January 17th, 2012
Back in 2009 when I started this blog, the concept was “word of mouth”. Finding those unique places that make our beaches such a wonderful place to live. I wanted to pass the word around. Believe me, I know I am lucky to live in the coastal area of the Delaware Beaches, and I do not take it for granted.
The other day my husband mentioned that he had read about a dairy farm in Rehoboth. They also had produce and on and on he went. It was on the way to the Glades, he said. Okay, I had not been on that road for years. It is the type of road that is mostly traveled by the people that live in that vicinity.
I found the farm, and the storefront. It look like someone was there. Then, I met Nelson. I introduced myself; the store was opening at 11 a.m. In our brief conversation he said that these are hard times for dairy farmers. That the Euro having problems have made companies in Europe trying to market powder milk to be reconsituted, here in the U.S. What? That’s crazy, I thought. His mother would be there at 11 a.m., Nelson said. He, on the other hand, would probably be out back playing with the cows. Could not wait to get back at 11 a.m.
Rehoboth Dairy, LLC is located at Rustic Acres Farm, at 37217 Rustic Acres Ln. in Rehoboth Beach. Tel. 302-226-2571. Earl’s 302-245-8308 and Nelson’s 302-245-8310. If you are going north after just leaving Rehoboth Beach, on Rt. 1 (Coastal Highway), turn right on Hollands Glade Rd., right after Tomato Sunshine. If you are coming south on Coastal Highway (Rt. 1) then, make a U turn at the intersection of Shuttle Rd. and Rt. 1 in order to get to Hollands Glade Rd. On Hollands Glade Rd., continue driving inland and you will see the farm on the left and the store just by the road.
There were people already there when I arrived. Immediately, I met Earl and Mary Ann, who along with their sons work the farm.
A few customers were checking out already with a box full of lettuce, eggs, milk, and butter. Cash and check are accepted. No credit cards.
Earl and I started talking; I think he could outtalk me by a lot, if there is such a thing. His good friends were Amish from Dover, Delaware. They built the store. Comfortable in its simplicity. During the summer months you are going to find all kinds of local produce.
This is a dairy farm. The milk? Well, it is as fresh as you are ever going to get any milk. The cows are in the back. They get milked in the updated building that dates prior to the Civil War. The milk is brought to the back of the shop where it is pasteurized. Rehoboth Dairy follows all State regulations. It takes them 8 hours to produce 100 gallons of milk.
 
They have available, whole milk, 2%, 1 1/2 %, and cream. The milk is in glass bottles; 1/2 gallons and quarts. A deposit is required for the glass bottles. Bring the bottles back for your deposit to be refunded. You’ll be back for sure.
The cream goes to the top and just like in the old days, it separates. Shake it a bit and you will get one delicious tasting glass of milk. Milk in its purest form is as near to being a perfect food as one can find. It is a complex and complete supply of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antibodies, essential fatty acids and carbs.
Only a handful of dairy farms remain in the State of Delaware. The cost of carrying these farms is incredible. Earl had to sell everything some years ago when it got to be too much with 200 cows. He has now about 70 and is trying to keep it going. He is a farmer at heart and speaks of work with passion and delight. He also said that farmers buy retail and sale wholesale.
 
Pasteurization of raw milk is required by law. This process began as a result of bacteria that could contaminate the milk after the milk left the cow. The milk from Rehoboth Dairy is pasteurized with milk from their cows, in the family century farm. These cows are grass fed with no artificial hormones or antibiotics.
 
No homogenization here. Homogenization forces the milk, by extreme pressure, through tiny holes which break up the normally large fat molecules into tiny ones. This unnatural fat is easily absorbed into the blood stream. In milk that has not been homogenized, the large fat molecules, are normally passed through the digestive track, unabsorbed. A lot of health problems are attributed to homogenization.
Through small cooperatives, Earl and Mary Ann buy other staples for their store. Butter, is made by the Amish. Of course, I had to get it. It is so good. The eggs are free range and a variety of sizes, as well.
Honey from Lanes Pure Honey from Dover, Delaware. Comb and all.
A freezer was in the middle of the store filled with lima beans and meats and pork products. Filet, roasts, sausage, hamburger patties, scrapple, pork chops. Earl and Mary Ann can tell you the content of everything they sell. I told Earl he would get a scrapple review for sure.
The pork comes from pigs raised on another farm, but owned by Earl. And the beef is from their steers which are raised on their farm, again, grass fed beef with no antibiotics and no hormones. Haas Family Butcher Shop in Dover takes care of the preparation of their meat and pork products.
Besides milk, butter, eggs, and honey, I bought a pork loin roast, filet and scrapple.
You can find in the store Amish baked goods, as well.
I took off with Earl on his truck to check the cows out back. They were all eating; I think that’s what cows do all the time, anyway. The cows you will find at Rustic Acres Farm are Holsteins and Jerseys.
Holstein is the world’s highest production dairy animal, with distinctive markings. Some are mostly black to mostly white, half and half, or red and white.
Trivia: Pauline Wayne was a famous Holstein that was the Presidential Pet of the 27th President of the U.S., William Howard Taft. It lived and grazed on the White House and provided for their milk. It was the last Presidential Pet Cow.
Jerseys are a small breed of dairy cattle, originally bred in the Channel Island of Jersey. It has high butterfat content in its milk and a “genial” disposition; curious and gentle.
Trivia: Elsie the Cow was the famous mascot of Borden, Inc. in the U.S.
 
I asked Earl if they were dumb. He said that a cow remembers everything that has been done to it. As we walked he touched them here or there, behind their ears. It was like they recognized him. One just got close to me and tried to grab my pocket. I had a treat from my dog, Addy, there. Slobbered all over the bottom of my coat.
Earl said that cows are creatures of habit and they follow a strong pecking order. It is a whole process to get them used to one another.
The calfs had to be weaned. They were so cute, coming out of their huts, thinking you had a bottle for them.
From there they go with just one other cow to a different pen. Then to a bigger space with a few more and on and on it goes until they are ready to be all together.
They all have shelter in the winter; a roof over their heads.
As I was walking with Earl I asked him if he gave tours. He said he did not because he did not want germs and contamination in his farm. I felt lucky that he took me to see it. All I could think of was that you really had to love it; it is really so much work.
A resurgence of wanting better foods; away from over processed foods, I am hoping that give these farmers the opportunity to stay in business.
I read food labels all the time. Have to since there are food allergies and health issues in my household. It is just incredible to read some of the ingredients, dies and preservatives in the simplest of foods.
I really enjoyed talking to the Warrens. A plan for the not too distant future is homemade ice cream. I can’t wait!!!
Note: I had to get some info. from Wikipedia….
January 14th, 2012
 Rehoboth Beach Enjoying your long week-end? You have to admit that even though it was a bit chilly; it still has been one beautiful day. Looking to have breakfast or brunch in Rehoboth on Sunday? Then, check my list because there are plenty of our local restaurants that serve one or another, or both.
Breakfast vs Brunch? I really don’t have a preference. I am not too much of a breakfast person; a bold cup of coffee is what I crave in the a.m. Breakfast gives you fuel to endure the day, though. Brunch is a complete different animal. It is a meal between or instead of breakfast or lunch.
A typical brunch is between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.; late morning. I think brunch is all about how leisure you can be. Socializing and indulgence come to mind.
This is the Second Season in Rehoboth Beach. Some restaurants have taken a well deserved rest; but the following are open and ready to make you feel at home.
Jam Bistro by Eden is located at 21 Baltimore Ave. They will be serving Brunch starting at 11:30 a.m. Tel. 302-226-5266.
Cafe Azafran Rehoboth is located at 18 Baltimore Ave. They will be serving Breakfast starting at 8 a.m. Tel. 302-227-8100.
Sole Rehoboth is located at 44 Baltimore Ave. They will be serving Brunch starting at 10:30 a.m. Tel. 302-227-7107.
The Gallery Espresso is located at 70 Rehoboth Ave., in the 1st Street Station. They serve Breakfast and even have some vegan and gluten free fare. Tel. 302-231-2113.
Purple Parrot is at 134 Rehoboth Ave., and they will be serving Breakfast. 302-226-1139.
Summer House is located at 228 Rehoboth Ave., and they will be serving Brunch starting at 11 a.m. Tel. 302-227-3895.
Crystal is located at 620 Rehoboth Ave. They will serve Breakfast all day. Tel. 302-227-1088.
The Point is located at 722 Rehoboth Ave., where Rt 1 meets 1A. They serve Breakfast and plenty of baked goods all made in-house. Tel. 302-260-9234.
Nage is located at 19730 Coastal Highway, 1 mile south of Midway Movies and across from the Gap Outlet. They will be serving a Brunch from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. 14 items for $14, Bloody Marys and Mimosas. Wine Bar is open all day.
Bethany Blues located at 618285 Coastal Highway will be serving Sunday Football Brunch from 11 until 4 p.m. Tel. 302-644-2500.
And after your breakfast or brunch, why not take a walk on our beautiful Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk?
Enjoy your stay in Rehoboth Beach!! Talk to you later…..
January 13th, 2012
If you are visiting the Delaware Beaches you will be surprised to find out that there is plenty to do. Being that it is a Holiday Week-End, we are expecting lots of visitors in town enjoying what, we, residents take for granted. If you are visiting, check this out.
Rehoboth Beach
Friday, 1/13 – Artist’s Exhibit – Works on Canvass at MIXX located at 26 Baltimore St. from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. It is open to the public. Artist? Geri Dibiase from Geri Dibiase Photography, Lewes, Delaware.
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 1/13-1/15 - The Rehoboth Beach Film Society is presenting at the Bellmoor Inn, located at 6 Christian St., a 3-part analytical film series that explores aspects of the human experience. Each film includes a post-screening discussion.
The first film to be screened on Friday will be the Visitor at 7 p.m. On Saturday, the next film will be As it is in Heaven at 2 p.m. and on Sunday, The Fisher King will finish the series at 2 p.m.
Admission will be $13 for RBFS members and $15 for the general public. Complimentary snacks and a cash bar will be available prior to each screening.
Friday, 1/13 – Jakes Seafood located at 19178 Coastal Highway (Rt.1) will have entertainer, Dave Sherman, from 6 – 9 p.m., performing vocals and acoustic guitar; playing favorites from the 60s, 70s, 80s and a little country, as well.
On Saturday, 1/14 Jakes Seafood will be the venue for Decades Dancing Party, starting at 9 p.m. Kick off your heels and dance the night away to the 50s, 60s, and 70s. No cover!!
Friday, 1/13 – Every Friday at Nage Bistro & Wine Bar, local artists, acoustic music from 7 p.m. in their Wine Bar. Nage is located right on Rt. 1 at 19730 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach.
Lewes
Friday, 1/13 – Bethany Blues will be the venue for Sydney’s Music Revival – Opening Event for the New Season 1/13 until 5/25 on Fridays at 8 p.m.
Tonight, Friday, The Larry Tucker Band will be playing old and new school R & B with a strong Motown influence. They are also considered a big time party/dance band. This is their first appearance at Bethany Blues.
Bethany Blues is located at 618285 Coastal Highway. Tel. 302-644-2500.
Saturday, 1/14 – 18th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade – Celebrate the legacy from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Savannah Rd. and Second St. in downtown, historic, Lewes.
Saturday, 1/14 – Zwaanendael Museum is hosting “Savory Sussex”. Stop by the Museum located on 102 King’s Highway, from 2 to 4 p.m. to hear Chef Jay Caputo, owner of Espuma and Porcini House in Rehoboth, provide entertaining commentaries on local flavors of Sussex County. This is the 4th talk on a 7 part, monthly, series of programs on the unique and delectable local flavors of Sussex County, Delaware. For more information and seating availability, please call 302-645-1148.
Have a great week-end!!
January 12th, 2012
Once I started thinking about them, coffee in hand, out the door I went to find the perfect doughnut.
I found it, but I knew they were there all along; hot cake doughnuts, made to order while you wait.
The Fractured Prune originally started in Ocean City, Maryland, back in the 70’s. The Fractured Prune in Rehoboth Beach is a franchise. Jody and Diane Smith are the owners and operators of this popular doughnut shoppe. And, that is one of the secrets of a successful doughnut shop; the owners work the shoppe and make sure that perfect, hot, crispy doughnut comes out of the fryer just the right way.
You cannot miss The Fractured Prune. The building has bold colors and a catchy sign. It is located at 20214 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Tel. 302-227-0747. Website? www.fracturedprune.com. Even though it is a franchise, The Fractured Prune is independently owned and operated.
The dough is homemade, as well as all the glazes and toppings. You create the doughnut and they will make it for you.
I found the doughnut to be the perfect size. When you bite into it, it is crispy; the cake inside melts in your mouth. I was telling Diane doughnut shoppes are happy places; people don’t even mind the wait.
Diane and Jody invited me to make some of the doughnuts. So there I was waiting for them to go into the fryer, then flip, and finally coming out. Then, glazes and toppings.
From right to left these were the doughnuts “we” made: Carnival, French Toast, Smores, Strawberry Cake, Banana Nut Bread and Apple Pie.
Believe me, the doughnuts are good on their own, without any glazes. The flavor and texture are superb. Diane says she puts cheese, at times, on hers.
The secret is that the doughnuts are hot and out of the fryer. The glazes and toppings are light. The Fractured Prune also has one good cup of coffee, as well.
Jody gave me the Sand Doughnut and I would go back for this one every day. It had a light honey glaze with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. I didn’t even feel guilty.
A popular dessert item is the “Hole in One”. This is a hot doughnut of your choice topped with one scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
The Fractured Prune also has bagels and breakfast sandwiches. Besides coffee, they also serve orange juice, milk, frozen smoothies, and other cold beverages.
The shoppe is fun, bright; perfect for birthday parties, and groups. Call them if you would like to set something up.
Their winter hours are week-ends. Another holiday week-end starts tomorrow, Friday. They will be open.
Jody and Diane are a husband and wife team, making beautiful doughnuts in Rehoboth Beach. Really, they are….talk to you later.
January 10th, 2012
 Best Table on the Beach...Venus in Dewey Winter is the perfect opportunity to learn to cook. Cooking is not hard…don’t rush it…savour it. One of the most fun days I had over a year ago was when a few of us went to one of the cooking classes offered by Big Fish Grill. We had so much fun. I even ventured to fillet the fish…why was it so hard when it looked so easy?
So, What’s Cooking? Read on…
Abracadinner Cooking Classes – By Personal Chef Kris Etze. Class sizes range from 4 to 8, depending on the topic and “hands on” projects. Each class will last approx. 90 minutes to 2 hours. Cost? $55 per individual class. Enroll in 4 and get the 5th class free. Additional fees may apply toward food and supplies. Class size is limited.
Tasting will be included; a light lunch in Kris’ kitchen.
Pre-register by calling 302-945-2610, faxing your info to 302-945-4153 or you may e-mail Kris at chef@abracadinner.com. Leave your name, email address, phone number, topic and date of class. All fees are due in advance. Mail your check to Kris Etze, 22393 Holly Oak Lane, Lewes, DE 19958. Driving directions, registration info, and anything you might need to bring will be sent by e-mail.
Kris has different classes with the first one starting on Saturday, 1/14. This class will be Chowdah Central…Winter is the best time to prepare a chowder. To me, it calms the winter blues and warms my soul.
Next class will be on 1/28 – Thai It Up! The flavors of Thailand.
Kris is offering cooking classes all the way into March. For a complete schedule and more information, please visit http://www.abracadinner.com. Abracadinner is also on Facebook.
Nage Rehoboth – I have not been to Nage in such a long time. They have been a recipient of my figs in years past. Come to think of it, a post is needed on this popular Rehoboth restaurant. Nage is located at 19730 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach, DE. Tel. 302-226-2037. Website? www.nage.bz/cooking_Classes_in_Rehoboth.htm.
Nage will be offering 5 Cooking Classes. The first one will be on Saturday, 1/21. The topic will be Healthy and Flavorful Cooking Class. The next one will be on 2/18 with Hearty Winter Soups and Stews Class.
Better yet, just visit the website because each class is clearly explained.
In each class you will be exploring food and drink with the chefs of Nage Rehoboth. There will be an informal demonstration with lots of interaction with the instructor. A tasting, a booklet of the recipes from the class and even a meal shared with the instructor.
You will need to register and pay for the classes in advance. All reservations will be handled online. You may also pay online, as well.
Big Fish Grill – This is the only cooking class I have attended. The one that was so much fun. Their classes begin with a tour of the restaurant. Cooking classes feature menu items from the Big Fish Grill and Summer House.
There will be classes on February 4th and 18th, March 3rd , 17th and 31st, and April 14th and 28th. Call 302-227-3474 to sign up. For more details, please visit www.bigfishgrill.com.
So, what are you waiting for? Call a couple friends and make it fun!!
January 8th, 2012
I am never at a loss of words, but tonight nature left me speechless….
The Delmarva Peninsula is occupied by most of Delaware and portions of Maryland and Virginia. It is almost 180 by 60 miles. It is also bordered by the Chesapeake Bay on the West, and on the East, by the Delaware River, Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
It is basically a year-round resort with a quieter second season. January and February are probably the most subdued months and even though in the past couple of years we have gotten a fair amount of snow, so far, and I hope I am not speaking too soon, it has just been a most beautiful time of the year. So many visitors enjoying what this area is best known for; the beaches, restaurants, shops, the outdoors, and that relaxed atmosphere we all look forward to when we get away from our daily routines.
I had to drive from Rehoboth to the Salisbury airport. It is a convenient regional airport about 1 hour away. It was funny because it was mid afternoon and I mentioned to my son how beautiful the area looked. He nodded but that was it. I kept asking; don’t you love the marshes, and the bay and such wide open spaces? He agreed but not with the same excitement I was experiencing.
Driving back to Rehoboth I started noticing how pretty the sunset was going to be. It was now about 5 p.m. I drove to Rehoboth on Coastal Highway and was checking out our soon to open new Indian River Inlet Bridge when I noticed the Moon. Turned back and went on the beach and the pictures tell the time of the day; still light with the moon out and then the changes until I reached Rehoboth. I was totally speechless and in love with nature and the whole scenery.
Coastal Highway is a great beach road and a most scenic one; Rehoboth Bay on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other.
I was not the only one thinking the same thing. I saw people stopping and getting their cameras out. A young woman did just that; we both were taking pictures of Silver Lake in Rehoboth Beach.
Believe it or not I was on my way to Giant. I wanted to make chicken soup. That had to wait; stopping to enjoy the views was a priority.
If you were at the Beaches tonight I am sure you saw the same thing…..just priceless…
December 31st, 2011
I woke up so early and rushed out to see if I could get a glimpse of a sunrise on the last day of the year. Too cloudy; oh well.
I decided then that a visit to the downtown Rehoboth Beach bakeries would be the thing to do. Come New Year’s Day full of 2012 resolutions that will go out the window the moment you see what the bakeries will have; sticky buns, danish, muffins, cupcakes, donuts, breads….wash it down with a cup of coffee; I like it bold, not regular.
The Bake Shoppe is located at 222 Rehoboth Avenue. Tel. 302-226-0176. It will open at 6:30 a.m. This bakery has been in Rehoboth Beach for so many years. They are known for their traditional Polish Babkas. The pictures do not lie; check them out and start drooling.
 Babkas 
 
 
The next bakery I visited was Pasqualini’s Bakery located at 375 Atlantic Ave. Tels. 302-227-2111, 302-227-1086. Website? www.pasqualinis.com.
They will be opening on New Year’s Day from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Please note that all baked goods will be 1/2 off. They will be closing until March.
   
Cake Break is one of the much loved bakeries in Downtown Rehoboth Beach. It is located at 7 South First St. Tel. 302-260-9264. Website? www.cakebreakrehoboth.com. You can find Cake Break on Facebook and Twitter. They will be opening New Year’s Day at 8 a.m.
Cake Break is a nut free facility. If you have a nut allergy then you will have no worries. They offer gluten free and vegan cupcakes, as well.
  
   
Thanks for the coffee Debbie!!
My last stop was The Point. This is a Coffee House and Bake Shoppe, located at “the point” where route 1 meets 1 A. It is 722 Rehoboth Ave. Extended. Tel. 302-260-9734. The Point will be opening on New Year’s Day at 7 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Coming in my eyes took off to the case with all the baked goods…..The Point bakes everything in-house and most of the coffees are also roasted in-house. Plenty of seating to relax.
They offer all the sweet stuff like sticky buns, cinnamon buns, made to order waffles, biscotti, croissants, artisan breads and birthday and holiday cakes, as well.
  
Espresso, capuccino, frappes, smoothies and more. Local King’s Ice Cream. Free-Wi-Fi and parking. Order to go or stay awhile.
My latte was delicious and thanks Tom for a very nice treat; a biscotti.
Just enjoying my latte when a gorgeous quiche came out of the kitchen. For lunch they offer salads, sandwiches and soup, as well.
To the gentleman from New Jersey that I talked his ear off….it was nice meeting you.
And to all of you?….Happy New Year….Much health and prosperity and time to enjoy it all!!!
December 30th, 2011
This Holiday Season has been a beautiful one in Rehoboth Beach. Last year it seemed that all we did was dig ourselves from one winter storm after another; this year? Walks on the beach, fairly warm for the time of the year. So many visitors.
Rehoboth has a great Boardwalk, perfect for early morning walks. Just this week we enjoyed such a walk, right after Christmas. Just make sure that you do just like the locals and natives do; touch either end of the Boardwalk. Don’t ask me why; an accomplishment perhaps?
 South side of the Boardwalk If you are visiting Rehoboth Beach and are looking for a breakfast hangout with some good home cooking, then, Crystal would be the perfect choice. It is located at 620 Rehoboth Ave. Tel. 302-227-1088. They serve breakfast all day long, among other things. Full bar, as well.
So, after eating, so much for Christmas Eve, Christmas morning…my kitchen was then closed.
Crystal was our choice. The restaurant is simple and the service is great. Everyone was hungry and this is what they ordered.
Eggs Benedict with Crab …. it was overflowing with crabmeat. There were sides of home cooked fries and bacon.
A Spanish Omelette …. a large portion with plenty of Spanish sauce.
Eggs Benedict Florentine …. another well received breakfast.
Traditional fried eggs …. my sister in law thought they were delicious.
Then, I did not know what to order. I am never that crazy about breakfast. I was still full from the night before. But, I ordered granola with Greek yogurt and fruit. It was a large bowl but I loved it. The granola had it sweetness; the Greek yogurt was perfect. The fruit was delicious; I felt healthier.
I then stopped our server and asked her to bring me a side order of scrapple, well done; crispy. It really was so good. Not a great combination of foods but it hit the spot.
On New Year’s Day as you wake up and think of some of the absurdities of the New Year’s Eve celebrations, this might be the place for you.
Have a Good One!! Talk to you later.
 
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