September 2012 by Town Taster

TownTaster M

September 2012

E FRE E

Volume 1 • Issue 8

The Green Winer The Florida Grape Harvest!

Perfect Pesto - Get your greens in!

Town Tasters

Celebrate in Style: Weddings & Events

Restaurants roll out their red carpets to accommodate your special event

Our readers visit Carmen's Italian Café & Red Elephant Pizza & Grill

Another amazing “hero” named for her dedication to our community

For the Love of Food... w w w.To w nTa s t e r. c o m

SUBSCRIBE TODAY - FREE!

Plent y to do in the Food Communit y this Month

Live Music | Open Late | Rooftop Patio | Flamenco Lounge

~ ~ ~

Up to 50% off on featured tapas and cocktails New Sizzling Summer Menu every three weeks Now through September 30th SARASOTA

1216 1st Street | (941) 952-1036 | www.ceviche.com

Home of the

$2 Margarita! Text

941-677-1187 to be a member of El Sombrero’s VP Club for discounts!

1330 U.S. Hwy 301 N. Palmetto, FL (next to NAPA in the Hall Building on 301) Open 7 Days A Week, 11am - 9pm 2

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

941-723-4300

www.elsombrero941.com

EVERY DAY

SPECIALS! MON: $1 MARGARITAS, $1 ENCHILADAS TUE: $1 TACO TUESDAY WED: $2 MARGARITAS $5 MEXICAN BULLDOG THR: ALL DAY HAPPY HOUR FRI - SUN : $1.5O PINTS, $2 MARGARITAS 11am - 6pm EVERY DAY SPECIALS: KIDS, UNDER 6 EAT FREE, MON-THR TILL 6pm

A New Season of Flavors From the Editor

September 2012 Volume 1, Issue 8 Publisher

PCI Publishing, LLC

Editor

Valerie Longo 941-932-8884

Sales Manager Wendy Hamilton

Web Design

Syd Krawczyk Concept Digital Media

Social Media Lenny Longo

Graphic Design Glenn Huston

Contributing Authors Sandy Boyer Chef Richard Chaney Anne Douglass The Three Kitcheneers Beverly Scott Larry Woodham

Town Taster and PCI Publishing, LLC does not endorse or warrant any products or services contained herein, unless otherwise expressly noted. The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors. Submitted materials will not be returned. Whole or part of this publication may not be used or duplicated in any way without written permission from PCI Publishing, LLC. Advertising rates and information available from: PCI Publishing, LLC, 1202 Gary Avenue, Suite 13, Ellenton, FL 34222 Phone: 941-548-1908 Town Taster is published monthly. Subscriptions are FREE. To continue receiving Town Taster on a regular basis, visit our website:

TownTaster.com facebook.com/TownTaster

Wait… Just wait! It is almost upon us. Do we dare say it? Yes, the end of summer and beginning of fall. Now yes, I know that the weather still lends itself to being pretty warm in Septemeber, but we are talking about far more exciting things. The kids are back in school, the anticipation of fall festivals and holiday fun! Even BETTER… the excitement of a whole new set of flavors. The sweetness of sun kissed berries and light summery dishes will soon be over shadowed by robust flavors of hearty veggies and comfort foods of the season. Who can’t resist getting anxious to see what our local area chefs will be whipping up on their special boards? What a perfect time to begin planning your next big event! Or, do you know someone who is getting married? Restaurants that transform into the perfect venue for a wedding or special event and will arrange your ideal menu at the same time surround us. Take a peek at this month’s feature article to find out who has open doors. It is never too early to start planning. The early bird does get the worm… and the best locations for holiday parties. From food to cakes – we have you covered! Are you getting that fall feeling yet? If not, read on… The Three Kitcheneers have a recipe that will make you fall in love with leafy greens in a whole new way. Do you enjoy their articles as much as we do? Get more whimsical fun by following their blog at www.threekitcheneers.com. In other news, if you have been following along our Be Gluten Free column and contemplating going Gluten Free, read this month about proper diagnosis & trial diets. We thank Gluten Free by Beverly for fielding all our reader calls and answering them each issue. Hope you continue to enjoy this section. If you are as excited as we are to get the fall season underway – you will be thrilled with all the great features, events and new promotions we will be unveiling in the coming months. Stay tuned to find out all the details as our monthly issues continue to flow. And if you think of something interesting you would like to see – let us know… TownTaster is designed for you. You know and I know, it is all “For the Love of Food”!

Valerie Cover photo courtesy of

Matt & Dom's

3 5 7 8 15 17

In the Mix

A New Season of Flavors From the Editor

Features in this Issue

HomeTown Hero Winner: April Childers

Town Taster Review: Carmen's Italian Cafe

The Three Kitcheneers Super Greens Pesto

The Green Winer Florida Grape Harvest

Be Gluten Free

Feature Article:

Weddings & Eventspages 12-13

18 19 23

Tips from My Sarasota Chef Town Taster Review: Red Elephant Pizza & Grill

In Your Neighborhood Ferraro's Italian Grille

Be a

Gecko’s Grill & Pub

Tapas Fresh Seafood Peruvian Specialties American Favorites Select Wine & Beer Sunset Specials Seasonal Specials Takeout and Catering Tuesday-Saturday 5-9pm

Local, Organic and Sustainable

Peruvian American Cuisine and South American Tapas 6621 Midnight Pass Rd. in Crescent Plaza Just over the south bridge on Siesta Key

941.349.1792

www.javiersrestaurant.com

To nominate someone special, go to www.TownTaster.com or www.GeckosGrill.com for official rules and form. Or you may pick up a form from one of your five local Gecko’s locations.

Prima Donna Ristorante Italiano

Catering is available for weddings, parties & meetings.

5718 Cortez Road West Bradenton, Fl 34210

www.PrimaDonnaRestaurant.com

941-896-9744

Chef Carino and Chef Hamid invite you to dine with them at their new Bradenton restaurant. You will not be disappointed. If you have dined at Carino’s on St. Pete Beach, you know what a great dining experience it is.

5 off

Of $25 or more.

Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. With this coupon only • Not valid with any other offers Offer expires 9/30/12

BUY 1 LUNCH, GET 1 LUNCH

1/2 OFF

Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. With this coupon only • Not valid with any other offers Offer expires 9/30/12

BUY 1 DINNER, GET 1 DINNER

1/2 OFF

Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. With this coupon only • Not valid with any other offers Offer expires 9/30/12

Open 7 days a week 11:30am-10:30pm

Gecko’s Grill & Pub Gecko’s Grill & Pub and TownTaster Magazine

September

Hometown: St. Louis • Current City: Bradenton Organizations Served: CEDC, MidTown Manatee, CRA’s, Village of The Arts, PTO, Homeless Coalition, Salvation Army, PATH and many more Favorite Gecko’s Dish: Chicken with Orange Glaze & brownie dessert Favorite Column in TownTaster Magazine: Bed & Breakfast (she loves to travel)

“April Childers is a one-of-a-kind individual. She has helped 100’s of businesses keep their doors open. She helps people like me start businesses and make our dreams come true. She never backs down from a challenge nor does she ever back down from fighting for what she believes in. She believes in saving people, businesses, and places when everyone else has given up. She is a crusader for homeless people. She gets people involved and wakes them up to what is important. She truly is Manatee Counties HERO.” Nominated by: Maria Aguilar, Bradenton

Lakewood Ranch presents Music on Main the first Friday of each month from 6-9 p.m! Beer, wine and food sales will benefit Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy.

Fall Vegetable Gardening

Vinology – “Uncork your World”

Michael’s Wine Cellar “Rock of Ages”

Italian Wine Dinner

40th Anniversary Celebration for Meals on Wheels PLUS!

would like to congratulate our

WINNER April Childers

Music on Main

Come learn all the vegetable garden basics from where to locate the garden, how to prepare the garden bed soil, what vegetables to plant in the fall garden, and how to deal with the carrot snatching wildlife. Presented by Lisa Hickey, Extension Agent. Workshop is free. South Central Library, 6081 26th Street West, Bradenton. 1-3pm

An evening filled with opportunities to eat, drink, laugh and learn at the South Florida Museum. Vinology will feature World class wines and premium beers paired with small bites from the area’s finest restaurants! 6pm VIP Tickets: $125/person; 7pm General Admission Tickets: $75/person South Florida Museum - 201 10th Street West Bradenton, FL 34205. 941-746-4131.

Break out your best rock attire and celebrate the best decade yet! Open bar & light bites 9pm-1am. Host: Phil Mancini. $75 per person in advance; $100 at the door. www.rockofages. kinters.org - 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL. 366-0007.

Carmel Café & Wine Bar’s September 5 course wine dinner will highlight the legendary Antinori family vineyards. 6:30 pm. $59.95 per person. Reservations required. 8433 Cooper Creek Blvd, Sarasota, FL, 941-893-5955. carmelcafe.com

Stop by any of our 4 facilities and enjoy refreshments, tour our operations, and celebrate our history and growth. 11am-2pm. A special presentation will be given at 2:30pm at Renaissance on 9th. www.mealsonwheelsplus.org

“Love and food are the two greatest things in the world, and I’ve got a love for food.”

~ Carmen

Carmen & Kay Rizzo, Owners

Ask about our weekly specials Dishes are fresh & made to order Desserts straight from Italy Full Liquor Martini Bar

Live Entertainment Most Nights

“Absolutely excellent!!! The food, of course, and the ambience, friendly staff. The perfect place to go. We’ll definitely be back.” ~Gloria, TownTaster reader

Karaoke – Friday 10pm Wed: 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Thu - Fri: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Sat - Sun: 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm Bring in this ad for a

FREE Fresh Tomato & Basil Bruschetta Appetizer

With purchase of menu item. TownTaster Magazine. Expires 9/30/12 Limit one per table. Not to be combined with any other offer.

515 27th St E. Bradenton, FL 34208  (941) 745-1540  carmensitaliancafe.com

aster” wnT To

This restaura nt

isited by an “ Of fi

v en be

515 27th Street East Bradenton, FL 34208 941.745.1540

D APPROVE om

.c w.TownTaster

www.carmensitaliancafe.com

Appetizer: Stuffed muShroomS - 5 to 6 rather large mushrooms stuffed with vegetables and baked in wine and herbs with bread crumbs. freSh tomato and baSil bruSchetta - bread topped with tomato, basil and garlic houSe Salad and bread - the house salad dressing is made on the premises with right amount of herbs and not too tart - the vinegar and oil were perfectly emulsified. Entrées: Veal alia’ carmen -tender veal medallions sauteed in butter, white wine, lemon, mushrooms, artichoke hearts and fresh herbs - perfectly seasoned and the veal was incredibly tender

Comments

“Carley, the very friendly and helpful waitress, told us at the beginning that the restaurant is chef owned and operated. She said that Carmen was born and raised in Palermo, Sicily and has always been in the cucina. He uses old family recipes and adds his own personal touches. She told us that he uses the freshest of ingredients (we had to wait for the bruschetta because they were picking fresh basil) and she said that the food is not pre-made and frozen so it would take a little longer to prepare. We could hear other patrons talking about the food and everyone seemed to love it. They have a full bar and a nice wine and beer list as well. We peeked into the 515 Martini Bar and it was small and intimate with wonderful music by Earl King and a nice tapas menu.”

oSSo buco (special of the evening) - veal shank served over a bed of pasta with Carmen’s special red sauce Dessert: a lemon paStry & chocolate cake

Favorite Aspect of Restaurant

The food. The sauces were perfectly seasoned and the red sauce was excellent (and red sauce is not my favorite and I thought it wonderful)

Interesting Menu Items

The deserts were unique and according to the waitress they are made in Italy.

Favorite Menu Item

Veal Alia’ Carmen and Osso Buco were a toss up depending upon whether you like wine sauce or red sauce - both were wonderful.

A special thanks to this issue's TownTaster

Anne Douglass

for giving her stamp of approval to Carmen’s Italian Cafe!

About our TownTasters:

Age: 50-60 • Favorite Food: I love most foods Hometown: Bradenton • Hobbies: Cooking and entertaining

Atmosphere & Ambiance

Romantic, charming and welcoming. The outdoor lighting is festive and welcoming with small twinkling lights in the outdoor trees and landscaping. European decor - booths and tables, dark wood, white table cloths and candles on table. “Excellent food with lovely surroundings and an intimate martini bar with live music. It is a place to go and dine. If you are in a rush, do not go there. You are encouraged to linger and enjoy your food and are not made to feel rushed. I do not mind paying a little more if I have wonderful food, intimate surroundings and time to enjoy.” 77

Who doesn’t like pesto? It’s such an outstanding combination of simple and fresh ingredients that can be used in a multitude of dishes from pepping up grilled cheese sammies to making pasta shine. If you are that one (and only) person who just raised your hand for our ‘Who doesn’t like pesto’ question, then either: A) You were born with a severe nut allergy and have never tried to make a nut-free pesto, which, yes, isn’t quite as grand as its nutty cousin, but is still packed with delicious flavors B) Somebody made you a revolting version of pesto and you’ve been too afraid to give it another go C) You have a cultural background that doesn’t use pesto and you have yet to be introduced to its awe-inspiring flavor D) You are clearly the devil Whether you have never had pesto, don’t believe you like pesto or are eating pesto right this second because it’s the only meal you ever eat, The Three Kitcheneers would love to introduce you to our version of this delightful dish. We decided to jazz things up a bit by making a ‘Super Greens’ pesto with kale, spinach and, of course, basil. The health benefits of dark, leafy greens has been touted for ages now, but few of us even meet the recommended dose of 3 cups per week. Week! Not day. Week! Our pesto pretty much meets the weekly dose. Just sayin’. Calorie for calorie, leafy greens are considered to have the most concentrated source of nutrition than any other food. So, if you are looking to amp up your healthy meal options, greens are what you should be reaching for. These babies are exploding with minerals and vitamins, including iron and vitamins B and K, all extremely important for your body, especially in women, as they can regulate blood clotting, protect bones from osteoporosis, reduce calcium in arteries and protect against inflammatory diseases like arthritis. They also provide phytonutrients out the wazoo, which do everything from preserving your eyesight to safeguarding your cells from damage. Plus, these super greens are pretty much carb-free while being packed with fiber, something most of us just don’t get enough of. Oh, and while they’re at it, greens offer up some healthy Omega-3 fats. See what we’re saying here? Super greens are super duper and you should always have some in your mouth. Always. Even while sleeping. If you didn’t stop mid-paragraph to go shovel a handful of greens into your mouth than you are reading this incorrectly. Skip to our recipe, make it IMMEDIATELY, and then return to the article with a big ol’ bowl of our pesto in your lap. Now, we are The Three Kitcheneers, after all, which means that we love to add goat cheese to just about everything. So we did. Goat cheese cuts the cruciferous flavor of kale and adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess. If you aren’t a goat cheese fan, please refer to letter D from the options above. That being

said, parmesan can be substituted, if necessary. We also like to substitute walnuts over the traditional pine nuts because they have more nutrients and we think the flavor marries better with the goat cheese and kale. Plus, they’re cheaper. Double win. We hope this recipe turns you into crazy obsessive pesto freaks like we are. We usually turn this into a double batch and add it to just about everything in our kitchen. Pasta, bagels, eggs, veggies - there is nothing that doesn’t pair well with pesto. Nothing. Stop trying to think of things like cereal and ice cream. We bet it would be good with both. We would suggest you keep this in the fridge for storage, but we’re guessing there won’t be any leftovers.

Pesto Recipe

Recipe Note: All greens are not created equal; some batches are indeed more bitter and intense than others. If you find yourself with a particularly potent batch of greens, just cut back on the amount used by a ½ cup or so. Makes enough for 1 pound pasta plus extra 1 cup (packed) stemmed kale 1 cup (packed) spinach leaves handful basil 1 large clove garlic, peeled and rough chop ¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese sea salt & freshly ground pepper Combine kale, spinach, basil, garlic, and walnuts with a pinch of salt in the bowl of a food processor; process until finely minced. With the machine running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until thick, you may have a little oil left over. Transfer pesto to large bowl and stir in goat cheese. Season with salt and pepper. To serve with pasta, reserve a ladle of the pasta cooking water just before draining. Toss about 2 /3 this recipe (depending on the shape of pasta) per pound of hot pasta, adding reserved cooking water as needed to thin out sauce.

Check out www.ThreeKitcheneers.com for recipes, articles and webisodes. All food, all the time.

Celebrate in Style

Groups 10 to 100 people!

Experience the Great Food and Service of Geckoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grill & Pubs now in a Private Dining setting!

One call away from a perfectly planned and executed meeting or banquet. Call (941) 587-9016 or email signatureroom@geckoshospitality.com

Tell us more… Listing Information

Come in and enjoy our food and culture. We have cold sake, Japanese wines, beer and daily sushi specials. We pride ourselves on quality Japanese specialty food and the freshest sushi. Ocean Star is the perfect setting after a day at the beach, a long day at work or just a place to unwind and relax. Make Ocean Star your new favortite place to enjoy a night out.

Locations 3608 East Bay Drive Holmes Beach, FL 34217 Phone 941-778-1236 / Fax 941-778-1294 Hours Mon - Thur : 5:00 - 10:00 Fri & Sat: 5:00 - 11:00 Sun: 5:00 - 9:30 4444 Cortez Road West Bradenton, FL 34210 Phone 941-798-9999 / Fax 941-761-4444 Lunch Hours Mon - Fri: 11:30 - 2:00 Dinner Hours Mon - Thur: 4:00 - 10:00 Fri, Sat: 5:00 - 11:00 Sun: 5:00 - 9:30

What do our readers have to say?

“Awesome magazine. Always looking for original places to dine.” Laura M., Bradenton “Love your magazine lots of good. Fun to try new places that you mentioned...keep up the good work!” Pat S., Sarasota “I really love this magazine. It is very informative. Thank you.” Michele S., Bradenton “I picked up my first issue at Publix and LOVE it!” Kriste S., Palmetto

www.oceanstarsushi.com Please Call For Take Out Orders!

“I really appreciate this new magazine. I’m new in town and this has been helpful in trying out restaurants.” Kathy V., Sarasota

Weddings & Events: A Culinary D 'Tis the Season! Well, it is not quite the holiday season yet, but it is the start of a busy season for planning weddings, events, and yes dare we say it…. holiday parties. Fall is nipping at our heels and so it the time when the summer comes to a close and we gear up for a fun season of parties and events. We figured, what better way to celebrate this time then to share with you our favorite wedding and event venues and vendors in the area who share our “Love of Food”.

These fabulous restaurants have their doors open and their staff ready to assist you: Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant Celebrate in an unforgettable atmosphere at Ceviche. Their unique venue is something to be desired from dinner parties and girls nights out to showers, rehearsal dinners & receptions. They have a variety of options available to fit your needs. Fête Catering & Ballroom at Polo Grill Centrally located and easy to find in Lakewood Ranch at the Polo Grill, their name says it all. Fête is a noun meaning feast or festival, an elaborate entertainment or an amazing party. With seating capacity for up to 450, they are ready to serve you for any size event party. Gecko’s Signature Room A favorite neighborhood grill for 20 years, Gecko’s is now your favorite private meeting and banquet place. With private rooms for 10 to 80 people their complimentary meeting planner will help you create a custom menu to make your event planning hassle free. Michael's on East From dazzling galas, spectacular weddings or a more intimate special event, the creative team at Michael’s on East will treat you right and ensure a magical time for your guests. Choose between their versatile on site settings for the perfect private event or utilize their experience to help cater your event at one of their many preferred venues. Renaissance on 9th Renaissance on 9th is a premier wedding and banquet facility located near downtown Bradenton. One of the area’s newer event venues, it can accommodate groups from 30 to 300. They offer full, on-site catering services that include a variety of serving styles and cuisine for all occasions.

Looking for a waterfront venue to host your special event, look no further: The BeachHouse & Sandbar Restaurants The crown jewels of beach weddings…The Sandbar and The BeachHouse Restaurants provide the perfect setting for your dream ceremony and reception. Fabulous food, unmatched service and breathtaking sunsets make the Sandbar and BeachHouse an ideal spot for your beach wedding. Riverhouse The Riverhouse is a waterfront banquet facility located on the historic Manatee River at Regatta Pointe Marina in Palmetto. The facility can comfortably host a 250 seat single event inside, with open waterfront porches offering an additional opportunity for seating, wedding locations, or social events. Bella Mia Grill on the Water Get a taste of the elegant charm that surrounds the Riviera Dunes Marina at Bella Mia. With seating from 20 to 200 inside or out they welcome weddings, holiday parties, birthdays, business meetings, wine tastings and more!

Outdoor wonderlands are created in these unique and picturesque settings: Mixon’s In The Grove Your long time favorite place for local citrus and cool treats, Mixon’s Farm now offers a unique wedding location surrounded by the beauty of the orange groves. Their gazebo overlooks a beautiful Koi pond and rock waterfall designed to make your tropical garden wedding memorable. Bunker Hill Vineyard & Winery Experience the beauty of your wedding at a real Florida Vineyard & Winery. Bunker Hill Vineyard and Winery is the perfect setting for your dream wedding, vow renewal or commitment ceremony. The 23-acre lush green backdrop of the vines in bloom will provide inspiration for a meaningful ceremony and capture the imagination of your guests!

y Delight Wait, there’s more… You can’t possibly have a wedding or event without the sweets! We found the sweetest spots to order your desserts and cakes that will indulge guests. If you can dream it – they can make it! Matt & Dom’s Custom Cakes Pastry Chef Matt, formerly of the Ritz-Carlton, and Dominic create your exquisitely custom designed gourmet cake with beauty matched by unsurpassed taste. Matt’s background in culinary/pastry arts coupled with Dominic’s graphic arts degree help make your cake detailed in elegance or whimsically dazzling! Pastries by Design Located in Lakewood Ranch, Pastries by Design is owned and operated by Lyndsy McDonald, a graduate of Johnson & Wales. They offer a wide variety of cakes, cupcakes and specialty cookies. Recently, they expanded their location to offer more bakery options. Try out their yummy creations each month at Music on Main!

Rica’s Cakes Owner Erica Ostrander comes from a creative family. Her passion and recipes reflect it! She enjoys taking all her wonderful family memories and channeling them into helping her customers make theirs. Her motto is “I don’t make cakes. I make memories.” Mr. Cheesecake For over 20 years, Mr. Cheesecake has been a favorite to locals for all occasions! Their New York Style Cheesecakes, mini desserts, cheesecake truffles, pies and more will always go over well for your special day. A personal suggestion – try their hybrid cake – a combination cake of regular cake & cheesecake that will leave your guests smiling.

BeachHouse 200 Gulf Dr. • Bradenton Beach 941.779.2222 www.beachhouse.groupersandwich.com

Matt & Dom’s 373 Manatee Ave. W. • Bradenton 941.778.3909 www.mattanddoms.com

Renaissance on 9th 1816 9th Street W. • Bradenton 941.749.0100 www.renaissanceon9th.org

Bella Mia Grill 102 Riviera Dunes Way • Palmetto 941.479.7827 www.bellamiagrill.com

Michael’s On East 1212 East Ave. S. • Sarasota 941.366.0007 www.michaelsoneastcatering.com

Rica’s Cakes 28 N. Blvd of Presidents 941.812.2035 www.ricascakes.com

Bunker Hill Vineyard & Winery 8905 Bunker Hill Rd. • Duette 941.776.0418 www.bunkerhillvineyard.com

Mixon’s In The Grove 2525 27th St. E. • Bradenton 941.748.5829 www.weddingsinthegrove.com

Riverhouse 1001 Riverside Drive, Palmetto 941.721.3800 www.manateeriverhouse.com

Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant 1216 1st Street • Sarasota 888.49.TAPAS www.ceviche.com

Mr Cheesecake 1128 30th Ave. W. • Bradenton 941.747.5955 www.mrcheesecakeinc.com

Sandbar 100 Spring Ave. • Anna Maria 941.778.0444 www.sandbar.groupersandwich.com

Fete Catering & Ballroom at Polo Grill 10670 Boardwalk Loop • Lakewood Ranch 941.782.0899 www.caterfete.com

Pastries By Design 10667 Boardwalk Loop • Lakewood Ranch 941.567.4061 www.pastriesbydesign.com

The Signature Room at Gecko’s on Clark 5585 Palmer Crossing Cir • Sarasota 941.587.9016 www.GeckosGrill.com/SignatureRoom

German Beer Garden

Bunker Hill

Vineyard & Winery

GERMAN BEERS & HOMEMADE GERMAN FOOD

“A Green Environmentally Friendly Winery” located in the NE section of Manatee County

ycle 100% Rec

ttle d Wine Bo

304 15TH Street West bradenton • 941-748-5658 www.germaninnbradenton.com reservation@germaninnbradenton.com Mon - Fri • 4:00 - 8:30 Sat - Sun • 4:00 - 9:30 (Closed Wednesday)

Daily Teatime 11:30-4:00 • Reservations Requested

Available for Catering & Weddings

Mr. Cheesecake & More

Where Elegant Meets Delicious! Mr. Cheesecake & More has been Creating delicious memories for over 20 years. Specializing in Cheesecake Wedding Cakes, we also bake Specialty Cakes, Layered Cakes of Cheesecake and Cake combined, and More. Don’t forget our Groom’s Cakes, Mini Dessert Trays, Cannolies, Cream Puffs, Eclairs and More! With a variety of flavor combinations and skilled design we would be honored to help create a memorable and delicious cake for you! Contact us today so we can start your unique cake today! 941-747-5955 Check us out on the Web! www.mrcheesecakeinc.com www.facebook.com/mrcheesecakeandmore 1128 30th Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34205 14

Ar Wedding

Experience the beauty of your wedding at a real Florida Vineyard & Winery. We do weddings, vow renewals & commitment ceremonies.

941-776-0418

www.BunkerHillVineyard.com

A Wine Blog by…

The Green Winer

The Florida Grape Harvest! When the heat of central Florida reaches 100+ degrees and the afternoon thunderstorms boil with dark clouds and bolts of lightning, an annual spectacle, that few see, unfolds across our landscape. Beginning about the end of July and continuing until about October the “Florida Grape Harvest” is underway! With colors of black, gold and red, these sweet and fragrant orbs of grapes glisten in our Florida sun. Listen closely, can you hear the ‘thump...thump...thump’ as the grapes are picked and dropped into the picking bucket? Each day the grapes become fuller and riper and sweeter. What begins as a trickle of grapes will soon become a full and raging river of grapes. Over and over the same refrain is played…Pick, thump, carry, wash, crush, ferment! Day after day, week after week the flow of grapes continues. Even after the sun sets and the moon rises, the grape march continues. The processing of the days harvest must not stop! Only after every bucket of grapes is secure in the fermenting room can we rest. Tomorrow morning comes early for the grape grower and the grape picker. The first rays of sunlight reveals a multitude of busy hands reaching in and out of the grape vines. Another day is dawning and the music of the Florida grape picker, again, fills the air…’thump…thump…thump’!

Beverly Scott is the founder of Gluten Free by Beverly, Inc., a wholesale business in Sarasota, Florida producing gluten-free Italian frozen foods.

My doctor advised me to eliminate gluten while waiting for test results about the abdominal problems I have been having. So I have been on a gluten-free diet for about three weeks and I feel so much better. My doctor just got my test results back and it did not indicate that I have celiac disease. Now, I am not sure whether I really should stay away from gluten. Dear Carol, I hear this so often. My opinion is to follow your gut... no pun intended. If you feel better after changing your diet, what more evidence do you need? I am always surprised at the way so many people have disconnected from the basic understanding that, what we put in our mouths is what makes our body function, orâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;malfunction. If you consume food that is not really healthy, then you most likely will not have a really healthy body. Although banned in many countries, today, in the United States more than ninety percent of our wheat has been genetically-modified. It has been redesigned to be able to survive toxic herbicide sprays or even, to include pesticides. Is it any wonder so many people are becoming ill after eating gluten? For the rest of the population, if you arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feeling sick yet, after consuming a diet that includes GMO wheat, it just might be a matter of time before you do. Think about this. Automobile manufacturers and mechanics know that the ethanol we put in our cars is not good for them, but it is almost impossible to find gasoline that does not have ethanol added. Although our cars seem to run well until after thousands of miles later, finally we start to have parts wearing out and we have to begin replacing them. Ask your mechanic about the cause and he will tell you, it most probably is the ethanol in our gasoline. Unfortunately, we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t buy new parts for our bodies. Why wait until you are so sick that a laboratory test can detect what you already know? Finding that you feel healthier on a gluten-free diet even though you are not diagnosed as having celiac disease, is not unusual. There are many other medical conditions that are triggered by gluten or complicated by gluten. Listen to your body. Knowing that your body feels better without it, should be enough reason to stick with being gluten-free.

s n o i t c e l e S h c n u L 8

8 $ R e d n FoR U

$5 oFF

TTM

on any check over $30.00. Present coupon, not valid with other coupons or offers, one per table. dine in only. expires: 12-31-12

on the Corner of Lorraine & SR 70 Lunch & dinner daily  direct TV Sports Package Outdoor Patio  Banquet & Meeting Room Full Liquor Bar  Sunday Brunch Buffet $14.99 14475 SR 70 • Lakewood Ranch

941.756.9400

www.theranchflorida.com

Hours: 11am - Close Sunday: 10am - Close Happy Hour 4-7pm and 9pm to Close

$3 oFF

TTM

SUnday BRUnCh BUFFeT

Present coupon, one per person. dine in only. expires: 12-31-12. not valid with other coupons or offers.

Kids eat

FRee

on WedneSdayS ages Ten & Under, Selections from the Children’s Menu

Up to two children per adult entree purchase. not valid with other coupons. dine in only.

10% Discount on Food Items Gratefully Provided for Active Military-EMT-Fire Rescue-Police-Teachers. Discount good for credential carrier only. Kindly provide ID

Hours: Monday - Sunday • 11am - Close

On the corner of Lorraine & SR 70

50’s and 60’s Style Ice Cream Shop Classic Signature Creations Cones • Bowls • Smoothies Shakes • Sundaes • Popcorn Pretzels • Cookies & Sweets

10% entire Your OFF order!

Present coupon, not valid with other coupons or offers, one per order. Exp.12/31/2012

Party room

Available

For a limited time only!

SCan ThIS Code Look for the Like Us Coupon On Our Facebook Page & Redeem an awesome Coupon!

P: 941.756.9440 www.memorylaneicecream.com

s Topping17

Experiment with Exotic Seasonings Tips from My Sarasota Chef This September is all about stepping out of the normal ‘Spice Box’.  Experiment with exotic seasonings to create a new twist on classic dishes.  Your friends will be so impressed and you will quickly become the Dinner Party Super Hero. Here are some ideas: Add freshly ground coffee and cayenne pepper blend as a dry rub for your steaks.Or, put some Chardonnay Smoked Sea Salt on your favorite fish before cooking.  There are great local spice stores that sell these really cool flavors. Another way to spice up some dry ingredients already in your cabinet is to toast them in a dry sauté pan.  You will want to toast the ingredients over medium to high heat until fragrant.  Watch closely so it doesn’t burn!

Chef Richard Chaney is a personal chef in Sarasota. Specializing in preparing gourmet meals for special occasions, dinner parties, private cooking classes or a romantic dinner for two. Visit his website www. Mysarasotachef.com or call 941.223.9040 for more information.

Saturday

$2 Yuengling drafts and $7.99 Sloppy Joe Platter

Sunday

$3 16oz. Miller Lite and Coors Light Alumuninum • $6.99 Wings

Monday & Thursday

$2 Mich Ultra drafts Free giveaways for all games

Win An Authentic NFL Hat each Sunday! Delicious Steamed Clams & Peel & Eat Shrimp

aster” wnT To

This restaura nt

isited by an “ Of fi

v en be

D APPROVE om

.c w.TownTaster

5231 University Parkway, University Park, FL 34201 • 941.351.4646

www.redelephantpizza.com

Soups: Samples of Roasted tomato, sausage CoRn ChowdeR & BlaCk Bean soups. Salads: siesta key salad - Spring mix with hickory ham, smoked turkey, strawberries, apples, pineapple, cinnamon pecans and feta cheese. Dressings homemade spicy ranch and honey mustard. ZoRBa gReek salad - Romaine hearts, green peppers, red onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, pepperoncinis, feta cheese and balsamic vinaigrette. Pizza: individual elephant ClassiC piZZa - Mozzarella, pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms and green peppers.

siesta key salad

Atmosphere/ Ambiance

The lighting was good, there was no loud music, the artwork was very interesting and the atmosphere was relaxing.

Interesting Menu Item

The ingredients were fresh, salads crisp and dressings “homemade” taste.

Favorite Menu Item

Len really loved the Siesta Key Salad, Sausage & Corn Chowder and Balsamic Wine Steak Rice Bowl. I favored the Roasted Tomato Soup, Zorba Greek Salad and Margherita Chicken Pizza.

individual maRgheRita ChiCken piZZa - Pesto sauce, mozzarella, grilled chicken, tomatoes and basil. Entrées: BlaCkened ChiCken pasta - blackened chicken breast, penne pasta in a light tomato cream sauce topped with parmesan cheese and fresh basil. elephant BuRgeR - American cheese, bacon, grilled onions, sauteed mushrooms topped with blue cheese dressing. BalsamiC wine steak RiCe Bowl - Savory saffron rice paired with thinly sliced steak topped with feta cheese and a balsamic vinegar, red wine reduction sauce.

Comments

“Management & staff were very friendly. General manager Margo was very cordial & helpful and the waitress Amy was very attentive. Food, portions and price were all great!”

Kid Friendly: YES ~ Easy to Find: YES ~ Reservations: NO ~ Would you Recommend? YES

A special thanks to this issue's TownTaster

Sandy Boyer

for giving her stamp of approval to Red Elephant! :

About our TownTaster

Hometown: Hershey, PA • Current City: Sarasota/ Ellenton 22 years Hobbies: Boating, cooking & trying new restaurants. Favorite Food: It would be easier to state “non-favorites”

19 16

SAIGON HIBACHI Vietnamese Cuisine & Japanese Grill Come Experience the Far East Sarasota’s Finest Japanese & Vietnamese Cusine with Exciting Dishes & Unique Ambience

REAL I TA L I A N FOOD! 749-0105 1914 14th Street West • Bradenton, FL Open Mon - Sun • 11am - 9pm

16” CHEE S PIZZA E $11.50

Every Day Special $5 (2 slices of cheese pizza & 20 oz. beverage)

941-487-8711 Happy Hour 3pm - 5pm 935 N. Beneva, Sarasota

(Sarasota Commons Shopping Center)

www.SaigonHibachi.com

Mon & Wed - Sat 11am - 9pm Sun 1pm - 9pm - Closed Tue M e nti o n this a d o r p r e s e nt co u p o n f o r

50% OFF

Second entreé of equal or lesser value Not valid with any other offer or coupon. Exp 9/30/12

a i l o n Mag ll a M e u Antiq

2006-2012 PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS

3411 U.S. Hwy 301, Ellenton, FL About 1 mile W of I-75 exit #224

941-722-5255 Open Mon - Sat 10-5, Sun 12-5 20

OUR NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA

is made with fresh dough under the supervision of our expert pizza chefs.

Our favorite places to eat are:

Bella Mia Grill

Come shop with us before you go to lunch! Glass & China Antiques Collectibles Fine Gifts Howards Refinishing Products Gift Certificates

It’s not just the water. It’s all we add to it.

Exceptional New Island Home Values from the $370s to $500s. Models Open Daily.

Waterfront Resort Living on Florida’s Last Private Island. Start with maintenance-included, energy-efficient homes designed for care-free coastal living. Combine with resort-style amenities like a private clubhouse, pool, cabanas and marina. Top off with the pleasures of Anna Maria Island. It all adds up to the Florida resort lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. A place to gather family and friends today and celebrate all the tomorrows to come.

Experience Award-Winning Living Ten 2012 Parade of Homes “Best Awards”

Move-in Ready • Brokers Welcome

12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209 On SR 64. Turn right just before the Anna Maria Island Bridge

mintoﬂa.com • (888) 347-1837

Tampa Bay

minto creates better places to inspire life Prices and availability subject to change without notice. Oral representations cannot be relied upon a correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to the purchase agreement and homeowner documents, including the documents required by section 718.503, Florida Statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee in condominium communities. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. CBC 1258779, CGC 1505726, CGC 1519880. 8/2012.

Anna Maria Island

Gulf of Mexico

MINTO NEW HOME SALES OFFICE

Manatee Ave. W.

Bradenton

C o u p on o r n e r

515 27th St. E. Bradenton, FL 34208 (941) 745-1540

FREE Bruschetta

with purchase of menu item. With this coupon. Offer valid through 9/30/12.

Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

 Ferraro’s Italian Grille 8348 US 301 N., Parrish • 941-723-1111

$5 off

Check of $25 or more

With this coupon. Offer valid through 9/30/12. Limit 1 certificate per table. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

The German Inn Bed & Breakfast

304 15th Street West, Bradenton • 941-748-5658 6621 Midnight Pass Rd., Sarasota • (941) 349-1792

10% off 15% OFF

Dine-In Only Weekly Dining

Specials

With this coupon. Offer valid through 9/30/12 9/30/12.

Limit one coupon person visit. TownTaster Dine-inper only, limit per 1 per person, per visit.Magazine. TownTasterNot Magazine. Not to be combined with anyorother offer or coupon. to be combined with any other offer coupon.

6621 Midnight Pass Rd., Sarasota • (941) 349-1792

15% OFF Dine-In Only

With this coupon. Offer valid through 9/30/12

Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

Prima Donna Ristorante Italiano

14475 SR 70, Lakewood Ranch • (941) 756-9440

10% OFF Your Entire Order

With this coupon. Offer valid through 12/31/12

$5 OFF of $25 or more - OR -

BUY 1, Get 1 50% OFF (Lunch or Dinner) With this coupon. Offer valid through 9/30/12

Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

14475 SR 70, Lakewood Ranch • (941) 756-9400

995 Riverside Drive, Palmetto • (941) 729-0616

$5 OFF

limit 1 per table

on any check over $30

- OR -

$3 OFF

Sunday Brunch Buffet limit 1 per person

With this coupon. Offer valid through 12/31/12

Dine-in only, limit 1 certificate per table. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

SAIGON HIBACHI

Vietnamese Cuisine & Japanese Grill

935 N. Beneva Rd., Sarasota, FL • (941) 487-8711

50% OFF

Second entreé of equal or lesser value 22

5718 Cortez Rd., Bradenton • (941) 896-9744

With this coupon. Offer valid through 9/30/12

Limit one coupon per person per visit. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

FREE Appetizer with purchase of 2 Entrees

With this coupon. Offer valid through 9/30/12 Limit 1 certificate per table. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

Try something new... You know you want to!

When I heard about a group in our neighborhood getting together at Ferraro’s Pizza in Parrish to do a pizza making party, I was intrigued. We are a pizza loving family, but admit to never having made our own in a pizza restaurant. A special thank you to Ferraro's manager Danny and owner Frank LoGrande for opening their doors and allowing a group of 15 kids to experience their inner chef! Danny had their pizza making station ready to go and the step stools in position to allow the littlest of chefs to participate. One by one they stepped on up and helped make their pizza – from throwing the dough to topping it off and watching it go in the big ovens. What an amazing way to put the “neighborhood” feel into a pizza shop. These kids will always remember their summer outing and chat about it every time they pass by.

Authentic Italian Cuisine 8 348 US 3 0 1 N. • Parrish • 941.723.1111 www.ferrarositaliangrille.com

• Pizza • Appetizers • Soups/ Salads • Pastas • Sandwiches • Desserts

The fresh est ingred ien ts

• Lunch Specials and More!

Three Generations of Excellence Sicily • New Jersey • Florida

Three Locations ~ Bradenton • Lakewood Ranch • Parrish 23