Eat & Drink
In large cities, pop-ups have become a growing phenomenon, and we’re seeing that trend, well, pop up more in Durham lately, too. Our city’s strong entrepreneurial spirit and creative community lends itself well to testing out adventurous dining concepts, and a growing number of progressive diners are eager to partake. It’s […]
Chateau Loudenne, once seen, is unforgettable. Years ago I visited this pink-washed palace on the shores of the Gironde River. The wine has always been good, but new investment by Chinese owners have only improved things; now with a bed and breakfast to boot. 2014 was a very good, if […]
Frying oil 1 dozen shucked oysters 8 oz. buttermilk Cornmeal breading 2 cups cornmeal 1 cup rice flour 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 Tbsp. smoked paprika 1 tsp. cayenne pepper Salt Pepper Poblano creamed spinach 2 Tbsp. butter ¼ cup sweet onion, small dice 2 ea. garlic cloves, minced 2 […]
I usually wait until the holidays to recommend Champagne. But as Fats Waller used to sing: “Everyday’s a holiday since the day that I found you”! Experts know that as exciting as vintage Champagne can be, the reputation of a producer is based on the quality of his non-vintage wines. […]
Those who know me well are aware that I have a “soft” spot for Chenin Blanc. And maybe that word is the key. There’s a softness, sometimes hidden in very dry versions, that reminds one of honey. Head down to South Africa, and you’ll find that Chenin Blanc is one […]
In the South, we know that summer-like weather usually persists through October. Therefore all manner of seafood, fresh from the coast, is always a season-extending treat. One wine that will accompany that craving is Soave. Americans used to drink a ton of Soave Bolla. (That name was so ubiquitous that […]
When 26-year-old restaurant icon Nana’s held its last service June 30, the resounding question was, “What’s next for Scott Howell?” A stalwart of the Durham dining scene, the eight-time James Beard Award semifinalist opened Nana’s in 1992, and the fine dining establishment was soon a firm favorite. “Nana’s was always what […]
Some of you may be familiar with “Bistecca Fiorentina,” Italy’s version of Kobe beef. Both these items have one thing in common: Neither country has much land for grazing, and beef needs lots of land. That’s why, in Italy anyway, beef is a rarity. It’s a treat for meat lovers, […]
“What’s new?“ seems to be the talisman for all California wineries; blink, and you’ll miss the latest showstopper estate – with a price to match. This is sometimes to the detriment of more established wineries, and front and center stands Mondavi. I have drunk the “Oakville” Cabernet Sauvignon bottling of […]
Variety and creativity expressed on a restaurant’s drink menu is important, and for those who don’t (or can’t) drink alcohol, this shouldn’t be limited to just the wine and cocktail lists. There are actually quite a few Durham restaurants offering fun and delicious non-alcoholic alternatives from mocktails to milkshakes so […]
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