Raynickben

The Dallas Morning News -Remember all the hoopla when Il Mulino was coming to Dallas? Here we go again. NOBU is set to open next month at the Hotel Crescent Court. Katharine Goodloe reports from New York on what diners can expect once the Japanese restuarant opens. The lowdown on NOBU -For something completely different try Elke's Market Cafe. Located in Allen, the cafe is owned by the daughter of the Kuby's of Kuby's Sausage House. Sharon Hudgins provides the info. -Also new is Chateau de Fromage. Joyce Saenz Harris features the new artisanal cheese shop located in Deep Ellum. Can't have too many cheese shops in my opinion!! -Everything you always wanted to know about Chaat. Susan Taylor provides plenty of info on this Indian fast food; what it is, where to get it, etc. Bindu Varhese raves about the the Chaat Corner of Taj Mahal Imports located in Richardson. -Across the world (and the metroplex) we have La Paletera. Featuring sweets from Mexico this Irving shop specializes in paletas, Mexican frozen fruit pops. Article by Susan Taylor. -Katie Menzer reports on the hidden cameras on the food stands at American Airlines Center. The cameras ensure we'll get quality service but does nothing to improve the nasty nacho cheese sauce. AAC. -Rhapsody in Recipes by Joyce Saenz Harris reviews the publishing trend of non-foodie authors and their new cookbooks. Examples: Pat Conroy, Maya Angelou, Liz Smith. -Kim Pierce reports on the Culinary Trust, a group specializing in reprinting historic cookbooks. -Kim Pierce also reviews cookbooks Weber's Real Grilling and 12 Best Foods Cookbook. This thread is for food media DIGEST entries. If you want to discuss one of these news items, please start a separate discussion thread.

The Dallas Morning News *In the business section: Karen Robinson-Jacobs reports that sales of spices are feeling hot, hot, hot. (that song will now be stuck in your head. you're welcome.) Burning desire features interviews with Dallas-based Pendery's, TGI-Fridays, and Brinker. *Want more spice? Guidelive writer Bindu Varghese offers a Kaleidoscope of curry, a quite extensive primer on the different styles of curries and where to sample them. *Michael Merschel visited The Buffalo Gap Festival, a laid-back food and wine event. Looks like a must-go for next year. Recipes too! *Here's a new word for you: Flexitarian. (may I have the country of origin? may I have that in a sentence please? You go spelling bee people!) Kim Pierce and Anna Pierce provide us non-flexitarians a Veggie scorecard. The Pierce duo delve into the "meat restrictors", (sounds like a raptor), and offer recipes too. *Beatriz Terrazas reflects upon the dilemma that some vegetarians have when served meat by a gracious host. Dinner, sometimes, is more than food. *I bet meat-restrictors are free to celebrate the 75th birthday of The Twinkie!. This article was written by Washington Post columnist Candy Sagon but since the Texas State Fair sells fried twinkies each year I thought it had some local appeal....to someone. *Susan Taylor reports on new ownerships of Morgen Chocolate and Out of Flower. Here. *Cathy Barber reviews The Passionate Olive: 101 things to do with olive oil. Oh behave! Dallas Observer *Dave Faries always writes such interesting articles. Place Setting the Scene views the "in crowd" who flit from bar to restaurant to bar and how this effects the restaurants and bars. Egullet is mentioned too. He refers to us as "hardcore gourmands". Nice! This thread is for food media DIGEST entries. If you want to discuss one of these news items, please start a separate discussion thread.

The Dallas Morning News The Annual IACP convention was held in Dallas two weeks ago. The Food and Wine Staff gives some info on where these culinary professionals spent their time and money: What the foodies saw... and When in Dallas. Kim Pierce and Susan Taylor present their favorites of local food purveyors: Dallas Eats. All the Flavor, a lot less heat is on Dried New Mexico chiles. How to buy them, use them, and love them are all in the article by Mick Weisberg. Toya Lynn Stewart reports on a recent visit by two vintners from the Association of African American Vintners to an event sponsered by the African American Wine Tasting Society. Story here. Genesis Women's Shelter has a new compilation cookbook to mark its 20th Anniversary: Creating Comfort. Dallas Observer Times Ten Cellers is opening in Lakewood. (second paragraph) The Ft. Worth Star Telegram Ok, this article on a consumer test of pans is reprinted from The Chicago Tribune but it is worthy: Out of the Frying Pan. This thread is for food media DIGEST entries. If you want to discuss one of these news items, please start a separate discussion thread.

Yes, you are right...they are called World Market now. They are very Pier 1ish but they carry wines and food products that are unusual and of good quality. It's the only place I can find that carries jarred chestnuts that I need around the holidays and they always have some great international candies and chocolates that I give my kids throughout the year. I go to the one at Preston and 121. Before you make the trip up there give them a call to see what they carry. I know they sell Ghirardelli but I'm not sure it is what you are looking for.

Try Cost Plus.

I just read in today's DMN business section that Fireside Pies will be opening a second location in the Shops of Legacy (Plano). Don't hold your breath though. It's going to be in the second phase of the complex just now starting construction.

The Ft. Worth Star Telegram Amy Culbertson features an Easter Day Menu from Chisholm Club's Brian Olenjack. Olenjack will be showcased at Saveur's Hill County Food and Wine Festival and is traveling in June to cook at The James Beard House. Menu. The Dallas Morning News Zarela Martinez, NY restauranteur, cookbook author, and TV food personality is interviewed by Beatriz Terrazas. Zarela The winning wines from this year's Dallas Morning News Wine Competition. Wes Marshall visits Driftwood Vineyards in Driftwood, TX. Gary Elliot is the winemaker and produces eight wines, sold directly from the winery. Cathy Barber has the winners from this year's Rising Star Chefs. The Rising Star Chefs Awards Dinner will be held on March 31. For tickets and info go to Dallas Wine and Food Festival. Chef Fritz Sonnenschimdt roamed the halls of the CIA back when I attended and I was lucky to take some classes from him. He is a classic! This Certified Master Chef was recently a guest chef at Central Market Dallas teaching the art of sausage-making. Joyce Saenz Harris has the story. Sonnenschmidt Your Guide to Ham. What it says. Kids Cooking Co. is a new cooking school set to launch this summer. Ian McCann previews some of the classes to be offered at this um, cooking school for um, kids. Mary G. Ramos visits Heritage Market and Bakery in Kemp, a Mennonite store featuring baked goods and groceries. Sharon Hudgins profiles Hermosa Bakery & Pupuseria in Plano. Hermosa specializes in Salvadoran food and eastern European desserts. Lavender House Tea Room and Decor Gallery in McKinney offers tea and lunch all day long. Sharon Hudgins reviews this newly opened venture. Kosher by Design Entertains by Susie Fishbein is reviewed by Jeffrey Weiss. Advanced Kosher knowledge required. Dallas Observer And finally, Mark Steurtz gives his opinion on the anonymity of restaurant critics as discussed recently here by D Magazine's Nancy Nicholas. Exposed.

Nancy, What are some of your favorite underrated places...places that serve consistant, quality food but don't generate some of the press the Aurora's and the Al Biernet's of the town do? My picks would be Maguire's and 2900.

Oh, I beg to differ on this point! How many people would rather have their momma's cooking, a greasy cheeseburger, or a slice of NY pizza as their last meal, their favorite meal? No one picks quail eggs and foie gras.

Nancy, How do you stay emotionally detached from the people who have put their heart and soul into a restaurant but for lack of talent, money, a clue just cannot make a place successful? Knowing your review could be the death knell to their livelihood do you just say "too bad, so sad" and print it? Have you ever held back a review for personal reasons? And how do you get a picture of a smiling restaurant owner knowing that his/her picture is going to be next to a not so positive review? My heart breaks for them everytime I see that in all publications. (But believe me, I would rather a shoemaker lose his money than me lose mine dining there! I'm not that sympathetic!)

Hello Nancy, I'm a big fan of your writing and your ballsy attitude on Frontburner. I am also not fond of the star system but what I find more annoying in restaurant reviews is the tendency for reviewers to describe each morsel of food to the minutia. I swear a certain critic in town (not you) must get out the thesaurus each week just to get that word count up for the publication. Bottom line is we want to know if we should spend our money at the restaurant and why, not the fact that on that particular critic's plate the sea bass was as flakey as a Head and Shoulders ad. So here is my question: Do you find that restaurant critics write for the audience of readers who are simply looking for a good place to eat Friday night or are they writing for the much smaller circle of restauranteurs and foodies who thrive on a whole paragraph describing the proscuitto? My view is that it is the latter when it should be the former but I would like your inside opinion. Thanks.

The Ft. Worth Star Telegram Jeff Siegel suggests some wine and food pairings in Great Wines for Good Times. The Dallas Morning News Ian McCann has some highlights from last weekend's Savor Dallas. Dotty Griffith reports on how a few top chefs are helping improve the frozen pizza for The Freschetta Culinary Council. Kim Pierce reviews the cookbook The Gourmet Burger by Paul Gayler.

Yep it's okay but I think Joey Covino's is much better. The pizza is better and Joe Covino friend calamari can't be beat! It's the only place in the area that doesn't use prefab. Not to mention that his cheesecake is home made and killer.... and of course there is the hey hi yah doing ... if it would be any more new york he would have to slap you around... edited for spelling ← Yes, I used to go to Covino's quite a bit. I love their alfredo sauce. But I got one too many pizzas that were so cheesy they were more like pizza soup. So I gave up on them. But I'm still glad they are around and successful!

My reliable standbys keeping in mind that we often have the kids with us, and we live in Plano are: -Scotty P's: for their fantastic chili cheeseburgers and the best onion rings anywhere. -Gloria's: for their camerones al mojo de ajo. muy perfecto! -Joe's Pizza on Parker: for finally making a decent NY style pizza in Texas. -Kelly's Eastside: haven't had a bad meal yet. love the atmosphere too. -Down Under Pub & Grub: for their queso (really! you must try it!) and overall great place to hang out with or without kids. The menu has something for everyone and they almost always do it well (except the steamed clams...) -Jasper's: for their martinis and maytag potato chips -Mignon: for their sidecars and tables on the patio -Cru: for their wine selections and cheese plates. -Ciudad: for the friendliest bartenders, fabulous fresh salsa, and for the people watching. -Randy's Steakhouse: for the down home atmosphere and the blue cheese steak. And I like that when you call for a reservation Randy himself answers the phone and then he remembers talking to you when you come in. Happens everytime. -Perry's Steakhouse: for the great service and for perfecting the typical side dishes you get at steakhouses. I'm talking the perfect asparagus, baked potato, whatever! It's done right at Perry's.

D Magazine The Food Staff of D Magazine presents their list of The Best Neighborhood Restaurants. You probably won't see many changes from previous years editions which is a GOOD thing since it means the little guy is still battling the behemoth chains, and battling them well. Dallas Observer Dave Faries asks "Why can't you get Texas food outside of Texas?" I ask this question all the time!!! He doesn't really give a satisfying answer (more like "duh!") but at least I know I'm not the only one wondering about this. The Dallas Morning News Beatriz Terrazas gives a non-New Orleans look at Mardi Gras called a courir: The country Mardi Gras. Katharine Goodloe interviews Frances Mayes, author of Under the Tuscan Sun and discovers Mayes unexpected culinary connection to Italy. The Cast Iron Skillet Cookbook: Recipes for the best pan in your kitchen by Sharon Kramis is reviewed by John Lose.

The Dallas Morning News Recently a new chocolate operation opened in Plano. This is no Hershey's. It's Noka and you can read all about the owners and their luxury product here. The website for Noka Chocolate has the selections and (cue scary music) THE PRICES! -story by Joyce Saenz Harris Light years away from Noka is "A user's guide to pan dulce." Barbara Rodriguez describes some of the varieties available and where to purchase them.

As you have heard, try to get to Lola (Tasting Room) and to Aurora. I also suggest York Street which doesn't have a website but you can get a feel for the place from this review. Star Canyon has been closed for some time now. Dress Code: I am always amazed by what people get away with wearing in this town. I grew up in the East where you ALWAYS dress for dinner so I still do. My motto is it is better to be overdressed than underdressed. Nevertheless, the restaurants will take your money no matter how you look. (But the Mansion will put a jacket on you....it may not fit...but you will get a jacket!)

The Dallas Morning News Happy 4703! The Year of the Rooster. Today is the start of the Chinese New Year and Esther Wu has a great article on dumplings; featuring the owner of Jeng Chi Restaurant in Richarson. Kim Pierce presents info on some of the new fruit liqueurs that are springing up. Laura H. Ehret reviews the cookbook America's Test Kitchen Live! Susan Taylor has some sandwich choices you may want to try. Stella M. Chavez reports on Frisco's thriving Hispanic population and business district. What does this have to do with food? Well, there is a new meat market opening soon! La Paloma Meat Market Dallas Observer I have always wondered why newspapers print pictures of smiling, prowd owners of a poorly reviewed restaurant. Surely they were not expecting a scathing review when they posed. Obviously the review happens before the picture otherwise the owners would know they were being reviewed. So someone with the publication comes in and says "Hey we just reviewed your restaurant. Can we get a picture?" And the owners are thrilled to get the publicity. They probably go and buy a pretty frame to hang the review on the wall. And then the review comes out...not smiling now.

The Dallas Morning News: Food and Wine Well, my beloved Philadelphia Eagles are going to The Super Bowl and I am in such a state of excitement and anticipation I can't stand it! I'm jumping out of my skin! I just knew the DMN food section would have a Super Bowl party issue today and I was looking forward to some ideas for my upcoming event. Imagine how perplexed I was to see that yes, the DMN has an article on Super Bowl party food but is it on Philly Cheesesteaks? Pretzels? How to order Tastykakes? No. It features the New Orleans Muffaletta! And Creole Mushroom Dip! And Bourbon cookies! Let me tell you the New Orleans Saints never had a chance to go to the Super Bowl so why on earth would they go with the overdone, irrelevant Muffalata??? I'm sure there is a New England Patriot fan out there as equally perplexed as I am but I'm not talking to them. Go Eagles! Bowl 'em over by Abby Mandel. Joyce Saenz Harris sat in at a recent Central Market cooking class with Food Network's Cat Cora. Sounds like she had a great time. Anarchy rules. Bake it, a Good Housekeeping cookbook on baked goods is reviewed by Mary Ellen Botter. Sharon Hudgins visits For You-European Cafe & Delicatessen located in Plano. They specialize in authentic Polish home-style cooking. It sounds wonderful! The Dallas Morning News: Guide Live Java Joints by Mike Daniel features what's happening at local eclectic coffee shops. E-A-G-L-E-S EAGLES!!!

The Ft. Worth Star Telegram Trends with taste by Amy Culbertson profiles 5 up and coming ingredients you should add to your pantry. Like smoked paprika. You need to read the article for the other four. The Dallas Morning News: Business Karen Robinson-Jacobs reports on the Dallas health department's changes to the restaurant inspection scoring system. They plan to introduce letter grades and offer more inspection information on the website. ABCDF! I could get all political here but I'm not allowed to do that. Just know that this cannot be a good omen: Drive-thru Ordering by Karen Robinson-Jacobs. The Dallas Morning News: Food and Wine As promised it is the results of the Italian Sausage contest. Article by Kim Pierce. Results. Central Market is not going to be happy..... Cheryl Ng Collett reports on Frisco's Penang Nyonya, a very well reviewed Malaysian restaurant. indian home cooking by egullet's own Suvir Saran and Stephanie Lyness is reviewed by Susan Taylor.

Aurora was the number one pick for Best New Restaurants in 2003. Glad to hear they still got what it takes to stay on top. (Nice to see you around here too Theabroma )

[Moderator's Note: Please click here to go to the DIGEST for 2004.] Both the Ft. Worth Star Telegram and The Dallas Morning News food sections are pretty light this week. They mostly consist of articles re-printed from OTHER national newspapers so I won't post links to them. The Dallas Morning News Winter wake-up call by Abby Mandel: Suggestions for a winter breakfast. Ye Olde Butcher Shop in Plano is featured in a story by Tina Danze. On Wednesdays you can get an elk burger! Small-Batch Baking by Debby Maugans Nakos is reviewed by Kim Pierce. And I just had to post one of the most unappetizing food photos not appearing on Fear Factor I've ever seen. The subject is flattening chicken breasts and the fatty destroyed specimen is here. Finally, the link to the Dallas Morning News Best New Restaurants of 2004 is here. The food section should be more interesting next week when the Food and Wine staff test local Italian sausages. Until then, go eat an elk burger.

A few years ago I made a Turkey-Mustard Meatloaf. My husband took one bite, ran to the trash can and spit it out. That's rude isn't it? It was truly awful though. The recipe used to be on-line but I can't find it now. I'm sure a pizza-delivery company was responsible for it because after making the vile concoction for dinner thousands of families had to call out for pizza after tasting it.

1. George 2. Hector's on Henderson 3. Fusion 4. Vermilion Cajun Seafood and Grill 5. Gunsmoke Grill and Saloon 6. Old Hickory Steakhouse 7. Il Mulino New York 8. Fireside Pies 9. Penang Nyonya Malaysian Cuisine and Sushi Bar 10. Taverna Pizzeria and Risotteria Read about them here. Agree? Disagree? Haven't been yet? (me either. damn this year is flying by!)

The Ft. Worth Star Telegram Aahh, the New Years Eve extravaganza is fast approaching. Just like the prom and Valentine's Day it never quite lives up to what we imagine it should be. But that shouldn't stop you from having a good drink now should it! Cocktailing with ease by June Naylor features an interview with William L. Hamilton of The New York Times on his new book Shaken and Stirred and includes recipes for several cocktails. Take it from me who has actually stood in Times Square on New Years Eve with a bazillion people...stay at home, fix yourself a nice cocktail and look forward to another year of Food and Drink! The Dallas Morning News: Food and Wine I have this small jar of Seedless Red Raspberry Amish Jam in my pantry. I received it as a gift for Christmas. Sounds normal right? Except I've had this jar for eight freakin' years! It has moved with me to three houses. It stares at me and asks "why haven't you opened me yet"? Well to be honest Mr. Jar, I am afraid of you now. Your jam is so old you just might poison me. Joyce Saenz Harris of the DMN knows my fears. She too has food gifts of dubious origin and she offers ideas to actually use them. Use 'em up. Ok I will. Next year. Make Fondue at home like the Swiss do by Kim Pierce. Guess what this article is about. Laura H. Ehret reviews The Best American Recipes, 2004-2005 edition. They must be psychic because I am pretty sure 2005 hasn't fufilled its term yet. If you missed your chance to hang out in the Collin County Prison you can still do so and committing a crime is not necessary. McAndrew's Bookshop & Cafe is a bookstore and lunch place located in the historic Collin County Prison in McKinney. Sharon Hudgins describes this interesting place. D Magazine D Magazine's annual Best & Worst issue is out. There are a few food related items but you'll need to read the whole thing to find them as they are not demarcated from other subjects. (There is a really interesting article appearing elsewhere in the magazine and online but it's not food related so you'll have to find it on your own but believe me it is worth reading). Happy New Year!!!