This will make me sound like an unabashed nerd, but a well designed grocery store is my happy place. I love turning the corners around aisles to discover unexpected treasures on the end caps. Encountering baby vegetables of any variety can turn my day around like that Dead or Alive song. While at Trader Joe's … Continue reading Speculaas Cookies
Holiday
Pumpkin & Spice Infused Vodka
For Thanksgiving this year, I felt like doing something different. For me, holiday cooking is not so much about cooking the same dishes year after year. No, the holidays are the time that I try over the top recipes that I would never ordinarily have an excuse to make. This is the time that I … Continue reading Pumpkin & Spice Infused Vodka
Hospitality @ Home: Batch Margaritas
When asked to bring something to a cookout, I typically always bring a big old batch of pre- mixed cocktails. In California, in the summer, the pitcher of margarita is always welcome. So here's my go to recipe. Just in time for Memorial day festivities... Batch Margarita makes about 2 quarts/ 20 drinks For a … Continue reading Hospitality @ Home: Batch Margaritas
Restaurant 101: Holiday Party Survival Tips
Judging by the number of revelers I have in my restaurant right now-- this is THE WEEK of company holiday parties. Here are a few tips from the inside to help you make it through unscathed (and without scathing any of the staff): 1. Check out the menu before you arrive: Most any restaurant is … Continue reading Restaurant 101: Holiday Party Survival Tips
Video: Brandied Cranberry Recipe
It's been a while in the oven, but I'm so excited to post my first video to Where the Sidework Ends! This recipe is one of my favorites to make during the holidays. In Los Angeles, where it still is 70 degrees in November, you kind of have to lay on a thick patina of … Continue reading Video: Brandied Cranberry Recipe