Ice cream is one of the most beloved desserts in the world, and that is why I’m happy to celebrate with you in July the National Ice Cream Month: A Celebration of Sweetness and Joy!

The earliest known ice cream recipes were created in China in 7th century AD. These recipes used a mixture of milk, rice, and snow. Over time, ice cream spread to other parts of the world, and different cultures developed their own unique flavors and recipes.

In the United States, ice cream became popular in the 18th century. The first ice cream parlor in America opened in 1776, and by the 19th century, ice cream was a common treat. Today, ice cream is one of the most popular desserts in the world, and it is enjoyed by people of all ages.

National Ice Cream Day is celebrated the 3rd Sunday of July and was first proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, and it has been a beloved holiday ever since. This is also a month to raise awareness of the dairy industry. Dairy farmers work hard to produce the milk that is used to make ice cream, and National Ice Cream Month is a great way to thank them for their efforts.

Here are some important facts about Ice Cream:

• The average American consumes about 23 gallons of ice cream per year.
• The most popular ice cream flavor in the United States is vanilla.
• National Ice Cream Month is a great month to give back to the community. Many ice cream companies donate a portion of their proceeds from National Ice Cream Day to charities.

To celebrate one of the most loved desserts in the world, I share with you the 5 most popular ice cream flavors in the United States and their drinks perfect pairings:

Vanilla: is the most popular ice cream flavor in the United States, and it has been for many years. The rich and creamy flavor of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the bold and robust flavor of coffee. The light and refreshing flavor of sparkling wine pairs perfectly with the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream. Champagne is also a classic pairing for vanilla ice cream, and for good reason. The delicate bubbles of the champagne cut through the sweetness of the ice cream, and the two flavors complement each other perfectly. And finally, tawny port is a sweet wine that is made from grapes that have been aged in oak barrels. The oak aging gives the wine a complex flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream.

Chocolate: is another classic ice cream flavor that is very popular in the United States. It is a rich and creamy flavor that is perfect for chocolate lovers. A cup of hot coffee is the perfect way to offset the sweetness of the ice cream, and the two flavors complement each other beautifully. The bold and robust flavor of coffee cuts through the richness of the chocolate ice cream, making for a more balanced and satisfying dessert. A rich, dark red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon can be a great pairing for chocolate ice cream. The tannins in the wine help to cut through the richness of the ice cream, and the fruity notes of the wine complement the chocolate flavor. A dark chocolate liqueur, such as Godiva or Kahlua, can be a delicious way to pair with chocolate ice cream. The liqueur adds a richness and depth of flavor to the ice cream, and the sweetness of the liqueur balances out the bitterness of the chocolate.

Strawberry: is a refreshing and fruity flavor that is popular in the summer. The light and refreshing flavor of sparkling rosé pairs perfectly with the sweet and tart flavor of strawberry ice cream. The bubbles in the wine help to cut through the richness of the ice cream, and the fruity notes of the wine complement the strawberry flavor. A strawberry daiquiri is a delicious and refreshing cocktail that is made with strawberry puree, lime juice, rum, and simple syrup. The sweet and tart flavors of the daiquiri complement the sweet and tart flavors of the strawberry ice cream, and the rum adds a touch of complexity to the dessert. Champagne is also a classic pairing for strawberry ice cream. The delicate bubbles of the champagne cut through the sweetness of the ice cream, and the fruity notes of the champagne complement the strawberry flavor.

Cookies & Cream Ice Cream: is a delicious combination of chocolate cookies and creamy vanilla ice cream. A milkshake is the classic pairing for cookies and cream ice cream. The creamy sweetness of the milkshake complements the cookies and cream flavor of the ice cream, and the milkshake is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. The rich and creamy flavor of cookies and cream ice cream pairs perfectly with the bold and robust flavor of coffee. A cup of hot coffee is the perfect way to offset the sweetness of the ice cream, and the two flavors complement each other beautifully. A dark beer, such as a stout or porter, can be a delicious pairing for cookies and cream ice cream. The roasted malt flavors in the beer complement the cookies and cream flavor of the ice cream, and the carbonation in the beer helps to cut through the richness of the ice cream.

Mint chocolate chip: is refreshing and minty, while the chocolate chip waffles provide a warm and crispy texture. The two flavors combine to create a dessert that is both cool and comforting. The coffee’s bitterness helps to balance out the sweetness of the ice cream, and the mint flavor in both the ice cream and the coffee creates a refreshing and invigorating effect. Sparkling water. The bubbles in the sparkling water help to cut through the richness of the ice cream, and the light flavor of the water doesn’t overpower the ice cream’s flavor. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, you could try pairing mint chocolate chip ice cream with a mojito or a mint julep. The mint in the cocktail will help to bring out the mint flavor in the ice cream, and the alcohol will give the dessert a bit of a kick.

So, what are you waiting for? Go out and enjoy some delicious ice cream today! Whether you prefer your ice cream in a cone, a bowl, or a sundae, there’s sure to be a drink perfect pairing out there that you’ll love. Indulge your sweet tooth and celebrate National Ice Cream Month in style!

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you Delicious Wishes, xo

Denise

The post National Ice Cream Month appeared first on Savor Our City.

Did you know that July 17th is National Piña Colada Day?!? Well if you didn’t, now you do!!! It is a day dedicated to honoring the tropical flavors and refreshing goodness of the Piña Colada cocktail. 

The Piña Colada is a delicious blend of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice. The year is 1954. Ramón “Monchito” Marrero is a bartender at the Caribe Hilton Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He is a talented mixologist with a passion for creating new and innovative drinks. One day, he is experimenting with different ingredients when he comes up with a delicious blend of pineapple juice, coconut cream, and white rum. He calls the drink the Piña Colada, which means “strained pineapple” in Spanish.

The Piña Colada is an instant hit with guests at the Caribe Hilton. It is the perfect drink for the tropical climate, and it is a delicious combination of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors. Soon, the Piña Colada is being served in bars and restaurants all over Puerto Rico.

Today, the Piña Colada is a delicious and refreshing drink that perfectly captures the spirit of the Caribbean. It became a beloved drink all over the world,

This celebration offers the perfect excuse to gather with friends or family and enjoy this delicious cocktail, that is why I share with you a Piña Colada home recipe and a perfect pairing for each meal to enjoy with a Piña Colada.

Here is a home recipe for piña colada:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice

• 1/4 cup coconut cream

• 2 ounces white rum

• Ice cubes

Instructions:

In a blender, combine the frozen pineapple chunks, pineapple juice, coconut cream, rum, and ice cubes. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into glasses and garnish with fresh pineapple, maraschino cherries, and paper umbrellas (optional).

Tips: For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut cream. If you don’t have frozen pineapple, you can use fresh pineapple, but you will need to add more ice cubes to the blender. You can adjust the sweetness of the piña colada by adding more or less coconut cream. To make a virgin piña colada, simply omit the rum.  Enjoy!

For breakfast: 

Waffles with fruit: Waffles are a classic breakfast food that can be topped with fresh fruit, such as pineapple, strawberries, mango, or banana. The sweetness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the piña colada. Pairing it with a piña colada is a great way to start your day. The tropical flavors of the cocktail will transport you to a beachside paradise, even if you’re stuck at home.

For lunch:

Grilled fish tacos: The sweetness of the piña colada pairs well with the savory flavor of the fish. The grilled fish also adds a touch of smoke to the dish, which helps to balance out the sweetness of the cocktail. Pairing it with a piña colada is a great way to enjoy a tropical treat in the middle of the day.

For dinner: 

Grilled chicken or tofu: The grilled chicken or tofu provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the piña colada. The grilled flavor also adds a touch of smoke to the dish, which helps to balance out the sweetness of the cocktail.  Pairing it with a piña colada is a great way to enjoy a tropical treat at the end of the day.

So, on National Piña Colada Day, raise your glass and toast to the refreshing and tropical flavors of this beloved cocktail. Let the Piña Colada transport you to a state of blissful relaxation and remind you of the joys of summer. Cheers to National Piña Colada Day!

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you Delicious Wishes, xo

Denise

The post July 17th – National Piña Colada Day appeared first on Savor Our City.

In honor of National Egg Month, Here are five egg recipes and their perfect wine, cocktail, and beer pairings: Let us know if you try any of the recipes and what you think! We’d love for you to post and tag us on your social media accounts and let us know if you want to see anymore great egg recipes.

Classic Eggs Benedict: This breakfast staple features poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce on an English muffin. The perfect wine pairing for this dish would be a dry and acidic white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A classic Bloody Mary cocktail with its bold and spicy flavors can also be a great pairing. For beer, a light and crisp Pilsner or Lager can complement the flavors of the dish.

Shakshuka: This popular Middle Eastern breakfast dish features eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce. The perfect wine pairing for this dish would be a fruity and aromatic red wine such as Grenache or Zinfandel. A spicy and herbaceous Margarita cocktail can also be a great pairing. For beer, a light and crisp Wheat Beer or Belgian Wit can complement the spicy and tomato flavors in the dish.

Quiche Lorraine: This classic French dish combines eggs, cream, cheese, and bacon in a flaky crust. The perfect wine pairing for this dish would be a light and crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. A classic French 75 cocktail with its mix of gin, lemon juice, and champagne can also be a great pairing. For beer, a light and refreshing Pilsner or Lager can complement the richness of the dish.

Huevos Rancheros: This Mexican breakfast dish features fried eggs on top of a tortilla with beans, cheese, and salsa. The perfect wine pairing for this dish would be a fruity and spicy red wine such as Tempranillo or Malbec. A refreshing and herbaceous Paloma cocktail with its mix of tequila, grapefruit juice, and soda can also be a great pairing. For beer, a light and crisp Mexican Lager or Pale Ale can complement the spicy and tomato flavors in the dish.

Scotch Eggs: This British pub snack features hard-boiled eggs wrapped in sausage and breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown. The perfect wine pairing for this dish would be a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. A classic Whiskey Sour cocktail with its mix of whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar can also be a great pairing. For beer, a bold and malty Brown Ale or Amber Ale can complement the richness of the dish.

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you Delicious Wishes, xo

Denise

The post May – National Egg Month appeared first on Savor Our City.

Hello Foodie Friends,

Did you know that April 12th is National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day?!? Well if you didn’t, now you do!!! Being the CFO (Chief Foodie Officer) and the CWO (Chief Wine Officer) of Savor Our City, I though it would be nice to combine my knowledge and passion for both food, wine and spirits and create a series of blog posts dedicated to “Perfect Pairings”. This is one of the many culinary experiences we offer for small – mid size groups in private settings. Our most requested Perfect Pairing experience is with wine of course but we also can create a tequila, bourbon or craft beer PeWhat wine pairs best with a grilled cheese sandwich? Grilled cheese sandwiches are typically made with bread, butter, and cheese, which can make for a rich and buttery flavor profile.

The best wine to pair with a grilled cheese sandwich would depend on the type of cheese used. Here are a few options: Chardonnay: If the grilled cheese sandwich is made with a rich and creamy cheese such as brie or camembert, a Chardonnay with its buttery and oaky notes can complement the flavors of the cheese and the butter in the sandwich. Pinot Noir: A lighter-bodied Pinot Noir can pair well with a grilled cheese sandwich made with mild and nutty cheese like Gruyere or Emmental. The acidity and fruitiness of the wine can balance out the richness of the cheese and butter. Zinfandel: A grilled cheese sandwich with spicy or smoked cheese like pepper jack or smoked cheddar can pair well with a bold and spicy Zinfandel. The wine’s bold and fruity flavors can complement the smokiness of the cheese and balance the heat. Rosé: A dry Rosé can pair well with a grilled cheese sandwich made with a lighter and tangy cheese such as goat cheese or feta. The wine’s light and refreshing fruit flavors can balance the tanginess of the cheese and the richness of the butter. Ultimately, the best wine to pair with a grilled cheese sandwich will depend on personal preference and the type of cheese used in the sandwich.

What cocktail pairs best with a grilled cheese sandwich? A grilled cheese sandwich is typically a rich and savory dish, so a cocktail that can complement or contrast with those flavors would pair well. Here are a few options: Bloody Mary: A classic Bloody Mary can pair well with a grilled cheese sandwich, especially if the sandwich has a bit of spice to it. The tomato juice and spices in the cocktail can complement the flavors of the sandwich. Old Fashioned: A classic Old Fashioned with its mix of bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, and bitters can balance out the richness of the sandwich and add a touch of sweetness. Margarita: A Margarita with its blend of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec can be a refreshing complement to a grilled cheese sandwich, especially if the sandwich has a bit of spice to it. Negroni: A Negroni with its blend of gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari can be a bold and complex cocktail that pairs well with a rich and savory sandwich. Ultimately, the best cocktail to pair with a grilled cheese sandwich will depend on personal preference and the specific ingredients and flavors used in the sandwich.

What beer pairs best with a grilled cheese sandwich? A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic comfort food that pairs well with a variety of beer styles. Here are a few options: Brown Ale: A malty and nutty Brown Ale can be a great complement to the richness of the cheese in a grilled cheese sandwich. Amber Ale: An Amber Ale with its caramel and toffee notes can pair well with the buttery flavors in the bread and cheese. American Pale Ale: An American Pale Ale with its hoppy bitterness and citrus notes can cut through the richness of the cheese and add a bit of brightness to the pairing. Belgian Dubbel: A Belgian Dubbel with its dark fruit and spicy notes can complement the nuttiness of the cheese and add a layer of complexity to the pairing. Porter: A Porter with its dark chocolate and coffee notes can be a great pairing with a grilled cheese sandwich made with a strong cheese like cheddar or Gouda. Ultimately, the best beer to pair with a grilled cheese sandwich will depend on personal preference and the specific ingredients and flavors used in the sandwich.

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you Delicious Wishes, xo

Denise

The post April 12th – National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day appeared first on Savor Our City.

Today’s blog post comes courtesy of Savor Our City’s  Emily Shea.

Food halls are one of the fastest-growing dining trends of the last decade— and for good reason! Originating in Europe and Asia, the food hall trend has reached the states and has proven to be ever-popular. Picture an elevated food-court concept, offering a diverse array of cuisine and cultures.

The Time Out Market in Miami is one such food hall, located in a unique and modern building on the corner of Drexel Avenue. In 2019, the

17,000-square-foot hall was launched with space for 17 kitchens, 3 bars, a demo kitchen, and a video wall. Since it’s opening, Time Out Market has opened food halls in Chicago, Montreal, New York, and Boston.

In 2020, Time Out Market Miami closed due to Covid. They reopened a year later with expanded seating and restaurant space. Although some restaurants had to pack up shop during the closure, many new restaurants have opened up in their place. Here are some of the dining options available to you during a visit to Time Out Market Miami:

Azucar – Homemade Cuban Ice Cream

Benito’s Cafecito – Coffee & Pastries

Chick’N Jones – Modern Fried Chicken

Clyde’s Caribbean – Trinidadian Cuisine

King Patty’s – Jamaican Cuisine and Patties

La Santa Taqueria – Tacos & Quesadillas

Lur – Spanish Tapas & Basque Gastronomy

Necessary Purveyor – Artisanal Sandwiches

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ui=2&ik=9167a1ecfb&attid=0.2&permmsgid=msg-f:1729837900082490700&th=18019e67b16cad4c&view=att&disp=safe&realattid=f_l1v1xfio4Pho Mo – Vietnamese Cuisine by Phuc Yeah

Plants & Bowls – Salads, Smoothies, & Bowls

Square Pie City – Detroit-style Pizza

Yu Me – Japanese Cuisine by Chef Hiro-San

33 Kitchen – Peruvian Cuisine by Sebastian Fernandez

In addition to the restaurants listed above, a full-service bar sits in the center of the market. A booth called “Tunes” features live artists, musicians, and DJ’s most nights of the week. The wide array of food and drinks available is guaranteed to make Time Out Market a must-visit while dining in Miami. It’s a great place to try a bunch of different dishes, often prepared by up-and-coming chefs who can’t yet afford their own brick & mortar restaurant. So, if you’re interested in trying something new, Time Out Market is the place to go!

Parking is available in an attached garage. Be sure to save your receipt from the Market, as a parking discount is offered to all who patronize the hall. Dogs are welcome in the large outdoor seating area at the Market.

The post A Break From The Norm: A Look Inside Time Out Market, Miami Beach appeared first on Savor Our City.

Today’s blog post is brought to you by our dear friend Annette Morejon from Flavors of Miami

Walking into this inviting and chic spot in City Place Doral, you get a sense of what’s to come.

The colorful décor with illuminated bottles at the bar, a communal table with swings as chairs, and the open kitchen concept allow for perfect Instagram moments as your backdrop for an evening out! The menu, which is now available with a QR code, offers so many delightful things to choose from that it is super hard to settle on just one thing!  Lucky for us, many of the plates are shareable and the y even offer ceviche in two sizes, so you can sample more than one during your dining experience. By the way, I found their pricing to be so extremely reasonable for the high-quality menu items they offer.

Their slogan “Peruvian with an Asian Kick” says it all. I sampled several of their signature dishes during my visit which were full of flavor, freshness, and appeal. I was also surprised to learn of their superb Happy Hour specials, offered every day of the week (Monday to Friday between 3 and 7 pm, and weekends 12 to 7 pm), where you can order $4 beers, $5 drinks and ceviche for only $7!

So let me share some insights on what I sampled during my visit.  I started with a tasty pineapple pisco sour and two small orders of ceviche, because sampling just one would not have satisfied my craving! The “Shrimp Suviche” Ceviche was my favorite, in its leche de tigre with acevichada, onions, two types of corn and served with plantain chips. It was refreshing and oh so flavorful!  I could have had three of these orders! I also tried the “Mahi Mahi Aji Amarillo” Ceviche, which was similar but with crushedyellow peppers added to the mix, also delicious and so extremely fresh! As an appetizer, or Brain Food as they call it, (Yes, I know… wasn’t the ceviche the appetizer? I was hungry!), they brought out an order of “Bang Bang Shrimp”, with a perfectly crispy breading, covered in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. This was a mouth-watering appetizer that can easily be shared with 2 or 3 people. I am still craving this days later!

Next, for my main course, or “Mindbombs” from their menu, I tried the Pescado a Lo Macho with seafood on top.  This creamy aji amarillo sauce was the perfect topping for this wild caught fish that was lightly breaded and served over white rice. It was a very healthy helping which I could not finish and took home to enjoy the next day! Of course, I did have to try their suspiro limeño, one of my favorite desserts!  Theirs did not disappoint, served in a cute jam-type jar and a bruléed meringue on top.  It was perfect!

Also, it is worth mentioning that parking is easy and plentiful at this Doral location, with free 2-hour parking in a covered lot. The service was friendly and quick, which can be difficult to find these days!  A shout out to Gelvin, my server, and the manager, Brandon, for all of their great recommendations and exceptional service.

I couldn’t have said this better myself about SuViche in Doral, quoting their website, “Experience a culinary mindbomb through a variety of beautifully crafted and explosively flavorful sushi rolls, ceviches and other Peruvian specialties, always featuring the freshest of ingredients.” The SuViche Doral City Place is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal and a fun night out on the town without breaking the bank!  It is great for a group of friends, family and even a date night with your significant other. I can’t wait to head back and try other tempting items from their menu, including their creative sushi rolls and causas. Buen provecho!

SuViche has several locations, to find the one closest to you, click here. 

DORAL CITYPLACE

3450 Nw 83rd Av, Suite 148 Doral, FL 33122   786.598.8696

Monday – Friday 11:30 to 11:00pm Saturday – Sunday 12:00pm to 11:00pm Happy Hour Monday – Friday 3:00pm to 7:00pm Weekends 12:00pm to 7:00pm

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post The SuViche Experience in City Place Doral appeared first on Savor Our City.

Today’s blog post comes from one of Savor Our City’s very own, Emily Shea.

Food halls are one of the fastest-growing dining trends of the last decade— and for good reason! Originating in Europe and Asia, the food hall trend has reached the states and has proven to be ever-popular. Picture an elevated food-court concept, offering a diverse array of cuisine and cultures.

The Time Out Market in Miami is one such food hall, located in a unique and modern building on the corner of Drexel Avenue. In 2019, the 17,000-square-foot hall was launched with space for 17 kitchens, 3 bars, a demo kitchen, and a video wall. Since it’s opening, Time Out Market has opened food halls in Chicago, Montreal, New York, and Boston.

In 2020, Time Out Market Miami closed due to Covid. They reopened a year later with expanded seating and restaurant space. Although some restaurants had to pack up shop during the closure, many new restaurants have opened up in their place. Here are some of the dining options available to you during a visit to Time Out Market Miami:

Azucar – Homemade Cuban Ice Cream

Benito’s Cafecito – Coffee & Pastries

Chick’N Jones – Modern Fried Chicken

Clyde’s Caribbean – Trinidadian Cuisine

King Patty’s – Jamaican Cuisine and Patties

La Santa Taqueria – Tacos & Quesadillas

Lur – Spanish Tapas & Basque Gastronomy

Necessary Purveyor – Artisanal Sandwiches

Pho Mo – Vietnamese Cuisine by Phuc Yeah

Plants & Bowls – Salads, Smoothies, & Bowls

Square Pie City – Detroit-style Pizza

Yu Me – Japanese Cuisine by Chef Hiro-San

33 Kitchen – Peruvian Cuisine by Sebastian Fernandez

In addition to the restaurants listed above, a full-service bar sits in the center of the market. A booth called “Tunes” features live artists, musicians, and DJ’s most nights of the week. The wide array of food and drinks available is guaranteed to make Time Out Market a must-visit while dining in Miami. It’s a great place to try a bunch of different dishes, often prepared by up-and-coming chefs who can’t yet afford their own brick & mortar restaurant. So, if you’re interested in trying something new, Time Out Market is the place to go!

Parking is available in an attached garage. Be sure to save your receipt from the Market, as a parking discount is offered to all who patronize the hall. Dogs are welcome in the large outdoor seating area at the Market.

Time Out Market is open everyday starting at 12pm and closes at 10pm (11pm on Fri and Sat eves).

You can visit their website for more info.

Until we eat (and drink) again…

We send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post A Break From The Norm: A Look Inside Time Out Market Miami appeared first on Savor Our City.

Today’s post is from our guest contributor Jesse Clark

Image via Unsplash

Going on a great trip away from home comes with many benefits. It’s a chance to take a break from the demands of business, relax, broaden your perspective, learn more about yourself, and so much more. However, while many people struggle with whether it will be beneficial or being too busy to travel, one of the top reasons people don’t travel is due to a tight budget. It’s true, travel can be expensive. But if you plan ahead and use money-saving strategies, you can go on a magnificent, rejuvenating trip without draining your bank account.

For those who want to travel without abandoning their budget and business responsibilities, consider these tips from Savor Our City.

Be open-minded and flexible.

When you book your trip, be flexible. Keep an open mind about your destination and travel dates. You can often find special deals on flights to certain vacation spots, and even if it’s a place you weren’t considering before, it might turn out to be the perfect getaway.

Also, spend some time on booking sites to observe the price differences on roundtrip flights regarding the days of the week. For instance, flying Tuesday to Tuesday — or even Saturday to Saturday — is typically much cheaper than flying Friday to Sunday. Moreover, you can save a significant amount of money by traveling during the off-season or shoulder season.

Opt for a vacation rental.

Unless you know people who live at your destination and they’ve opened their home to you, you will need to book a place to stay. While hotels come with many different perks, vacation rentals are simply a better all-around option for extended stays.

When you go through a hosting service like Airbnb, you can expect to have nice, clean accommodations. Plus, there will probably be more space to spread out, you’ll be able to comfortably cook your own meals, and you’ll have exceptional privacy. Oh, yes, and it’s a lot less expensive than staying at a hotel.

Lighten your workload.

One obvious way to reduce stress levels and ensure you can enjoy your downtime is to reduce your work obligations. Unfortunately, this is often easier said than done. These days, though, there are terrific services popping up that can help you with all sorts of business tasks.

Take a routine chore like filing the annual report for a business. Any entrepreneur can tell you that this is a must-do, yet nobody relishes the day they need to pull together all their data, then organize it and file a report with the state. You can simply pass this project on, though, through affordable services like ZenBusiness.com. They offer personalized dashboards to tend all the details your state requires of your company, will compile the data, and then file the report on your behalf. By leaning on a service that has all the bells and whistles to take care of chores like these, you can focus your time, money, and energy on your relaxing getaway.

Change your wireless plan.

This one is essential because it can save you hundreds of dollars: get an international wireless plan before you leave for your trip. Roaming charges can do a number on your budget, and a good long-distance plan will enable you to talk to friends and family while protecting you from unexpected hikes in your monthly bill. Also, consider switching to unlimited data, which will save you from steep overage charges while allowing you to use your phone for navigation, web browsing, social media, and other tasks.

You don’t have to empty your savings to take an awesome trip. Use savings opportunities and rent a car so that you can go where you want, when you want. Opt for an unlimited data plan to protect yourself from hefty fees, and be flexible with your destination and travel dates. Finally, ditch the hotels and go for a vacation rental for a more cost-effective stay.

Until we eat again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post You’re Never Too Busy to Travel — And Save Money in the Process appeared first on Savor Our City.

Today’s post is courtesy of our guest contributor Jesse Clark

How to Travel Safely on a Foodie Vacation in Florida

For over a year, foodies have been forced to either make their own culinary creations at home or grab meals as takeout from favorite restaurants. They have missed the joy of traveling to a destination to enjoy new dishes and flavors that tantalize their taste buds. Florida is always a popular vacation spot for those who love to eat a variety of delicious food such as seafood, ethnic dishes, or fresh vegetarian delights. Here is how you can safely make a culinary trip to The Sunshine State a reality!

Book Your Reservations

The state of Florida is open and ready for visitors! Your favorite restaurants and new ones to explore are operating at full capacity. Museums, retail shops, and entertainment facilities are fully open for your enjoyment as well. It is wise to book your hotel and restaurant reservations as early as possible as spaces in the most popular Florida destinations fill up quickly.

Treat yourself to a unique experience by reserving a South or Central Florida food tour with Savor Our City. Various options are available, including progressive or multicourse meals. For a change of pace, book the History & Culture tour that combines stops at landmarks and museums with meals and snacks at local restaurants and gourmet food shops.

Get the Vaccine

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can safely travel in the U.S. as long as they continue to take the following precautions:

• Avoid crowded areas
• Stay six feet away from strangers
• Wear a mask while traveling
• Wash hands regularly

Consider Flying or Driving to Florida

Travel and medical experts agree it is safe to fly domestically, especially if you book a nonstop flight and wear a mask the entire time. Reserve a seat on an airline that cleans the plane with electrostatic antimicrobial sprays and has HEPA filters running to remove 99 percent of airborne viruses.

If you don’t feel safe flying yet, driving in your own car is relatively safe as well. Health experts recommend avoiding weekend travel and traveling during the week when rest stops and gas stations are less crowded. Bring antibacterial wipes to clean the gas pump buttons and handle before you use them, and sanitize your hands when you are done. Pack your own snacks and drinks and use drive-through lanes to pick up meals whenever possible. Keep a mask with you in case you are in an area that requires them.

If you’re traveling by car, make sure you have an updated smartphone to help plot your trip and find delicious restaurants to eat at along the way. You’ll also want to invest in a wireless charger and screen protector to prevent damage to your phone.

Sanitize Your Hotel Room Surfaces

When you check in your hotel room, it is best to disinfect the room immediately. Use antiviral wipes or a UVC light sanitizing wand to kill almost all the lingering germs found on high-touch surfaces in the hotel room, such as:

• Doorknobs
• Remotes
• Light switches
• Sink and shower handles
• Toilet flush handle and lid

Bring along a portable travel air purifier with a HEPA filter to keep your hotel room clear of airborne germs. These devices are small enough to be set on your hotel nightstand and have enough power to cover the square footage of the average hotel room.

By getting vaccinated and taking these safety precautions, you can safely enjoy a foodie adventure in Florida again. Your tastebuds will thank you for it!

Until we eat again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post How to Travel Safely on a Foodie Vacation in Florida appeared first on Savor Our City.

Like Superman, everyone of us has our own kryptonite, and in my world, mine is bread! I grew up eating sandwiches for lunch and  as my palate matured over the years, I began experimenting in the kitchen coming up with clever new concoctions. I would start of with something basic like a grilled cheese sandwich and then making a few simple tweaks (from upgrading the bread, spreading butter or mayo on the outside of the bread before cooking in the pan, to utilizing a caramelized onion jam)  I was able to elevate that classic sammy into a gourmet masterpiece. Yes, sandwiches are my jam! So when I received an invite to come check out Press Gourmet Sandwiches in Boca, it was a no brainer. The motto at Press Gourmet is every sandwich, every salad, every side is handmade to order with only the freshest, natural, best ingredients. Each sandwich is handcrafted to order. All of their meats are slow roasted to perfection. Chicken is marinated and cooked to order and all sauces and toppings are prepared daily. They consider themselves to be a five-star gourmet experience in a fast casual setting – eat in or take out.

The back story:  It all started at Johnson & Wales University when Rand and Chris met. They noticed from their name tags and they were both commuting from Delray Beach to Miami. So they started to carpool; those rides together to Miami were where their friendship really started. After only a few weeks of carpooling Chris and Rand decided to move into Chris’s apartment near Johnson & Wales University.

In only a few short months they had become best friends living together in Miami. During culinary school Rand and Chris excelled to the top of their class, becoming the go-to guys to get things done.
Every Tuesday, the food trucks would set up on the campus at JWU and serve to all of the students. Chris and Rand became immediately attached to the food trucks, asking all of the owners questions every time they came out. In their heart they knew someday they would open up a food truck of their own.

Soon after, Rand was asked to work as a sous chef for a husband of one of his professors. He was a private chef to the rich and famous in Miami. It only took one year before the clients asked Rand to be the head chef, at the age of 22. One of the first things that he did was to make Chris his sous chef. This was a time in their lives that they would never forget. Chris and Rand were living half the year in Miami and the other half in New York City while cooking for the rich and famous.

While in New York, Rand and Chris were living on their client’s yacht. Rand really enjoyed living on the yachs, he said, “because it was like a huge house right on the water, that swayed back and forth with the current, just rocking you to sleep”. One year Chris actually rode the boat up for 4 days to New York City, through the rough seas, while still cooking all of the food for the crew. Let’s just say he probably won’t be taking a boat across the country anytime soon!

After three years of being private chefs Rand and Chris caught the entrepreneurial bug. They received so much praise for the food, from some of the most important people in the country. They knew they wanted to bring their food to the masses, but they didn’t quite know how to start a business. So Chris and Rand left their jobs as private chefs to head to Chris’ family’s company, Uncle Giuseppe’s, a chain of Italian supermarkets. While at Uncle Giuseppe’s, Rand and Chris were taught the importance of food costs, business smarts, and the ability to scale larger while remaining consistent with the food throughout different locations.
So they headed back to Florida to start their own business. The location of the first restaurant caused arguments, as they just weren’t sure where to put it. That was when they thought back to when they were in culinary school and the food trucks would come every Tuesday. Rand and Chris thought very hard about what their next move would be. They decided to start a food truck as a proof of concept and to find the best locations for the eventual restaurants to come. They called it Miami Press Gourmet Sandwiches Food Truck. The concept quickly took off, as the Miami Press Food Truck became one of the top trucks in South Florida. It was a dream for Chris and Rand to be able to serve their great food to the masses. They knew that if they used good fresh and local ingredients and prepared the food to order that they would always have people wanting to eat their food.

While the truck was taking off, Rand got the opportunity to go on Food Network and compete in a reality competition cooking show. The show is called Food Truck Face Off, the show is a mix between The Great American Food Truck Race and Chopped. Rand brought one of he and Chris’s signature dishes, the Mac’n Cheese Ball. He won the competition, bringing the spotlight to the Mac n’ Cheese Balls and the already well-known Miami Press Food Truck. The lines became even longer as their food truck became more and more popular by the day.

As the success out grew the food truck, Chris and Rand finally knew it was time to open up a Press Gourmet Sandwiches Restaurant. Press Gourmet Sandwiches, or PGS for short, is a fast casual sandwich restaurant serving pressed sandwiches. All of the sandwiches are made to order from scratch and pressed on ciabatta bread until crispy on top and soft in the middle. It’s made with all fresh and local ingredients.

Press Gourmet Sandwiches has two locations, one in Ft. Lauderdale and one in Boca Raton. They are open Mon – Sat 7am – 8pm, closed Sundays. For more info, check out their website.

Until we eat again…

I send you delicious wishes, xo

Denise

The post Press Gourmet Sandwiches appeared first on Savor Our City.