February 4th, 2010
And you wonder, “Is there life before coffee? Are you kidding? There is no life before coffee, but, certainly there is life after coffee!!!”
There is nothing better than a good cup of coffee in the morning; and on a cold wintry afternoon, it warms your soul. That is what I am doing right now. Writing my post with a cup of coffee at my side. Believe me, I am no Barista, but I do prefer a full bodied cup of coffee.
There are coffee shops everywhere. It is a new culture. I used to just drive through and get my watery cup of coffee, here and there. But, it seems like in the past few years I have to park at a coffee shop and I better have my terms in check like “latte”, “macchiato”, “breve latte” “con panna” or “without panna”. You really want to know what you are doing because if you are a coffee drinker and you ask for a “chai latte” you are probably going to get tea.
What is a Barista? You see this word when you are ordering coffee at a coffee shop; the name of the person mixing the coffee, as well. If you are visiting a coffee shop in Italy you will probably encounter a uniformed bartender called a Barista. In Italy, a Barista is a trained mixologist, familiar with both alcohol and coffee based drinks. A mixologist specializes in creating new drink combinations and is knowledgeable about the composition of alcoholic drinks. It is usually treated as a respected specialist, just like a wine stewart or a somelier. A somelier is a wine expert; specialized in the restaurant side of the wine industry. A Barista is expected to have a working knowldege of all the different blends of gourmet coffees offered.
The premier professional coffee school in the world today is the American Barista & Coffee School (ABC’s). It started in 2004 and no other school has been able to match it, with 700 students from 47 states and 40 countries who have already graduated. This past August, ABC’s expanded to the international arena with an affiliate school in Beijing, China.
International and national competitions put the Barista to the ultimate test.
So, now I can tell you where I went yesterday.
A friend told me that she had heard that the new Barista Cafe in Lewes was pretty good. I have been meaning to stop by and in the late afternoon, I did.
Barista Cafe is located at the Mariners Plaza, 17644 Coastal Highway, Lewes, DE 19958. Tel. 302-703-2340. Website is www.LewesBaristaCafe.com. You can also find them on Facebook.
I met the owner, Laurie Bucka. She is not new to the food business and she opened Barista Cafe 6 months ago.
Barista Cafe is bigger than you think. I also thought I was going to encounter just a coffee shop, but what I found was a very welcoming coffee shop/restaurant offering, coffee, mochas, lattes, cappucinos, breakfast paninis and sandwiches, omelets, salads, wraps, paninis, specialty sandwiches, soups and some baked goods.
Laurie told me that at this time of the year they are open from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. As the season wakes up then they will have extended hours.
Something to have in mind is that Barista Cafe has free delivery and you can also place your order on line at the above mentioned website and pick it up or have it delivered.
Laurie also told me that almost everything is made in-house. One of her favorite salads is the Cranberry Walnut, which is a fresh spring mix topped with grilled chicken, craisins, glazed walnuts and goat cheese served with balsamic vinaigrette. There is also a Southwest Chicken Panini, which has grilled chicken, monterey jack, pico de gallo, fresh avocado and chipotle mayo. A breakfast panini that caught my eye was the Sussex County Scramble, which has eggs, white American, local scrapple and grape jelly.
I think this could be one of those places that locals and natives alike can come to use as a “meeting place”. It has comfortable seating and bar tables. There is also easy parking, which right now is not a big deal but at the height of the season is a welcoming sight.
I will probably see you there…soon. Talk to you later…
Note: Information regarding Barista and ABC’s was taken from www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-barista.htm, and http://coffeschool.org.
February 3rd, 2010
Have you ever been to a town called Celebration, in Celebration, Florida (Orlando)? Well, this town was modeled after small American towns and neighborhoods from the early 1900’s. It is not that I want to live like in the early 1900’s. But the idea of living in a town or neighborhood where you can safely walk the sidewalks, talk to your neighbors from their balconies and walk into shops and post offices and become friends, brings nostalgic feelings to my heart.
I believe that towns like Lewes, Princess Anne, Oxford, Berlin, St. Augustine, Milton all of which are located in Maryland, Delaware and Florida have served as models for the above mentioned Celebration concept. One other town, Easton, Maryland, is a perfect example of small town living. With its charming streets, homes and businesses at close proximity to pedestrians, it lets people connect with one another.
Tuesday was a day for a road trip. It took Cindi and I to the town of Easton. We went to meet Susan, a friend that we had not seen for about 6 years. What kind of friends are we? I guess we just have been dealing with our own families, schools, businesses and even though we are only about 1 1/2 hours away, we just let those years slip by.
Cindi and I met in Georgetown, Delaware, and I told her I definitely would take her through the short cut. Well that did not happen since every field looked the same; covered with snow. We made it, though.
Easton, Maryland, just in case you don’t know about this town, is in Talbot County; its County Seat. Its location is at the headwaters of the Tred Avon River. Because of its rivers and creeks it is very popular with boaters.
I have been talking about this small town, but don’t kid yourself, this is a very well connected town. It does not roll its sidewalks at dusk either. Throughout the year it is the host of art festivals, including the very popular Waterfowl Festival. Easton is the home of chic shops, antique shops and restaurants. A wide variety of lodgings are available, as well, including the Historic Tidewater Inn.
The Avalon Theater is another place that should not be missed. It is a happening place. It is located on 40 East Dover St., Easton, MD 21601. Tel. 410822-7299. Website is www.avalontheatre.com. This theater brings you from Symphony to Bluegrass, Comedians to Art Festivals; really, entertainment for the whole family. It was built in 1921. Three world premieres opened at this theater, including “The First Kiss” with Gary Cooper and Fay Ray; filmed in Easton and St. Michaels. Please visit the website above mentioned for more information on the Avalon Theater and upcoming performances. They have their whole schedule up.
Legal Spirits & Avalon Theater
It was time to meet for lunch. Susan met us at Mason’s. This restaurant is located on 22 South Harrison St. in Easton. Tel. 410-822-3204. E-mail is masons@masonsgourmet.com and the website is www.masonsgourmet.com.
You can see from the pictures that this restaurant embodies the small town living. The charming house which was converted into the restaurant greets you with such warmth. One side of the house is the restaurant and on the other side; a more casual and lighter atmosphere. Coffee, gourmet chocolates, candies and wines are all available for purchase.
Mason’s was established in 1966. By visiting the website you will find their history and what they are all about, including menus.
Today I had their Davon Crest Baby Green Salad with candied pecans, peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, goat cheese and honey mustard vinaigrette. I then added fried oysters on top. Great presentation and taste. The honey mustard added the perfect kick to the salad.
Cindi had their Daily Deep Dish Quiche with baby mixed greens and balsamic vinaigrette. This quiche looked beautiful. Cindi had been having a quiche craving so she was perfectly happy.
In French cuisine, a quiche is a baked dish that is based on a custard made from eggs, and milk or cream in a pastry crust. But I don’t think that a lot of people would know that even though it is considered a dish of French cuisine, it really originated in Germany. The word “Quiche” is from the German “Kuchen”, meaning cake.
Susan decided on the Chicken Salad Plate. It had also fruit salad and pasta salad on the side. Great presentation, as well.
Did I forget to tell you that today was Susan’s birthday? Yes, on Groundhog Day. We ordered a chocolate torte. Velvety smooth, rich and delicious. It went well with my espresso.
Susan's Chocolate Torte
Mason’s service was prompt, attentive and discreet. Kari, our server, let us catch up, knowing that we had not seen each other for a long time.
So, even though Easton is a little bit of a drive from the Delaware Beaches and Ocean City, Maryland, it is really worth visiting.
A Tip: The only suggestion I would have for Mason’s is that its staff should be informed about ingredients in their chocolates and baked goods in case a customer has a food allergy.
Note: Information of Quiche was taken from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quiche.
Enjoying a meal with friends is something that is priceless. Really, it is!!
Talk to you later…
February 1st, 2010
I have great neighbors and they shoveled my driveway. Thanks Rob and Robby for a job well done. Neighbors like you are priceless!!!
Lots of snow still in and around the beaches. But, the show must go on with events and activities for the week.
Lewes
Tuesday, 2/2 – 2/28 – Frank Schoonover Retrospective Exhibit by the Lewes Historical Society in conjunction with Peninsula Gallery at 530 E. Savannah Rd.
Frank Schoonover was an American Illustrator, (1877-1972). Born in New Jersey, he later became part of the Brandywine School. He was a prolific contributor to books and magazines during the early 20th century. He helped organize the Delaware Museum of Art and was Chairman of the Fundraising Committee. He was locally known as the “Dean of Delaware Artists”. He died at 94, leaving behind more than 2,000 illustrations. This info. was taken from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_Schoonover.
Thursday, 2/4 – First Thursdays – Celebrate Lewes Life in the Historic District from 6 – 8 p.m. A celebration the first Thursday of each month with street fest live entertainment, story tellings and seasonally themed craft activities for the whole family. There will be demonstrations and extented shopping hours.
Sunday, 2/7 – Clear Space Productions will present “An American Songbook” at the Little Theater at the Cape Henlopen High School at 3:00 p.m. There will be music from Guys & Dolls, Oklahoma, Jekyll and Hyde, Meet me in St. Louis and many more. And, don’t worry, you will be able to get home to watch the Super Bowl. For more info. and purchase of tickets please go to www.clearspaceproductions.org.
Rehoboth Beach
Wednesday, 2/3 – The Rehoboth Beach Film Society, the Lewes Public Library and Movies at Midway are proud to sponsor the monthly film series, Around the World. This series features criticially acclaimed, award-winning, international independent films. It takes place at 7:00 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month, from Sept. until May, in the upstairs screening room at Movies at Midway. They are free and open to the public. For more info, contact the Film Society at 302-645-9095 or the Lewes Public Library at 302-645-2733. This Wednesday the film will be THE DRUMMER – Sid is the rebellious son of Kwan, a controlling and savage mob boss in Hong Kong. Upon enraging his father’s adversary, a powerful tycoon and underground business leader, Sid is forced to flee to Taiwan. Hiding out in….Not rated, with subtitles and 118 minutes.
Friday, 2/5 – Winter Jam to Benefit the Cape Henlopen Educational Foundation at the Convention Center located on Rehoboth Ave. 7 – 11 p.m. $15 admission and cash bar. Complimentary light fare, with silent auction and the Funsters. Dress is casual. Would you like to donate to the Silent Auction? Please contact Christine King by Monday, February 1st at christineking@comcast.net.
Saturday, 2/6 – Race. 5K Run to the Plunge starting at the Boarkwalk and Rehoboth Ave. Benefit – The Special Olympics Delaware. Warm up before plunging into the Atlantic on Sunday the 7th. For registration and info. go to www.plungede.org. This race is organized by Tim Bamforth of the Seashore Striders.
Sunday, 2/7 – The 19th Annual Lewes Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics, at 1:00 p.m. Location: Rehoboth Ave. and the Boardwalk. A truly worthy cause!! More info? Then, please visit www.plungede.org.
Ocean City, Maryland
A perfect Face Day Spa is celebrating their 25th Anniversary. They are located at 12638 Ocean Gtwy. #6, Ocean City, MD 21842. Tel. 410-213-9883. Take advantage of their promotions as they celebrate their 25 years in business. Since Valentine’s Day is around the corner a special pre-Valentine promotion is going on this week. On 2/3 and 2/4 purchase a $100 gift card and get a $10 gift card for free. Please visit their website www.aperfectface.com for more info. on upcoming Valentine and Weekly Specials.
Sunday, 2/7 – Superbowl Sunday Scramble at Eagle’s Landing Golf Course, located at 12367 Eagle’s Nest Rd., just off Rt. 611 in West Ocean City. Tel. 800-283-3846 or 410-213-7277. Tailgate party with 18-hole scramble tournament. Scoring done in traditional football manner awarding points for touchdowns, field goals, extra points and penalizing for safeties. Game starts at 10 a.m., giving you plenty of time to watch the big game later on. For more info. please visit their website www.eagleslandinggolf.com.
A couple of restaurant specials:
Sunset Grille, located in the Sunset Marina, 12933 Sunset Ave., West Ocean City, MD 21842. Tel. 410-213-8100 and the website is www.ocsunsetgrille.com.
This restaurant has Happy Hour 7 days a week from 2 – 7 p.m.
$4.99 Lunch Menu – Mondays through Fridays until 3 p.m. (excludes holidays and special events)
Saturday Brunch – 10:00 until 1:00 p.m.
Mondays – Italian Night 3:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. – 3 course Italian Dinner for $9.99.
Every Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. – Purchase a dinner entree and receive the second one of equal or lesser value free!! Dine in only.
Every Thursday, except New Year’s Eve, – 3 course seafood dinner for $11.99; 4 courses for $13.99.
The Shark on the Harbor, 12924 Sunset Ave., West Ocean City, MD 21842. Tel. 410-213-0924. Website www.ocshark.com.
Happy Hour is everyday from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m.
Mondays – $5.00 lunches from 11:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Tuesdays – $5.00 lunches from 11:30 – 4:00 p.m. Local’s Favorite $2 Tuesday! Features $2 rail cocktails, glasses of house wine and pints of draft beer. Discounted bar menu. 4 – 10 p.m. ($2 Tuesday is valid at the bar only.) Live Music. Check the website.
Wednesdays – Sushi Night starting at 5 p.m. Full menu in addition to the sushi menu. Free limo rides courtesy of American Dream Limousine. Call 410-352-3270 to schedule your pick up time. Just tip the driver, no strings attached.
Thursdays – When fishing is good, $20 live, local lobster dinners. Please call for availability of lobsters. Live Music, please check website.
Delray Beach, Florida
Even though it has been cold in Delray Beach, and for that matter all over Florida, well, it does not compare with what we have had here.
So, at this time of the year Delray Beach, Florida is at the height of its season and a few of the events going on are:
Saturday, 2/6 – Trash & Treasure Yard Sale – Under the Big tent at the Old School Square Entertainment Pavillion. Spring into 2010 and Start your Spring Cleaning Now!! Rent a 10×10 plot for $25 to sell your wares. It is a tax deductible donation to Old School Square, Inc. Receipts for donations are available. No refunds will be given for no-shows or rain. Old School Square is located on 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33444. Website is www.oldschool.org. You can call 561-243-7922, ext. 319 or email: volunteer@oldschool.org.
To participate as a vendor you will need to register for a plot and pay the entry fee of $25 by 2/5 at the Administrative Office, Crest Theatre Building.
The Old School Square, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization. This National Historic Site houses the Cornell Museum of Art & American Culture, Crest Theatre, and Vintage Gymnasium in restored early 20th Century school buildings. Facilities and grounds are available for rental.
Saturday, 2/6 – Green Market – 8 – 1 p.m. on SE 4th Ave. from the first alleyway south of Atlantic Ave. to SE 1st St. This is a great way to start your Saturday morning. Local baked goods and so much more.
Really, have a great week. We will see what the groundhog predicts on February 2nd; good news, I hope….Talk to you later…
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