Easy Pellet Smoker Pulled Pork

Easy Pellet Smoker Pulled Pork

I’m no professional when it comes to smoking, but I’ve developed certain skills at using my Recteq RT-590. One of the easiest things one can make on a pellet smoker is pulled pork using a pork shoulder, also known as pork butt or Boston butt. With just a few ingredients and in just a few […]

[Continue reading...]
Belmont Welcomes Marrelli’s Italian Restaurant

Belmont Welcomes Marrelli’s Italian Restaurant

Belmont was the first town we lived in when we relocated from Northern New Jersey to North Carolina, so we have a soft spot for it. The quaint, warm Charlotte suburban town has a vibrant food and bar scene (have you experienced The Jailhouse) that’s now made even better with the arrival of Marrelli’s Italian […]

[Continue reading...]

Lose Some Win Some – Elk Ave Tavern

When it was announced that popular Charlotte area food truck, Cibi Cibi, would be closing down, fans, including us, were saddened by the loss. The good news, and the win, is that the fine folks behind the Rock Hill-based food truck, were opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant – Elk Ave Tavern. Elk Ave Tavern opened three […]

[Continue reading...]
Emilio Moro Ribera del Duero 2019

Emilio Moro Ribera del Duero 2019

Hadn’t enjoyed an Emilio Moro wine is some time and need to more often! This is a classic Spanish Tempranillo that I served with roasted pork for a great pairing. 👁️ Inky purple 👃 Blackberry/ripe raspberry 👅 Juicy cherry, little mocha on the finish 💲 $25 🍇 100% Tempranillo 🗺 Ribera del Duero, Spain Cheers, Veronique

[Continue reading...]

Best Dishes 2023

My travel schedule in 2023 had me away more than home, allowing me to enjoy food at many outstanding restaurants, in America and internationally. As is true of past lists, the 2023 Best Dishes list encompasses a blend of fine dining and casual dishes, which were truly the ‘best’ dishes of 2023 (see past lists). […]

[Continue reading...]
Salsa Verde Enchilada Sauce

Salsa Verde Enchilada Sauce

I love anything with flavors of lime and cilantro so when I’m out at a Mexican restaurant, I typically order enchiladas verde, enchiladas in green salsa. Salsa verde features tomatillos, garlic, onions, chiles and lime. I made my version by first roasting my veggies on the grill to get bits of char in the salsa. […]

[Continue reading...]

Tasting Notes Cave de Lugny Cremant de Bourgogne Blanc de Blancs

Friends brought this lovely, well-priced, crisp Crémant de Bourgogne to our home for a wine-filled weekend and we really enjoyed it as one of the afternoon sippers with munchies. For fans of Cava and Prosecco, Crémant de Bourgogne is a great option, at a similar price point. I enjoy the warm biscuit and lemony flavors, […]

[Continue reading...]
2013 Giacomo Grimaldi Barolo Tasting Notes

2013 Giacomo Grimaldi Barolo Tasting Notes

Had this lovely Barolo at a dinner party I hosted at my home and boy did it deliver. Paired great with the beef I served, but also held up to the secondary meat, pork belly. Pretty traditional, classic version of Barolo. In the glass: Dark ruby red Aromas (nose): Leather, mocha aromas with some earthy […]

[Continue reading...]
A Delicieux Brunch at Coquette in Charlotte

A Delicieux Brunch at Coquette in Charlotte

I had the pleasure of brunching with friends at Coquette last weekend. The newly-opened French bistro is one of the buzziest spot in Charlotte City Center with darling design elements, a creative menu, sexy cocktails and warm, professional service. The Space Located on bustling South Tryon Street, Coquette features French country vibes in design with […]

[Continue reading...]

2022 Stellenrust Heritage Collection Chenin Blanc

I don’t drink a lot of South Africa wines but I should! Very crisp and fruit forward. This 2022 Stellenrust Heritage Collection Bush Vine Chenin Blanc was perfect with scallops and risotto. Adding the 2022 Stellenrust Heritage Collection Bush Vine Chenin Blanc to my repertoire. 👃Citus and ripe peach👄 Medium body, bright, great minerality, rich […]

[Continue reading...]