06/16/11

Permalink 07:38:00 am, by Marianne Email , 278 words, 289 views   English (US)
Categories: Announcements, My Favorites in Georgia

My Local Food fare

So I started this blog years ago to keep up with where I went and what I liked. For years you have followed me here to see what I was up to and what places I have been to. A few months ago I was asked to post on Urban spoon. I have to say I do not like those sites,and knowing you all follow me here, I thought it best to keep it all in one place. So, I am merging them here. Easy, because I only posted once there and no one would know who I was. But after being asked why I had not posted here in a while, I realized it was not right to spread myself in different places. You count on me to post here, so here it is. I deleted that account and moving my thoughts here on that review.

So my locale now is Georgia, which you all are aware. And I have been on a BBQ food tour. Recently I have been to a few other local restaurants and suggest you make a point to visit both. Here in Peachtree City, there are plenty of restaurants. Two that I like, or Borgo Italia and Java Tropico. The fares are completely different and in the same Line Creek area! Borgo is like homestyle Italian cooking and Java polynesian fusion… Just amazing to find these kinds of places in Georgia. Take the family, take the girlfriends, and get out and have some good food!

There are more suggestions coming, so stay tuned. I have just been so busy with my family visiting and my baking business. But more to come!

05/15/11

Permalink 12:37:39 pm, by Marianne Email , 225 words, 289 views   English (US)
Categories: My Favorites in Georgia

Seasons 52

A great find, a comfortable restaurant in the heart of downtown Atlanta. I think I was first amazed to find that there was not a pat of butter to be found in this entire establishment. My meal began the usual way, at the bar, having a drink, waiting for the rest of our party. We were seated in the dining room and started with the appetizers. A gianormous ravioli we split in 4 pieces that was covered in fresh shaved parmeggiano, basil and tomato. The other was a flavorful flatbread that kept us quite happy!

For dinner, each of us had a different entree, the filet, the flanked organic salmon, chicken citron and shrimp stuffed with artichokes. So very fresh and delicious! Fresh vegetables accompanied our entree, jasmine rice, and perfectly seasoned. Again, no butter! Dinner ended and then came the thought of dessert. Our waiter brought us a sampling of desserts in shot glasses. Since we could not decide, one of the girls in the party just grabbed the tray and said we would take them all! And we did. With freshly brewed coffee, we spooned each cup to taste all the different flavors. How wonderful! The concept of the restaurant is wonderful, the food exquisite, the ambiance comfortable and the staff friendly. A must go back to venue, I am sure you will agree!

10/28/10

Permalink 11:19:53 pm, by Marianne Email , 314 words, 359 views   English (US)
Categories: Announcements

Gluten Free

This has been a trying week. A few successes and few re-tooling efforts needed. A wonderful customer asked me to make her Gluten free donuts. I have never done that before, so I thought I might. I was about to give up when she called, and told me that her son was going to school and all the kids were having Krispy Kremes in class for Halloween and he was sad that he could not have them as he has food allergies. Not anything against Krispy Kremes, but they should not be in school. I could not give up and let him feel sad about not having a donut, so, I made them till they came out okay. They were a little bready, not cakey,but I put some icing in the center and iced the tops to look like pumpkins. She was happy. I also made her kids apple streusel muffins, I hope those go over better, they did not like my cranberry muffins.. They are the FIRST not to like them, but a child’s palate is different than an adults, and the sweet tart flavor may be too strong for them.

Then a request for pumpkin face cupcakes.. easy!

Now the difficult thing lately has been my bread. The dough has not been right since it has been more humid. My batter requires some altering and I think after 6 loaves of bread today, I might have finally fixed it. Humidity seems to take a toll on Gluten free dough. This is enough to drive me nuts! But it is almost 11:30 pm and it is proofing still so I will have to let you know!

On a good note, we are going to slim our line down to keep the quality of the line. Sometimes, I just get ahead of myself and forget, I am not Wonder Woman. (Although, I love her boots!)

08/26/10

Permalink 11:00:27 pm, by Marianne Email , 201 words, 373 views   English (US)
Categories: My Favorites in Georgia

Fat Matt's Rib Shack

Ahhh. The art of BBQ. Ok, so I am a BBQ virgin being from the North. I am here a year, and I fell in love with the flavors of Uncle Franks BBQ, and today, I stopped by Fat Matt’s Rib Shack In Atlanta. Yum! I ordered a 1/2 side of ribs, Beans and coleslaw. I also ordered the Pecan pie (my favorite pie) but they forgot to put it in the bag. How very McDonald’s of them to do that. But since the ribs were so good, I have overlooked it! It is a little hole in the wall kind of place, very colorful decor, simple, but the food… very good. I enjoyed the ribs so much, I shared them with my bud, Ashes. She is a 12 year old Pointer/Terrier Mix who just had surgery today. They made her feel a little better and helped her get to sleep. So we shall return there again… but I have plenty more places to taste. I got this months Atlanta Magazine BBQ edition and it is filled with BBQ joints all over the Atlanta area. So one by one, I will try them!! But when in Atlanta, stop on by Fat Matt’s.

08/14/10

Permalink 04:28:05 pm, by Marianne Email , 215 words, 320 views   English (US)
Categories: Announcements

Spot Shot

I know what you are thinking, what is this? You are recommending a cleaner? But hey, I am a NY-er, living in the south, and the house I bought has white carpet everywhere. This should be illegal. I know Dirt. I do not know RED clay! Clearly, builders are men, and the carpet store must have a buy one roll get one free for the entire house to be white. So back to the story… My little dog, I love her so much, but last week I came home and walked into my room and found red little paw prints all over my carpet. She walked from one side of my bed to the other. Twice. Then circled the center of the floor, and sat in the middle. I screamed. I cried. And tried to clean it with water. UGH. I called my mom in Vegas and asked her to google how to clean red mud from carpet and she found someone else had a similar situation and suggested Spot Shot, available in Walgreens. I bought a can, ran home sprayed it on every little paw print and pulled out the steam cleaner and sweet God in heaven… I have white carpet again! So… tuck this in the If I ever need to know file…

06/14/10

Permalink 06:41:40 pm, by Marianne Email , 240 words, 403 views   English (US)
Categories: Announcements

Tea Infusers

There comes a time when one appreciates fine loose teas. I developed this taste over a year ago while in Charleston, SC and visited the Charleston Tea Plantation. Since then, I have purchased teas from Teavana and Tea Fusion here in Georgia. Yesterday, while in Dahlonega, I visited a coffee/tea store that had a very nice infuser made my Venetian Lobby. It was a push button infuser, chrome plated and did not open or loosen letting the tea escape while in your cup. I love it. So today, I share it with you! I googled it, and found it in this store above. You can google Venetian Lobby Push button tea infuser and find one closer to you, but here is an online store you can purchase it from.

I have bought a lot of infusers in the last year, and have been happy with none. I did like one I bought from Pier 1, and this one is also a favorite.

So enjoy!

An UPDATE: Ok.. I think I like the one from Pier 1 better for cleaning. It opens fully, unlike the one with the push button. This one only opens half way and you really need your finger or a small brush to pull out the tea especially if you are using teas that are chunky, and not just small leaves. And a side note, the one from Pier 1 is only $3, the push button one, a lot more!

03/26/10

Permalink 01:39:26 pm, by Marianne Email , 239 words, 333 views   English (US)
Categories: Announcements

Five Guys Burgers

I know, not a culinary phenomenon. It is purely a burger joint. Burgers. Simple. Yesterday was the first time I ate there, and I had a nice lunch. I have been craving a burger. I will say, it was not the culinary delight of pure ground meat mixed with spices or blue cheese, oozing with juice and on a Miami Onion Roll. But, these were two nice little hand formed patties, and at Five Guys Burgers, all toppings are free. I had a cheeseburger with onion, mushroom, pickles, lettuce and tomato, I split a large fries with my friends and they came in a tall cup seasoned with salt and fried nice and dark. It is not a gourmet burger by any means, but they have won the accolades of many foodies and critics. So, enjoy a good, freshly made burger, served fast at a Five Guys Burger joint. You will not be disappointed! But I warn you, these burgers/dogs do contain a lot of calories, a high fat content and sodium content to boot. These can definitely be made healthier, and I would urge them to do so! By looking at their nutritional chart on their menu, I am going to assume that their caloric contents include the bun. But then, again, you know what they say when you assume! I will write them, and report back on what I find!
http://www.fiveguys.com/menu.aspx

03/12/10

Permalink 08:23:02 am, by Marianne Email , 500 words, 431 views   English (US)
Categories: Announcements

Shirataki Noodles

A good friend of mine told me about a fat free carb free noodle he saw on Rachel Ray a few months back. I thought wow! Carb free pasta! I have to check this out. The Rachel ray show hosted Rocco Dispirito, an Italian chef who had a restaurant reality show in NY. A traditional Italian chef, has written books and even had his mother on the show frequently making her famous meatball recipe. How in the world then could he suggest that Shirataki Noodles be an alternative to Pasta, I have no idea.

So you hear me loud and clear, DO NOT BUY SHIRATAKI NOODLES! Let me say that again.. DO NOT BUY SHIRATAKI NOODLES! I was in Doraville, GA this past week to buy some wonderful Asian foods, things I have not seen since I was in NY. While shopping, I looked for and found the noodles so wonderfully talked about on this episode. All I can say is SHAME ON RACHEL RAY AND SHAME ON ROCCO DISPIRITO!

Let me explain why I have this opinion. I came home and opened the bag. The noodles had a funky odor, one that is hard to describe, as I have never had smelled anything quite like it before, but it was not pleasant to me. I rinsed off the noddles, and came to the conclusion that it was simply the liquid it was in. The noodles had a rubber like, jello like stringy texture and movement like jello, they actually jiggled. I Put them in some some boiling water to heat them up, as they are already cooked, and can’t be overcooked. So you really just need to get them hot. I then sauteed them in a pan with some sauce, dished up my goods, and sat down to eat. My palate was definitely NOT pleased. The texture was funky, and something I could continue to eat, something on the lines of a soft thin rubber band. The noodles themselves have no taste, so it is like tofu in that you need to add flavor. but that was what my sauce was for! But it was like eating raw calamari to me.. something you do not want to do twice. And how it is I came to do that, is an entirely new post!

Do yourself a favor, have a half cup, even a cup of pasta. Real grain pasta, and then go for a walk after dinner. Trust me on this one… For some things is life, there just is no substitute… The only other quasi alternative, I could suggest, is Spaghetti Squash. This is a squash, but should be looked at like a carb. 1 cup yields about 10g carbs and 40 calories. But again, while I do like this as a side dish, I do not consider it a replacement for pasta. You can put sauce on it, but I like it simply with salt and pepper and little parsley.

Buon Appetit my friends… (stay away from plant noodles)

03/06/10

Permalink 11:01:36 pm, by Marianne Email , 222 words, 398 views   English (US)
Categories: Announcements

Toscano & Sons Hosts Cesare Matrundola, Master Gardener

Today I spent my afternoon at Toscano and Sons In Atlanta, once again. This quaint little Italian Market hosted master Gardener Cesare Matrundola to a packed house today. I had the pleasure to sit with two lovely women while having lunch and we talked about NY, Food, Italy and how we came to be here. The last time I wrote about this establishment, I promised I would try their panini and let you know how it fared… To tell you, all three of us enjoyed our panini! I had a wonderful sandwich with fresh thick sliced tomato, fresh mozzarella and the most amazing pesto.. I was in heaven… Some Sparkling Italian water and I ended my day with a bold espresso.

Cesare spoke about gardening in Georgia clay, constructing raised beds, various vegetables, and becoming friendly with our local Cooperative Extension. I purchased some wonderful seeds by Franchi Seeds. The store selection was limited, but you can peruse their catalog of seeds at www.growitalian.com.

It was such a lovely day, the sun shining, about 65 F outside and people were out enjoying the spring air. A perfect day to spend in Atlanta! So the next time you are in town, stop by and grab a panini, and do not forget your Italian groceries!!! And say thanks to Monica and Kathy!

Ciao!

02/19/10

Permalink 06:25:35 pm, by Marianne Email , 178 words, 326 views   English (US)
Categories: Gifts

JOICO K-Pak

No new food items this week, but I did want to let you know about a product I have been using. K Pak Reconstructor for damaged hair. If you color your hair, or blow dry it, have frizzies or hair that appears dry, you need to use this product. K-Pak is a high protein conditioner that you leave in for 5 minutes and then rinse. They also have many other product lines that are for styling and finishing. I use their Protect and shine serum and their Curl definer creme. Their reconstructor won best deep conditioner for 9 years in a row and the Sylists Choice Award.

Use it once, you notice a difference, give it 30 days, you will see your hair look and feel healthier.

They also have a K-Pak Soothing Balm that says it, “straightens, conditions and eliminates frizz while protecting against thermal and environmental damage. Hair is left silky smooth and humidity proof.” When summer comes to Georgia, I will let you know if it beats Mother Nature!

Until then, have a happy hair day ya’ll! :D

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  • Five Guys Burgers

    I know, not a culinary phenomenon. It is purely a burger joint. Burgers. Simple. Yesterday was the first time I ate there, and I had a nice lunch. I have been craving a burger. I will say, it was not the culinary delight of pure ground meat mixed with spices or blue cheese, oozing with juice and on a Miami Onion Roll. But, these were two nice little hand formed patties, and at Five Guys Burgers, all toppings are free. I had a cheeseburger with onion, mushroom, pickles, lettuce and tomato, I split a large fries with my friends and they came in a tall cup seasoned with salt and fried nice and dark. It is not a gourmet burger by any means, but they have won the accolades of many foodies and critics. So, enjoy a good, freshly made burger, served fast at a Five Guys Burger joint. You will not be disappointed! But I warn you, these burgers/dogs do contain a lot of calories, a high fat content and sodium content to boot. These can definitely be made healthier, and I would urge them to do so! By looking at their nutritional chart on their menu, I am going to assume that their caloric contents include the bun. But then, again, you know what they say when you assume! I will write them, and report back on what I find!
    http://www.fiveguys.com/menu.aspx

    Permalink
  • Gluten Free

    This has been a trying week. A few successes and few re-tooling efforts needed. A wonderful customer asked me to make her Gluten free donuts. I have never done that before, so I thought I might. I was about to give up when she called, and told me that her son was going to school and all the kids were having Krispy Kremes in class for Halloween and he was sad that he could not have them as he has food allergies. Not anything against Krispy Kremes, but they should not be in school. I could not give up and let him feel sad about not having a donut, so, I made them till they came out okay. They were a little bready, not cakey,but I put some icing in the center and iced the tops to look like pumpkins. She was happy. I also made her kids apple streusel muffins, I hope those go over better, they did not like my cranberry muffins.. They are the FIRST not to like them, but a child’s palate is different than an adults, and the sweet tart flavor may be too strong for them.

    Then a request for pumpkin face cupcakes.. easy!

    Now the difficult thing lately has been my bread. The dough has not been right since it has been more humid. My batter requires some altering and I think after 6 loaves of bread today, I might have finally fixed it. Humidity seems to take a toll on Gluten free dough. This is enough to drive me nuts! But it is almost 11:30 pm and it is proofing still so I will have to let you know!

    On a good note, we are going to slim our line down to keep the quality of the line. Sometimes, I just get ahead of myself and forget, I am not Wonder Woman. (Although, I love her boots!)

    Permalink
  • Holy Taco

    Holy Taco is in East Atlanta. Tonight, I took Donna to dinner for a Tequila and tapas pairing. Donna, for those you do not know was a partner of mine at the FDNY back in the day. We worked well together, had a great friendship, and I do not hold it against her for introducing me to my long ex husband.. if you ask her, she will tell you quite frankly, I did not want her marry the twit, just hang out with him to get over the last guy she dated!

    Donna has always been honest with me, something one can always count on with good friends!

    Donna and I always had fun at work, we were nick named “The Bodacious Buff Babes” when we worked in east NY. It was mainly because we were “curvy” and when lifting patients into the ambulance, the patients usually forgot they were not well since their head and feet were in our boobs… Whomever was on top, they liked best.. holding the top of the stretcher that is! We had fun, patients tipped us like crazy, we could not take gratuities, but they would always throw it on the floor of our truck. We had so much fun. 300 pound patients would feel bad making us carry them up a 5 story walk up in the Bronx, but Donna and I always did it.. and never said anything…

    Today, like the old days, we carried heavy things up several flights of stairs…an entertainment unit and an Ethan Allen sofa bed up 2 flights.. And how many decades later, we did it, but this time I admit, it was not as easy as then!!! So we worked up an appetite and went to lunch at the blue Eyed Daisy in Serenbe. (See that post next)

    We ran some errands, and later went for the tapas and Tequila at Holy Taco. We earned it!

    The Tapas and Tequila was $20 per person and we were given 3 shots that were paired with a tapas. They were very good! We then had nachos and salsa verde, I chose calamari Quesadillas, and Donna the Chicken Quesadillas. They were great. Mine had a little spice to it. I ordered a White Sangria, which was delicious, fresh mango, pineapple, lime, peach and whole cloves flavored this drink. I was happily surprised, as I never had White sangria before. For dessert, I had Churros with dark chocolate.. Donna wanted to know if I had a tape worm since I ate so much.. But who could pass that up! (If yo are reading this Katrina, I will be in Power class promptly and will even come to the Saturday class after Donna leaves as punishment!)

    Our server was Jaime from Texas, but we did not hold that against him! ha ha. He was knowledgeable and we enjoyed having him as our server. If you ever need a pen, he is the guy to look for, he must have had 30 of them on his apron! We got there at 5:30pm, but the place picked up closer to 7 pm and we were there on a Thursday nite.

    Holy Taco… I will definitely go back!

    Permalink
  • Let them eat Toffee!

    Oh my, I have to share this… Let Them eat Toffee! in downtown Newnan is a cute little chocolate shop with great little homemade chocolates. Their specialty is a Pecan toffee covered in chocolate, and it was delicious! We also had grahams in chocolate, and chile mango in dark chocolate! Kerry Graham and his wife Phyllis make the best chocolate I have had in Georgia. You know from my website, my favorite chocolatier in NY was Jacques Torres. Here in GA, it is Let them Eat Toffee! So when in the downtown area, stop in pick some up and if you cannot make it there, drop by their website and place an order to be delivered. You will not be disappointed!

    Permalink
  • Margarita Cupcakes

    If you have relaxed with me, you know I love Margaritas. I love everything Tequila. So, for my birthday yesterday, I decided to make Margarita cupcakes. Quite simply, you use a white cake mix, leave out the water and replace it with Tequila, Grand Mariner, and Cuervo Margarita Mix. I used one of my favorite Tequilas, Gecko Blue 100% Blue Agave Tequila.

    The recipe is in my recipes on my website with a photo so you can see how cute these look. http://www.mariannepizzitola.com/Recipes/Margarita%20Cupcakes.htm Fresh grated lime zest is key here, and fresh squeezed lime juice takes it up a notch. Zest in the buttercream gives these little delights a zing. I am working on a series of these “drink” cupcakes so stay tuned!

    They were quite yummy! very easy, and they taste like a Margarita!

    For the cake connoisseurs, using a cake mix is cheating, but for a quick easy recipe it worked out well. But, for a moist, lighter cake, cake flour should be used. Cake flour makes a big difference in baking. I decided to keep this simple as most people here do not have cake flour in their homes, and this really works well enough! But if you came here, to the Magnolia Manor Kitchen, I have cake flour!

    So enjoy!

    Permalink
  • My Jeans

    This morning, I left Piedmont Newnan Hospital where I met the most wonderful nurses. They loved my jeans, and I could not believe I failed to put them on my site. So today, while relaxing, I put them there. It is so hard to find a good jean, but these served an important purpose. Not only did they fit nice, hug where they are supposed to, they were warm. Fleece lining sewn right into the jean that is not supposed to pill. I have had them since my cattle drive trip to VA, and I guess that needs to be another post here. So stay tuned about that.

    Back to the jeans…. they are “Berne Ladies Fleece lined jeans.” And if you are back home in NY, or here in GA, you will want a pair. I think they fit to size, I do not find they run small or big, the regular at 32″ length is just a tad long for my 5′4″ frame but I like my jeans longer in case I wear boots. But they do have a short and tall as well.

    Trust me ladies, these are a winner for cold weather, no more wearing your PJs under your jeans! You can find them in my site under Gifts, Things.

    Permalink
  • Shirataki Noodles

    A good friend of mine told me about a fat free carb free noodle he saw on Rachel Ray a few months back. I thought wow! Carb free pasta! I have to check this out. The Rachel ray show hosted Rocco Dispirito, an Italian chef who had a restaurant reality show in NY. A traditional Italian chef, has written books and even had his mother on the show frequently making her famous meatball recipe. How in the world then could he suggest that Shirataki Noodles be an alternative to Pasta, I have no idea.

    So you hear me loud and clear, DO NOT BUY SHIRATAKI NOODLES! Let me say that again.. DO NOT BUY SHIRATAKI NOODLES! I was in Doraville, GA this past week to buy some wonderful Asian foods, things I have not seen since I was in NY. While shopping, I looked for and found the noodles so wonderfully talked about on this episode. All I can say is SHAME ON RACHEL RAY AND SHAME ON ROCCO DISPIRITO!

    Let me explain why I have this opinion. I came home and opened the bag. The noodles had a funky odor, one that is hard to describe, as I have never had smelled anything quite like it before, but it was not pleasant to me. I rinsed off the noddles, and came to the conclusion that it was simply the liquid it was in. The noodles had a rubber like, jello like stringy texture and movement like jello, they actually jiggled. I Put them in some some boiling water to heat them up, as they are already cooked, and can’t be overcooked. So you really just need to get them hot. I then sauteed them in a pan with some sauce, dished up my goods, and sat down to eat. My palate was definitely NOT pleased. The texture was funky, and something I could continue to eat, something on the lines of a soft thin rubber band. The noodles themselves have no taste, so it is like tofu in that you need to add flavor. but that was what my sauce was for! But it was like eating raw calamari to me.. something you do not want to do twice. And how it is I came to do that, is an entirely new post!

    Do yourself a favor, have a half cup, even a cup of pasta. Real grain pasta, and then go for a walk after dinner. Trust me on this one… For some things is life, there just is no substitute… The only other quasi alternative, I could suggest, is Spaghetti Squash. This is a squash, but should be looked at like a carb. 1 cup yields about 10g carbs and 40 calories. But again, while I do like this as a side dish, I do not consider it a replacement for pasta. You can put sauce on it, but I like it simply with salt and pepper and little parsley.

    Buon Appetit my friends… (stay away from plant noodles)

    Permalink
  • Spot Shot

    I know what you are thinking, what is this? You are recommending a cleaner? But hey, I am a NY-er, living in the south, and the house I bought has white carpet everywhere. This should be illegal. I know Dirt. I do not know RED clay! Clearly, builders are men, and the carpet store must have a buy one roll get one free for the entire house to be white. So back to the story… My little dog, I love her so much, but last week I came home and walked into my room and found red little paw prints all over my carpet. She walked from one side of my bed to the other. Twice. Then circled the center of the floor, and sat in the middle. I screamed. I cried. And tried to clean it with water. UGH. I called my mom in Vegas and asked her to google how to clean red mud from carpet and she found someone else had a similar situation and suggested Spot Shot, available in Walgreens. I bought a can, ran home sprayed it on every little paw print and pulled out the steam cleaner and sweet God in heaven… I have white carpet again! So… tuck this in the If I ever need to know file…

    Permalink
  • Tea Infusers

    There comes a time when one appreciates fine loose teas. I developed this taste over a year ago while in Charleston, SC and visited the Charleston Tea Plantation. Since then, I have purchased teas from Teavana and Tea Fusion here in Georgia. Yesterday, while in Dahlonega, I visited a coffee/tea store that had a very nice infuser made my Venetian Lobby. It was a push button infuser, chrome plated and did not open or loosen letting the tea escape while in your cup. I love it. So today, I share it with you! I googled it, and found it in this store above. You can google Venetian Lobby Push button tea infuser and find one closer to you, but here is an online store you can purchase it from.

    I have bought a lot of infusers in the last year, and have been happy with none. I did like one I bought from Pier 1, and this one is also a favorite.

    So enjoy!

    An UPDATE: Ok.. I think I like the one from Pier 1 better for cleaning. It opens fully, unlike the one with the push button. This one only opens half way and you really need your finger or a small brush to pull out the tea especially if you are using teas that are chunky, and not just small leaves. And a side note, the one from Pier 1 is only $3, the push button one, a lot more!

    Permalink
  • The Blue Eyed Daisy

    The Blue Eyed Daisy at Serenbe is an interesting place. If you read my previous post on The Farmhouse Restaurant at Serenbe, this is in the same place. The Blue Eyed Daisy is in the community of Serenbe down the road from the Farmhouse. Here, you can get a cupcake, scone or brownie or even a delish-y oatmeal raisin cookie. They also serve light fare such as breakfasts, salads and sandwiches. Donna and I had an Pear and Arugula salad with blue cheese and apple citrus dressing. She had fresh turkey, swiss, cheddar and bacon in a sundried tomato wrap. I had a burger, I was craving a juicy burger. I have to say, I loved the salad, loved the oatmeal cookie, but I think they could have done better with the burger. For such an establishment, they should not be using “patties” but should be hand making their burgers with creative ingredients, like diced apple and pear. A blue cheese burger with chunks of blue cheese, diced scallion and thick slices of applewood bacon on an onion roll. Traditional burger varieties… ingredients that they already have in their kitchen and they can be added to beef or turkey for a juicy delish-y burger that would taste better than a patty.

    But, the service was friendly the decor vintage, and guests and residents welcoming. We had a nice lunch, and i look forward to going back to shop when it is not raining! (Wasn’t there supposed to be a drought here???)

    Anyway, please make time to stop in Serenbe in Fairburn Georgia. It is a great little place, and you will be happy with your choice to visit! I hope to visit “The Hil” soon, and will definitely blog my experience there when I finally get there!

    Permalink
  • The Farmhouse, Serenbe

    Being new to this lovely state of GA, I have been enjoying myself in my quest to experience all the new tastes here. My wonderful neighbors introduced me to a town called Serenbe, not far from my little town of Sharpsburg. http://www.serenbecommunity.com/home.html Serenbe was founded on the idea that a community can be energy efficient, preserves land and resources, green building, art and culture, and demonstrate that housing can have minimal impact on the earth. It is a community of like minded people. They recycle, they grow organically and those foods are prepared in their restaurants. It is truly an amazing concept.

    I decided to take my parents here, (quite a different experience than Uncle Franks! But that is the objective!) for dinner to try something different. Here, people dined in low light, spoke softly, and many appeared on family outings or dates. This restaurant is also attached to a small inn. the service was professional and courteous. When a large party ordered the last of the chicken that was prepped, the Maitre D’ came to the table and advised my father it would be a few more minutes till our dinners were brought out. He brought us some more fresh warm rolls, filled our glasses with wine, and we talked about the concept of the restaurant, the chef, and the food. http://www.serenbefarmhouse.com/menu.html

    The restaurants menu changes weekly and the food is fresh and innovative. The combination of flavors and textures will keep you intrigued all the way to dessert. The meal, was hot, exquisitely prepared, moist and tender meat, and I can say that our favorite was this gratin side dish of Gruyere cheese, rice and onions that was so tasty… it was pure comfort.

    For dessert, there was the blueberry cobbler that could not have been more perfect. Mildly flavored and complimented the berries. The cobbler was sweet, the berries plump and there was no runny liquid. The blueberry compote was the proper thickness and sweetness and did not disappoint! I would say this is a great place to eat, eat healthy and well, has excellent service and ambiance. I will definitely return!

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  • The Marriott Ranch

    I just realized I never updated you all on the cattle drive I did in October! For two days I stayed on a beautiful ranch located in Hume VA, near the Blue Ridge Scenic highway. It was fall, the leaves changing, the air slightly crisp, and views of nature just breathtaking.

    I was riding Old Tony and we rode the trails within the 40,000 acre ranch and herded long horn cattle from one part of the ranch to another. Kelly and her husband run parts of the ranch which hosts people like you and me in a 10 room bed and breakfast. The food superb.. I started by meeting the group for lunch, then headed for the trails. Cocktails and cheese was served in the library and then a wonderful sit down dinner family style. It was amazing.

    The next day, a big hot breakfast at 8 am, the cattle drive, a visit to the small local town, back for more trails, a BBQ cookout dinner, live country music, some cold beers and crisp wines, and a trail ride back to the ranch. I experienced waking up to low droning ‘moooooooo"-ing of the locals, and the sun in my bedroom window. At night, the rain hitting the windows and the roof relaxed me to sleep like a metronome tick tocking me into a mesmerizing sleep. It was fresh, relaxing, scenic, warm, friendly and made you truly appreciate the world.

    If you love to ride, eat, or hunt, or just want a get away with a someone special, or, wish to schedule a company gathering, meeting, networking or team building event in the DC/VA area… you need to go here! They are on facebook, and do not forget to ask for Kelly and tell her Marianne Pizzitola sent you! She will take care of you like family!

    I cannot wait to go back!

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  • Toscano & Sons Hosts Cesare Matrundola, Master Gardener

    Today I spent my afternoon at Toscano and Sons In Atlanta, once again. This quaint little Italian Market hosted master Gardener Cesare Matrundola to a packed house today. I had the pleasure to sit with two lovely women while having lunch and we talked about NY, Food, Italy and how we came to be here. The last time I wrote about this establishment, I promised I would try their panini and let you know how it fared… To tell you, all three of us enjoyed our panini! I had a wonderful sandwich with fresh thick sliced tomato, fresh mozzarella and the most amazing pesto.. I was in heaven… Some Sparkling Italian water and I ended my day with a bold espresso.

    Cesare spoke about gardening in Georgia clay, constructing raised beds, various vegetables, and becoming friendly with our local Cooperative Extension. I purchased some wonderful seeds by Franchi Seeds. The store selection was limited, but you can peruse their catalog of seeds at www.growitalian.com.

    It was such a lovely day, the sun shining, about 65 F outside and people were out enjoying the spring air. A perfect day to spend in Atlanta! So the next time you are in town, stop by and grab a panini, and do not forget your Italian groceries!!! And say thanks to Monica and Kathy!

    Ciao!

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  • Toscano & Sons Italian Market

    Today was the day I was determined to find an Italian market in my new Georgia home and I hit the jackpot. Toscano and Sons Italian market is located in Midtown West on 1000 Marietta St NW in Atlanta.

    I walked in to find a small store with some tables and chairs, Italian music playing in the background, and shelf after shelf stocked with imported Italian goods. Coffee, Cocoa, spices, antipasto items jarred, oils, balsamic vinegars, cheeses, pastas fresh, frozen and dried,canned tomatoes, wines, cookies, chocolates, semolina, polenta, a deli case of meat and cheese for slicing, and they make panini’s right there, and do not forget the soup of the day. I went in today for grocery items, and a wonderful young woman named Monica helped me choose my items.

    I tasted some of their balsamic vinegar, I loved the fig! And cheese! I bought some Parmeggiano reggiano to take home. I thought the days were gone where I would snack on some sliced cheese dipped in vinegar.. but not any more!

    They sell fresh bread and frozen Italian sausage. I was so happy to see this, as my local supermarket thinks Johnsonville breakfast sausage is Italian! My Nonna would be rolling over in her grave if I ate that! I bought some manicotti (canelloni actually) stuffed with Spinach and cheese, some mushroom tortelloni and other grocery goodies. Tonight I made the tortelloni en brodo with some fresh veggies and it was yummy! Some fresh grated Parmeggiano and I was in heaven. Thank God I found paisans!! I was worried I was the only Italian here. Do not get me started on what my market thinks is Italian bread… So I hope Toscano brings Olive bread or rosemary bread to their baskets as I do not always want to make it! And small loaves for a single person or couple would be great!

    While the shop is not like Mamma’s in Corona Queens, or Glendale, or my Gemmelli’s in my former Babylon,at least I can get staples here and a good sandwich while in town shopping!

    To my surprise they had a flyer on a club of Italians! Wow, this is more like it! www.lasocietaitaliana.org has a calendar of events and recipes and just looks like fun! Glad to see la famiglia is here!

    So I will go back and get more items and try their panini for myself. But I can say the tortelloni was delicious, and the cheese topped it off perfectly.

    They also carried the Paneangeli Lievito (yeast with vanilla) that I use to make the buccelate cookies and taralli cookies Nonna was famous for. They did not have the little bustina di vanilla but I believe they would be able to order them for me.

    So all in all, it was about 45 minutes away, but well worth the trip for me. I am spreading the word here, and to my Italian friends… Italy has come Georgia!

    Ciao mi Amici! Baci e abbraci! :D

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  • Welcome to the Marianne Pizzitola Website Blog!

    New feature! Here I can post what is new to my site and get some feed back from you! Looking for something? Found a great item you want me to share? Pass it on! Hope you enjoy the site, and keep on coming back!!

    Marianne:D

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Gifts

  • Gifts

    Like a suggested gift? Did the receiver like it too? Have one to suggest? Pass it along!

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  • JOICO K-Pak

    No new food items this week, but I did want to let you know about a product I have been using. K Pak Reconstructor for damaged hair. If you color your hair, or blow dry it, have frizzies or hair that appears dry, you need to use this product. K-Pak is a high protein conditioner that you leave in for 5 minutes and then rinse. They also have many other product lines that are for styling and finishing. I use their Protect and shine serum and their Curl definer creme. Their reconstructor won best deep conditioner for 9 years in a row and the Sylists Choice Award.

    Use it once, you notice a difference, give it 30 days, you will see your hair look and feel healthier.

    They also have a K-Pak Soothing Balm that says it, “straightens, conditions and eliminates frizz while protecting against thermal and environmental damage. Hair is left silky smooth and humidity proof.” When summer comes to Georgia, I will let you know if it beats Mother Nature!

    Until then, have a happy hair day ya’ll! :D

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Recipes

  • Bread

    Click here for a photo of the bread. http://mariannepizzitola.com/blog/htsrv/viewfile.php?root=collection_2&path=SeededBread.jpg&viewtype=image

    King Arthur is a great company owned by its employees. It is a great company, great products, customer service and they offer these traveling baking classes which are always fun. if you ever have a chance, go to one, they are in most major cities. Today I made their Crusty Seeded Bread. It used half white flour and half whole wheat flour. The baked product looks wonderful. A golden seeded braid of bread… You can make one large loaf or two small ones.

    Dough

    * 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water
    * 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
    * 2 cups King Arthur Unbleached Bread Flour
    * 1 1/2 cups King Arthur Whole Wheat Flour, white wheat preferred
    * 1/2 cup Harvest Grains Blend
    * 1/2 cup traditional rolled oats
    * 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
    * 2 tablespoons sugar
    * 1/4 cup Baker’s Special Dry Milk or nonfat dry milk
    * 2 teaspoons instant yeast

    Topping

    * 1 large egg white beaten with 1 tablespoon cold water
    * generous 1/2 cup mixed seeds: poppy, sesame, flax, fennel, and anise are all good choices. I also added some minced onion, and garlic as I love those flavors, reminds me of an everything bagel.

    Dough

    * 10 ounces lukewarm water
    * 1 1/4 ounces vegetable oil
    * 8 1/2 ounces King Arthur Unbleached Bread Flour
    * 6 ounces King Arthur Whole Wheat Flour, white wheat preferred
    * 3 ounces Harvest Grains Blend
    * 1 1/2 ounces traditional rolled oats
    * 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
    * 7/8 ounce sugar
    * 1 ounce Baker’s Special Dry Milk or nonfat dry milk
    * 2 teaspoons instant yeast

    Topping

    * 1 large egg white beaten with 1 tablespoon cold water
    * 3 ounces mixed seeds: poppy, sesame, flax, fennel, and anise are all good choices, as is our Artisan Bread Topping

    Directions

    1) Mix all of the dough ingredients, and mix and knead — by hand, stand mixer, or bread machine — to make a smooth, supple dough. ***See Note below***

    2) Place the dough in a lightly greased, covered container, and allow it to rise for 60 to 90 minutes. It’ll become quite puffy, though it may not double in bulk.

    3) Gently deflate the dough, and divide it into three pieces. Roll/stretch each piece into a 24″ log.

    4) Brush the logs with the beaten egg white, coating them as well as you can.

    5) Sprinkle with the seeds. Roll them over, brush with egg white, and sprinkle on more seeds. Roll them around a bit, to coat as completely as possible.

    6) Allow the logs to rest for 15 minutes, uncovered.

    7) Squeeze the three logs together at one end. Braid into a braid. When you get to the end, squeeze the three pieces together and tuck them underneath. Transfer the braid to a lightly greased or parchment-lined pan, brush with more egg white, and and sprinkle with any leftover seeds.

    8) Cover the braid, and let it rise for 1 hour, till the braid has become noticeably puffy. Toward the end of the rising time, preheat the oven to 425°F.

    9) Bake the bread for 15 minutes. Tent it lightly with foil (to prevent over-browning), reduce the oven temperature to 350°F, and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the braid’s internal temperature registers 190°F. Remove it from the oven, and cool on a rack.

    ***Note*** If you are adding yeast with all the dry ingredients and then the water, you must make sure the water is hot. Not too hot because it can kill it, but in the 120 - 130F range. If you decide to proof your yeast first instead of doing it the way this recipe calls for, you can do that. Just make sure the water temperature is 110-115 F. Then mix the flour into the yeast mixture and continue on. Either way is fine!

    Yield: 1 large loaf or 2 smaller ones!

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  • Recipes

    Tried a recipe? Have a cooking or baking related question? Fire away!

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Requests

  • Have a request for me?

    Want to order a cake? Some special cookies for your group or with your Company Logo? A special dinner for 2?? Please send me a private email with your needs! I will work with you to create something amazing for you!

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