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| Ask Chef Judi |
Have a question about food, cooking or dining out in Sarasota? Just ask Judi Gallagher, a restaurant consultant, longtime chef, TV personality and our contributing food and wine editor. Please post your question below and Judi will give you the straight dish, whether it’s on how to get a great sear on a steak, which new spaghetti sauce to buy, or where to find the dessert of your dreams in Sarasota.
Posted By: Paula G on 6/17/08
Question:
We've been looking for a way to refill our supply of spices from the Bad To The Bone seasoning company, which you wrote about in your blog years ago. We're addicted to the one called "Black Trash." We heard they'd sold, but can't find anything or anyone who knows where they are. Can you help?
Answer:
I love their seasoning, too. I found them recently at the Jewish Food festival selling their new line. Try calling 941-359-8386.
Question:
We've been looking for a way to refill our supply of spices from the Bad To The Bone seasoning company, which you wrote about in your blog years ago. We're addicted to the one called "Black Trash." We heard they'd sold, but can't find anything or anyone who knows where they are. Can you help?
Answer:
I love their seasoning, too. I found them recently at the Jewish Food festival selling their new line. Try calling 941-359-8386.
Posted By: Evan on 6/14/08
Question:
I am making seared ahi tuna as a main course and am wondering which wine I should pair it with? I like drier white wines and I've heard that riesling and pinot grigio go especially well with tuna, but I have also heard chardonnay goes well. Some of the ingredients I will be cooking with are lime, garlic, sesame seeds, soy, ginger, and cilantro. What would you recommend?
Answer:
What time is dinner? I'll be right over! Looking at your flavor profile, I see an Asian theme, so as a starter I suggest some fresh spring rolls (order ahead of time from Morton's Market), chicken satay or pan fried dumplings. With tuna, especially with the distinct flavors of cilantro and sesame, I prefer a sweeter white like a riesling. A bit out of the box is to serve champagne with a light tuna dish- especially if the tuna is not spicy. Since I am a red wine drinker, though, I very often serve a light pinot noir such as Cambria with tuna.
Question:
I am making seared ahi tuna as a main course and am wondering which wine I should pair it with? I like drier white wines and I've heard that riesling and pinot grigio go especially well with tuna, but I have also heard chardonnay goes well. Some of the ingredients I will be cooking with are lime, garlic, sesame seeds, soy, ginger, and cilantro. What would you recommend?
Answer:
What time is dinner? I'll be right over! Looking at your flavor profile, I see an Asian theme, so as a starter I suggest some fresh spring rolls (order ahead of time from Morton's Market), chicken satay or pan fried dumplings. With tuna, especially with the distinct flavors of cilantro and sesame, I prefer a sweeter white like a riesling. A bit out of the box is to serve champagne with a light tuna dish- especially if the tuna is not spicy. Since I am a red wine drinker, though, I very often serve a light pinot noir such as Cambria with tuna.
Posted By: Sharon on 4/12/08
Question:
What fine restaurants are now having dinner specials or early dining or post-snow-bird dining specials. What are your top five favorite restaurants to go to for a special occasion?
Answer:
Well Sharon, there are many prix fixed menus to chose from. First off, aAs you mentioned, Fleming's is having a spring prix fixed menu that is 3 courses and will run every night until June 24. Entree choices include blue-cheese topped filet mignon, braised short ribs (melt in your mouth) and tempura shrimp. There is a lot of food, so be prepared to take home the leftovers for the next day-$33.95. Don't forget Fleming's also offers a prime rib Sunday special as a complete meal year round; it even includes that scrumptious chocolate lava cake! Harry's Continental Kitchen offers a four-course prix fixed for $38 through the month of April, and Euphemia Haye has just announced their May dining special that begins officially on May 4. Euphemia Haye will offer a prix fixed in the Loft only from Sunday through Thursday for $34.00 per person; wine pairings available at an additional charge Roy's offers a three-course prix fixed menu year-round that changes seasonally for $35 and is offered 7 days a week Cafe Italia, Ophelia's on the Bay and Cosimos usually offer a dinner for two menu in the offseason as well. Also, check out SavorSarasota.com, the Sarasota Vsitor's Bureau-sponsored restaurant week that offers incredible dinners for $25 at almost 30 different restaurants. I try to avoid the famous, "what are your favorite restaurants- in part because I have a restaurant consulting company and some of my favorites happen to be my clients as well. I think a safe bet is to read Best of the Best coming out in the May issue—bon appetit!
Question:
What fine restaurants are now having dinner specials or early dining or post-snow-bird dining specials. What are your top five favorite restaurants to go to for a special occasion?
Answer:
Well Sharon, there are many prix fixed menus to chose from. First off, aAs you mentioned, Fleming's is having a spring prix fixed menu that is 3 courses and will run every night until June 24. Entree choices include blue-cheese topped filet mignon, braised short ribs (melt in your mouth) and tempura shrimp. There is a lot of food, so be prepared to take home the leftovers for the next day-$33.95. Don't forget Fleming's also offers a prime rib Sunday special as a complete meal year round; it even includes that scrumptious chocolate lava cake! Harry's Continental Kitchen offers a four-course prix fixed for $38 through the month of April, and Euphemia Haye has just announced their May dining special that begins officially on May 4. Euphemia Haye will offer a prix fixed in the Loft only from Sunday through Thursday for $34.00 per person; wine pairings available at an additional charge Roy's offers a three-course prix fixed menu year-round that changes seasonally for $35 and is offered 7 days a week Cafe Italia, Ophelia's on the Bay and Cosimos usually offer a dinner for two menu in the offseason as well. Also, check out SavorSarasota.com, the Sarasota Vsitor's Bureau-sponsored restaurant week that offers incredible dinners for $25 at almost 30 different restaurants. I try to avoid the famous, "what are your favorite restaurants- in part because I have a restaurant consulting company and some of my favorites happen to be my clients as well. I think a safe bet is to read Best of the Best coming out in the May issue—bon appetit!
Posted By: Jessica on 3/2/08
Question:
We recently arrived at Mediterraneo at 5:30 on a Monday night- there were about 5 diners there in all and we asked for a 4-top vs. a 2-top for more room and were told sorry- have to keep the 4-tops for bigger parties than two! We were insulted and hurt by such rude behavior. Do you feel the same? Is there someone I can complain to at the restaurant? Two lovely women wanting a bite and a wine and early enough not to matter.
Answer:
I must agree that I prefer a larger table, too. It is, however, high season and perhaps the larger tables were booked. My guess is that at 5:30 they should have accommodated two people with no problem. I suggest you call and ask for the general manager and explain the situation. Sometimes a young host or hostess has not been trained properly on simple acts of service and accommodations. See how the manager handles it to make your decision whether you should give them another try- the pizza is well worth it
Question:
We recently arrived at Mediterraneo at 5:30 on a Monday night- there were about 5 diners there in all and we asked for a 4-top vs. a 2-top for more room and were told sorry- have to keep the 4-tops for bigger parties than two! We were insulted and hurt by such rude behavior. Do you feel the same? Is there someone I can complain to at the restaurant? Two lovely women wanting a bite and a wine and early enough not to matter.
Answer:
I must agree that I prefer a larger table, too. It is, however, high season and perhaps the larger tables were booked. My guess is that at 5:30 they should have accommodated two people with no problem. I suggest you call and ask for the general manager and explain the situation. Sometimes a young host or hostess has not been trained properly on simple acts of service and accommodations. See how the manager handles it to make your decision whether you should give them another try- the pizza is well worth it
Posted By: Vicki G on 2/21/08
Question:
Hi Judy, Could you please tell me who might help me find the recipe for Luna Lava which is a green vegetable mixture sold at Lun'a Restrauant in Venice, Fla., it is very hot and very delicious !!!!
Answer:
I always say go to the source. Have you called Luna's and asked for their recipe? Often restaurants are happy to share but may alter it just slightly...good luck!
Question:
Hi Judy, Could you please tell me who might help me find the recipe for Luna Lava which is a green vegetable mixture sold at Lun'a Restrauant in Venice, Fla., it is very hot and very delicious !!!!
Answer:
I always say go to the source. Have you called Luna's and asked for their recipe? Often restaurants are happy to share but may alter it just slightly...good luck!
Posted By: on 01/04/08
Question:
We'll be in Siesta Key next week-can you recommend a fabulous restaurant that serves fish and also has vegetarian options and is a celebration or good atmosphere?
Answer:
Two places come to mind right away-one is Ophelia's-pricey but elegant and creative cuisine by chef Dan Olson. There's also Javier's. Although no view, the room is comfortable with lots of plants and no one makes better Bananas Foster than Javier! The ceviche is amazing and if you call ahead they might make something very special that is vegetarian as well.
Question:
We'll be in Siesta Key next week-can you recommend a fabulous restaurant that serves fish and also has vegetarian options and is a celebration or good atmosphere?
Answer:
Two places come to mind right away-one is Ophelia's-pricey but elegant and creative cuisine by chef Dan Olson. There's also Javier's. Although no view, the room is comfortable with lots of plants and no one makes better Bananas Foster than Javier! The ceviche is amazing and if you call ahead they might make something very special that is vegetarian as well.
Posted By: Becky H on 12/26/2007
Question:
I am looking for a recipe for a very light (not the dense version) Vodka Chocolate Cake.
Answer:
Dear Becky- I did a search and the best recommendation is to use cherry infused vodka for a Black Forest cake. There are many recipes that call for Kirshwasser, but you can substitute the cherry vodka. I am traveling this week but will check my old cookbooks for a good recipe. In the meantime, go on epicurious.com and type in black forest cake and they should have a wonderful recipe-I prefer to frost the cake with homemade whipped cream- enjoy Chef Judi
Question:
I am looking for a recipe for a very light (not the dense version) Vodka Chocolate Cake.
Answer:
Dear Becky- I did a search and the best recommendation is to use cherry infused vodka for a Black Forest cake. There are many recipes that call for Kirshwasser, but you can substitute the cherry vodka. I am traveling this week but will check my old cookbooks for a good recipe. In the meantime, go on epicurious.com and type in black forest cake and they should have a wonderful recipe-I prefer to frost the cake with homemade whipped cream- enjoy Chef Judi
Posted By: Craig H on 12/2/07
Question:
My wife and I will be visiting my Father in Sarasota near the end of April 2008. This visit will coincide with our 10th anniversary. We would love to go out for a memorable meal. Price not necessarily an issue. We honeymooned in Paris and Italy if that gives you any ideas. Really I would just like to knock her socks off. Thank you in advance!!!
Answer:
Well Craig- first let me say Happy Anniversary! A few thoughts for a special night out. Think about hiring the local gondola captain in Sarasota. First take a limo to Galileo restaurant where the Gondola can be waiting in the canal. Let him take you out for a little ride and then a romantic dinner outside. Gallileo is NOT fine dining, but the food is lovely and will give you an Italian flavor. My other suggestion is to consider having a private catered picnic on the beach--perhaps the cuisine of Cafe Bologna (right out of Naples Italy) and some beautiful french cuisine from A French Affair in Gulf Gate-please let me know if you need some contact information regarding your plans.
Question:
My wife and I will be visiting my Father in Sarasota near the end of April 2008. This visit will coincide with our 10th anniversary. We would love to go out for a memorable meal. Price not necessarily an issue. We honeymooned in Paris and Italy if that gives you any ideas. Really I would just like to knock her socks off. Thank you in advance!!!
Answer:
Well Craig- first let me say Happy Anniversary! A few thoughts for a special night out. Think about hiring the local gondola captain in Sarasota. First take a limo to Galileo restaurant where the Gondola can be waiting in the canal. Let him take you out for a little ride and then a romantic dinner outside. Gallileo is NOT fine dining, but the food is lovely and will give you an Italian flavor. My other suggestion is to consider having a private catered picnic on the beach--perhaps the cuisine of Cafe Bologna (right out of Naples Italy) and some beautiful french cuisine from A French Affair in Gulf Gate-please let me know if you need some contact information regarding your plans.
Posted By: Mary T on 11/26/07
Question:
Do you have a recipe for jack Daniels kielbasa?
Answer:
I found this recipe by using my favorite cooking tool via computer search called ask.com Kielbasa (the real stuff, no turkey, no light....) Boil in water 20 minutes to get the fat out. Dry on paper towels ; cool. Cut into large-ish bite sized pieces. In a pan, stir 3/4 cup ketchup, 3/4 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 cup Jack Daniels. Cook on low to med-low. When it's bubbly, add kielbasa. Cook, stirring about every minute or two for at least 45 minutes. (you don't want to scorch it) so it cooks down to a nice saucy consistency. These are great appetizers. However, they are just as good if you make it the day before, keep in the fridge, then heat and serve.
Question:
Do you have a recipe for jack Daniels kielbasa?
Answer:
I found this recipe by using my favorite cooking tool via computer search called ask.com Kielbasa (the real stuff, no turkey, no light....) Boil in water 20 minutes to get the fat out. Dry on paper towels ; cool. Cut into large-ish bite sized pieces. In a pan, stir 3/4 cup ketchup, 3/4 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 cup Jack Daniels. Cook on low to med-low. When it's bubbly, add kielbasa. Cook, stirring about every minute or two for at least 45 minutes. (you don't want to scorch it) so it cooks down to a nice saucy consistency. These are great appetizers. However, they are just as good if you make it the day before, keep in the fridge, then heat and serve.
Posted By: T.M.H. on 11/9/07
Question:
What is the best way for a yankee fan and redsox hater to eat crow. I ate it once in 2004 and it was very tough and hard to swallow. Now it seems I must eat it again and was wondering what the best way was. Seeing as you are a life long redsox fan, you surely have had to eat plenty. Thanks, your friend, Tom
Answer:
Dear Crow eater- Best washed down with Sam Adams accompanied by a cup of New England clam chowder. a side of Boston baked beans and yes a FENWAY FRANK!!!!!!
Question:
What is the best way for a yankee fan and redsox hater to eat crow. I ate it once in 2004 and it was very tough and hard to swallow. Now it seems I must eat it again and was wondering what the best way was. Seeing as you are a life long redsox fan, you surely have had to eat plenty. Thanks, your friend, Tom
Answer:
Dear Crow eater- Best washed down with Sam Adams accompanied by a cup of New England clam chowder. a side of Boston baked beans and yes a FENWAY FRANK!!!!!!
Posted By: DJM on 10/20/07
Question:
Where can 3 adults find a good Thanksgiving dinner with a fish option for one adult? Also looking for ambience and close to Osprey. Thanks.
Answer:
think Ophelia's on the Bay is perfect. Call ahead, (349-2212) to guarantee that they will have fresh fish as an option (no doubt they will have several nice choices). I recommend booking early though- they usually serve over 500 people on Thanksgiving. Not too far from Osprey, and certainly an outstanding view, I think that Ophelia's on the Bay for a holiday dinner is well worth the indulgence. Enjoy, Chef Judi
Question:
Where can 3 adults find a good Thanksgiving dinner with a fish option for one adult? Also looking for ambience and close to Osprey. Thanks.
Answer:
think Ophelia's on the Bay is perfect. Call ahead, (349-2212) to guarantee that they will have fresh fish as an option (no doubt they will have several nice choices). I recommend booking early though- they usually serve over 500 people on Thanksgiving. Not too far from Osprey, and certainly an outstanding view, I think that Ophelia's on the Bay for a holiday dinner is well worth the indulgence. Enjoy, Chef Judi
Posted By: Allison J on 10/10/07
Question:
How can we reach you for information about your restaurant consulting business?
Answer:
Hi Allison, you can email me at judi@judigallagher.com I look forward to speaking with you -Judi
Question:
How can we reach you for information about your restaurant consulting business?
Answer:
Hi Allison, you can email me at judi@judigallagher.com I look forward to speaking with you -Judi
Posted By: Mary J on 10/9/07
Question:
i'm looking for a lemon bar that does not have two layers of crust and some sort of pie filling on top. i bought some lemon bars at a grocery store and they discontinued them. they were rectangular and a mix of a shortbread type cookie and lemon all blended together. they were approximately 1/2" thick. all the recipes i've been able to find are the typical 2 layer bars with the crust on the bottom and the filling on tp.
Answer:
How did you know that I just love lemon bars- but the more tart the better- try calling Gabby's in Osprey on Tamiami Trail. I will do some research for you on a recipe. Best, Chef Judi
Question:
i'm looking for a lemon bar that does not have two layers of crust and some sort of pie filling on top. i bought some lemon bars at a grocery store and they discontinued them. they were rectangular and a mix of a shortbread type cookie and lemon all blended together. they were approximately 1/2" thick. all the recipes i've been able to find are the typical 2 layer bars with the crust on the bottom and the filling on tp.
Answer:
How did you know that I just love lemon bars- but the more tart the better- try calling Gabby's in Osprey on Tamiami Trail. I will do some research for you on a recipe. Best, Chef Judi
Posted By: Alex G on 9/27/07
Question:
I’ve been looking for a restaurant in the Longboat Key/downtown Sarasota area for the rehearsal dinner for my wedding in the beginning of November. My fiancé fell in love with Crab & Fin, but it’s been booked. We’ll be having 35 people for dinner, and it’s hard to find restaurants with a large enough private room. Any suggestions? The clock is ticking!
Answer:
The Bijou just redecorated and they have a wonderful private room for functions. I also noticed that The Columbia has a separate "wine" room in the back of the restaurant—perhaps some bottles of rioja and pitchers of sangria followed by paella and of course, a 1905 salad? Beware of parking, though—a trolley may be best. Another thought is to call Cork and see if you can rent the dining room—it’s small and conducive to a private event. Enjoy—and congratulations!
Question:
I’ve been looking for a restaurant in the Longboat Key/downtown Sarasota area for the rehearsal dinner for my wedding in the beginning of November. My fiancé fell in love with Crab & Fin, but it’s been booked. We’ll be having 35 people for dinner, and it’s hard to find restaurants with a large enough private room. Any suggestions? The clock is ticking!
Answer:
The Bijou just redecorated and they have a wonderful private room for functions. I also noticed that The Columbia has a separate "wine" room in the back of the restaurant—perhaps some bottles of rioja and pitchers of sangria followed by paella and of course, a 1905 salad? Beware of parking, though—a trolley may be best. Another thought is to call Cork and see if you can rent the dining room—it’s small and conducive to a private event. Enjoy—and congratulations!
Posted By: Dee B on 8/28/07
Question:
I can't find the recipe for Chicken Marsala #405!THX
Answer:
You can log on to www.judigallagher.com and click on recipes and click on Gulf Coast cooking and scroll down or you can send an e-mail request to recipes@snn6.com- thank you for watching!
Question:
I can't find the recipe for Chicken Marsala #405!THX
Answer:
You can log on to www.judigallagher.com and click on recipes and click on Gulf Coast cooking and scroll down or you can send an e-mail request to recipes@snn6.com- thank you for watching!
Posted By: Sasha S on 8/20/2007
Question:
Can you suggest a restaurant with an elegant setting, conducive to conversation and fine continental or seafood fare?
Answer:
Thank you for your question. An understated, quiet, French bistro-style restaurant that I love is Morel on Tuttle Avenue. Don't be turned off by the strip mall setting. Once you're inside, you'll enjoy the cuisine, quietness of the room, and the cream of mushroom soup! I would also recommend Pattigeorge's on Longboat Key. The sea bass in lobster broth is wonderful. Enjoy your meal, Chef Judi
Question:
Can you suggest a restaurant with an elegant setting, conducive to conversation and fine continental or seafood fare?
Answer:
Thank you for your question. An understated, quiet, French bistro-style restaurant that I love is Morel on Tuttle Avenue. Don't be turned off by the strip mall setting. Once you're inside, you'll enjoy the cuisine, quietness of the room, and the cream of mushroom soup! I would also recommend Pattigeorge's on Longboat Key. The sea bass in lobster broth is wonderful. Enjoy your meal, Chef Judi
Posted By: Karen S on 8/1/2007
Question:
Would you please send me your recipe for watermelon/feta cheese salad? I know it’s simple and I made it once, but can’t seem to remember all of the ingredients. Thank you very much. My husband and I enjoy seeing what you are cooking up on TV Sat. and/or Sunday morns!
Answer:
Hi, Karen, and thank you for watching Gulf Coast Cooking. You can find the watermelon-feta salad recipe and all the Gulf Coast Cooking recipes by logging on to www.judigallagher.com. Click on “recipes” and then click on “new Gulf Coast Cooking recipes.” Scroll down and you will see the salad. Remember not to make it more than 1 hour ahead, though, as it does get runny. Enjoy!
Question:
Would you please send me your recipe for watermelon/feta cheese salad? I know it’s simple and I made it once, but can’t seem to remember all of the ingredients. Thank you very much. My husband and I enjoy seeing what you are cooking up on TV Sat. and/or Sunday morns!
Answer:
Hi, Karen, and thank you for watching Gulf Coast Cooking. You can find the watermelon-feta salad recipe and all the Gulf Coast Cooking recipes by logging on to www.judigallagher.com. Click on “recipes” and then click on “new Gulf Coast Cooking recipes.” Scroll down and you will see the salad. Remember not to make it more than 1 hour ahead, though, as it does get runny. Enjoy!
Posted By: Cornelia G on 7/18/2007
Question:
I read your reviews and enjoy them. I haven't read anything recently on Euphemia Haye and am wondering if it is still as good as its past accolades. Our best friends are coming to visit next weekend and we want to wow them at a great Sarasota restaurant. They come every year and we've tried a variety of different places, but never Euphemia Haye. We tend to stay downtown or by Siesta Key. There will be seven of us and we're treating. We don't mind the expense--just want to make sure atmosphere, service and food quality are great. We haven't been to the Selva Grill yet or to Roy's. Would either of these be a better choice?
Answer:
I love Euphemia but don't get out there too often. Call and let Ray Arpke know that I suggested you dine there. Their duck is the best, and of course, the Caesar salad is as wonderful as their peppercorn steak. I do enjoy going upstairs for French press coffee and dessert afterwards. The other two choices are also delicious, but the drive out to Euphemia Haye is nice and feels like a getaway . Enjoy--Judi
Question:
I read your reviews and enjoy them. I haven't read anything recently on Euphemia Haye and am wondering if it is still as good as its past accolades. Our best friends are coming to visit next weekend and we want to wow them at a great Sarasota restaurant. They come every year and we've tried a variety of different places, but never Euphemia Haye. We tend to stay downtown or by Siesta Key. There will be seven of us and we're treating. We don't mind the expense--just want to make sure atmosphere, service and food quality are great. We haven't been to the Selva Grill yet or to Roy's. Would either of these be a better choice?
Answer:
I love Euphemia but don't get out there too often. Call and let Ray Arpke know that I suggested you dine there. Their duck is the best, and of course, the Caesar salad is as wonderful as their peppercorn steak. I do enjoy going upstairs for French press coffee and dessert afterwards. The other two choices are also delicious, but the drive out to Euphemia Haye is nice and feels like a getaway . Enjoy--Judi
Posted By: Sue P on 7/10/2007
Question:
My friend couldn't say enough about the dish featured on Sunday's SNN show (7/8), but she didn't get the recipe. Would you be able to provide that? She mentioned eggplant!! Thank you so much.
Answer:
Thanks so much for watching. I just love eggplant but try to stay away from the breaded fried version. You can find the recipe by logging on to www.judigallagher.com. Click on recipes and click on Gulf Coast cooking recipes. Scroll down to find the eggplant recipe. I post several show recipes on one page so you will have a variety to chose from. Although originally a rollatini recipe, I changed the version to make it heartier. If you prefer very tender eggplant, you might want to peel and salt the eggplant and let it rest for 25 minutes before blanching it for about 6 minutes in boiling water. Pat dry before layering the eggplant. Enjoy and don't forget to call me over to dinner when you make it! Bon Appetit, Chef Judi
Question:
My friend couldn't say enough about the dish featured on Sunday's SNN show (7/8), but she didn't get the recipe. Would you be able to provide that? She mentioned eggplant!! Thank you so much.
Answer:
Thanks so much for watching. I just love eggplant but try to stay away from the breaded fried version. You can find the recipe by logging on to www.judigallagher.com. Click on recipes and click on Gulf Coast cooking recipes. Scroll down to find the eggplant recipe. I post several show recipes on one page so you will have a variety to chose from. Although originally a rollatini recipe, I changed the version to make it heartier. If you prefer very tender eggplant, you might want to peel and salt the eggplant and let it rest for 25 minutes before blanching it for about 6 minutes in boiling water. Pat dry before layering the eggplant. Enjoy and don't forget to call me over to dinner when you make it! Bon Appetit, Chef Judi