Category: Cuisine

This category is about cuisine.

7-Eleven debuts its first candy-bar topped donut

May 9, 2017

7-Eleven TWIX topped donut
7-Eleven TWIX topped donut (Photo courtesy of 7-Eleven, Inc.)

The following is a press release from 7-Eleven:

7-Eleven, Inc. is introducing its first fresh donut topped with chocolate bar pieces, and the world’s largest convenience retailer selected one of America’s top 10-selling chocolate candies for the honor – TWIX® Caramel Cookie Bars.

The Caramel Bar Made with TWIX Donut is a yeast-raised rectangle bar topped with caramel icing, drizzled with chocolate and sprinkled with chopped TWIX pieces.

Made by Mars Chocolate North America, a single pack of TWIX Caramel Cookie Bars comes with two crunchy cookie bars covered with smooth caramel and enrobed in creamy chocolate. Not only is the new donut topped with chopped pieces of TWIX, it was created to replicate the candy’s caramel-chocolate deliciousness.

“People want to have fun with their food, especially treats,” said Terrell Smith, 7-Eleven fresh bakery category manager. “Premium and specialty donuts are becoming an all-day impulse item that our customers are purchasing when they crave something sweet. With our Caramel Bar Made with TWIX donuts, they get two treats in one, a delicious donut topped with one of our best-selling candy bars.”

Specialty donuts continue to be a hot bakery trend, with fun or unexpected flavors and sweet, savory and surprising toppings and fillings. Previous exotic donuts offered at 7-Eleven stores have included a pink sprinkle version of the one featured prominently on The Simpsons television show and, for the 50th birthday of its iconic frozen drink, wild cherry and blue raspberry Slurpee donuts.

Like all fresh bakery items, the Caramel Bar Made with TWIX Donut is made fresh and delivered daily to 7-Eleven stores. Suggested retail price for the limited-time premium donut is $1.69 at participating stores.

2017 New York City Wine and Food Festival: celebrity appearances, events announced

May 9, 2017

NYCWFF

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 16: Chef Andrew Zimmern during the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring Samsung Culinary Demonstrations presented by MasterCard at the Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Pier 94 in New York City on October 16, 2016. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

The following is a press release from  Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Coca-Cola

The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by Coca-Cola (NYCWFF) returns for its 10th anniversary October 12 – 15, 2017.  More than 70 events will take place at locations across New York, with 100 percent of the net proceeds benefiting the hunger-relief organizations Food Bank For New York City and No Kid Hungry.  To date, NYCWFF has raised more than $10 million to support the fight to end hunger.

“We are looking forward to celebrating 10 years of NYCWFF this October, and are thankful to all of the talent, partners and fans who have helped us reach this milestone,” said Festival founder and director Lee Brian Schrager, who also serves as senior vice president of corporate social responsibility and communications for Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits.  “Our line-up of events is an exciting mix of new events and signature favorites, including more options for the whole family to enjoy.”

The complete line-up for this year’s Festival will be unveiled later this month online at nycwff.org, but several new events will complement the return of fan-favorite tastings, intimate dinners, seminars, and late-night parties.  Debut events include a collaboration with the popular Brooklyn market Smorgasburg, for their simultaneous 10th anniversary, presented by Thrillist to kick-off the Festival on Thursday, October 12, taking place on the rooftop of Pier 92 overlooking the Hudson River.  Plus, Femme Fatale with Speed Rack hosted by Anne Burrell, Pie vs. Cake hosted by Duff Goldman, Israeli Brunch hosted by Michael Solomonov, Late Night Sandwich Eggs-travaganza, Chinese Tuxedo Brunch, Dale Talde Brunch with Eggslut, Rooftop Rosé at The Top of The Standard hosted by Katie Lee and Elvis Duran, and more.

Signature, fan-favorite events returning for this year’s celebration include:

  • Aperitivo! hosted by Scott Conant
  • Blue Moon Burger Bash presented by Pat LaFrieda Meats hosted by Rachael Ray, featuring 10 years of award-winning chefs that have taken home top honors.
  • Best of Brooklyn presented by Munchies hosted by Action Bronson
  • Greenmarket Brunch hosted by Geoffrey Zakarian
  • Pigs and Pints presented by InsideHook hosted by Robert Irvine
  • Street Eats hosted by Ghetto Gastro
  • Variety presents Broadway Tastes
  • Oyster Bash presented by Modelo hosted by Adam Richman

The Festival’s popular intimate Bank of America Dinner Series presented by Wall Street Journal will return with a star-studded roster of acclaimed chefs and personalities.  The line-up includes Daniel Boulud and Wolfgang Puck, Alain Ducasse and Laëtitia Rouabah, Dominique Crenn and Alex Guarnaschelli, Gabrielle Hamilton and Nancy Silverton, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Masa Takayama, Whoopi Goldberg at Sylvia’s, Francis Mallmann in collaboration with Faena Rose, and more.

In addition, NYCWFF has an array of offerings to attract passionate fans of all ages – including the return of the Culinary Demonstrations Only Pass for anyone under 21 years of age at the Festival’s signature Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring Samsung® Culinary Demonstrations presented by Mastercard®, which takes place on Pier 94 on Saturday, October 14 and Sunday, October 15; as well as a ticket option for those under 21 at its closing Pier 92 rooftop tasting Coca-Cola Backyard BBQ hosted by Andrew Zimmern and Pat LaFrieda on Sunday, October 15.  Two brand new family-friendly events will also be introduced on Saturday, October 14:

  • Italian Harvest Party hosted by Giada De Laurentiis and her daughter Jade
  • Sundae Funday hosted by Mario Batali and Ayesha Curry

Tickets for NYCWFF’s 10th anniversary will go on Monday, June 26, 2017 online at nycwff.org or by calling (800) 764-8773.

Between NYCWFF and its sister Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF®), which takes place each February in Miami, Florida, more than $36 million has been raised to benefit the respective charities for each Festival.  Beyond the funds raised, both Festivals draw attention to the vibrant dining culture in their respective cities, provide economic stimulus in their communities, and serve as an invaluable platform to drive awareness, engaging and inspiring people to get involved in philanthropic activities.

Gordon Ramsay brings ‘The F Word’ to the U.S.

May 4, 2017

"The F Word With Gordon Ramsay"
“The F Word With Gordon Ramsay” (Photo courtesy of Fox)

The following is a show summary from Fox:

“The F Word With Gordon  Ramsay”

(Wednesdays, 9:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed; beginning May 31)

The “F” stands for food!

“The F Word With Gordon Ramsay” is a bold new show from the award-winning chef and series host. Based on his hit U.K. series of the same name, each distinctive and fast-paced hour will combine good food and good cooking with Ramsay’s passion, energy and humor into a one-of-a-kind LIVE series.

On  “The F Word With Gordon Ramsay,” foodie families and friends from across the U.S. will battle it out in an intense, high-stakes cook-off. In addition to impressing Ramsay, each team must win over the hearts and taste buds of the diners, celebrities and VIP guests whom they’re serving. The winning team in each episode will join the leader board and the Top Two teams will have the chance to compete for a cash prize in the season finale.

Throughout each hour-long episode, Ramsay chats with surprise guests and VIPs in the dining room, shows viewers and competitors his skills with stylized cooking demos and appears weekly in unique field segments with fans, foodies and culinary experts.

“The F Word” is produced by Studio Ramsay and All3 America. The series is executive-produced by Gordon Ramsay, Greg Lipstone, Layla Smith, Chris Brogden and David Friedman.

“The F Word” Contest

Enter to win a chance to meet Gordon Ramsay and sit at the VIP table on a live episode of “The F Word With Gordon Ramsay.” Enter to win for as little as $10 at Omaze.com/Gordon. Proceeds benefit the Gordon and Tana Ramsay Foundation.

Omaze is an online fundraising platform that makes giving fun and easy by offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences and exclusive merchandise in support of critical causes. Our campaigns connect influencers, nonprofits and donors to create lasting impact, and have raised funds and awareness for more than 200 charities with donations from over 175 countries.

The Gordon and Tana Ramsay Foundation, a fund within the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, will raise funds to help seriously ill children receive the specialist care that they deserve. Their generous support will help the thousands of children and their families who come to Great Ormond Street Hospital each year have access to pioneering new treatments and cutting-edge medical equipment. Together, we are also investing in the redevelopment of the hospital to provide state-of-the-art facilities to match the hospital’s world-class care.

Food Network announces three Giada De Laurentiis shows on tap for 2017

May 4, 2017

The following is a press release from Food Network:

Giada De Laurentiis
Giada De Laurentiis (Photo courtesy of Food Network)

Food Network announced it has ordered 26 half-hour episodes of all-new entertaining and instructional “In the Kitchen” programming featuring host Giada De Laurentiis.   On the menu, new seasons of “Giada Entertains” and “Giada’s Holiday Handbook,” as well as the all-new “Giada’s Summer Entertaining” (working title).  Pre-production is currently underway with production slated to start this summer and the first premieres targeted to roll out in Q4.

“Giada De Laurentiis is an expert in her field and a much sought-after guide for home cooks looking for help for their own gatherings,” said Allison Page, General Manager, U.S. Programming and Development, Scripps Networks Interactive.  “With new episodes on the way, our viewers can continue to count on inspirational recipes and entertaining ideas from season to season to help elevate their own celebrations and get-togethers all year-round.”

“Continuing to create content with both my Linguine Pictures and Food Network family, while getting to share recipes and tips that are close to my heart with our audience, truly inspires me,” said De Laurentiis.  “I am honored and excited to be able to do what I love.”

Giada de Laurentiis wrote the book on holiday entertaining, and with “Giada’s Holiday Handbook” she shares tips and tricks to pull off a holiday season’s worth of parties.  In “Giada Entertains,” whether it’s a casual game night with girlfriends, a fun family get-together, or a party in the kitchen, Giada shows how to make it an extra-special event for family and friends.  With the forthcoming, all-new “Giada’s Summer Entertaining” (working title), Giada offers up tips and seasonal recipes for all types of warm-weather gatherings with expert advice for everything from the grill to the guests.

“Giada Entertains,” “Giada’s Holiday Handbook” and “Giada’s Summer Entertaining” (working title) are produced by Linguine Pictures.

2017 James Beard Awards: complete list of winners

May 1, 2017

James Beard Awards

The 2017 James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards took place May 1 at Lyric Opera of Chicago. Jesse Tyler Ferguson (of “Modern Family” fame) hosted the show. Andrew Zimmern hosted the 2017 James Beard Media Awards, which honor those in the media who cover the culinary industry, took place April 25 at Pier Sixty at Chelsea Piers in New York City.

Here is the complete list of winners and nominations for the James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards.

*=winner

2017 James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef Awards

Best New Restaurant (Presented by True Refrigeration®)
A restaurant opened in the calendar year before the award will be given that already displays excellence in food, beverage, and service, and that is likely to make a significant impact in years to come.

In Situ
San Francisco

Le Coucou*
New York, NY

Olmsted
Brooklyn, NY

Pineapple and Pearls
Washington, D.C.

Tartine Manufactory
San Francisco

Outstanding Baker
A chef or baker who prepares breads, pastries, or desserts in a retail bakery, and who serves as a national standard-bearer of excellence. Must have been working as a baker or pastry chef for at least for five years.

Ken Forkish
Ken’s Artisan Bakery
Portland, OR

Mark Furstenberg*
Bread Furst
Washington, D.C.

Zachary Golper
Bien Cuit
Brooklyn, NY

Belinda Leong and Michel Suas
B. Patisserie
San Francisco

Greg Wade
Publican Quality Bread
Chicago

Outstanding Bar Program
A restaurant or bar that demonstrates excellence in cocktail, spirits, and/or beer service.

Arnaud’s French 75 Bar*
New Orleans

Bar Agricole
San Francisco

Clyde Common
Portland, OR

Cure
New Orleans

The Dead Rabbit
New York, NY

Outstanding Chef (Presented by All-Clad Metalcrafters)
A working chef in America whose career has set national industry standards and who has served as an inspiration to other food professionals. Must have been working as a chef for the past five years.

Gabrielle Hamilton
Prune
New York, NY

David Kinch
Manresa
Los Gatos, CA

Christopher Kostow
The Restaurant at Meadowood
St. Helena, CA

Donald Link
Herbsaint
New Orleans

Michael Solomonov*
Zahav
Philadelphia

Outstanding Pastry Chef (Presented by Lavazza)
A chef or baker who prepares desserts, pastries, or breads in a restaurant, and who serves as a national standard bearer of excellence.  Must have been working as a pastry chef or baker for the past five years.

Kelly Fields
Willa Jean
New Orleans

Maura Kilpatrick
Oleana
Cambridge, MA

Margarita Manzke
République
Los Angeles

Dolester Miles
Highlands Bar & Grill
Birmingham, AL

Ghaya Oliveira*
Daniel
New York, NY

Outstanding Restaurant (Presented by S.Pellegrino® Sparkling Natural Mineral Water)
A restaurant in the United States that serves as a national standard-bearer of consistent quality and excellence in food, atmosphere, and service. Must have been in operation ten or more consecutive years.

Frasca Food and Wine
Boulder, CO

Highlands Bar and Grill
Birmingham, AL

Momofuku Noodle Bar
New York, NY

Quince
San Francisco

The Spotted Pig
New York, NY

Topolobampo*
Chicago

Outstanding Restaurateur
A working restaurateur who sets high national standards in restaurant operations and entrepreneurship. Must have been in the restaurant business for at least ten years. Must not have been nominated for a James Beard Foundation chef award in the past five years.

Kevin Boehm and Rob Katz
Boka Restaurant Group (Boka, Girl & the Goat, Momotaro, and others)
Chicago

JoAnn Clevenger
Upperline
New Orleans

Ken Oringer
Uni, Toro, Coppa, and others
Boston

Stephen Starr*
Starr Restaurants (Le Coucou, Serpico, Upland, and others)
Philadelphia

Caroline Styne
The Lucques Group (Lucques, a.o.c., Tavern, and others)
Los Angeles

Outstanding Service
A restaurant in operation for five or more years that demonstrates high standards of hospitality and service.

Blue Hill at Stone Barns*
Pocantico Hills, NY

Galatoire’s Restaurant
New Orleans

Marea
New York, NY

Terra
St. Helena, CA

Zahav
Philadelphia

Outstanding Wine Program (Presented by Robert Mondavi Winery)
A restaurant in operation five or more years that serves as a standard-bearer for excellence in wine service through a well-presented wine list, knowledgeable staff, and efforts to educate customers about wine.

Benu
San Francisco

Canlis*
Seattle

Emeril’s New Orleans

Fig
Charleston, SC

Miller Union
Atlanta

Outstanding Wine, Spirits, or Beer Professional
A beer, wine, or spirits professional who has made a significant national impact on the restaurant industry.

Sam Calagione*
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
Milton, DE

Diane Flynt
Foggy Ridge Cider
Dugspur, VA

Miljenko Grgich
Grgich Hills Estate
Rutherford, CA

Aldo Sohm
Zalto Glass
New York, NY

Rob Tod
Allagash Brewing Company
Portland, ME

Rising Star Chef of the Year (Presented by S.Pellegrino® Sparkling Natural Mineral Water)
A chef age 30 or younger who displays an impressive talent and who is likely to make a significant impact on the industry in years to come.

Camille Cogswell
Zahav
Philadelphia

Zachary Engel*
Shaya
New Orleans

Matt Rudofker
Momofuku Ssäm Bar
New York, NY

Jenner Tomaska
Next
Chicago

Brady Williams
Canlis
Seattle

Best Chefs in America
Chefs who have set new or consistent standards of excellence in their respective regions. Eligible candidates may be from any kind of dining establishment and must have been working as a chef for at least five years, with the three most recent years spent in the region.

Best Chef: Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH)
Abraham Conlon
Fat Rice
Chicago

Sarah Grueneberg*
Monteverde
Chicago

Beverly Kim and Johnny Clark
Parachute
Chicago

Lee Wolen
Boka
Chicago

Erling Wu-Bower
Nico Osteria
Chicago

Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic (D.C., DE, MD, NJ, PA, VA)
Amy Brandwein
Centrolina
Washington, D.C.

Tom Cunanan
Bad Saint
Washington, D.C.

Rich Landau
Vedge
Philadelphia

Greg Vernick*
Vernick Food & Drink
Philadelphia

Cindy Wolf
Charleston
Baltimore

Best Chef: Midwest (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD, WI)
Steven Brown
Tilia
Minneapolis

Justin Carlisle
Ardent
Milwaukee

Jorge Guzman
Brewer’s Table at Surly Brewing Co.
Minneapolis

Kevin Nashan*
Sidney Street Cafe
St. Louis

Kevin Willmann
Farmhaus
St. Louis

Best Chef: New York City (Five Boroughs)
Marco Canora*
Hearth

Anita Lo
Annisa

Ignacio Mattos
Estela

Missy Robbins
Lilia
Brooklyn, NY

Jody Williams
Buvette Gastrothèque

Best Chef: Northeast (CT, MA, ME, NH, NY State, RI, VT)
Karen Akunowicz
Myers + Chang
Boston

Cassie Piuma
Sarma
Somerville, MA

Susan Regis
Shepard
Cambridge, MA

Benjamin Sukle
Birch
Providence, RI

Andrew Taylor and Mike Wiley
Eventide Oyster Co.
Portland, ME

Best Chef: Northwest (AK, ID, MT, OR, WA, WY)
Greg Denton and Gabrielle Quiñónez Denton*
Ox
Portland, OR

Edouardo Jordan
Salare
Seattle

Katy Millard
Coquine
Portland, OR

Justin Woodward
Castagna
Portland, OR

Rachel Yang and Seif Chirchi
Joule
Seattle

Best Chef: South (AL, AR, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, FL, LA, MS)
Vishwesh Bhatt
Snackbar
Oxford, MS

Nina Compton
Compère Lapin
New Orleans

Jose Enrique
Jose Enrique
San Juan, PR

Slade Rushing
Brennan’s
New Orleans

Rebecca Wilcomb*
Herbsaint
New Orleans

Best Chef: Southeast (GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)
John Fleer
Rhubarb
Asheville, NC

Edward Lee
610 Magnolia
Louisville, KY

Steven Satterfield*
Miller Union
Atlanta

Ryan Smith
Staplehouse
Atlanta

Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman
Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen
Memphis

Best Chef: Southwest (AZ, CO, NM, OK, TX, UT)
Bryce Gilmore
Barley Swine
Austin

Steve McHugh
Cured
San Antonio

Hugo Ortega*
Hugo’s
Houston

Steve Redzikowski
Acorn
Denver

Martín Rios
Restaurant Martín
Santa Fe

Jianyun Ye
Mala Sichuan Bistro
Houston

Best Chef: West (CA, HI, NV)
Michael Cimarusti
Providence
Los Angeles

Dominique Crenn
Atelier Crenn
San Francisco

Jeremy Fox
Rustic Canyon
Santa Monica, CA

Corey Lee*
Benu
San Francisco

Ludo Lefebvre
Trois Mec
Los Angeles

Travis Lett
Gjelina
Venice, CA

The James Beard Foundation is also pleased to announce the 2017 recipients of the Who’s Who award:
Suzanne Goin
Multiple James Beard Award–Winning Chef and Restaurateur, A.O.C., Lucques, and Tavern
Los Angeles

Evan Kleiman
Culinarian; Host of KCRW’s Good Food
Santa Monica, CA

Roger Berkowitz
President and CEO, Legal Sea Foods
Boston

Michel Nischan
Multiple James Beard Award–Winning Chef; Founder, President,
and CEO, Wholesome Wave
Bridgeport, CT

Rajat Parr
Domaine de la Cote
Lompoc, California

The 2017 America’s Classics Award Winners (announced in advance of the show)
Bertha’s Kitchen
Charleston, SC
Owners: Julia Grant, Linda Pinckney, and Sharon Coakley

Gioia’s Deli
St. Louis
Owner: Alex Donley

La Taqueria
San Francisco
Owner: Miguel Jara

Sahadi’s
Brooklyn, NY
Owners: Christina Sahadi Whelan, and Ron Sahadi

Schultz’s Crab House
Essex, MD
Owners: Karen and Bob McKinney

2017 JBF Humanitarian of the Year
Denise Cerreta
One World Everybody Eats
Salt Lake City

2017 JBF Lifetime Achievement Award
Nora Pouillon
Restaurant Nora
Washington, D.C.

 

Jeff Dunham and wife Audrey star in ‘Incredible Edibles With the Dunhams’

May 1, 2017

Jeff and Audrey Dunham
Jeff and Audrey Dunham (Photo courtesy of Food Network)

Comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham and his food-blogging wife Audrey Dunham are hitting the highway on a culinary road trip of a lifetime, discovering the most delicious and unbelievable dishes across the country on the new series “Incredible Edible America with the Dunhams,” premiering on Monday, June 5 at 10pm ET/PT on Food Network. The husband and wife duo have decided to take advantage of Jeff’s touring schedule, and when the comic is not on stage, will be turning their time on the road into an unforgettable food adventure, as they discover some of America’s most mouthwatering meals and meet the mastermind chefs that create them.

“Jeff Dunham’s signature sharp wit combined with Audrey Dunham’s culinary knowledge adds even more flavor to the series, making them the perfect pair to take viewers on this uniquely entertaining food tour as they uncover the most incredible and undeniably delicious dishes,” said Courtney White, SVP Programming, Scripps Networks Interactive.

“For almost a decade now, Audrey and I have been on the road together, and in every city we visited for one of my shows, we would try to find a well-known and locally loved restaurant that had something on the menu which was incredibly memorable for whatever reason,” stated Jeff Dunham.  “Well now we get to share that fun, and give viewers a taste of some outrageous and crazily great fare from our tried and trusted favorite spots on the road, along with some delicious stuff that folks won’t BELIEVE!”

Throughout each of the six half-hour episodes, the couple takes viewers on a culinary adventure visiting restaurants and sweet shops in Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles. Along the way they are joined by some of Jeff’s most-loved characters while enjoying some over-the-top edible creations. Whether it is a yard-long sandwich stuffed with everything you can imagine including cheeseburger patties, Philly cheese steak, mozzarella sticks and more (yes, all in one sandwich), or deep-fried tater tots smothered with just about everything in the kitchen, or homemade soft serve ice cream on top of a sugar-coated doughnut cone, the Dunhams learn how local chefs are pushing the limits of culinary creativity to make the most taste bud-tantalizing food.

Fans can follow the Dunhams’ culinary journey and find out where you can taste their fascinating food finds at FoodNetwork.com/IncredibleEdibleAmerica. Online fans can share their favorite restaurant recommendations using #IncredibleEdibleAmerica.

Comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham is one of the world’s most inventive entertainers. After graduating from Baylor University, he moved to Los Angeles and soon became a sensation on the national comedy club circuit, as well as a frequent guest comic on “The Tonight Show.” Throughout the years, Dunham has had several record-breaking, self-produced specials on Comedy Central. In 2010, his limited series “The Jeff Dunham” Show premiered on the network and later that year he published an autobiography entitled “All By My Selves: Walter, Peanut, Achmed and Me,” which became a New York Times Best Seller. Dunham has also made many cameo appearances across television and film, from the Emmy Award-winning comedy series “30 Rock,” to “Dinner for Schmucks,” starring Steve Carrell and Paul Rudd. Most recently, Jeff starred in a primetime NBC comedy special “Jeff Dunham: Unhinged in Hollywood,” chronicling two sold-out nights at Los Angeles’ historic Dolby Theatre. He continues to sell out venues for his “Perfectly Unbalanced” tour, and has earned a spot in the Guinness World Records for “Most Tickets Sold for a Stand-up Comedy Tour.”

Audrey Dunham is a genuine food lover with a background in nutrition, who spreads the word about cooking delicious food for family and friends in her lifestyle blog, AudreyDunham.com. She loves cooking with fresh and colorful seasonal ingredients, while making sure dessert always has a spot at the kitchen table. Wife to one of the most successful standup comedians of all time, Jeff Dunham, Audrey finds joy in putting cheer into food by whipping up simple yet delicious meals, plus indulgent treats for her toddler twin boys and her three stepdaughters. Audrey’s passion is in sharing manageable lifestyle tips and tasty recipes that anyone can feel good about making for the ones they love.

2017 Vegas Uncork’d: Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are first female chefs to lead saber off

April 28, 2017

Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger (front row) at Vegas Uncork'd
Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger (front row) at Vegas Uncork’d’s saber off opening ceremony sabered a bottle of Perrier-Jouët champagne at The Vortex at The LINQ Hotel & Casino. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The 11th annual Vegas Uncork’d culinary festival  Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit kicked off on April 27, 2017, with the saber off, a tradition in which participating chefs saber a bottle of champagne. For this year’s saber off, chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger sabered a bottle of Perrier-Jouët champagne at The Vortex at The LINQ Hotel & Casino. According to a Vegas Uncork’d press release, Milliken and Feniger were the first female chefs to lead the saber off and, to recognize their support, they were given personal sabers to do the honors during the inaugural event. More than 15 iconic chefs including Frank Pellegrino Jr., Greg Sherry, Guy Savoy, Lorena Garcia, Rick Moonen, Scott Conant and Shawn McClain joined in the festivities were also at the event.

The 2017 edition of Vegas Uncork’d takes place April 27 to April 30 at various Las Vegas location, including Caesars Palace, The Cromwell, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, MGM Resorts International’s The Park, The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas.

Participating chefs include Wolfgang Puck, Alain Ducasse, Bobby Flay, Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro, Giada De Laurentiis, Gordon Ramsay, José Andrés, Julian Serrano, Michael Mina, Nobu Matsuhisa, Tom Colicchio, and Charlie Palmer.

The following is an excerpt from a Vegas Uncork’d press release:

New this year, guests can enjoy a Picnic in The Park at MGM Resorts International’s newest outdoor dining and entertainment district, and go on a mixology journey with Mariena Mercer at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. To sample a bit of everything, guests can still purchase tickets to perennial favorite The Grand Tasting at Caesars Palace and indulge in Sweet Escape: An Evening of Buddy, Beignets, Bonbons & Booze on The Palazzo Pool Deck.

Additionally, Chase Sapphire returned for the fifth consecutive year as a presenting sponsor of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit. Chase Sapphire Preferred® and Sapphire ReserveSM cardmembers will enjoy unique access to select experiences and interaction with celebrity chefs throughout the four-day festival.

Events with limited tickets still available include:

  • #FoodPorn Cooking Demo & Luncheon with the Too Hot Tamales (Forum Shops at Caesars Palace), Friday, April 28: Bring your camera phone and appetite, as you get up close and personal at a fun-filled live cooking demonstration featuring chef duo, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger. Prepare to laugh, taste and sip as the Too Hot Tamales fix a feast for the eyes and shake up creative cocktails. Guests will not only learn the dynamic duo’s innovative recipes and cooking techniques but also get the lowdown on how to shoot epic food porn photos with expert tips and tricks from Bon Appétit magazine’s social media gurus. Meet the chefs, enjoy a multi-course lunch with specialty cocktails, a takeaway recipe booklet and a chance to purchase personalized cookbooks following the event.
  • Lunch like a Spaniard with José Andrés at Jaleo (The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas), Friday, April 28: Experience a taste of Spain with internationally acclaimed culinary pioneer and innovator, Chef José Andrés. Join José as he prepares lágrima paella over their renowned live fire pit in a dish-and-tell session, and shares his favorite stories behind the unique restaurant’s menu items, like José’s Taco, a slice of jamón ibérico de bellota topped with osetra caviar and gold flakes; Coca con Erizas del Mar, crusty Spanish cristal bread topped with sea urchin, ibérico bacon and butter; their renowned Gin and Tonic program, and more.
  • Picnic in The Park with Alain Ducasse, Charlie Palmer, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Tom Colicchio, Shawn McClain, Rick Moonen, Roy Ellamar, Akira Back, Bryce Shuman, David Werly & More (The Park, located between Monte Carlo and New York-New York), Saturday, April 29: Enjoy a Picnic in The Park Vegas style! Featuring live music and some of MGM Resorts’ most notable chefs including Alain Ducasse, Charlie Palmer, Michael Mina, Julian Serrano, Tom Colicchio, Shawn McClain, Rick Moonen, Roy Ellamar, Akira Back, Bryce Shuman and David Werly, Picnic in The Park will offer creative twists on classic picnic dishes, Edible Gardens and champagne provided by Veuve Clicquot. We encourage you to embrace your inner-child with a variety of social games including giant Jenga, cornhole and croquet. And don’t forget to take a selfie in front of Bliss Dance, a 40-foot-tall sculpture by artist Marco Cochrane and a focal point of The Park experience, or swing by the vintage VW Bus, which has been transformed into a photo booth for the occasion. Located on the Las Vegas Strip between Monte Carlo and New York-New York, this new outdoor dining, and entertainment district will provide an ideal backdrop for you to enjoy a fun, interactive afternoon picnicking with celebrated chefs.
    EARLY ACCESS: Gain early admission to the event with an Early Access ticket. A limited number of tickets are available to deliver the undivided attention of experts on site, an exclusive signature cocktail available only to early access guests, and an opportunity to interact with the chefs in a more intimate setting.
  • Sweet Escape: An Evening of Buddy, Beignets, Bonbons & Booze (The Palazzo), Saturday, April 29: Everyone’s favorite baker and TV personality Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro will host a decadent evening to surrender to the sweet side of life, featuring a number of world-renowned chefs of The Venetian and The Palazzo, each preparing a unique take on beignets or bonbons. The poolside reception will include specialty cocktails, a live performance from the electrifying trio Simply Three, and a special appearance by Chef Lorena Garcia of Chica, set to open on Mother’s Day, May 14, 2017 in Restaurant Row at The Venetian.
  • The Ultimate Big Cake & Craft Cocktail After-Party with Buddy Valastro (The Venetian), Saturday, April 29: Celebrate the evening with an official after-party at the latest Las Vegas hotspot, The Dorsey, with a colossal cake baked by the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. The Dorsey is a high design, memorable spot for the worldly, curious and engaged featuring a hand crafted cocktail menu.

Gordon Ramsay announces first Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen restaurant

April 28, 2017

Gordon Ramsay poses with series’ signature pitchfork in front of the iconic fountains at Caesars Palace Las Vegas announcing the upcoming winter debut of Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen restaurant.
Gordon Ramsay poses with the signature pitchfork of his TV show “Hell’s Kitchen” in front of the fountains at Caesars Palace Las Vegas to announced the debut of Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen restaurant. (Photo by Erik Kabik Photography/Erikkabik.com)

Celebrity chef/TV personality Gordon Ramsay has announced plans for the first-of its-kind Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen located at Caesars Palace Las Vegas, set to open in the winter of 2017. To commemorate the announcement, Ramsay ignited a 17-foot pitchfork, a replica of the “Hell’s Kitchen” pitchfork,  in the center of Caesars’ fountains. This marks Ramsay’s fifth Las Vegas restaurant and extends his successful partnership with Caesars Entertainment.

The restaurant, designed by Jeffrey Beers International, will begin construction this summer. Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen will seat nearly 300 guests, feature indoor and Strip-adjacent patio dining, and will offer a daily themed brunch, dinner and spirited bar menu.

According to a Caesars Entertainment press release, Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen will be an “experiential and immersive destination restaurant, guests will feel transported to the studio set, as if they are participating in the globally popular television show, the 17th season of which will air during the 2017-2018 season on Fox. With design features that are engaging to all senses and are a nod to both the red and blue teams featured on the show, the dynamic and bustling kitchen will be the centerpiece of this unique eatery to be enjoyed and appreciated from every seat in the house.

“Fans of the show have been asking us to bring a ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ since day one, so I’m thrilled to finally be doing it here at Caesars Palace,” said Ramsay. “A key element of the show’s success has always been the diners’ experience, so we are excited for guests in Las Vegas to feel like they too are part of the show—flames and all.”

In other news about Ramsay, Fox has set “The F Word With Gordon Ramsay” will premiere on May 31, 2017, at 9 p.m. Eastern/Pacific Time. The show will air live in the Eastern and Central time zones. This is the description of the show from Fox: “Based on his hit U.K. series, each distinctive and fast-paced hour will combine good food and great cooking with Ramsay’s passion, energy and humor into a one-of-a-kind live series. During each episode, teams of foodie families and friends will battle it out live in a high-stakes cook-off, hoping to impress Ramsay, as well as celebrities, VIPs and other dinner guests. As the Live battle heats up, the show will feature Ramsay hosting highly stylized cooking demos and weekly out-of-the-kitchen adventures with fans, foodies and surprise guests. We’ll see Gordon at his best inside the kitchen, and at his most mischievous outside the kitchen. ”

Ramsay is the host and executive producer of “Hell’s Kitchen,” The F Word With Gordon Ramsay,” “MasterChef” and “MasterChef Junior,” which are all televised in the U.S. on Fox.

Pinkberry debuts Wonder Woman Berry Swirl

April 26, 2017

Pinkberry
Pinkberry’s Wonder Woman Berry Swirl, (Photo by Pinkberry)

Pinkberry has debuted Wonder Woman Berry Swirl, inspired by the movie “Wonder Woman.” Wonder Woman Berry Swirl will be available from April 26 to June 13, 2017.  Warner Bros. Pictures’ “Wonder Woman,” starring Gal Gadot as the title superhero character, is set to release June 2, 2017. Pink berry partnered with Warner Bros. for his promotion.

Wonder Woman Berry Swirl mixes Power Berry Frozen Yogurt (which combines strawberry and raspberry) with fresh raspberries, granola and dark chocolate crisps.

Pinkberry director of marketing Laura Vandevier commented in a statement: “We are excited to team up with Warner Bros. for the theatrical release of Wonder Woman, and have created a delicious new flavor that brings out the Super Hero in us all. Drawing inspiration from the character herself, we wanted a flavor that was sweet, fierce and refreshing.”

Wonder Woman Berry Swirl is one of several new limited-edition flavors that the company has introduced over the past several months. There were also Pinkbee’s Strawberry, a low-fat milk ice cream flavor; Peppermint Cookies ‘N Cream, which included cookies and cream, candy cane pieces and drizzled with chocolate; Meyer Lemon Frozen Yogurt; and Shaken Yogurt Lemonade.

 

ThinkProducts’ thinkThin has promotional partnership with ‘Wonder Woman’

April 27, 2017

Wonder Woman thinkThin promotion
(Photo courtesy of thinkThin)

The following is a press release from ThinkProducts:

ThinkThin, a leader in protein-focused nutrition, today announced a multi-faceted promotional partnership with the upcoming, highly anticipated Warner Bros. Pictures feature film “Wonder Woman,” in theaters June 2nd. “Wonder Woman” is in natural alignment with the female lifestyle brand, which offers a range of high protein nutrition bars as well as other nutritious formats, such as bites, smoothie mixes and oatmeal.

The partnership will be showcased across multiple platforms, including cinema, print, digital, in-store and more, specifically:

  • National, in-theater ads in major markets across the country which feature both thinkThin® bars and “Wonder Woman” film footage
  • Dedicated shippers and on-pack branding highlight a special point-of-purchase call to action with a gift with purchase offer, good for $5 off a movie ticket in exchange for the purchase of $15 worth of any thinkThin® protein bars, including the new thinkThin Protein & Superfruit™ bars
  • National sweepstakes where one fan will be awarded a “Wonder Woman” VIP Experience, including round-trip airfare to attend the movie’s U.S. premiere
  • Online advertising, which utilizes film assets

“For more than 15 years, thinkThin® has focused on providing wholesome nutrition so our consumers have the strength they need to take on their active day,” said Michele Kessler, President/CEO of thinkThin®. “No one epitomizes the thinkThin® lifestyle better than Wonder Woman, the iconic figure and female lead of a major superhero movie, and we’re excited to partner with Warner Bros. to extend the awareness of both brands.”

thinkThin will also host an exclusive contest with V-WISE (Veteran Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship), a company partner, which provides the tools women veterans, active duty and female family members need to become successful entrepreneurs. V-WISE members who submit a short video answering the question “What is your superpower?” will have the chance to win an all-expense paid trip to the “Wonder Woman” premiere in Los Angeles.

Products and/or shippers featuring “Wonder Woman” movie branding can be found at Target, Walmart, Kroger and major retailers nationwide.

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