owners Mario Cardenas and his sister Jennifer moved with their mother to the U.S. To that add Italianborn Josie, who helps Mario make the bread, cannoli, and pizza dough; and Jackie Mario’s wife, who works behind the pizza counter and is from Saratoga Springs, NY.

Simone’s Kitchen: I sat and interviewed Bashir, Jules, and Shan of Simone's Kitchen during the Schenectady Greenmarket ... I dined at Simone's Kitchen while my lady and granddaughter enjoyed shopping at the farmers’ market. Simone's Kitchen recently opened at 430 Franklin Street — facing the Jay Street Pedestrian Mall — well worth dining here! 430 Franklin St, Schenectady, NY — Food & Travel Editor David Long

On Saturday, October 22, 2022, Mario Cardenas, Mario Tricomi of Ace Endico, Annabel’s Pizza, Paesan’s Pizza, and many other area gourmet shops and pizzerias dazzled and fed patrons at the First Annual Pasta & Pizza Event and Best-Made Pizza Contest™ in Rotterdam, NY.

One hundred percent (100%) of the event ticket sales benefited U.S. Veterans and the Auxiliary of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Check out the video of Mario spinning pizza dough at 518BestPizza.com

Afghani family and U.S. Army Veteran open Kite Runner Grocery & Grill

Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) was the official name used by the U.S. government for the Global War on Terrorism. On October 7, 2001, in response to the September 11 attacks, President George W. Bush announced that airstrikes targeting Al-Qaeda and the Taliban had begun in Afghanistan. Operation Enduring Freedom primarily refers to the War in Afghanistan, but it was also affiliated with counterterrorism operations in other countries, such as Iraq… U.S. Army Veteran Ahmad Ali, his wife Frozan, daughters, Destiny, and Mariam, and sons, Arsenal, and Mustafa, opened Kite Runner Grocery & Grill on July 2, 2022, at 1517 Helderberg Ave, in Rotterdam, NY. Recently, we ate here, and the Lamb Gyro was absolutely delicious. The store also offers eggs, milk, groceries, breakfast sandwiches, and American and Mediterranean entrées.

“Ahmad served from 2005 to 2012 as an interpreter for the U.S. Armed Forces.”

Ahmad and Frozan married in 1994, in Afghanistan. Ahmad served from 2005 to 2012 as an interpreter for the U.S. Armed Forces. He also traveled to India… The name Kite Runner refers to how families in Afghanistan fly kites as a social gathering… Now they sell food!

Pede Brothers Pasta Turns 55

The story began in Rome, Italy where Romolo Pede . first learned the art of making handmade pasta.

In 1963, Romolo carried his love for his Italian heritage and authentic Italian pasta recipes to America. In 1967, Romolo Sr. started making his traditional Italian pasta here in the United States, resolving to use nothing but the finest ingredients available.

The family established Pede Brothers Italian Specialty Foods in Schenectady, New York.

Today, Pede Brothers remains family owned and operated. Romolo’s children continue the family tradition of pasta making by combining

the finest quality ingredients, traditional family recipes and the use of modern technology.

Pede Brothers has been fortunate to provide loyal customers with Pede Brothers pasta products and other Italian specialty foods for over fiay years. Visit the store, 582 Duanesburg Rd, Schenectady, NY (518) 356-3042.

Daughter Destiny, and sons, Mustafa and Arsenal — Ahmad Ali in the kitchen.

cutting board used to prep a great dinner for friends. It is these stories from our customers that keep us going.

J.K. Adams was founded on December 31, 1944 .

Times have changed but we are proud to say that our values have not. We remain committed to producing high-quality kitchen and housewares products by hand from North American hardwoods in Dorset, Vermont. We are a second-generation family-owned business with employees that have been with us for years and who are proud of the products we produce together.

OUR MISSION:

Our mission is to put a J.K. Adams product in the hands of every person who is passionate about their kitchen, about the food they make, and about the connections made while entertaining with good food and good friends. We will design and produce products that are exceptional from a functional, aesthetic, and quality standpoint. We will stand by our products with a full 100% replacement guarantee…

DORSET, VT AND J.K. ADAMS KITCHEN STORE

There is nothing like looking up at the moon and stars while breathing in the cool, crisp, fresh air of Southern Vermont The holiday gift-giving and ski season are right around the corner! After staying in the shire towns of Southern Vermont, visiting Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, and J.K. Adams Kitchen Store (while traveling through Dorset), you just need to let a family business tell its own story…

OUR STORY: At J.K. Adams , we believe that the kitchen is the heart of the home. It is this belief that drives us to create the highest quality, hand-crafted products for cooking and entertaining. It is our job to give you the tools to make cooking and entertaining easy and fun. We love to hear about the well-used carving board that serves one family's Thanksgiving turkey year after year or the

We will continually work to prove that well-run companies with committed and customer-focused employees can grow and prosper by producing highquality products in an environmentally and socially responsible manner in the United States.

PRODUCTS & GUARANTEE

Our customers' passion for food and entertaining is what drives us to develop new and innovative products. While we love a great-looking product as much as the next person, we believe, first, in the functionality of every

“

Our mission is to put a J.K. Adams product in the hands of every person who is passionate about their kitchen…”

Photos by Food & Travel Editor David Long

board, bowl, and server that bears the J.K. Adams name. Our products should withstand the test of time and become kitchen heirlooms that can be handed down from generation to generation. Disposable is not in our vocabulary. This level of commitment to design and craftsmanship is what allows us to stand behind all of our products with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.

Personalized products are a delightful way to make a gift truly unique. Our selection of over 35 monograms will elevate your selections to a personal gift for friends, family, clients, or yourself.

Engraving is a laser etching that can be done on wood and stone. Carving offers a deeper personalization that is carved into the wood. Create a treasured family heirloom today. ■

One of the cool things about J.K. Adams Kitchen Store is an observation deck where you can watch the artisan crafters make all of the different J.K. Adams products… We spent at least an hour in the store shopping for items to give as gifts, and for our home.

J.K. Adams Company and Kitchen Store • 1430 Route 30 • Dorset, VT 05251 www.jkadams.com

ARTISANAL CHEESE BOARDS AND GOURMET SHOPPING

Arranging an impressive cheese board begins with shopping for artisanal cheese, but deciding what cheese to buy can be challenging. The ideal cheese board will consist of cheese varying from soft to semi-hard, and finally hard cheeses. However, a creative cheese board will include berries, bite-sized bread, crostinis, crackers, Crudités, dried and fresh fruits, grapes, herbs, nuts, olives, preserves, and other spreads, sun-dried tomatoes, and table décor… We shop at Capri Imports, Cardona’s Market, Gabriel’s, and Pede Brothers for gourmet cheeses… However,

fell in love with a few Vermont-made cheeses while traveling. The essential nutrients that a cheese course and/or cheese board provide at a party, or while traveling, enhances a gourmet lifestyle. During a French-style dinner, cheese is served traditionally after the main course and before the dessert. Coincidently, you may have noticed that fine dining restaurants will often offer on the menu a plate of cheese just before the dessert. In Italy, cheese may be served as a pre-dessert plate with fruit and honey. Antipasto cheeses tend to be fresher, and after-dinner ones more aged… Therefore make your cheese board(s) the star of the show by presenting opulent cheeses with edible arrangements.

One of the best cheeses a bon vivant can serve is burrata, a fresh cheese often found in the Apulia region of southern Italy. When making burrata, the artisan cheesemaker uses the still-hot cheese and forms it into a pouch, which is then filled with Stracciatella (shreds of fresh mozzarella), and then

we

“…it is essential to have the right slicing cheese knives, serving utensils, and cocktail forks or picks for tasting.”

David Long Food & Travel Editor

topped off with fresh cream before closing. Capri Imports Italian Deli sells Burrata — they also sell a Stuffed Burrata with pesto and seasonings — placed on top of a fresh tomato slice — and topped with fresh basil, drizzled with Balsamic glaze and EVOO. The name burrata, is derived from the Italian word burro, which means butter. When the burrata is sliced open, the thickened Stracciatella and sweet cream flow out. The cheese has a richer, more buttery flavor than Mozzarella di Bufala , and should be served at room temperature… Even Colombia makes a buffalo milk and cow’s milk burrata. Makes sure that guests grab a fresh plate after eating creamy and juicy burrata.

An ensemble of mild soft cheeses should be the opening act to your cheese board — before tasting semi-hard, hard, aged, and more pungent blueveined and funky cheeses last.

Make sure to offer your guests several beverage options to enjoy with at least six selections of cheese. In this article, we have chosen at least a dozen artisanal cheeses from local fromageries for our board(s).

To keep things simple, we chose libations of San Pellegrino sparkling water, Saratoga® still water — and made our own artisanalflavored seltzer water infused with sliced fresh fruits, and crushed ice. Alcoholic beverages that pair well with a barrage of artisanal cheeses are citrusy or hoppy beers , champagne, sparkling wines — and big, bold red wines with stronger aged and blue cheeses… Nonetheless, in order for your guests to taste the assortment of artisanal cheeses, it is essential to have the right slicing cheese knives, serving utensils, and cocktail forks or picks for tasting. J.K. Adams sells a 4-Piece Cheese Knife Set for approximately $25.

Angelica and Kage, our newest best buddies, in Vermont, introduced us to (1797-est. VT family) “Donut Queen” Britni… The Roasted Bean™ will be re-opening with a full kitchen — including Puerto Rican food — at White Creek Country Store, in Vermont

We stopped by our American Legion Post, during Battle Day, commemorating the August 16, 1777 victory of New York and Vermont Colonial forces over the British, who were marching from New York to VT.

While traveling through Vermont we stopped by Hildene to watch goats being milked to make cheese. Later we sampled Dorset cheese at a Saturday farmers’ market and fell in love with its taste and texture. The Town of Dorset is on the National Register of Historic Places… In 1796, The Dorset Inn welcomed its first guests — travelers en route to the major markets in Boston and Albany. Dorset is the site of America's oldest marble quarry and is the birthplace of Bill W., co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Dorset Marble has been used to create some of our country's national monuments—including Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S. Supreme Court building, Jefferson Memorial, and the NYC Public Library — and for the restoration of historic European structures.

“Dorset is on the National Register of Historic Places… In 1796, The Dorset Inn welcomed… ”

DORSET GRILLED CHEESE ON NAAN WITH SALAD & VEGGIES

Consider Bardwell Farm is the first cheese-making co-op in Vermont. All of Consider Bardwell Farm’s cheeses are made by hand in small batches from whole, fresh milk that is antibiotic and hormone-free. Earthy and complex with a beautiful basket weave rind, Dorset is rich, nutty, and savory — perfect on a cheese board or for this gourmet grilled cheese pictorial recipe!

We also bought broccolini, sugar snap peas, and Asian turnips at a local farmers’ market, there… Back home, we sautéed the tops of the turnips to make our gourmet sandwich, and used the rest for a fresh salad… The farm fresh vegetables cried for us to break out our bamboo steam basket. Pan-roasted red and yellow sweet bell peppers, along with caramelized red onions, paired well with the baked naan, sautéed turnip tops, and of course, melted

Angela Miller and Russell Glover are revitalizing the artisan cheese-making tradition with goat milk from their herd of Oberhaslis goats and cow's milk from their two neighbor farm partners —the Brooks and

the

Browes…

“…Dorset is rich, nutty, and savory — perfect on a cheese board or for this gourmet grilled cheese pictorial recipe!”

Fred the Butcher

CARIBBEAN CUISINE

Caribbean cuisine is more than Jamaican food!

Caribbean cuisine is a fusion of West African (encompassing a diverse cuisine of 16 countries), Creole (African, French, Italian, Irish, and Spanish), Cajun (Acadians deported to Louisiana from Acadia, Nova Scotia), Amerindian, European, Latin American, Indian/South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Chinese influences A cookbook published in 1520 mentions empanadas filled with seafood among its recipes of Catalan, Italian, French, and Arabian food… The Greater Antilles of the Caribbean include Cuba, Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica. Haiti and the Dominican Republic share the island of Hispaniola. Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the US, while the Cayman Islands are a

British Overseas Territory. Venezuela remains the last part of the Caribbean…

Mami's Restaurant opened in Albany, NY, in 2003, a year after Altagracia (Sanchez) and her husband, Benedicto "Pure" Fabian, and their children emigrated to the United States from Venezuela, South America… They moved the restaurant to 911 Crane St, in Schenectady, in 2008. Mami’s plans to open a second location at 2236 Broadway in Schenectady. (518) 377-8700

Five A’s Caribbean Cuisine

Schenectady’s Best Caribbean Restaurants

Tiffany’s W. Indian

Tiffany’s West Indian Restaurant specializes in roti, Dahl puri, chow mein, and/or fried rice specials served with Jerk Chicken or Fried Chicken. There’s also chicken, duck, goat, lamb, shrimp, or tilapia curry — and stewed chicken, butterfish, lamb, and stewed snapper — served with rice, root, or Dahl puri. Baigan Choka is made with roasted eggplant, seasonings, and

freshly chopped onions — served with roti.

All the West Indian food served at Tiffany’s West Indian Restaurant is made fresh daily. Tiffany’s dining room is clean and spacious… Dine-In, Take-Out, Delivery, and Catering are available. 1331 State Street Schenectady, NY (518) 280-1719

Pepperpot is Guyana’s national dish, however, Guyanese restaurants do not serve beef and pork. Doubles are made with Chana curry chickpeas and two spicy flatbreads. Five A’s Caribbean Cuisine includes African, Indian, and European culinary influences. 294 Altamont Ave • Schenectady, NY • (518) 347-0000.

Mami’s Spanish Restaurant

Frank’s Caribbean Fire Grill

Tropics Restaurant and Bar

The owner of Frank’s Caribbean Fire Grill was born in Jamaica. His dad was a cook on a cruise ship… Frank’s Caribbean Fire Grill celebrated its two (2) year Anniversary on July 6, 2022. The fresh-made Jamaican food restaurant offers dine-in and take-out.

905 Albany St Schenectady, NY

(518) 901-0016

A petition signed by 300 area residents asked the Sch’dy City Council to keep the business open, in 2021… “Big portion sizes and tasty food. I got the oxtail with yellow rice and plantains ,” wrote a Yelp reviewer.

201 S Brandywine Ave Schenectady, NY (518) 372-2025

K & R Dominican Cuisine

San Francisco Spanish American Restaurant — Dine-In

Karina and Ramone of K&R Dominican Cuisine opened their spot 4 years ago at 1305 Altamont Avenue in Rotterdam, NY. The eatery is located across from the Wal-Mart, in the Runway Express gas station. The small take-out restaurant offers great food and service!

(518) 280-3881

San Francisco serve soups and some of the best Caribbean-Spanish food. Dine-in and savor the flavor of Chicharrón (crispy pork belly). Stewed chicken, and sweet plantains are

Executive Lounge

Tropical Fever Executive Lounge

Trinidadian cuisine has Asian, Caribbean, and Indian influences. 108 Jay St

A Taste of Guyana…

S & D Halal Foodhouse & Roti Shop is a melting pot of different dishes – African, Asian, Indian, Creole, and European.

785 State St • Schenectady, NY • (518) 557-2370

Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago have distinctive Creole cuisine and West Indies traditions. A Taste of Guyana Roti Shop & Bakery is famous for its curry dishes and duck. We eat here often, and like the roti! 1414 State Street • Schenectady, NY

popular dishes on their Caribbean-Spanish menu. 872 Albany Street Schenectady, NY (518) 346-3659

Roy’s Caribbean Cuisine

769 State St • Schenectady… Take-out only Mon-Saturday.

DINE-IN

SAVOR THE FLAVOR OF HISPANIOLA

THREE

On Tuesday, September 20, 2022, Cardona's Market hosted an Open House to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the grand reopening of their Latham location...

My family knows great modern and traditional Italian food when we taste it... My paternal grandpa started farming and cooking with Italians circa 1912... Our in-laws are the Ciccio family from Sicily… And, my late father learned to cook in Sicily, and came to Schenectady after WWII, in 1945, the same year that Italian immigrant Augusto Cardona founded Cardona's Market, in Albany, NY.

Cardona’s Market — A Capital Region Culinary Tradition

From left, Robert Cardona, Thomas (T.J.) Conti and August Cardona stand in front of the Cardona’s Market store in Latham, NY. The Cardona brothers and Conti bought both locations of Roma Foods Importing Co., in Latham and Saratoga Springs, in 2021… Now, Cardona’s Market is celebrating 77 years.

by Food & Travel Editor David J. Long, Jr., CDM, CFPP, KOFC

Cardona’s Market is a family-owned Italian specialty foods market and catering company serving the Capital Region since 1945. They take pride in offering top-quality Italian products with family-friendly service. Opening 77 years ago, the original market was operated by Augusto Cardona, and his son Robert. Recently, Robert passed ownership of Cardona’s Market down to his sons, Robert, Anthony, and August, who now operate the store — extending the family’s culinary tradition!

The Cardona family expanded its operation to 3 locations in 2021 when they completed the purchase and transition of Roma Foods and its two locations in Latham, and Saratoga Springs, NY. Cardona’s “Frank B.” sandwich was named in honor of Frank Bolognino, the secondgeneration owner of Roma Foods Importing Company, who operated the business with his brothers John, Peter, and Paul. The luscious sandwich consists of Imported prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, fresh spinach, roasted red peppers, tomato, and EVOO (extra-virgin olive oil).

“MR. C. (ROBERT CARDONA) STILL ASSISTS HIS SONS IN THE BUTCHER SHOP AT THE CARDONA’S MARKET IN LATHAM…”

Cardona’s Market is the quintessential family-owned Italian import & specialty foods market in the Capital Region, featuring a stocked delicatessen, an old-world butcher, and an extensive catering department offering an array of homemade meals for take-out — served hot and ready to eat, or cold for easy grab and go. Cardona’s butcher shop features all-natural beef, poultry, and pork, hand-cut Prime grade steaks, house-made Italian sausage, fresh seafood, lamb, veal, wild game (subject to availability), Holiday Turkeys, Hams, and Prime Rib… Mr. C (Robert Cardona, Sr.) still assists his sons in the butcher shop at the Cardona’s Market in Latham… And many of the core recipes for their classic spaghetti sauce, meatballs, lasagna, etc., are handed down from Papa Augusto, who learned them from his mother in Italy, before opening in 1945.

Adv

Executive Chef

Sean Comisky and Chef

Sebastian Marro

Catering Director Jessica Evans, Joe, the butcher (bi-lingual in Italian and Spanish), and Mr. C.

My late godfather, Mike Aidala, left Sicily, emigrated to the US, and served in the US Army…Speaking of Sicily, Cardona's Market carries COLUCCIO EVOO imported from Custonaci (TP), Italy. Cardona’s has one of the largest selections of cured meats and imported, domestic, and local cheeses and a large variety of assorted olives, Mediterranean antipasto salads, and pepper shooters… They sell their own signature spices and seasonings, groceries, pasta, tomato products, and bakery items made by a local baker — using Cardona’s recipes. Many area Italian delis have closed in recent years, but the Cardona family are still culinary pioneers celebrating 77 years. Daily Gazette and WRGB CBS6 28-year veteran reporter, the late Dan DiNicola (1941 - 2010) was another Italian mentor to me from age thirteen... Dan helped TV celebrity Rachael Ray get her start. And, you will never read a story in Taste of Schenectady® and Beyond™ about a gourmet business that we do not stand behind the owner(s), their products, and their reputation for quality and service excellence... Allow me to share more about why I am so impressed with Cardona's Market and this Italian family's love for catering, creating, and serving some of the best Italian foods you’ll taste in the Capital Region… My late dad

Cardona’s

2022 BEST CATERER by the Times Union newspaper readers!

An array of artisan sandwiches, fresh salads, cheeses, crackers, olives, condiments, pasta, and other imported pantry staples, produce, restaurant-quality grab-and-go meals, house-made sauces, Italian meatballs, and chicken meatballs are available. Gift Baskets, desserts, cannolis, cakes, and delicious cold and hot catering foods are available daily Cardona’s was voted 2022 BEST CATERER by the Times Union newspaper readers!

I like to take the drive to Cardona's Market in Latham from our home near Rotterdam, NY, to enjoy lunch before shopping. During our Best Braggadocio Meatball Contest, I fell in love with the taste and texture of Cardona's Chicken Meatballs served with Tomato Basil Cream Sauce... All locations of Cardona's offer a Week-Night Dinner For 4 package (Mon-Friday) and includes 4 signature cookies.

loved Italian delis, and so do I. And, If you don’t have the time to cook, then Cardona’s Market is the place to shop. The hot food table has become well-known for offering over a dozen different gourmet foods to choose from, featuring classic Italian family recipes as well as daily and seasonal specials. You will find quality Boar’s Head products and

was voted

“Cardona’s has one of the largest selections of cured meats and imported, domestic, and local cheeses—and a large variety of assorted olives, Mediterranean antipasto salads, and pepper shooters.”

Cardona's Market offers a deli sandwich called the “Rabe C.,” which was named in honor of Robert Cardona. The “Rabe C.” consists of mouthwatering fried eggplant, sharp provolone cheese, fresh broccoli rabe, hot pepper spread, and a balsamic glaze. I love the “Italian Cubano” — it consists of perfectly cooked Porchetta (a savory, fatty, and juicy boneless Italian traditional pork roast), hot soppressata, and sliced Locatelli fontina cheese, Greenfield's forever spicy pickles, and Dijon mustard... Cardona’s Market also created a chicken cutlet sandwich called “Cobbee Road,” which pays homage to the Latham location. The sandwich features a Cardona's daily fresh-cooked chicken cutlet, smoked mozzarella, sundried tomato, caramelized onions, and pesto. There's also a Build Your Own Sandwich option. And, do not forget to order Cardona's flavorful Pasta Fagioli or Soup of the Day — sold in 8, 16, and 32-ounce sizes…

Here is a list of Cardona's Market Prepared Meals To Go: Spaghetti & Meatballs, Baked Ziti & Meatballs, Chicken Sorrento with Penne, Chicken Piccata with Penne, Eggplant Parmigiana, Lasagna, Penne in Tomato Basil Cream Sauce with Chicken Meatballs, Chicken Parmigiana with Penne, Chicken Marsala with Penne, Sausage & Peppers with Penne, and Stuffed Shells & Meatballs, to name a few! I love Cardona’s café and take-out!

“Whether you are hosting for 10 or 100… Whether it’s for a bat mitzvah or a return-to-office luau, having the right caterer is of utmost importance,” wrote the Time Union This caterer has an assortment of fresh-made antipasti and salads by the pound to choose from. Cardona's homemade sauces include; Spaghetti, Marinara, Fra Diavolo, Puttanesca, Tomato Basil Cream, Vodka Sauce, Private Reserve Marinara, and Pizza Sauce. All of Cardona's homemade sauces are jarred in-house for your convenience — and are perfect for an Italian Gift Basket. And, catered meals for your home’s guests, and/or office parties are a convenient way to feed family and friends without sweating in the kitchen. As the holidays approach, call Cardona’s Market to plan the perfect catering package and/or tailored theme dinner for delivery or pick up — from any of their three locations in the Capital District.

Adv.

9 Cobbee Rd, Latham, NY (518) 785-7480

340 Delaware Avenue, Albany, NY (518) 434-4838

222 Washington St, Saratoga Springs, NY (518) 587-6004 www.cardonasmarket.com

TOP 10 FOODS FOR HEALTHIER EATING

By Pamela Wayne

It is essential to include a mix of healthy foods in your diet to ensure you are getting al the nutrients you need. Having a balanced diet is the key to maintaining your health. In this article, we wil cover the top 10 foods for healthier eating that you must incorporate into your meal plan and discuss their benefits. So let’s get started!

1. Nuts are crunchy, loaded snacks that can help you feel full when you are hungry. They are rich in magnesium and vitamin E. Eating nuts regularly can lower down your cholesterol levels and help you lose weight. Popular nuts to include in your diet are almonds, Brazil nuts, Macadamia nuts, and walnuts. 2. Lentils and pulses are highly popular in South Asian countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. They include high amounts of fiber, potassium, and magnesium. They can be eaten as a main dish or toasted and spiced to be eaten as a delightful snack. 3. Two of the most common foods for healthier eating are fruits and vegetables. They are rich in Vitamins C and K. Some fruits and vegetables you must eat regularly are carrots, broccoli, cucumber, asparagus, avocados, apples, bananas, strawberries, melons, and olives. 4. Fish is rich in the two nutrients that many people are deficient in: Omega-3 fatty acids and iodine. Studies have proven that people who eat fish live longer and reduce the risk of getting illnesses like dementia and heart diseases. 5. Rich in protein, eggs are highly nutritious and can provide a healthy breakfast. They are usually mistaken for being high in cholesterol. Eating eggs in a moderate amount, usually boiled, can significantly benefit your health. 6. Dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants and contains a

large amount of magnesium, which is good for your health. Dark chocolate is also a great sweet/dessert substitute for people who are trying to lose weight.

7. Grains like rice, quinoa, and oats are high in carbohydrates but rich in powerful fibers, magnesium, and Vitamin B. An excellent source of plantbased protein, grains, brown rice, and quinoa have become highly popular amongst health-conscious individuals. 8. Healthy bread options, although limited, are an excellent substitute for regular white bread. Adding bran bread or other low-carb bread to your diet in the form of sandwiches and subs can provide a nutritious meal. 9. A great source of plant-based proteins, beans, and legumes are full of minerals, vitamins, and fiber. The most commonly eaten beans are kidney beans and green beans. 10. Apple cider vinegar is a popular commodity among people trying to lose weight. It can help lower blood sugar levels, causing significant weight loss. It is used to give flavor to dishes and is often used as a salad dressing as well.

Adding foods for healthier eating to your diet is vital to ensure your body is getting all the nutrition it needs from different sources. ■

At Gershon's Deli & Caterers, you’ll taste the difference and feel like

At Gershon's Deli, they take great pride in catering office lunches and corporate events — and catering family Bar/Bat Mitzvahs , anniversaries , bridal and baby showers , birthday parties , and other special occasions. Whether you're looking to feed a crowd or having an intimate gathering of family and friends, let Gershon's Deli & Caterers help you plan your next event…

In 1973, Antonio "Tony" Lauria (b. 1954 in Sicily), immigrated to the US looking for work. That same year, Irv and Lena Gershon sold Gershon's Deli to their nephew Bob Lessner... Lauria purchased Gershon's Deli from Lessner, who referred to him as his "adopted son," in 1985... For the next 31 years with his business partner Lou Gregory, Tony Lauria presided over this legendary eatery, until his passing away on September 9, 2016. Next, Tony's daughter, Toni, a culinary graduate of SCCC, took over the business to share her passion for great food. Gershon's Deli & Caterers is one of the most popular spots in Schenectady — open Monday to Wednesday 7am - 3 pm • Thursday to Friday 7-6, and Saturday 7am - 5 pm (Sunday catering only).

At home or in the office, Gershon's always earns rave reviews for its signature platters, beef and chicken entrées, pasta dishes, appetizers, and world-famous desserts. From soup to nuts and everything in between, Gershon's Deli & Caterers make every occasion delicious!

For catering call Gershon's Deli at (518) 393-0617 www.gershonsdeli.com

“At Gershon's Deli & Caterers, you’ll taste the difference and feel like you’re family!”

Tips for Getting Your Home Ready for the Holidays

By Fran Schmidt

Every year, the holiday season gives us a chance to create new memories with our families and friends, but preparing for the holidays can be stressful. With proper thought and a laid-out plan, you can get your home festive and fresh right on time!

In this article, we will be giving some tips on getting your home ready for the holidays so you can lay back and enjoy a fun time with your loved ones.

Tip # 1:

Clean Up!

The first thing you must do to make your home look presentable is to clean it up. The holiday season is the time to clean up spaces that are neglected all year round. Clean up your floors, carpets, windows, light fixtures, doors, decorations, and outdoor spaces before your guests arrive to spend time with you.

Tip # 2: Add the Season’s Scents

Want it to smell like Christmas? Add fresh scents when getting your home ready for the holidays! You can place holiday-scented

candles around your house or use stovetop scents for your guests to feel warmly welcomed at your place.

Tip 3: Prepare Your Kitchen

If you plan on cooking a holiday feast at your place, your kitchen must be in good condition. Make sure all your appliances like the oven and the fridge are clean and functioning. Make extra storage space in the cabinets or fridge if you’ll need it. Plan what you will cook beforehand, so you are not stressed on the day of your dinner. Any side dishes like sauces and pies that can be prepared a few days earlier must not be left for the last day.

The holiday season will go very smoothly if you plan things beforehand and keep calm. Remember, the real purpose of holidays is to enjoy time with families and friends, so don’t invest your energy into panicking. With our tips for getting your home ready for the holidays, it is easy to laugh, live and love for the season. ■

Cabinets, Counters, Decor and How To Hire A Kitchen Designer

by Fran Schmidt

Whether you’re trying to design, remodel, or build perspective, kitchens are typically the most complicated places to work with. Not only do you need to take the plumbing, electricity, gas lines, and general interior into account, but you also have to ensure everything is placed to offer complete functionality. The cabinets, counters, and décor need to be in the perfect spot. Considering that the process of setting up the kitchen interior can be so complex, do you really want to go at it by yourself?

The Benefits of Hiring a Kitchen Designer

A lot of people feel paranoid about hiring a kitchen designer because they feel it would result in them having to give up control of their dream kitchen. That’s not the case. A good kitchen designer would work with you to bring your vision to reality while also ensuring that everything goes in the right place.

A kitchen designer is trained and experienced in the art of setting up a kitchen. They will help you realize your kitchen the way you want effectively and with style.

You may not notice the importance of a simple cabinet swap or appliance change, but a kitchen designer would help you open up your mind to new perspectives and create the best possible layout for your kitchen. They will also know how to best use the available space of the interior, irrespective of the size of your kitchen.

As a result, you’ll have a place that you truly enjoy cooking in and spending time with your family.

Leaving your kitchen in the hands of a kitchen designer is arguably the best decision you can make. You may wonder why you should spend money on something when you can do it yourself, but in the long run, you’d be glad that you let a professional do the job.

■

A kitchen designer is trained and experienced in the art of setting up a kitchen. They will help you realize your kitchen the way you want effectively and with style.”

Jamie and John Bergami of Homecrest Kitchens, Inc.

Known for forging craft ciders and beers with its own farm-grown apples and hops, Indian Ladder Farms is one of the Capital Region’s most popular family-friendly destinations. And now in its sixth year, Indian Ladder Farms Cidery & Brewery (ILFCB) is one of the most rapidly growing craft beverage producers, who had been self-distributing until now. The new distribution agreement with DeCrescente will result in Indian Ladder Farms products being available in convenience stores, beverage centers, large grocery stores, and more in the 11 counties DDC serves. The owners of DeCrescente made pizzas from scratch for their staff during the run up to their busy week in July. See the video at 518BESTPIZZA.COM/Contact

DeCrescente Distributing Company (DDC) was founded in 1948 when Angelo DeCrescente set out to distribute only a few brands of beer from a single delivery truck. With a passion for building customer relationships and determination to succeed, Angelo’s fledgling distribution company flourished over the next seven decades. Through growth and acquisitions, Angelo’s son Carmine and his grandson C.J. would push DDC to be considered one of the most respected beverage distributorships in the nation.

FOUR GENERATIONS LATER

Today, DDC’s leadership team includes C.J.’s sons, Carmine III and Matthew, who are equally committed to being progressive, innovative, and efficiencydriven. What has not changed over the years is the company’s commitment to its customers, suppliers, and employees or its focus on community involvement and

responsibility. Now 400 employees strong, and servicing the 11 counties including and surrounding the Capital Region, DDC is also known as a workplace where employees thrive. Voted a Best Place to Work for the past 11 years, it is clear that DDC employees appreciate the company’s commitment to their development, safety, and happiness. The overarching mission of DDC is clear — to be the best full-service distributor by providing a unique and exceptional array of products and value-added services. ■

DeCrescente is now the exclusive distributor for Indian Ladder Farms

An Appeal for Peace and Taste of DNIPRO EURO FOODS

by David J. Long, Jr., FOI, KOFC

Twenty-three years ago, a Ukrainian man decided to leave what today is known as Dnipro — formerly known as Dnipropetrovsk but renamed during the process of de-communization. Foreigners were not allowed to visit Dnipropetrovsk without official permission until the 1990s. So, nine years ago, this ex-pat decided to open DNIPRO EURO FOODS in Latham, NY, to share his love and passion for Ukrainian food. DNIPRO imports its European artisan bread directly from Germany par-baked and frozen — and then finishes baking the bread on the premises — before displaying whole loaves for sale in its store, along with its charcuterie and Eastern European groceries

Charcuterie has become so popular in the United States — and although Dnipro Euro Foods sells some of the Italian classic delicatessen cold cuts — this store imports more German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Italian-style cured and smoked meats for your next Smörgåsbord Party!

Our favorite Dnipro deli item is Cold Smoked Pork Loin which blows away the best carpaccio we’ve ever had! If you are trying to buy cured and smoked meats for your next charcuterie platter, picnic, and/or Smörgåsbord at home, call or stop in and see the culinary team at Dnipro Euro Foods for help… Dnipro Euro Deli believes in dining on gourmet foods at home. cooks and customer service staff have a wide range of pickled products, salads, smoked fish, and European-style catering trays and prepared foods just for you!

Pickle red onions, make egg salad and place them both on top of fresh arugula. Then open up a can of Dnipro’s Icelandic Cod Liver, and drain the oil. Top the salad with the cooked cod livers.

GOURMET SHOPS AND SPECIALTY STORES

FISH & SEAFOOD MARKETS

Anker’s Fish House 420 Altamont Ave • Schenectady, NY (518) 382-8842

One Stop West Indian Grocery & Fish Market 1369 Lower Broadway (518) 280-9934

Fin Your Fishmonger 2050 Western Ave • Guilderland, NY (518) 452-4565

Hooked Market & Kitchen 1177 Troy Schenectady Rd, Latham, NY (518) 389-6217

ETHNIC MARKETS

Farmer’s India Market 1814 Central Ave, Albany, NY (518) 869-2200

Timothy’s World-Ramesh West Indian Mkt 1028 State St. • Schenectady, NY (518) 346-8802

BUTCHERS & FAMILY MARKETS

Avon Market •1631 VanVranken Ave Schenectady, NY (518) 374-3197

Buckley Farm • 946 Saratoga Road • Rt. 50 Ballston Lake (518) 280-3562

Cardona’s Market 9 Cobbee Rd, Latham, NY (518) 785-7480 340 Delaware Ave, Albany, NY (518) 434-4838

Cardona’s Market 222 Washington St, Saratoga Springs, NY (518) 587-6004

Fred The Butcher • 1473 U.S. 9 • Clifton Park (518) 371-5333 • 386 Maple Road Slingerlands (518) 650-8849

Gabriel’s Supermarkets 255 Mohawk Ave Scotia, NY (518) 370-0140 1924 Curry Rd Rotterdam, NY (518) 355-2230

The Little Lamb's Chop Sahr’s Cash & Carry • 2068 Curry Rd Schenectady, NY (518) 357-3117

Niskayuna Food Co-Op 2227 Nott St Schenectady, NY (518) 374-1362

Predel’s Ranch 59 Garnsey Rd • Rexford, NY (518) 399-0265

Rolf’s Pork Store 70 Lexington Ave • Albany, NY (518) 463-0185

Sal’s Quality Market 2713 Guilderland Ave • Sch’dy (518) 346-0408

The Big Body Butcher • 2008 Central Ave Colonie, NY (518) 414-3260

Vito A. Sindoni & Son Sausage 1070 Settles Hill Rd, Altamont, NY (518) 374-7900

BREAKFAST & DINERS

Ambition Bistro 154 Jay St • (518) 382-9277

Bellevue Café 2630 Broadway Rotterdam, NY (518) 393-7720

Broadway Lunch 2101 Broadway • Schenectady, NY (518) 372-3222

Blue Ribbon Diner 1801 State St • Schenectady (518) 393-2600

Bud’s on Jay Street 185 Jay St • Schenectady, NY (518) 952-4466

Duanesburg Diner & Restaurant 5156 Western Turnpike Duanesburg, NY (518) 895-8843

Gershon’s Deli & Bakery 1600 Union St. • Niskayuna, NY (518) 393-0617

Mike’s Hot Dogs 1135 Erie Blvd • Schenectady (518) 382-9213

Lily’s Café 181 Freemans Bridge Rd• Glenville (518) 393-3060

Newest Lunch 715 Albany St • Sch’dy, NY (518) 377-6580

Peter Pause Italian Restaurant 535 Nott St • Schenectady, NY (518) 382-9278

Point Café 964 Helderberg Ave • Sch’dy (518) 395-9717

Redwood Diner 2688 Hamburg St • Sch’dy (518) 355-9522 Scotia Diner 114 Mohawk Ave (518) 372-9776

Skyport Diner 35 Freemans Bridge Rd (518) 382-9773

Tops American Grill, Bakery & Bar 351 Duanesburg Rd • Rotterdam, NY (518) 355-9864

Union Café 1725 Union St • Sch’dy, NY (518) 280-1600

BAKERY • DELI AND MORE

Arthur’s Market & Café 35 N Ferry St • Schenectady, NY (518) 709-0019

Bagels and Bakes 1927 Curry Rd • Rotterdam, NY (518) 355-6801

Blue Rose Cheesecake & Bake Shop 1815 State St • Schenectady, NY (518) 393-2765

Bountiful Bread 108 State St • Schenectady, NY (518) 387-9997

Stuyvesant Plaza 1475 Western Ave, Albany, NY (518) 438-3540

Capri Imports Italian Deli 2617 Broadway • Schenectady, NY (518) 346-6511

Civitello’s Italian Pastry Shoppe 42 N Jay Street • Schenectady, NY (518) 381-6165

Dnipro Euro Foods 898 Loudon Road • Latham, NY (518) 213-7007

Full Belly Deli & Bakery 2601 Guilderland Ave, Schenectady, NY (518) 280-5272

Perreca’s Bakery & More Perreca’s 33 W. Jay St • Sch’dy • (518) 372-1875

Uncommon Grounds Coffee & Bagels 1235 Western Ave • Albany, NY (518) 453-5649

Villa Italia Bakery 226 Broadway • Schenectady, NY Schenectady (518) 355-1144

GOURMET • PASTA • SAUCE • MORE

Canali’s Italian American Take-out 126 Mariaville Rd • Schenectady, NY (518) 355-5323

Cardona’s Latham Market 9 Cobbee Rd, Latham, NY (518) 785-7480 • Albany • Saratoga

Casa Visco Sauces 819 Kings Rd, Schenectady, NY (518) 377-8814

Pede Brother’s Pasta 582 Duanesburg Rd • Schenectady, NY (518) 356-3042

FLORISTS

Frank Gallo & Son Florist 1601 State St • Schenectady, NY (518) 399-2424

FARM STANDS AND COUNTRY STORES

Brown’s Family Farm Stand 1174 Fort Hunter Rd Schenectady, NY 12303 (518) 836-4806 • Firewood in Season

Buhrmaster Farms 189 Saratoga Rd • Scotia, NY 12302 (518) 399-5931

Carman Farms 3120 Carman Rd • Rotterdam, NY (518) 378-2778

Fo'Castle Farm Country Store 166 Kingsley Rd Burnt Hills, NY 12027 (518) 399-8322

Hungry Chicken Country Store Rotterdam Junction 661 River Rd #6505 Schenectady, NY 12306 (518) 879-9442

Lakeside Farms 336 Schauber Rd • Ballston Lake, NY (518) 399-8359

For The Love of Bacon • Mariaville Farm 834 Duanesburg Road • Schenectady (518) 280-4760

CANDY • CHOCOLATE • NUTS • MORE

Bittersweet Candy 173 Jay Street • Schenectady, NY 12305 (518) 280-6161

Krause's Homemade Candy 1609 Central Ave • Albany, NY 12205 (518) 869-3950

Uncle Sam's All-American Chocolate Factory 2571 Albany Street • Schenectady, NY (518) 372-2243

What's Poppin Albany Kohl’s Plaza 1814 Central Ave • Albany, NY 12205 (518) 704-3936

SPICES • OILS • VINEGARS

East To West Spice Company 16 Edison Street Schenectady, NY (518) 918-7870

Oliva! Gourmet Olive Oils & Vinegars Stuyvesant Plaza 1475 Western Ave Albany, NY 12203 (518) 482-3866

Penzeys Spices Stuyvesant Plaza 1475 Western Ave • Albany, NY 12203 (518) 650-8364

Testa's Pantry 600 Franklin Street • Sch’dy, NY (518) 669-3755

HOME • KITCHEN • COOKBOOKS

Bellevue Builders Supply 500 Duanesburg Rd, Schenectady, NY (518) 355-7190

Best Fire Hearth & Patio 1760 Central Ave, Albany, NY 12205 (518) 869-9600

Best Tile Schenectady 2241 Central Ave, Schenectady, NY (518) 344-7000

Different Drummer Kitchen Supply 1475 Western Ave • Albany, NY 12203 (518) 459-7990

Earl B. Feiden Appliance • 1771 U.S. 9 • Clifton Park, NY • 785 Route 9 • Latham, NY • (518) 383-2215 • (518) 785-8555

Green’s Appliance 1207 Central Ave • Albany, NY 12205 (518) 458-7994

Homecrest Kitchens, Inc 110 Freemans Bridge Rd • Scotia, NY (518) 370-3110

Marcella's Appliance Center 560 Broadway • Schenectady, NY (518) 381-1957

Open Door Bookstore 128 Jay Street • Schenectady, NY (518) 346-2719

Spoon & Whisk • 1675 U.S. 9 Clifton Park, NY (518) 371-4450

The Schenectady Trading Company 609 Union St • Schenectady, NY (518) 280-3036

Towne Decorators 2891 Guilderland Ave, Schenectady, NY (518) 355-2142

WINE, BEER & SPIRITS

Annand Wine & Liquor 1437 Broadway • Schenectady, NY (518) 374-8329

Boscia’s Liquor Discount 2710 Broadway • Bellevue Schenectady, NY (518) 346-5706

Capital Wine 348 State & Lark Streets Albany, NY (518) 689-0160

Englebardt’s Wine & Liquor 511 Union St • Schenectady, NY (518) 372-4788

Freemans Bridge Wine & Liquor 100 Freemans Bridge Rd Scotia, NY (518) 688-0789

Glenville Beverage 96 Freemans Bridge Rd Scotia, NY (518) 374-4615

Goosehill Wine & Liquor 1529 Van Vranken Avenue Schenectady, NY (518) 357-3545

Great Flats Brewing Company 151 Lafayette Street Schenectady, NY (518) 280-0232

JC Discount Wine & Liquor 2315 Curry Rd, Schenectady, NY (518) 952-7933

King Cork Wine & Liquor 2430 Watt St • Schenectady, NY (518) 393-3955

Mad Jack Brewing Company 237 Union Street Schenectady, NY (518) 348-7999

Scotia Wine & Liquors 25 Mohawk Ave, Scotia, NY (518) 630-5107

United Wine Liquor 1650 Eastern Pkwy Schenectady, NY (518) 346-8085

Uptown Beverage 1866 Altamont Ave (518) 355-2305

Ferreira-Carpenter Estates Try our variety of family-made wines For wholesale inquiries call: (518) 598-4854