december 2012

December 2012 Volume 2 • Issue 2FREE

TownTasterM A G A Z I N E

Enjoy the season with plenty of holiday events

Tuna Burgers to Die For

The Green WinerWhy Are Sulfites In Our Wines?

TEXT"LOVEFOOD"

to 72727For Weekly Dining Specials!

SUBSCRIBE TODAY - FREE!w w w.To w nTa s t e r. c o m

For the Love of Food...SUBSCRIBE TODAY - FREE!w w w.To w nTa s t e r. c o m

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2012 December TownTaster.indd 1 11/26/12 7:27 PM

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Publisher PCI Publishing, LLC

EditorValerie Longo941-932-8884

Web DesignSyd Krawczyk

Concept Digital Media

Social MediaLenny Longo

Graphic DesignMara Stork

Contributing Authors

Town Taster and PCI Publishing, LLC does not en-dorse 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

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December 2012 Volume 2, Issue 2

The Three KitcheneersJeanette LongoBeverly Scott

Pamela SwinneyLarry Woodham

Cover Design by Cruz Portrait Design

for making our cover super sweet!

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

~ Carmen

Carmen & Kay Rizzo, Owners

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

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

~Gloria, TownTaster reader

Ask about our weekly specialsDishes are fresh & made to order

Desserts straight from ItalyFull Liquor Martini Bar

Tues - Wed: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pmThu - Fri: 11:00 am - 10:00 pmSat - Sun: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Karaoke – Friday 10pm Live Entertainment Most Nights

Ladies Night Out • Dec 18 • 5:00 - 10:00 pm in the Martini Bar

New Year’s Eve DinnerNow Accepting Reservations

Call for more details

Celebrating Our 5th Anniversary

Can you smell it? The sweet aroma of cookies baking in the oven and sticky frosting being mixed up and colored red & green to decorate…. Ahhh it must be December! As the holiday season kicks off – we are overwhelmed by smells, tastes & delightful designs of Christmas cookies, pies, treats and more. We were thrilled to have the chance to work with Lyndsy & Chad McDonald of Pastries by Design to bring you a cover to drool over! So as you are making your plans for holiday parties – give them a call and they will be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

We have been very involved with many great events these past months – ChowDown for Charity, the Citrus Cooking Competition at Mixon’s and the Hyatt’s “Planting the Seed” event at King Family Farm. Our community is rich in flavors and full of chances to experience the diverse array of seasonal creations of our fine local chefs. Be sure to keep an eye on our calendar for more great fun family food events to come.

We hope you will enjoy our special Christmas issue. If you can bear to flip past the goodness on the front cover, you will be happy to find more excitement. Holiday cooking gluten free style…. Check! Scrumptious holiday gift ideas…. Check! Help planning the perfect meal…. Check! You will be thrilled to find how many local restaurant owners are willing and ready to help fill your table and let you focus on making the memories!

From our family to yours, we wish all of our readers a happy and safe holiday season. We look forward to seeing you in January for another year of fun and food... Who could ask for more?!

- Valerie

Making Sweet MemoriesFrom the Editor

A Special Thank YouA Special Thank You

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

~ Carmen

Carmen & Kay Rizzo, Owners

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

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

~Gloria, TownTaster reader

Ask about our weekly specialsDishes are fresh & made to order

Desserts straight from ItalyFull Liquor Martini Bar

Tues - Wed: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pmThu - Fri: 11:00 am - 10:00 pmSat - Sun: 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Karaoke – Friday 10pm Live Entertainment Most Nights

Ladies Night Out • Dec 18 • 5:00 - 10:00 pm in the Martini Bar

New Year’s Eve DinnerNow Accepting Reservations

Call for more details

Celebrating Our 5th Anniversary


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Making Sweet Memories From the Editor

In the Mix

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Features in this Issue

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Taste-ful Events December Calendar

Worth The Trip Vinny & Cheryl's Kitchen

The ThreeKitcheneers Tuna Burgers to Die For

Be Gluten Free Holidays and Gluten Free

The Green Winer Why Are Sulfites in Our Wines?

TownTaster ReviewPacific Rim

From Our Family to Yours Homemade Gifts

Holiday Traditions Around the World

Awesome Mexican Food! Very authentic and well rounded menu. A couple minor changes since they’re rebranding but all for the better. This place continues to be

my favorite place for Mexican Food in all of Manatee County. ~ Mark

Home of the$2 Margarita!

Text “TownTaster”

to 941-677-1187 to receive more discounts

from El Sombrero and other local businesses

1330 U.S. Hwy 301 N. • Palmetto, FL(next to NAPA in the Hall Building on 301)

MEXICAN RESTAURANT941-723-4300

www.elsombrero941.com

MON: $1 MARGARITAS, $1 ENCHILADAS

TUE: $1 TACO TUESDAYWED: Kids Under 10 Eat Free

THURS: $7.99 BUFFETFRI - SUN : $1.5O PINTS, $2 MARGARITAS ALL DAY

GREAT DINNER SPECIALS!

EVERY DAYSPECIALS!

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Taste-ful Events

Gingerbread House Cooking ClassesAprons Cooking School at Publix University Walk. Decorate your own gingerbread house and forgo the mess at home. Dec 8, 9, 15, 22, 23. $50 up to 4 participants. Sign up online at www.publix.com/cookingschools or call 941-358-7781.

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Waterfront Brunch with Santa at Riverhouse What is more fun than talking about Santa during the holiday season? Having Brunch with Santa is! 11AM to 3PM. $25 Adults; $12 Kids. Call 941-729-0616 for reservations. 995 Riverside Drive, Palmetto FL 34221. www.riverhousereefandgrill.com.

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Breakfast with Santa at The RanchBring the family for a holiday brunch starting at 10am. Santa comes at 11am. Children 10 and under eat for half price! The Ranch Grill, 14475 SR 70, Lakewood Ranch. 941-756-9400. www.theranchflorida.com.

Bash at the RanchAll you can eat buffet and desserts, DJ, Dancing and more. $75 per person, 8pm. See page 18 for more details. The Ranch Grill, 14475 SR 70, Lakewood Ranch. 941-756-9400. Www.theranchflorida.com.

December

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8Early Learning Coalition First Annual Breakfast with SantaRenais sance on 9th f rom 8:30am to 10:30am Adult ticket $15, Child ticket $10Enjoy a full breakfast catered by Renaissance on 9th with special Christmas pancakes for the little ones and time for each child to meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Also, enjoy caroling and receive a free Christmas book for each child.

Breakfast with Santa Includes breakfast with Santa at Ed’s Tavern, picture with Santa & a movie ticket to Lake-wood Ranch Cinema. $14.99 per person. 10719 Rodeo Dr., Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202. www.edstavernlwr.com. 941-907-0400

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Gingerbread FestivalSponsored by the Community Youth Develop-ment at Sarasota Fairgrounds (Potter Build-ing). Admission $1 per person. Gingerbread houses for sale, vote for your favorite house. Gingerbread house decorating contest per-formed by professional and youth chefs. For more information call CYD at 941-922-5126 or cydgingerbread.com

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Everything You Wanted to Know About Citrus But Were Afraid to Ask!Come ask Mr. Bill Mixon all those questions you’ve been dying to find answers for. The class is FREE! 1-3pm

Celebrity Chef Tour at Darwin’s on 4th.

6:30 PM, $200 per person inclusive. 1525 4th Street, Sarasota, FL 34236, (941) 343-2165. http://celebritycheftour.com/events/darwins-on-4th.html

7Bunker Hill Vineyard 3rd Annual Mulled Wine & Candle Lighting EventRelax and enjoy the holiday spirit, meet new friends, enjoy the wine tasting & laughter! Select dates – Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 from 5:30-7:30. Space is limited. 941-776-0418. www.Bunkerhillvineyard.com

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Vill

age

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he a

rts

Delectable Edibles with Art on the Side

Village of the Arts1114 12th Street West, Bradenton FL 34205

941.201.6647 www.artsandeatsfl.com

Dine inside our re-modeled 1920s

bungalow, or in our shaded backyard “park” graced by

a huge banyan tree. Arts & Eats has made a name

for itself with its casual elegance, outstanding

and diverse menu, impeccably prepared

foods, and performances by local musicians.

Worth the trip

Hours: Tues. through Sat. Lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm • Dinner 5pm - 9pm

1418 13th St. West • Bradenton, FL 34205

941.741.8646

Specializing inRegional Sicilian Food

Cuisine of the Monzu&

Catering Private Parties

Lunch Meetings

Join us for our New Year’s Eve Party Now Taking Reservations!✺

✺ ✺✺

Live Weekly Entertainment

It’s Worth the Trip… if you LOVE Italian food and pastries, you MUST try Vinny and Cheryl’s Kitch-en on Pine Street on Anna Maria Island!!!!!They have everything from pizza to great dinner choices like Eggplant Parmigiana, Cavatelli, Gnocchi Bolognese, Manicotti and MORE that is made to order. You just call it in and pick it up. Being the dessert nut that I am I couldn’t resist the fresh baked smell of these seashell looking pastries called Sfogliatelle...don’t ask me how to say it...I still can’t pronounce it, but my husband could. He knew exactly what this delicious treat was being that he is Italian and grew up in New Jersey.

Sfogliatelle is an amazing, flaky layered pastry that is filled with a scrumptious cream and topped with powdered sugar. Not knowing what this wonderfully smelling treat was...I asked Cheryl and she immediately offered me a sample. I suddenly felt like a kid in a candy store! YUM!!!!!! I was hooked after the first bite! It was warm...just out of the oven a few minutes before and it delighted all my senses.

It was so good that we decided to buy 3, one for each of us, my husband, son and myself. On the way home all we could do was enjoy the smell of the tasty treats that were waiting for us in a little white bag that sat nicely on my lap. I wanted to eat mine right there in the car. My husband, being the stronger one, suggested that we wait. (OK dear...UGH!!) We couldn’t wait to get home, have a fresh cup of coffee and savor every bite of our Sfogliatelle!!!! Well, I’d hate to admit this, but when we did get home, we enjoyed every bite and then some. We just looked at each other and the little white bag... back and forth... more than once and then we went for it!!!!! We cut the last Sfogiatelle in half and savored each morsel. (Sorry son!)

So, if I could tell you anything...Listen to me - go to Vinny and Cheryl’s Kitchen on Anna Maria Island...It’s definitely “Worth the Trip”!!!!!

Worth the trip

By Jeanette Longo


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Fun and fresh.Call your local

farm for information on picking times.

Strawberries Now InSeason

Strawberries Now InSeason


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

Spice Up the Holidays

SARASOTA1216 1st Street

Gift Cards$25 | $50 | $100

Buy online at www.ceviche.com

Who doesn’t desire a juicy burger every now and again....and again, right? If you are anything like us, then you most likely feel guilty after indulging. Or, maybe you are nothing like us and relish every bite regardless of the consciences. Either way, imagine having no guilt at all when you sink your teeth into this burger. Inspired by those incredible flavors that encompass the Pacific Rim, The Three Kitcheneers cannot wait for you to try this perfect blend of herbs and spices all packed into this guiltless Tuna Burger. Every bite promises to satisfy even the pickiest of palates. Even our little Kitchenettes gave us their “thumbs up” on this one (“with ketchup please”). Email us at [email protected] and let us know how your family rated this recipe.

Tuna Burgers to Die For!1 lb wild caught Tuna (ground like hamburger meat)1 bunch fresh organic Cilantro2 Lemons (juiced)2 tbsp Sesame Seeds1/2 tbsp fresh ground Ginger2 tbsp Soy Sauce1 1/2 tbsp All Purpose Flour 2 Egg whites1/2 cup chopped Scallions

In a food processor or large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients to make a mixture. Once all ingredients are blended together, form patties any size you like (from sliders to full size burgers). Place each patty on a hot grill and grill for about 2-4 minutes on each side (time will depend on how large the patties are). Remove patties from grill and serve.

We served these with Grilled Bok Choy and Jasmine Rice.


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Custom carved signs, mantels,

decorative wood appliques,accent pieces indoor & out-

door

The Master Cabinet Maker, Inc.

All Custom Cabinetry made in Palmetto, FL USA

www.themastercabinetmaker.com

941-723-0278 ¸ Custom Design & Remodeling¸ Kitchen, Bath, Home Office¸ Entertainment Center & more¸ Outdoor Polymer Cabinets¸ Custom Countertops

Locally owned and operated by 3rd generation woodworkerExperienced • Insured • References

Get your dream kitchen

for the Holidays!

Gecko’s Grill & Pub

WINNERGordon Wardell

“The only person in LWR that comes to mind for Hometown Hero is Gordon. His selflessness and

dedication to the youth in our community is unmatched. He devotes almost all of his time to Kiwanis, and

refereeing football/wrestling, never asking for recogni-tion. This is why we hope you will make him a hero..”

Nominated by: Jeff Zientara

Hometown: Largo, FL

Current City: Bradenton

Favorite TownTaster Column: The Green Winer

Favorite Gecko’s Dish: Jack Daniels Chicken

Organizations Served: DeMolay (35 yrs), Master Masons, Officiating Youth/High School Wrestling and Football, Kiwanis of LWR,

and active member of the Manatee Forum.

Owner of Concrete On Call, Metered Ready Mix Concrete serving Manatee/Sarasota Counties.

Proud Florida Cracker (3rd generation)

Gecko’s Grill & Pub and

TownTaster Magazine would like to congratulate our


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Stoneybrook Golf Club

We’re • gonna • feed • yA!announces

8000 Stone Harbour Loop, Bradenton, FL 34212 • (941)749-1842 • www.golfstoneybrook.com

After a great round of golf on the area’s premier golf course...

Redeem in our restaurant or relax near the

fire-pit to get your

“NOSH-ON”

Stop by and Redeem for

One order of Nachos

One Per Round - With this adExpires Jan 31, 2013. One per customer. Cannot be combined with any other coupon. Proof

of round required.


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I am wondering about holiday cooking without bread- and wheat-based items and ingredients. I am new to the gluten-free lifestyle, can I expect the same results? — Lynn G.

Your holiday meals should not be very different, Lynn. The gluten-free products you are using now can be adapted to most of the recipes you have always used. Stuffing with bread substitutes works very well and some switch to rice-based stuffing, which is my personal preference. Many products will carry recipes and others are available on the Internet. Gravy may be thickened with very fine corn meal or water that po-tatoes have been cooked in, again look for information on the Internet (how did we ever live without it?). My only caution is that you be careful to obtain products that are organic because now corn, soy, some rice, and many other foods are genetically modified (GMOs) and the threat to the general public from such products is even greater for those with celiac disease or auto immune disorders that require a gluten-free diet. Sugar and soon, potatoes, are foods that are being produced as GMOs, so please be careful to buy organic and read your labels carefully. Generally I recommend an organic diet for all of my custom-ers and my products are made of either organic ingredients or foods from sources that do not use the pesticides and fungicides found in so many foods sold today. Our tomatoes are imported from Italy and they do not use the toxic farming practices that make me unwilling to purchase domestic ones.

Gluten issues seem to be cropping up with so many people, is the problem increasing? — Henry D.

Yes, the incidence of celiac disease is increasing in the United States. Research into the cause is not well funded or of a high priority, so very accurate figures are difficult to find. The medi-cal profession also has begun to associate gluten with other medical issues that seem to be increasing, such as Alzheimer’s and other brain disorders such as dementia, which are better treated when gluten is eliminated from the diet. Although the genetically-modified types of wheat being developed are not marketed in the United States yet, the type of wheat now used in our foods is not the same food that was used prior to the 1950s. The gluten content of wheat grown now in the U.S. is much greater than that grown previously. These types of wheat were not bred for a change in gluten content, but that

unfortunate result is a consequence of breeding wheat for types that would be more profitable for large-scale farming practices, as some say, an unintended consequence.

Is growing healthier food the objective of GMOs and is it possible that they will be better choices for people with gluten issues? — Harriet J.

The objective of GMOs has no relationship to increasing the healthiness of our food. It has to do only with certain production techniques and marketing appeal for sale of foods that look healthier, tastier, or fresher, but are not. The primary GMO products being sold today were developed or introduced by chemical companies with the intention that the products could withstand chemical dousing and survive when weeds are killed off by the chemicals. Others were developed with insecticides introduced into the genes of foods so that when their seeds germinate, every cell of the plant contains an insecticide that kills pests feeding on the crop, including the food product we eat. This labeling is especially important for those avoiding gluten because as alternative foods such as corn, soy, and now rice products are modified genetically, the possibility of encountering the genetic material of other organisms in foods increases the potential of being exposed to foods that will trigger reactions without people knowing the source. Again, look for organic products and the new label that identifies products that do not contain GM ingredients or GMOs. The bill intended to require labeling of GM foods and ingredients did not pass in California in November. Hopes were that it would pass and the size of that market would drive the food industry quickly to tell us all what is in our food, but it is estimated that more than fifty million dollars was spent to discourage voters from passing that initiative by chemical companies such as Monsanto, DuPont, Dow AgriSciences and food companies such as Kellogg’s, Kraft Foods, General Mills, Coca Cola, PepsiCo, and others. Within months a change from 65 percent approving passage dwindled to less than 40 percent as the massive marketing campaign against the bill influenced enough people to vote against the 2012 bill to cause it to fail. Continued efforts in California are expected. Other states are taking their own actions and it is likely that the labeling will be required sometime in the future after more battles at the ballot boxes.

Stoneybrook Golf Club

We’re • gonna • feed • yA!announces

8000 Stone Harbour Loop, Bradenton, FL 34212 • (941)749-1842 • www.golfstoneybrook.com

After a great round of golf on the area’s premier golf course...

Redeem in our restaurant or relax near the

fire-pit to get your

“NOSH-ON”

Stop by and Redeem for

One order of Nachos

One Per Round - With this adExpires Jan 31, 2013. One per customer. Cannot be combined with any other coupon. Proof

of round required.


12

(This ‘Green Winer’ wine Blog is created by me, Larry Woodham. The views and statements contained herein are exclusively mine. They DO Not necessarily reflect the views of TownTaster magazine. If you have

any comments or questions on this Blog or suggestions for future Blogs, please email me at [email protected].

Just like an old can, Sulfites have been kicked around by lots of people for a very long time. It’s been kicked up the hill, down the hill and through the valley. It’s been dented, scratched and bent. Yet, through it all, Sulfites have weathered the abuse and stood with us. There must be more to the Sulfite story than we’ve been told.

Of all the questions that we hear at Bunker Hill Vineyard and Winery, the question that’s most often asked concerns, ”Added Sulfites” in our wines.

So, come on, put on your can kickin’ boots and walk a ways with me through the vineyard. I do my best talking when I’m walking among the grapes. The fact is, this is where our Sulfite story begins!

See those plump black skinned grapes over there on the left? Just look at those luscious golden skinned grapes over there on the right! Remember how delightful those red and white wines tasted?

Well, if it wasn’t for the “Sulfites” contained in the skins of those grapes, we would not have this memory. Yep, Sulfites are

contained Naturally in the skins of All grapes everywhere in the world! We have a legion of grapes and a plethora of fine wine memories, due in large part, to these natural sulfites.

Grapes are packed with lots of great stuff, anti-oxidant, natural sugars and carbohydrates. Besides us, there are lots of other things that like to eat grapes. Lurking on the skins of our grapes are tiny microscopic organisms that would love to take a bite out of our delicious black and golden gems. The barrier that keeps them at bay is, you guessed it, those natural sulfites.

So, why do we add ‘additional’ sulfites to our wines? Don’t sulfites give me a headache?

First, let me say that we have been adding extra Sulfites to our wines for ‘hundreds’ of years! Most people think that adding Sulfites is a recent thing…It’s NOT.

The reason that we add additional Sulfites

to our wines is, quite simply, to protect our health. Many of those same bacteria and other organisms that would like to

eat our grapes would just love to get into our wines and make us sick.

Most other foods we treat with UHT (Ultra High Temp) to kill these bad bugs. UHT just won’t work with wine. Please consider what the effect of UHT would be on our wine.

First, UHT would destroy much of the “taste, flavor & bouquet’ of the wine.

Second, UHT would remove most of the alcohol from our wine. We all know what happens to the alcohol in our wine when we cook with it. The alcohol dissipates.

Third, the ‘color’ of our wine would be forever changed.So, until something better comes down the pike, we will

continue to add some additional Sulfites to our wines. Please note, if your favorite wine is produced in the U.S.A.

the Sulfites added to your wine are regulated by three Federal Agencies…the BATF, USDA and the FDA. According to the rules, wines can contain anywhere from 10 parts per million to approx. 385 parts per million. Please, please, don’t get hung up on these numbers. They are pretty low! Those cheese and crackers that we eat with our wine can contain anywhere from 3,000 to 5,000 parts per million!

Finally, the question about sulfites and headaches??Unless you’re asthmatic, sulfites are probably NOT the

villain. In America, approx. 5% of our population is asthmatic. About 1% of that 5% are sensitive to sulfites. The rest of us are not sensitive, at all! If, however, you are still convinced that your headaches are being caused by your wine, my suggestion would be to switch to an “Unfiltered” wine! Since Unfiltered wines are NOT filtered in any way, there’s no reason to add “Hints & Notes” to the wine.

Our Sulfite story has come to an end. It’s time to pick up our can, dust it off and put it back on the shelf.

Until next time………”Salute and Happy Days”

Why are "Sulfites" in Our Wines?


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Dining in Decemeber Weekly Events

Wednesday’s - Buy One Get One Meals Saturday’s - 2 for $29 Wine & Dine (Includes glass of wine with meal)

Friday & Saturday - 2 for 1 Happy Hour 5-7PM

4350 El Conquistador Pkwy, Bradenton, FL 34210941-758-1467 • imgacademygolfclub.com

Open to the Public

FridayDecember 14

6-7:30pm Lobster &

Seafood Buffet$28.95 per person

Includes one lobster per person

SundayDecember 16Holiday Brunch$19.95 per person

Reservations start at 11:30AM

December 31New Years Eve

Dinner & Dancing Champagne

Greeting $49.95 per person

Reservations starting at 6pm

Appetizer: Thai ChiCken LeTTuCe WRaPS - Grilled chicken breast, shredded carrots, bean sprouts, green onions and crispy noodles served with lettuce leaves, peanut sauce and sweet and sour sauce on the side. CeViChe - A mixture of tuna, white tuna and salmon sliced thin, topped with our special citrus sauce.

Entrées: PineaPPLe fRied RiCe - Steamed jasmine rice quickly sauteed with egg, mild yellow and green onions, pineapple, raisins, cashew nuts, baby green peas and carrots & Seafood CombinaTion STiR-fRy

Kid Friendly: yeS ~ Easy to Find: yeS ~ Reservations: yeS ~ Would you Recommend? hiGhLy

Service Quality/SpeedThe service was excellent. In fact I even commented to the owner when he came over to say hello that his staff was very well trained and attentive. They were very pleasant and professional, making certain that even the smallest details were promptly taken care of. I like the way they all worked together as a team to make certain everyone was having a good dining experience.

Atmosphere/ AmbianceBoth casual and romantic. Very serene and modern at the same time. The colors and décor are seamlessly blended to create a simultaneously romantic and happy feeling to the restaurant. Pacific Rim is suitable for friendly get-togethers, family meals and romantic moments.

Favorite Aspect of RestaurantWhile I thoroughly enjoyed the décor, the food was very delicious so would naturally be my favorite part.

Favorite Menu ItemSince this was our first trip to Pacific Rim I don’t have a lot of experience with the whole menu. Thus far my favorite is the Ceviche, but we look forward to returning and sampling more of their offerings.

Comments“I will most certainly go back. I highly recommend this restaurant. They offer quality food, a very pleasant atmosphere and attentive staff. It is a very enjoyable dining experience!”

A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters

Pamela Swinneyfor giving their stamp of

approval to PACIFIC RIM!

About our TownTasters:Age: 40’s • Hometown: Sarasota, FL

Favorite Food: A nice steak or anything chocolate.Hobbies: Playing tennis, writing, enjoying life to name but a few

Both dishes were absolutely delicious! The flavors were wonderful and the food was amazingly fresh. Everything was perfectly cooked and flavorful. While their dessert menu is sparse, consisting of various ice cream flavors, we found the Dessert Combination, which is a tempura fried banana surrounded by multiple flavors of ice cream and topped with honey, chocolate and sesame to be the perfect end to the meal. It was favorable without being over the top. We left there feeling very satisfied.

For a complete menu, visit www.pacificrimsarasota.com

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Thi

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has b

een visited by an “Official TownTaster”

APPROVEDwww.TownTaster.c

om

1859 Hillview StreetSarasota, Florida 34239

941.330.8071

www.pacificrimsarasota.com

Pacific Rim


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Appetizer: Thai ChiCken LeTTuCe WRaPS - Grilled chicken breast, shredded carrots, bean sprouts, green onions and crispy noodles served with lettuce leaves, peanut sauce and sweet and sour sauce on the side. CeViChe - A mixture of tuna, white tuna and salmon sliced thin, topped with our special citrus sauce.

Entrées: PineaPPLe fRied RiCe - Steamed jasmine rice quickly sauteed with egg, mild yellow and green onions, pineapple, raisins, cashew nuts, baby green peas and carrots & Seafood CombinaTion STiR-fRy

Kid Friendly: yeS ~ Easy to Find: yeS ~ Reservations: yeS ~ Would you Recommend? hiGhLy

Service Quality/SpeedThe service was excellent. In fact I even commented to the owner when he came over to say hello that his staff was very well trained and attentive. They were very pleasant and professional, making certain that even the smallest details were promptly taken care of. I like the way they all worked together as a team to make certain everyone was having a good dining experience.

Atmosphere/ AmbianceBoth casual and romantic. Very serene and modern at the same time. The colors and décor are seamlessly blended to create a simultaneously romantic and happy feeling to the restaurant. Pacific Rim is suitable for friendly get-togethers, family meals and romantic moments.

Favorite Aspect of RestaurantWhile I thoroughly enjoyed the décor, the food was very delicious so would naturally be my favorite part.

Favorite Menu ItemSince this was our first trip to Pacific Rim I don’t have a lot of experience with the whole menu. Thus far my favorite is the Ceviche, but we look forward to returning and sampling more of their offerings.

Comments“I will most certainly go back. I highly recommend this restaurant. They offer quality food, a very pleasant atmosphere and attentive staff. It is a very enjoyable dining experience!”

A special thanks to this issue's TownTasters

Pamela Swinneyfor giving their stamp of

approval to PACIFIC RIM!

About our TownTasters:Age: 40’s • Hometown: Sarasota, FL

Favorite Food: A nice steak or anything chocolate.Hobbies: Playing tennis, writing, enjoying life to name but a few

Both dishes were absolutely delicious! The flavors were wonderful and the food was amazingly fresh. Everything was perfectly cooked and flavorful. While their dessert menu is sparse, consisting of various ice cream flavors, we found the Dessert Combination, which is a tempura fried banana surrounded by multiple flavors of ice cream and topped with honey, chocolate and sesame to be the perfect end to the meal. It was favorable without being over the top. We left there feeling very satisfied.

For a complete menu, visit www.pacificrimsarasota.com

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rant

has b

een visited by an “Official TownTaster”

APPROVEDwww.TownTaster.c

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1859 Hillview StreetSarasota, Florida 34239

941.330.8071

www.pacificrimsarasota.com

Pacific Rim


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Delivering the best in 100% Certified Organic produce to the Sarasota & Bradenton areas.

Delivering to Sarasota & Bradenton areas

Customize your box menu with fruits and veggies that you love

Weekly delivery, or choose your own schedule

No contracts or commitments

First Time Customers! 50% off your first box if

you use the Promo Code: TASTE upon registration!

Sig

n U

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www.FloridaFreshOrganics.com (813) 949-1107

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Our mission at TownTaster is to share with our readers the many amazing restaurants, food & wine establishments, farms and more that our community has to offer. If we find something new out there to excite your tastebuds - we are there and wanting to tell you about all the goodness! We also know that many of you like finding great deals and good food. So we have come up with a few ways to help you save while still trying new and exciting flavors all around. So what are you waiting for - utilize these extra special offers as another reason to "LOVE" food...

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.

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

$5 OFF $3 OFF

on any check over $30 Sunday Brunch Buffet

limit 1 per table

limit 1 per person

- OR -

* Up to 2 texts sent weekly. Msg & Data Rates may apply. For help, text HELP or to cancel, text STOP to 72727. See our website for privacy policy.

T E X T I N G We all know it - texting has now become part of everyday life for most people. So if you are one who smiles when the chime rings for a text message, we will give you another reason to get excited to hear it. We are partnering with local restaurants to bring you weekly specials that you can only receive right to your phone. Freebies, discounts and more will accompany that chime and give you a reason to make dinner plans out on the town. Sign up and see what we mean - we promise not to overload you with messages and. No we won't share your number with anyone else!Simply TEXT "Lovefood" to 72727*

Coupons are available on our website! Look-ing for discounts and specials when grab-bing a bite to eat? VIsit TownTaster.com before you go to download and print coupons to your favorite restaurants. Don't have a computer? No problem! Please call TownTaster at 941-548-1908 if you do not have computer access and would like to receive your coupons by mail!

DID YOU KNOW?DID YOU KNOW?

Eat and$avE today!

995 Riverside Drive, Palmetto • (941) 729-0616FREE Appetizerwith purchase of 2 EntreesWith this coupon. Offer valid through 12/31/12

Limit 1 certificate per table. TownTaster Magazine. Not to be combined with any other offer or coupon.

Eat and$avE today!

www.TownTaster.comwww.TownTaster.com


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Closed to the public • $75 per personAll you can eat buffet and desserts

DJ, Dancing and Hats and noise makersOpen bar (well, house wines and domestic drafts)

Champaign toast at midnight

RSVP now to reserve your ticket

941.756.9400 - Limited tickets sold

14475 SR 70 • Lakewood Ranch941.756.9400 • www.theranchflorida.com

Outdoor Patio • NFL Ticket • Live Music Every Weekend

UPCOMING EVENTS ATOn the Corner of Lorraine & SR 70

All incluSiVe

(food And dRink)

BREAkFAST WITh SANTASun. Dec 16th 11-1PM

BASh AT ThE RANChNew Years Eve • Mon. Dec 31st • 8PM

Bring the family for a holiday Brunch Starting at 10AM.

Santa will join the fun at 11AM.

ChILdREN 10 ANd UNdER

EAT FOR hALF PRICE!

ONE NIGhT ROdEO Sat. Dec 15th • 8PMCOUNTRy

BANd:


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We all know what to expect when the holidays roll around. Tables around America are filled with lavish feasts of turkey, ham, stuffing, cranberry sauce, gingerbread houses, eggnog and don’t forget the milk & cookies for Santa! While each home has their own very special traditions, on a broader spectrum, we thought we would explore some of the traditions held around the world.

In Mexico a traditional festive feast is enjoyed on Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) where a variety of flavors can be found. Depending on the region, you will find dishes prepared with romeritos (a green herb resembling rosemary) and mole, soups and stews like pozole, fish such as bacalao, tamales & churros. Most of these dishes will surround a turkey as well.

Celebrations of Korean Winter Solstice include a warm bowl of patjuk (a sweet red bean porridge) with rice balls. The red beans are said to chase away evil spirits and the rice balls symbolize new life.

The French menu for le réveillon (Christmas Eve or New Year’s dinner) will be filled with goose or duck, oysters, escargot and possibly foie gras (which means “fatty duck liver” and is a controversial delicacy). Not to be overlooked, the vast samplings of beautifully decorated candies, pastries, cookies and a good old-fashioned yule log.

German families often celebrate New Year’s Eve with seafood and soups, however some eat meals of pork as the pig is a long-time symbol of good luck. Based on very old superstitions, poultry is avoided as it is seen as taking away happiness for the New Year.

A traditional Polish Christmas Eve (Wigilia) supper is meatless - full of fish, borscht, and pierogis. The meal usually begins with Kutia (a wheat grain pudding) and a warm fruit compote as the drink of choice.

The Italian Christmas Eve celebration is The Feast of the Seven Fishes. Full of seven (or more) different kinds of fishes, it is a tradition of abstaining from meats and a Biblical reference to the number seven. Combinations of lobster, eel, dried salted cod, shrimp, mussels, squid and clams may be among the menu items.

Interesting facts…• In England, Santa forgoes milk & cookies for a mince pie and glass of sherry.

• Lunar New Year in Vietnam is celebrated with traditional foods include soup made with abalone or shark’s fin.

• Christmas breads in Greece get shaped like the domes of Orthodox churches

Holiday Traditions Around the WorldHoliday Traditions Around the World

Closed to the public • $75 per personAll you can eat buffet and desserts

DJ, Dancing and Hats and noise makersOpen bar (well, house wines and domestic drafts)

Champaign toast at midnight

RSVP now to reserve your ticket

941.756.9400 - Limited tickets sold

14475 SR 70 • Lakewood Ranch941.756.9400 • www.theranchflorida.com

Outdoor Patio • NFL Ticket • Live Music Every Weekend

UPCOMING EVENTS ATOn the Corner of Lorraine & SR 70

All incluSiVe

(food And dRink)

BREAkFAST WITh SANTASun. Dec 16th 11-1PM

BASh AT ThE RANChNew Years Eve • Mon. Dec 31st • 8PM

Bring the family for a holiday Brunch Starting at 10AM.

Santa will join the fun at 11AM.

ChILdREN 10 ANd UNdER

EAT FOR hALF PRICE!

ONE NIGhT ROdEO Sat. Dec 15th • 8PMCOUNTRy

BANd:


20

A Wish Fulfilled. The Ones You Love.

The Luxury of Time.

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.

Award-Winning Designs | Enduring Quality | Incomparable Value

Exquisite Island Homes from the $370s to $500s. Energy Star Certified | Move-in Ready | Models Open Daily

minto creates better places to inspire life

mintofla.com • (888) 347-1837 12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209 On SR 64. Turn right just before the Anna Maria Island Bridge

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. 10/2012.

I n our home, we have a long list of great recipes that come rolling out around the holidays and we do whatever we can to fit them all in. One thing

that brings us great joy is sharing our love of food with the people we love. Whether cooking at home or dining out, there is nothing like sharing a warm meal or a cup of hot cocoa with friends.

If you are still searching for that perfect Christmas gift... We are a huge fan of giving gifts of food. Whether in gift card form or sharing a special recipe with a friend - they will surely think it is a fantastic gift! Really... Have you EVER heard someone say they didn't like a gift they could eat?!

Get creative! Take a gift card to your favorite restaraurant and dress it up... tie it to a Christmas ornament or put it with a small box of chocolates. For sharing a recipe, handwrite on a peice of paper (for that personal touch) and attach to a container of the finished product. Or if it is something that should be eaten right away, put the dry ingredients together and package in a fun container.

We have put together a few recipes from our own recipe book (yes, we still have a few of those paper books laying around) to help get you started.

Gifts that come from the heart and fill your belly!

Hot CocoaThis makes a big batch, so make a cup and tie up the rest in small baggies with instructions how to mix.

2 cups powdered sugar1 cup cocoa2-1/2 cups powdered milk1 teaspoon salt2 teaspoons cornstarchpinch cayenne pepperhot water or milk

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and incorporate evenly. Use 3 rounded

tablespoons for each mug of hot water or milk. Seal rest in an airtight

container. Note: This makes a lot and will keep well in pantry.

Homemade Granola4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats2 cups sweetened shredded coconut2 cups sliced almonds¾ cup coconut oil (or vegetable oil)½ cup honey1-1/2 cups small-diced dried fruit (cranberries, figs, cherries, raisins)1 cup roasted, unsalted cashews

Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Toss together oats, coconut and almonds in a large bowl. Whisk together the oil and honey in a small bowl. Pour liquids over the oat mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until all the oats and nuts are coated. Pour onto a sheet pan. Bake, stirring occasionally with a spatula until the mixture turns a nice, even, golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.

Remove granola from the oven and allow to cool, stirring occasionally. Add the dried fruit & ca-shews. Store the cooled granola in an airtight container.

Hot Cocoa

Homemade Granola

Gifts that come from the heart and fill your belly!

From Our Family…

To Yours


21

A Wish Fulfilled. The Ones You Love.

The Luxury of Time.

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.

Award-Winning Designs | Enduring Quality | Incomparable Value

Exquisite Island Homes from the $370s to $500s. Energy Star Certified | Move-in Ready | Models Open Daily

minto creates better places to inspire life

mintofla.com • (888) 347-1837 12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209 On SR 64. Turn right just before the Anna Maria Island Bridge

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. 10/2012.


22

Ferraro's Italian Grille8348 US 301 N.Parrish, FL 34219

941.723.1111www.ferrarositaliangrille.com

The Ranch Grill14475 SR 70

Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202941.756.9400

www.theranchflorida.com

Riverhouse Reef & Grill995 Riverside DrivePalmetto, Fl 34222

941.729.0616www.riverhousereef.com

IMG Academy4350 El Conquistador Pkwy

Bradenton, FL 34210941-758-1467

imgacademygolfclub.com

Mr. Cheesecake & More1128 30th Ave. W.

Bradenton, FL 34205941-747-5955

www.mrcheesecakeinc.com

Mr. Cheesecake & More

Master Cabinet Maker

941.723.0278www.themastercabinetmaker.com

The Master Cabinet

Maker, Inc.

Minto Communities12300 Manatee Ave. W.

Bradenton, FL 34209888.347.1837

www.mintofla.com

Mixon Fruit Farms2525 27th St. E.

Bradenton, FL 34208941.748.5829

www.mixon.com

El Sombrero 1330 US Hwy 301 N.

Palmetto, FL 34221941.723.4300

www.elsombrero941.com

Pita's Republic8215 Tourist Center Dr.

Sarasota, FL 34201941.359.1234

www.pitas-republic.comAny 2 Pitas for $9.99mention TownTaster

Shop Here • Work Here • Live Here Play Here • Dine Here • Worship Here

Carmen's Italian Cafe515 27th St. E.

Bradenton, FL 34208941.745.1540

www.carmensitaliancafe.com

Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant1216 1st Street

Sarasota, FL 34236941.952.1036

www.ceviche.com MidTown Manatee is made up of vibrant business owners dedicated to the promotion and revitaliza-tion of their community. One of MidTown Manatee’s biggest draws is its exceptional variety of quality, locally owned businesses. Many of them have been serving Manatee County for over 20 years. The com-munity is about the people inside the buildings rather than the buildings themselves. Truly, a hidden treasure where everyone knows your name. Come visit us once, and you will be coming back FOREVER!

TownTaster is please to be partnering with this passionate group of business owners in Manatee County. As many locals know, MidTown is home to many well-known longtime businesses such as Mr. Cheesecake, J&J Bar-B-Que and Miller’s Dutch Kitchen to name a few. We are happy to help sup-port our community by buying local and helping these business owners lend a hand in revitalizing the area.

941-744-2984 • www.midtownmanatee.com


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Mr. Cheesecake & More Where Elegant Meets Delicious!

941-747-5955Check us out on the Web!

www.mrcheesecakeinc.comwww.facebook.com/mrcheesecakeandmore

1128 30th Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34205

• Cheesecake Wedding Cakes • Layered Cakes of Cheesecake/Cake • Specialty Cakes• Groom’s Cake • Mini Dessert Trays• Cannolies • Cream Puffs • Eclairs • and More!

Contact us today so we can start your unique cake today!

Creating delicious memories for over 20 years

The Best Bar-B-Que Around!

ORDER YOUR

HOLIDAY TURKEYS & HAMSTODAY

Open Tues-SunLunch & Dinner

2620 9th Street WestBradenton Fl. 34205

941-746-6683www.jjbbqtogo.com

Call for a Complete Menu!Smoked Turkey • HamFried Turkey • Turkey Breastwith all the Trimmings!FROM $45

New Years Specials:Roast Pork • Bar-B-Que Pizza

CATERING AVAILABLE

Town Taster AdRenaissance on 9th

3.5 x 4.75, quarter pageDecember 2012

1816 9th St. WestBradenton, FL 34205renaissanceon9th.org

Renaissance on 9th Catering and 9th Street Bistro- Our place or yours, Holidays or anytime!• Full Service Catering• Personalized Menus• Delicious Cuisine

Stop in for lunch!11am-2pmMon-Fri

enaissance ON9THR

Now serving breakfast Tues & Fri, 8-10am!


Post Office Box 161 Ellenton, Florida 34222


december 2012

Documents

love of food

pm2publisher pci publishing

great fun family food

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cover super sweet

c omfor

great events

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