November 12th, 2011
Is that time of the year when getting colder up north means that you are either a Snowbird or a Snowflake. I think I am in the category of the Snowflake. The snowflakes just come and go. Don’t get me wrong, I like cold weather, within reason. But, the other day I saw that someone had written on Facebook, where else? I love it when it gets cold up north. It was from someone that had a business in South Florida. And, yes, the season has begun. The airports are a little crowded, reservations are a most in some of the most sought after restaurants. You know the drill, right?
When I opened my computer I saw that even though it is going to warm up during the day…38 degrees in Rehoboth Beach….hmmmm this post was then much needed.
I have been in Delray Beach now since 2003. You have heard me go on and on about how unobstructed the beaches are here. No tall buildings, just a few things are needed to enjoy the beach; the water with beautiful color and it is so clear. That’s what originally attracted me to this town. Also, it reminded me of Rehoboth Beach, my home.
When my husband I first came here, we were sitting at a restaurant having breakfast and we picked up a real estate magazine. We thought we would just look around. That started a relationship with Cheran Tauriello from Tauriello & Co., located at 900 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL. 33483. Tel. 561-278-5570. Toll free # 877-509-8300. Brokers of Record & Owners: Daniel & Sue Tauriello
They have been so easy to work with. They are very professional. In Delray Beach for so many years; they know the community, neighborhoods and the company deals with a wide variety of properties.
I have suggested them to friends, as well. And my own personal feelings are that I have not had to look anywhere else. They really have been very good to us.
Tauriello & Co. is one of my advertisers. To go directly into their site, click on their website on the right hand side of this blog.
Anita Jennings Designs – I have known Anita for so many years. She is from my Humacao, Puerto Rico. That’s where I grew up. And, I found her in Delray when we bought our place. Anita is a one woman show with many years of experience in design. She is also very easy to work with and speaks several languages. Her telephone is 561-278-7473. She is one of my advertisers, just click on her website on the right hand side of this blog to go directly into her site and see what she is all about.
 Atlantic Ave. going East Beach House Management – Michael Keegan is the Property Manager that I have used since 2003. Being out of town, having a property management company to take care of your place is not a luxury, but a necessity. I have to laugh because when you visit Beach House Management’s website, you will find a list of services provided by them. If I had to tell you the services Michael has provided for us, there would be no end. Many are listed there but the majority are not. Some funny and some not so funny.
I always say that I cannot live without him; it is still true. Beach House Management is located in the heart of Delray Beach. Call Michael at 561-376-4329. Website? www.MyBeachHouses.com. Fax: 561-330-6204. Or, email him to BeachHouseMgmt@aol.com.
Beach House Management is also one of my advertisers. You can just click on their website and you will be right there. They really have been constant and attentive and great to deal with.
I don’t think I had to beg them to become advertisers; well, maybe a little. Word of mouth, a blog, a website….it all helps.
So, what are you waiting for?…..talk to you later….
November 11th, 2011
I kept looking for information on needlepoint; what I should have been looking for was “needlework”, which is the generalized term when one does not know what she or he is talking about. Needlepoint refers to a particular set of stitching techniques worked upon stiff openwork canvases. What I did not know was that there are different types of canvases; Mono, Penelope, Interlock, Rug and Plastic.
I have friends whose hobbies include needlework. I see them working so hard but then just a little patch is accomplished. It seems like it takes a long time to finish a “work of art”. I also notice that they seem to be so relaxed. Some take it to the beach; others work on it while they are watching t.v., or when they are traveling.
A gift given by someone that has spent so much time is really cherished. One time my husband received a belt made specially for him and to this day he still loves it.
So, when I saw the new stitching company on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach I decided to stop. I am stopping for all those friends that love this hobby. Or, for the ones that are visiting and would like to take something home. Or, even for the ones like me that might want to try something new and outside the comfort zone.
Stitches by the Sea, Inc. is located at 710 East Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33483. Tel. 561-865-5775 Fax: 561-865-5959 e-mail: judi@stitchesbythesea.us. Judi Alweil is the proprietor of this shop.
I think you will feel like you have hit the jackpot when entering Stitches by the Sea. The first thing you will notice is how friendly Judi is. Judi is a consummate professional. She has been in the business for so many years in New York. She is now making South Florida her home. Even though she opened this new shop just a few weeks ago, she still has a wholesale business in New York, called Judi & Co. You can visit www.judiandco.com. This is a needlepoint and design company.
Judi and I talked and talked. I told her that I would not be offended in the least if she wanted to correct me when my post was published. Or, if she wanted to add something to what I said.
I noticed all the canvases she has throughout the stores. Some are from her own company, Judi & Co. and others are by different artists and designers.
Canvases may be stitch-painted, meaning each thread intersection is painted in such a way that the stitcher has no doubt about what color is meant to be used at that “intersection”.
 
Wool, silk, cotton or combinations like wool-silk blends are the threads used for stitching. Other fabrics can also be used like metallic cords, metallic braids, ribbons and raffia. Stitches by the Sea has an extensive collection of all of them. Since Judi has been in the business for such a long time, she has her contacts and she can get anything you might need, that is not at the store, in a short period of time.
I noticed the Long Legged Lady; stitched separately and then put together. She was so cute.
She also has a collection of needlepoint bags. She can give you the guidance you might need; start to finish.
There are also bags that can be custom designed for you. After you finish you needlepoint the bag can be made just for you, as well.
Classes will be held in December and January. Please call Judi at 561-865-5775 for more info.
In one of those classes you will be able to knit a bag like this one (sort of), which is made with raffia.
Oh, I almost forgot….Judi told me that her Judi & Co. was featured in Oprah and also on Terry Trucco’s NY Times column. Being acknowledged in such a way was great… a boost to her business.
Judi has also written a book called Ribbon Knits, Designs to Knit and Crochet. You can get it through her wholesale company or on Amazon.
Judi mentioned that her customers are happy and satisfied with her company. That the “business” is a friendly business and they all pretty much know each other. Refreshing, don’t you think?
If you are in Delray, just stop by…the shop is on Atlantic Ave. near the Intracoastal….besides Judi you might also meet Dick, her husband, that at times is there to help. The shop is closed Sundays and Mondays, otherwise, Tuesdays through Saturdays they are there from 10:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Have a good one!!…talk to you later…you know I will.
November 10th, 2011
Practically every restaurant located on trendy Atlantic Avenue in the Village by the Sea, also known as Delray Beach has outdoor dining; so conducive to relaxed chatting; some of them with more comfortable seatings than others.
Vic & Angelo’s has premiere outdoor seating. Those chairs are, definitely comfortable and on a day with low humidity and plenty of sushine it is the place to be.
Vic & Angelo’s is located at 290 East Atlantic Avenue. Tel. 561-278-9570. Website? www.vicandangelos.com. By the way, the website has menus, specials, and events, so make sure you check it.
Three of us for lunch. Roberto was our server. Friendly and very attentive. Before I get more into the post, I do want to thank him for taking such good care of us.
Vic & Angelo’s is very open and the decor is bright and fun. Since they occupy a corner on Atlantic Ave., they are able to have a large open bar on one side and on the other, the outdoor seating takes place under a canopy.
 
I was thirsty. Some had wine but I had a Passion Fruit unsweetened tea. Nice and refreshing.
Bread was brought to the table; more like a flat bread with a hint of garlic, parmesan and herbs. Very nice.
Wings were ordered. These wings were Coal Oven Sicilian Chicken Wings, which were first marinated in rosemary, garlic and lemon juice; oven baked, therefore less fat. Rosemary, Chilies, Aged Parmesan, Olio Verde, and Onions. These and the ones at Bru’s Room, also in Delray, are by far the best wings ever.
V & A Caesar Salad – Romaine Hearts, Hand shaved Reggiano and White Anchovies. Again, those white anchovies make an appearance with a Caesar Salad and they are so mild and delicious. Great homemade Caesar dressing.
A Veal Picatta was ordered which had artichokes, capers and a lemon jus. Veggies on the side. My husband thought it was really really good.
Too satisfied to have dessert, we decided to have some espresso with a little twist of lime.
Thanks V & A for sending us some delicious Lemoncello.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later…
November 10th, 2011
 From Varietai, Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach So much going on at the Delaware Beaches for this Veteran’s Day week-end celebration. The lure of the beach is magical; you feel at peace; the salty air and a slower pace during the Second Season is what’s bringing visitors to the Delaware Beaches. You can be as busy or as lazy as you want.
Big week-end with the Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival, which has been in existence since 1998. 100 of the best American and international films; features, documentaries, and shorts. The best part is that all films are shown at one, multi screen location; Movies at Midway Complex in the Midway Shopping Center located on Route 1. You cannot miss it.
In the back of the movies you will find what I call a Happening Tent. Tickets, Information, Food, Drinks and the making of new friends. They start early in the a.m. and stay past the last films. The website? http://www.rehobothfilm.com/festival.
I try to collect the poster that represents the film’s theme. This year’s poster is so neat. Nine artists submitted their work, capturing film and the coastal area. “Harvest Moon” by Damon Pla, a self-taught artist, is an acrylic on canvas and he was the winner. Even though he was born in South Florida, his residence is Dagsboro, Delaware.
Friday, 11/11 – Tribute to Veteran’s Day by the Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival. The CAMP Rehoboth Chorus will be performing tunes from the 40’s in the Big Tent behind the Movies at Midway at 11:11 a.m.
Within the Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival you will find the films called Regional. These films represent the Mid-Atlantic Region. Look for the following ones:
Friday, 11/11 – An Evolving Legacy; Delaware’s Coastal Zone Act (The Storm of ’62), Director, Michael Oats.
Saturday, 11/12 – Vanishing Voices – A Documentary of the WWII Regional Veterans, Writer and Director, James Diehl
Saturday, 11/12 – The Dish and the Spoon, filmed in Rehoboth Beach by Philadelphia Filmmaker, A. Bagnall.
Sunday, 11/13 – Cafeteria Man – A documentary of Baltimore School District – By Baltimore Filmmaker, Richard Chlosolm. A look at his own district and a desire for better Cafeteria food in his district.
Sunday, 11/13 – Howard Pyle & The Illustrated Story – This is the history, artistry and rise of this amazing artist, by Wilmington Filmmaker, Paul Mento.
Howard Pyle was one of the most popular illustrators and storytellers. He was born in Wilmington, Delaware on 3/15/1853 and died on 11/19/1911 at the age of 58. He was influenced by such masters as Winslow Homer and N.C. Wyeth.
You will find an Exhibit at the Delaware Art Museum – Howard Pyle: American Master Rediscovered – American Artist and Illustrator Howard Pyle 1853-1911. The Exhibit will begin 11/12/11 and will be there until 3/4/12.
The Delaware Art Museum is located at 2301 Kentmere Pkwy., Wilmington, DE. Tel. 302-571-9590. Website? http://www.delart.org/home.html.
“The Delaware Art Museum was originally founded in 1912 to preserve and exhibit the art of Howard Pyle, following his untimely death on 1911.” The exhibit will be the beginning of a celebration of the Delaware Art Museum’s first 100 years; 1912-2012.
Saturday, 11/12 – 2012 Mrs. Delaware Pageant at 7:00 p.m. at Clear Space Treatre Co., located at 20 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach. Jennifer Behm, winner of Gordon Ramsay’s “Master Chef”, Season 2 will be hosting the pageant. Tickets at the door are $25 for 11 years and up, $10 for 4 years to 10 years old; 3 years old and under are free. More info? Please call 302-228-7741 or visit www.mrs.delawareamerica.com.
Looking for a restaurant with parking and within close distance of the Movies at Midway? You don’t want to miss your films. Then, I suggest Saketumi located at 18814 Highway 1 (Rt. 1). Tel. 302-645-2818. Website? www.saketumirestaurant.com. I visit this restaurant all the time. It is a considered modern Asian cuisine. A variety of dishes to choose from but I love their sushi and sahimi; outstanding taste and presentation. They open for lunch and will stay open late for dinner, as well.
Take a look at what I had the last time.
Crispy Calamari and Spicy Tuna – Fried calamari, scallions, spicy mayo and tuna tata on the top, with sweet nitsume sauce.
Tuna Sashimi Roll – Silki tuna sashimi, no rice, wrapped with Japanese daikon with pickled ginger and baby sprouts.
Make sure to ask for fresh Wasabi; you won’t be disappointed.
Have a great time!! Talk to you later…
November 9th, 2011
The other day I was looking at how pretty the trees were turning in back of my house. The colors were so brilliant. As pretty as they have been, I know, that leaf clean-up is a never ending task and it is around the corner.
Every time, and I mean every time I travel Route 50 from Rehoboth Beach to Baltimore or Washington, it never fails, I stop at Harris Crab House. I don’t really know anyone there. At times maybe a server or two.
Harris Crab House is located at Kent Narrows Way in Grasonville, Maryland. I never say Grasonville. I always refer to that area as Kent Island. Telephone? 410-827-9500. Website is www.harriscrabhouse.com.
This is a short post. Nice, sweet and to the point. Harris Crab House has the advantage of being on the water. The views are gorgeous. In good weather you can eat outdoors. Visit the website for all kinds of specials. You can also order on-line.
I feel good when I am eating these delicious steamed clams. I am not ashame to admit it, but they do have plenty of melted butter.
The oysters, ice cold and salty!!
The view? Well, I just told you….it is priceless!!
Note: All you can eat Oyster Buffet on Friday nights….
Talk to you later…
November 9th, 2011
Among the shops that line up Main Street in the historic town of Berlin, Maryland you will find a new shop called NEST. This shop is only new to the Main Street area but NEST has now been in business for some time. Change of location but same concept.
NEST is located at 11 South Main St., Berlin, Maryland, 21811. The location is right across the street from the new Chamber of Commerce. Tel. 410-629-1030. E-mail nest.berlin@gmail.com. It opens Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sundays from 12 Noon until 4 p.m.
Just like all the other shopkeepers that abound in Berlin, Dee, welcomes you with a nice smile. Throughout the shop you will find niches of vintage treasures, local art, housewares, home accents, and decorative items.
There is a lot to take in, so make sure you take your time in strolling through her shop. Dee is more than willing to inform you where each piece has come from in detail, whether it is an antique or a work of art.
NEST is a definitely an eclectic store; you can find surprises in every corner.
 
Dee is also known for her artistic talents. I saw that in the store already some of her Old World Santas have made an appearance. These santas are handsculpted by Dee. She uses dry clay; the faces are painted in acrylic. They are collectibles and very much sought after. Vintage fabrics are utilized for their clothing, as well. Call the store for more information or if you would like to place an order.
 
Dee is a seamstress, as well. She makes colorful aprons with contrasting fabrics that are really cute. Custom bags are on display at NEST, as well. They have great fabric color combinations and textures; the patterns and colors changing with the seasons.
As I was chatting away, earrings caught my eye. Vey cute and made by Lex.
This is the perfect time of the year to stroll through Berlin. There is something about it….yes, it is pretty!!
Have a great day!!
November 8th, 2011
“Menu planning meetings begin, in fact, with a good bottle of wine; its taste providing inspiration for new menu items.” corks
When I first came to live, permanently, in the U.S. I first made my home in Baltimore, Maryland. This city has wonderful neighborhoods; some very historic neighborhoods, indeed. Federal Hill is one of them. It is to the south of the city. A lot of the buildings are in the Federal Hill Historic District and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can see the neighborhood from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.
Federal Hill has lots of popular, retail, dining and entertainment venues. It is the perfect urban living, having all these options within walking distance to all who make this unique neighborhood home.
So, I asked myself; Who would’ve “thunk” it?? I found myself in Sobo, at Corks, a bistro, well known for its steaks, and I ordered Crispy Deep Fried Chicken. But, guess what? It is Chef Pellegrino’s favorite too. Then, not a bad choice.
Corks is located at 1026 South Charles Street. Tel. 410-752-3810. Website? www.corksrestaurant.com.
I did not know about this restaurant, or even its chef; but leave it to my sister in law, Susie, to find the perfect eatery for a Sunday dinner in Baltimore.
Its Executive Chef and Owner is Jerry Pellegrino. He was the first person we saw as we entered the bistro. You see, the kitchen is located right at front. He had the widest smile and my husband asked “I hope you have something gluten free for me?” His answer was “Anything you want.” Music to our ears!! So, when they say that first impressions count…..
We were seated in the back part of the restaurant. It was very cozy; paintings on the wall, an extensive wine collection was in plain view and a comfortable bar, as well.
The menu has something for everyone. I cannot imagine you not being able to find something to your liking. So these were our choices.
For appetizers:
Susie had the Corks’ Grilled Caesar. Romaine, Parmesan Cheese and White Anchovies. It looked great. White anchovies are one of my favorites, having discovered them in Spain many years ago.
My husband had the Grilled Calamari. Oven dried tomato, Kalamata olive and Sheep’s cheese. When I tell you that these were the most tender calamari, I am not kidding. If you like calamari, well at times they are a little chewey. I asked Chef Pellegrino how could he get them so tender. He said they are fresh. Nothing frozen.
Mine was so good. I am always attracted to a dish that incorporates beets. Roasted beets and apples, walnuts and Maytag Blue with a delicious sherry vinaigrette.
Our waiter, David, told me that the portions were generous. He was not kidding.
Entrees:
Susie ordered the Petite Filet Mignon (6 oz). The steaks at Corks come with mashed potatoes and creamed spinach. The creamed spinach had a sweetness to it.
My husband’s choice was the same thing with the addition of seared Hudson Foie Gras on top. He thought it was very good, as well.
My generous portion of Crispy Deep Fried Chicken was a sight to see, with spicy cole slaw and fries. First I tasted the fries and thought that if he had a stand at the beach with these fries we could wipe out the competition. The slaw was the perfect side dish for the chicken and the fries. It was light with a nice kick to it. The chicken was gorgeous and it tasted as good as it looked. So moist and tender.
Sweet Endings?, or, as they called it at Corks “Final Thoughts”. I wished I could have, but it will have to be another time.
Corks opens every day of the week. The bar stays open late. Brunch on Sundays from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
There are plenty of events where you can taste Chef Pellegrino’s specialties. You can also meet him by attending his cooking classes. Every event is on the website, above mentioned.
Thanksgiving Menu is up and you can attend from Noon until 6 p.m. Call for reservations.
Want to organize your own class? Then, e-mail Jerry at jerry@corksrestaurant.com. You will need a minimum of 8 friends.
Corks has quality of ingredients, culinary competence, service and good prices. The service was attentive; not intrusive, the ingredients, fresh, and the culinary competence, well, Chef Pellegrino is the “main event”.
Talk to you later…have a good one!!
November 6th, 2011
Hmm…I did not know that there was a National Capuccino Day on November 8th. A little friend sent me an e-mail and told me that you could get Free capuccino on Tuesday only at Saquella Cafe in Boca Raton and at Prosecco Cafe in Palm Beach Gardens. Both restaurants are owned by Chef Avi Sekerel. They feature yummy baked goods, refreshing salads, inventive sandwiches, flat breads, wonderful gelatos and a variety of entrees, as well.
Saquella is located at Royal Palm Place, 410 Via de Palmas, Boca Raton, Florida. Tel. 561-338-8840. Like it on Facebook at facebook.com/saquellacafe.
Prosecco Cafe is located at PGA Commons, 4580 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Tel. 561-622-3222. Like it on Facebook at facebook.com/proseccocafe.
To get a free cappuccino, at either restaurant on November 8th, diners just need to come in, that day, and say “I love Capuccino”. You can receive one cappuccino from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. Additionally, diners can join the VIP Club, for either or both of these restaurants, by texting the word Saquella or the word Prosecco to 91944, to receive special offers, like the free cappuccino, on their phones.
The word Cappuccino, means little hood in Italian. The cappuccino was first created in Italy. This soul-satisfying coffee drink is derived from an Italian order of monks, known as the Capuchins, whose hoods resembled the drink’s frothy color and shape. It is prepared with espresso, hot milk and a topper of froth. Cappuccino is enjoyed throughout the day or evening.
This promotion from Chef Avi is a way to say thank you to all of the loyal customers, as well as hello to all of the cappuccino enthusiasts in the community.
Please note that both of these restaurants are proud of being No Fry Zone and everything is made from fresh, high quality ingredients with an emphasis on local purveyors.
So…if you decide to go let me know how that cappuccino was…..thanks to Sharon for your information regarding this promotional event. Have a good one…talk to you later….I do love cappuccino…in the evenings, I get a decaf.
By the way, like AboutMyBeaches on Facebook, while you are at it. Thanks!!
 
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