The Dallas Cook Book

Catching Up With History

2011-09-22T09:08:00.000-05:00

Al Badger (r) and Al Badger Jr. (l), owners of The Golden Pheasant from 1940 - 1962. Photo courtesy of Al Badger, III Two more stories have been published over on SideDish about Dallas Food History. Story #3 is about a man named Eltee Dave, who despite an early life of poverty worked very hard, becoming a Dallas barbecue legend. From the 1940's through the 1970's his Dave's BBQ (near the

Finding Ida

2011-07-13T10:51:00.001-05:00

Published yesterday on SideDish is the story of Ida Chitwood, a lady known to hundreds of thousands of women in the early 20th century, forgotten to all but her family today. I "met" Ida when I wrote a story on TDCB about pecan pie, little did I realize that finding Ida was also in a sense about finding myself. First, let me clarify, I know who I am, senility has not yet set in. But in the last

Extra Credit Where Due

2011-07-13T09:45:00.000-05:00

Yesterday the second installment of Dallas food history was published over on SideDish, it is about an amazing woman named Ida Chitwood, who in the 1920's, 30's and 40's rocked the nation with her free cooking demonstrations. We're not done with her story, she had a profound impact on food that is still being explored. Consider this an introduction. These stories are a collaboration of many

Lookee There!

2011-06-27T17:06:00.000-05:00

It's not that I've stopped writing, I've been working on a pretty big project over the last year actually, and the first story was just published over on D Magazine's SideDish food blog. I hope it does grow up into a book one day, but I've learned that the business side of writing is in some ways far more difficult than the actual writing. But for now it's fun, fascinating and important - my

Eating Reruns: How To Cook For Kids

2011-04-19T18:12:00.000-05:00

In todays Dallas Morning News there is an article about the little leaguers at Dave Andres Ballpark in Old East Dallas and their big leaguer helpers at the Texas Rangers Foundation. It reminded me of a story I wrote about how the Dave Andres Ballpark came to be back in September 2008. It was the first story in the "How To Cook" series. You can read it here: How To Cook For Kids.

Addison Loves Its Restaurants So Much

2011-04-05T17:15:00.000-05:00

They have an entire website so you can find them. Brilliant. Back to You, Dallas.

Best Cancellation By An Email Recipient Ever

2011-02-21T15:34:00.000-06:00

Somehow, this accountant has become the internet marketing chief of Sevy's Grill. Whatever, I hate it. Almost as much as I hate filing and cleaning the toilet. But we received a cancellation that made me laugh, and I thought I'd pass it along. "In 2,753 days, when my last child goes to college, I will look forward to enjoying myself. Until then, please remove me from the constant reminders of

What's Up With The New Old Terrilli's?

2011-02-17T12:38:00.000-06:00

Dunno, but snapped this shot of the reconstruction yesterday. It's been almost a year since the fire closed down the popular Greenville Avenue restaurant. At that same time, Popolo's at Preston/Royal had closed leaving an empty space with neighbors eager to get some Italcho's in their part of town. My suggestion was to turn the property quickly with a Terrilli tenant, cooking up a romantic

Mexico: Crop Freeze, Price Increases and Unemployment

2011-02-17T11:54:00.000-06:00

Word from produce powerhouse FreshPoint about the recent freeze in northwestern Mexico at the beginning of February when temperatures dipped into the mid-20's for up to 6 hours: MEXICO FREEZE: CULIACAN UPDATE: On Wednesday February 9th 2011, Quality Assurance traveled to Culiacan Sinaloa Mexico to visit and view the impact the recent freezing temperatures had in the growing region and

Dallas Farmers Market Loses One Of It's Best Friends

2011-01-29T10:00:00.002-06:00

Ida with Sevy 1996 Friends of the Farmers Market Hoedown Ida Papert, great mother (Mombo), wonderful wife of the late Sam Papert, Jr, cookbook author and founding member of Dallas Farmers Market Friends passed away yesterday. She was needed elsewhere.It’s not about how or when you die, it’s about how you live. Ida lived well. She was instrumental in organizing a non-profit way,

It Was Just Like A Video Game

2010-11-24T21:12:00.000-06:00

Fellow Texans, credit one 19 year old with ending the life of a 200 lb. scourge, scoring his first hunting kill. The Boy, home from college for the holiday, joined the duo of chefs Sevy and Chamberlain for a little east Texas hog hunting, leaving the house in North Dallas at 4:00 today. As I was leaving Neighborhood Services at 6:30, post-dinner, the phone rang, caller ID tipped me off, "Did

Has Anyone Been To Bill Smith Cafe?

2010-11-21T10:09:00.000-06:00

McKinney, Texas? Because it looks like they're serving up a healthy slice of humor.

First Taste - Crossroads Diner Has Officially Opened

2010-11-21T00:18:00.001-06:00

I was fortunate to be invited on Friday to a mock service meal at Chef Tom Fleming's new place, Crossroad's Diner on Walnut Hill Lane just east of Central Expressway. Out and about running errands, I stopped by the diner around 10:30, and sure enough, was welcomed to my solo table. Sitting at the table next to mine was Meaders Ozarow of Empire Bakery, and we spent a pleasant breakfast chatting

And Now, On With The Show

2010-11-19T08:32:00.000-06:00

Been quiet on here, I know. Who knew ancient sewing skills, long buried, would be dusted off for help with costuming this year's musical at Hillcrest? With two other moms, we managed to sew 29 golden dresses for one musical number (or a total of about 90 seconds onstage), and they turned out fabulous. This has nothing to do with food, or restaurants, but it did eat up about 30 hours of spare

Who Said Food Porn Is Dead?

2010-11-05T17:43:00.000-05:00

Don't think so. Just take a look at the 2011 North Texas Food Bank/Kent Rathbun/Central Market calendar. 13 months of pictures and recipes that will leave you wet drooling. With photos by Pat Haverfield, Central Market underwriting and Kent's impeccable, 5-star sense of style, it's absolutely orgasmic delicious that 100% of the proceeds go to help feed the hungry. Each month features an

How To Cook For The Guest

2010-10-13T08:43:00.010-05:00

I read the same book twice this summer. Danny Meyer’s, “Setting the Table, The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business” (an autographed copy no less) was a gift from the manager of Gramercy Tavern as Sevy and I left one evening. We didn't know him, he didn't know who we were, we had only mentioned how hospitable we thought all the Meyer clan of restaurants were. At the time I didn’t

An A & W Without Root Beer Is Kind Of Like A KFC Without Chicken

2010-10-12T13:42:00.000-05:00

Eat Pancakes For Hillcrest High School

2010-10-11T11:01:00.000-05:00

This has become such a fun community event for parents, teachers, alumni and students, we are very excited to announce the 6th Annual Panther Pancake Breakfast at Sevy's Grill on Sunday, October 24th. 100% of all income goes to fund Hillcrest High School programs. This years beneficiaries are HHS Theater and HHS Panader Booster clubs. Anyhow, here's the deets: Everyone is welcome, but

Cattle Baron's Report: More Success, Less Hangover

2010-10-10T13:17:00.003-05:00

Jeff Barker and Richard Chamberlain Last years Cattle Baron's Ball will go down in infamy, not for it's title, "Honor of Cowboys", but for the flood of rain that moved everyone into leaking tents, including the bands. But at this weekends Ball, all was laughs and fun recountings, the mildewed odor of ruined leather blown away by the incredible event hosted by this years Committee. "Need a

Alee Burger New To Northwest Dallas

2010-10-08T14:05:00.000-05:00

Everyone in the restaurant business knows where Acemart is, even a few folks not in the industry shop there. It's a restaurant supply store at Forest and Webbs Chapel where you can buy anything from aprons to a cotton candy machine. On my way in I noticed a "Grand Opening" sign hanging over the store next door, Alee Burger, who claims to make the "Best Burger In Town" and "We Don't Make Until

Get Your Pie Baking

2010-10-08T11:53:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, Saturday October 9th is North Haven Garden's annual pie contest. While I've previously recommended a pie recipe, or two, this is one of the NHG contests I know I should stay away from, these are some seriously talented bakers. Besides, with Sevy's Grill being a contest co-sponsor, for me, what's to win? A meal cooked by my husband, while wonderful, is pretty common in our house.

Refilling The Cup

2010-09-22T09:05:00.000-05:00

Dear Readers, No, that last post (Getting the HTML out of here) was not another way of saying that I've stopped posting. This blog was supposed to be a creative outlet that is also fun and informative. Except after two years it was starting to feel like a job. And I already have like 5 or 6 of those, only one of which pays a salary. So I gave myself September off, to read books, to travel,

Getting The HTML Out Of Here

2010-08-26T08:06:00.001-05:00

We have a website, http://www.sevys.com/, and a few years ago we hired a web designer who understood the mysterious language called HTML Code to set up our website for us. But that also meant that every time we had a new menu, or wanted to update promotions, post newsletters, add information, we had to call and have the changes made by the designer - or risk screwing up our website. And then I

2010 Continues To Be Tough

2010-08-24T11:50:00.000-05:00

Independent restaurants took the hardest hit. So sayeth Mark Brandeau on Nations Restaurant News. To which I reply, "I know". My ongoing review of Dallas restaurant Mixed Beverage tax receipts shows that few of us who were open two-plus years ago are back up to our 2008 (alcohol) sales numbers.

Security Reservations on OpenTable Checks

2010-08-18T09:57:00.008-05:00

UPDATE: Friday, 8/20 - Upon checking the OTRestaurant.com website, the company has changed their pdf poster. I have removed the copy of the original poster from this website as well.But I have to say, this is a poorly constructed mechanism to inform their members about important financial transactions. And there is a very important difference between OpenTable Restaurant checks and Traveler's

Brothers II Grill Coming to North Dallas

2010-08-18T08:34:00.001-05:00

We were driving up north for an evening of Quiddler with friends, when at Frankford and Preston (northwest corner) I noticed a dumpster parked in front of the former Berryhill Grill spot. Brothers II Grill is already in Plano and Frisco. And their website has one of the best musical backgrounds of any restaurant website I've ever visited.

My Fondest Educational Dream Comes True

2010-08-15T18:11:00.002-05:00

No, not the one where the DMN gives Dr. Hinojosa unqualified credit for bringing up our schools. The other dream, the one where DISD schools get salad bars. Stopped by the Greenville Whole Foods after shopping at Half Price Books (purchased The Secrets of the Jennivine Restaurant by Jennifer Messina), and at checkout they asked if I'd like to make a donation to Project Salad Bar? "Whassat?"

Dallas Zoo Is Getting "Cheesy"

2010-08-14T16:57:00.000-05:00

They're having their annual photography contest at the Dallas Zoo, "Feathers Furs and Scales" entries may be submitted until September 30, 2010. The $15 entry fee lets you submit up to three 8 x 10 photos just attach an entry form, here. Four categories eligible to win, Children (to age 12), Junior (13-18), Novice (beginner/nonprofessional) and Advanced, awards given to First, Second, Third

Wet, Wetter, Wettest

2010-08-14T15:32:00.006-05:00

I downloaded the lastest Mixed Beverage TABC tax report for the city of Dallas, it covered remittances received in July (mostly for June sales, but I did see many businesses that were paying for May as well). Total taxes received for the period were just over $6.5 million, so with the help of Excel I did a little numbers analysis. Hello, are you still awake? First we have the dry areas, which

June Contest Winners Announced

2010-08-14T09:01:00.000-05:00

There were three "Memory Lane" contests in June. Name The Chefs Winner: "Michael", who named 6 out of 12 correctly, and who wanted to know where this was taken (Dallas Farmer's Market in the shed that is now enclosed - which wasn't back then). Michael, honey, you didn't let me know who you are, so contact me about collecting that prize at ahillcrestmom@aol.com . For the record from left to

Diary Of A Daycation

2010-08-13T17:48:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago Sevy mentioned he wanted to drive out to East Texas to pay a visit to Strube Ranch, producers of Wagyu beef, also known as American Kobe. Their ranch is near Pittsburgh, and we decided to make it a scenic day, driving out on Highway 80, sticking to the small towns like Terrell, Wills Point, Grand Saline. Eventually, when we hit the piney tree forests of East Texas we were going

Sevy's August Food And Wine Dinner

2010-08-13T15:03:00.000-05:00

Join us on Monday, August 23rd at 6:30 p.m. for our monthly four course food and wine dinner, featuring “A Night in Venice”Sevy and Buzzy have created a special menu to take you away for the evening, specially paired with wines to compliment each course. $59.95 per person (plus tax and gratuity), seating is limited, reservations are required. Please contact Stefaan, Amy M. or Hillary at (214)265

Subterranean Aviators "Who Cares" Album Release

2010-08-13T12:49:00.000-05:00

Cover art by Tommy Lewis The party is tonight at the Curtain Club, 2800 Main in Deep Ellum. They take the stage at 8:30 pm SHARP and play for the next 50 minutes. $10 cover. One day you might be able to say "I saw them when....". Just saying. Four teenagers playing their dreams.

Meet Mack-Daddy, The Knife

2010-08-13T12:22:00.001-05:00

So we're in Naperville Illinois a few weeks back visiting my sister during a heat wave and 90+ percent humidity (lovely) when my brother-in-law, Andy (co-owner with sis of The Hammer Source, serving all your hammer needs), says, "Hey, have you met Bob?". Looking around, I only see him, with his arms crossed across his chest, holding a knife in one hand, a beautiful knife, a knife that glimmered

Blogathon Friday

2010-08-13T08:14:00.001-05:00

Time to clear off my list of things waiting to be written about, don't know how many I'll be able to get in today - the record is 10, so far. But "other" work intrudes a little, treasurer duties for the school spirit team, financial duties for the restaurant. Oh and around mid-day the Mom Job kicks in, that's when hubby and the Boy leave for a 9 hour caravan drive for College, Year 2. Expect

Summer Is Almost Over

2010-08-11T19:57:00.000-05:00

It's time to get back to work. Well, actually, work has been what has been keeping me from blogging. But I have so many things to share, so, be ready, I'm callin' it: Blogathon Friday this Friday. Hubby and the Boy are headed out on a 9 hour caravan drive back to school, Sister's in drill team practice (and just got her drivers license), and the dogs, well, they love laying around while I

Glen Lakes Grill Opening Soon - But No Mention When

2010-08-05T20:26:00.003-05:00

We were driving 'cross town to pick up our Goody-Goody supplies (yes, we buy retail just like everyone else), and I noticed that Glen Lakes Grill has progressed to where it has a sign, and a Craigslist ad for staff. Last time I checked, they were applying for a late-night liquor permit. We also saw in front of Dave & Busters (in the same shopping center), an "eye-in-the-sky" Dallas Police

Amynomics 101 - The Silly Economics of Dry Dallas

2010-07-23T22:27:00.513-05:00

I took Economics 101 (at least twice) in college, and would like to talk about the economics of the wet vs. dry argument in Dallas. Everyone thinks it's about a change in packaged wine and beer sales and sales tax revenue, or that it's about how much restaurants (licensed as clubs) spend to keep up a club membership database. Chump change, guys, don't be like a pack of dogs distracted by

Wedding Bells Are Ringing For Chris Ward

2010-07-23T15:24:00.000-05:00

According to Mercury Grill's Facebook page. Ms. Rebecca Jackson will become Mrs. Chris Ward in a ceremony tomorrow. Great news and congratulations!

DISD's Chefology 101 Class

2010-07-21T16:41:00.001-05:00

Get a group of kids together to cook an excellent meal, odds are good it's a recipe for a career in food service. Here's the facebook album of the meal they produced on July 21st in conjunction with Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts.

Back In The U.S.A.

2010-07-19T17:04:00.001-05:00

Someone's been on a 10 year vacation. Join us at Sevy's Grill on (this!) Wednesday, July 21st, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for a tasting of Cardhu single-malt scotch which has re-entered the U.S. after a 10 year absence. Joining us will also be Jason Lizarada, Reserve Brand Manager of Glazer's to answer any questions. And check out our new bar menu, with delectible small plates, including: Mini Kobe

Silver Fox Steakhouse at Centrum Closed

2010-07-09T18:11:00.000-05:00

So sayeth a reader. Phone number no longer connected. Verified by their Frisco location.

The Crossroads Diner Coming To North Dallas

2010-07-08T17:23:00.002-05:00

Could this be the satisfaction of Dallas' fondest food requests? A great diner? Run by a former Yankee? According to Tom Fleming (Lombardi Mare, Pappas Bros., Old Hickory Steak House @ The Gaylord, Central 214), who is in final lease negotiations for a location on Walnut Hill Lane, they've set a goal to cook the "best damn breakfast in Dallas". "Potatoes?", I ask. "Everything is from

Bing Me Again, And Again, And Again

2010-07-01T21:57:00.003-05:00

A few months ago I was invited, as a "member of the Dallas blogging community" (giggle), to a dinner at a nice area restaurant for a discussion of how Bing.com could enhance my readers' experience when they visit this crazy little creative writing project. I thanked the Bing Community Manager for the invitation, but having a conflict with an event that evening I had to decline, while perhaps

How To Score A Goal In Service (World Cup Version)

2010-06-25T23:01:00.003-05:00

Service is kind of like a soccer match - it's full of opportunities to score, and misses. A few months ago I took Sister for her first visit to one of my favorite restaurants, I knew she'd love it and I was right. We had a good server, in all respects technically good. But during the appetizer portion of our meal, as we were faux fighting over the last deep fried asparagus spear (while the

Memory Lane, What Red-Blooded Girl Wouldn't Want A Guy Who Cooks Like This? Chapter 4

2010-06-25T21:44:00.001-05:00

I remember the night I met my husband-to-be, at Beer Tent (aka Red Cedar Jubilee) in Williamston, Michigan 27 years ago this month. Blue eyes, deep tan, tennis player legs, and can cook? Dumb I've never been (and only stupid on a few occasions), I went for it. In the intervening years we've put each other through college, lived in Dallas, Los Angeles, Poughkeepsie/Hyde Park (NY), raised two

Memory Lane, Ultimate SideDish Supper - Chapter 3

2010-06-22T14:36:00.001-05:00

Reason number one why I love D Magazine is because they have great writers. Reason number two is because they have fun events, like the cruises they organized in 2003 and 2004, an opportunity to enjoy vacation with a group of Dallas chefs. The picture above is from the 2003 cruise through the Caribbean with featured chef/restaurateurs Sevy, Kent Rathbun, Gilbert Garza, Lisa Garza, Chris Ward,

Memory Lane, Who Dat? - Chapter 2

2010-06-22T13:50:00.024-05:00

From top, clockwise: MM (left) with Robert Del Grande (Cafe Annie, Houston) at S. Texas Deer Ranch, 1988; MM (right) wth Sevy (left) in Florida circa 1992; 1989, Aspen Food & Wine Festival (from left), MM, Richard Chamberlain, Lisa Chamberlain, Sevy. Let's just call him Mystery Man, or MM for short. While here he earned raves for his cuisine, but I won't say where. If you can give him a

Memory Lane, Name the Chefs - Chapter 1

2010-06-21T17:21:00.002-05:00

I have been shoveling cleaning out Corporate for two days now, and it looks like there's another 2 days of work left to go. I'm not the most enthusiastic secretary when it comes to filing, let's just say I save it up for a 4-day file-a-thon. Kind of like blog posts sometimes. This week in the interest of (little) time, I will be posting old pictures from Dallas' kitchens. So it's time for

June Wine and Food Dinner at Sevy's

2010-06-21T17:18:00.000-05:00

Join us on Monday, June 28th for our special wine and food dinner,"The Thrill of the Grill"featuring four courses of grilled specialties for summer, each paired with a delicious wine to compliment each course. Sparkling reception begins at 6:30, dinner at 7:00, $59.95 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Seating is limited, reservations required, contact Jimmy, Stefaan or Amy M. at SevysCatering@

Restaurant Scam Underway In Dallas

2010-06-17T11:43:00.003-05:00

I heard about a variation on this scam on the news (yesterday?), wherein "city inspectors" were showing up at suburban businesses saying that they were there to perform a necessary inspection and the business would have to (immediately) pay a fee to the inspector if they wanted to "pass". It may have been a local station, or it may have been on TXCN about another Texas city, in which case the

Dallas Houston's To Become Hillstone

2010-06-14T22:00:00.007-05:00

Stopped by the spot in Preston Center tonight for a bite to eat after the monthly "Syndicate" investment club meeting. And there painted onto the front entry glass was "www.hillstone.com/". When asked, our server informed us that they would be making the name conversion by the end of July - however the Addison location would remain a Houston's. And Cafe R & D will remain Cafe R & D.

Sevy's Summer Scotch Club Is Back!

2010-06-09T09:06:00.000-05:00

Join us for the return of our four course Scotch Club Tasting featuring the flavors of Glenmorangie on Tuesday, June 15th at 6:00 p.m. Sevy and Buzzy have created an assortment of delicious petite bouchée to compliment each scotch. $44.95 per person (plus tax and gratuity), seating is limited and reservations required. Contact Jimmy, Stefaan or Amy M. at (214) 265-7389, or SevysCatering@

Cooking For Success in DISD

2010-06-04T09:40:00.001-05:00

Yeah, duh, if you've been reading this blog you'd know that I'm thrilled about the news of success in DISD. Not that news, the news that Chef Brad Trudeau, Director of Production and Procurement is heading to the White House to help Michelle Obama figure out a better diet for school kids. He, along with hundreds of chefs, school nutritionists and others are promoting "Chefs Move To Schools",

Quote of the Night

2010-06-03T09:21:00.000-05:00

"Where is your salmon from?" "It's Atlantic salmon, Pacific-ly raised." Oh really?

Special B. R. Cohn Wine Dinner, Thursday, June 10th

2010-06-01T07:33:00.000-05:00

With Winemaker Tom MontgomeryJoin us on Thursday June 10, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. for a very special Sevy's Wine and Food Dinner featuring five courses of specially created dishes paired with excellent wines from B. R. Cohn Winery. Seating for this dinner is limited, reservations are required, $69.95 per person (plus tax and gratuity). Contact Jimmy, Stefaan or Amy M. at (214) 265-7389 or SevysCatering

Monday Leftovers - Continued

2010-05-31T16:31:00.002-05:00

And what to do with half a sheet tray of short ribs when the chef is at work the next day? Well I found the perfect blog to answer that question, Last Night's Dinner. As we speak the meat is simmering with tomatoes for a nice ragu, and I may even try my hand at homemade pappardelle. Or I'll just boil some spaghetti. Wait, did someone comment about risotto? Yum.

Monday Leftovers - Short Ribs

2010-05-31T09:47:00.000-05:00

By Chef Jim Severson (aka Honey). Topped with Sevy's Bitchin' BBQ Sauce, available bottled at the restaurant ($6.95) or make it yourself from the recipe in my favorite cook book: Sevy's Grill, A Collection of Our Favorite Recipes. SEVY'S BITCHIN' BBQ SAUCE 1/2 c. onions, small dice 1/4 c. poblano pepper, small dice 2 TBL. garlic, minced 2 TBL. olive oil 1 TBL. salt 1 c. cider vinegar 1/2 c.

Have A Happy And Safe Memorial Day

2010-05-29T10:42:00.000-05:00

From A Heap o'Livin', by Edgar A. Guest (1916): OUR DUTY TO OUR FLAG Less hate and greed Is what we need And more of service true; More men to love The flag above And keep it first in view. Less boast and brag About the flag, More faith in what it means; More heads erect, More self-respect, Less talk of war machines. The time to fight To keep it bright Is not along the way, Nor 'cross the

It's All Good Tonight

2010-05-28T11:41:00.000-05:00

It's summer! At least for the college kids - high school has three more (half) days next week. I'm getting back in the swing of having a pack of boys underfoot, Operation "Jacked and Tanned" has been a poolside endeavor during the week (when they're not working). And tonight, for a return engagement, North Dallas' own brilliant band the Subterranean Aviators will be returning to All Good Cafe

Takeout: Why. Even. Bother. ?.

2010-05-26T21:21:00.001-05:00

Subtitled: Lucky For Someone I Don't Review Restaurants.

Just Deserts For Dessert

2010-05-26T12:07:00.000-05:00

Wonderful news that Hillcrest's Brian Adam Smith was named DISD Teacher of the Year! I've had the privilege of seeing this man in action over the past 5 years, and he can really cook when it comes to inspiring kids. From coaching softball, to playing three instruments in the school musical, to teaching music, to directing the bands, to raising his own three kids as a single parent - this man

How To Cook Disenfranchisement

2010-05-26T08:50:00.002-05:00

There seems to be many, many recipes as evidenced by news this morning that a state judge has turned over Denton County's vote to become wet, held last May and approved by a majority of voters. A similar thing happened a few years ago in Dallas (but before we got to vote on it) when a state judge threw out a (certified) Dallas petition seeking a modified wet change in a JP district. And with

My Edible Bike Plan

2010-05-25T15:29:00.001-05:00

A few years ago the city installed sidewalks along Churchill Way and Preston Road, going south to Forest Lane. Our neighborhood is full of pedestrians on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings, previously neighbors would squeeze between overgrown shrubbery and 50 mile-per-hour traffic to attend Sabbath services. Now I see sidewalks are being installed on Preston south of Forest, which is great,

Coming Soon To Our Local Markets?

2010-05-18T14:18:00.000-05:00

I just came across the on-line newsletter for Specialty Foods Magazine. They're the ones who hold the Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City (June 27-29th). New things they've seen in the May edition include: red kiwi, umami paste in a tube, inhallible chocolate, guarana fruit from Brazil, and Whole Foods is getting into the pub business.

Savanna Smiles at the Dallas Zoo

2010-05-17T09:51:00.000-05:00

Last night was the Patron/Preview party of the new Savanna exhibit - 11 acres put to very good use. A cheetah interacted with the toddlers, through the glass, all the kids thought "Kitty" was playing, all the parents looked up to see how tall the enclosure was. The elephants have an amazing setting, three waterfalls and so much land. And the giraffes can give you a kiss as you walk by! I met

The Texas "Not-An-Income-Tax" Income Tax

2010-05-15T09:47:00.011-05:00

When is an income tax not an income tax? Apparently when you decide to give it a different name, like "Franchise Tax". Because it is written in our state's constitution that we cannot have an "income tax", we instead have a tax that defies logical calculation and is punitive for businesses that have high costs of rent, sales, or administrative costs. But make no mistake about it, this is a tax

Rainy Weekend Reading

2010-05-14T15:17:00.000-05:00

Landing in our mailbox just in time for the rain, the spring edition of Gastronomica. There's an article about the growing contemporary influence on Belgian cuisine (our General Manager at Sevy's, Stefaan Vandemoortele, is Belgian); a biography of Tillie Lewis, pioneer of tomato canning in 1940's California; a delicious looking young chef named Alexander Feldman of Alba in Boulder, Colorado;

A Taste of North Texas History

2010-05-14T14:05:00.002-05:00

Could what we now call just Pecan Pie originally be from Fort Worth? Mrs. Vesta Harrison claims to have made up the recipe for "Texas Pecan Pie", in Like Wine and Cheese....Older is Better, published by the City of Dallas for the Public Library (1974). Sue Murch, historian, recorded many ladies in area nursing homes asking about how and what they learned to cook while growing up. She put to

Shhh....Free Guacamole

2010-05-13T12:01:00.000-05:00

We stopped by our neighborhood Cantina Laredo the other night, while we waited for our take-out order we enjoyed a delicious margarita at the bar. When we got home, enclosed in our bag was a flyer letting us know we can get a FREE fresh top shelf guacamole by texting "CL183" to "89686" . They'll also notify us if there's any additional coupons or updates.

Happy Anniversary Dr. H

2010-05-12T19:16:00.000-05:00

He's been here 5 years now, so I think it's time to dust off that pie recipe I concocted in his honor. Because if anyone has proven that he can chew on something a little crunchy, it's Dr. Michael Hinojosa of DISD. I hope he sticks around long enough to enjoy a dessert course - can we now give him some credit for improving Dallas' recipe?

Food In The City

2010-05-12T17:33:00.000-05:00

At today's Days Of Taste class at the Dallas Farmers Market, a nice lady from the DFM spoke to the kids about all the farmers who sell in the sheds and where they come from in Texas. Then she went around the room of sixty-six fifth graders from Travis TAG Elementary and asked them if they were growing anything to eat at their homes (question - is catnip a human food?). I had to keep my arm by

Taste of Dallas Fashion

2010-05-12T16:15:00.000-05:00

Sixty-six terrific behaving 5th graders from Travis TAG Elementary today shopped and bought fruits and vegetables at the Dallas Farmers Market to make some awesome fresh salads. Sponsors rock.

May Wine and Food Dinner Featuring Selby Wines

2010-05-11T15:09:00.001-05:00

We are honored to host winemaker (and former Texan) Susie Selby of Selby Winery at our May Wine and Food Dinner on Monday, May 24th. Featuring their delicious wines from the Russian River and Sonoma valleys paired with food especially created to compliment each vintage. Seating is limited for this event, reservations required (no OpenTable reservations, please). Sparkling reception at 6:30

From The Missouri Bureau

2010-05-11T12:39:00.000-05:00

May Is Mascarpone Month

2010-05-10T15:19:00.001-05:00

Paula Lambert is one of my favorite Dallas food people, while she's been friends to the likes of Julia Child and Alice Waters, her passion remains the Dallas food scene and she spends many hours giving back to our community. I'll admit, she's been a long time friend, I remember having dinner at her dining room table when I was 28 years old. I'm not sure of her exact age then, but I think she

Mothers Day

2010-05-07T23:34:00.000-05:00

MOTHER By Edgar A. Guest, from A Heap O' Living (1916) Never a sigh for the cares that she bore for me, Never a thought of the joys that flew by; Her one regret that she couldn't do more for me, Thoughtless and selfish, her Master was I. Oh, the long nights that she came at my call to me! Oh, the soft touch of her hands on my brow! Oh, the long years that she gave up her all to me! Oh, how I

Amy's Agrilicious Imaginarium Tour

2010-05-07T22:40:00.003-05:00

Last July I posted about my delight in traveling Highway 281 from Dallas to San Antonio. And today reading Unfair Park, I see that a writer from the New York Times agrees with my love of this stretch of edible Texas. Then Nancy Nichols over on SideDish asked for readers' fantasy culinary destinations, to which I replied that this trip, for some, can be as good as anything you'd have to fly to

Happy Friday Hour - Or The OceanTini

2010-05-07T12:37:00.001-05:00

Maybe this weekend, like me, you're looking for something perfect that goes with an opera based on a whale? Or maybe you were one of the 100 diners at Sevy's Grill last week for the DMagazine SideDish Supper Club dinner where the premier of Ketel One's Oranj Vodka was sampled pre-dinner. Or maybe you just want a really great summer martini for the back yard patio. Here's the recipe. THE

College Food

2010-05-05T15:35:00.001-05:00

Fat Sandwich? KFC Double Down? McGangBang? Or my favorite, DOB's Toilet-Bombing Heart-Molester? Must be almost time for summer break.

Kitchen Crappy? Me Too

2010-05-05T13:55:00.002-05:00

Mine's not small, but the best of equipment usually ends up down at the restaurant. Like my FryDaddy. And a few vintage cast iron skillets. But here's a book that can help me overcome my shortage of modern-day accoutrements for meal preparation. Last July I wrote about fellow UT-D grad and El Centro culinary school grad Jennifer Schaertl and her website CrappyLittleKitchens.com . Well,

Celebrating Wednesdays

2010-05-04T14:49:00.001-05:00

I personally think it's a great idea to celebrate Wednesdays with a little happy hour stop, and at Sevy's we're celebrating a different cocktail each week of May. Wednesday, May 5th - Cinco de Mayo kicks off $5.00 top shelf Don Julio Tequila Margaritas. Wednesday, May 12th - Grand Marnier Grand Smash cocktails $5.00. Wednesday, May 19th - Debut of Crown Royal "Black", $5.00 tastings.Wednesday,

Welcoming Robin

2010-05-03T12:40:00.001-05:00

Robin Plotkin has a blog? Yes, she does - and it's delicious. And it's going on TDCB's blog roll. Her latest post is a shout out to Jamie Oliver to come on by and check out the food revolution we're helping kids in Dallas experience through Days of Taste. She would know, she's been the director of the program for the last seven years. Her blog discusses health, nutrition, diet (she a

Score Five For The Collection

2010-05-03T12:27:00.001-05:00

Canton's Trade Days didn't yield much more than an old copy of Irma S. Rombauer's, A Cook Book for Girls and Boys ($2), so after driving back to Dallas I decided to make one more stop at a local antique store than can usually be relied upon for a few good old books. Score! Added to the collection, and from the history of Big D is the Motherhood Class Cook Book, from the classes conducted by Mrs

Weekend Edition - Where's Amy?

2010-04-30T07:27:00.002-05:00

Yeah, it looks a little tired, raising the question will it ever re-open as another taqueria? Same rules, first to correctly answer the name of the former taqueria in this spot, either on TDCB or on Facebook (Amy Severson) wins a jar of Jim "Sevy" Severson's Truly Authentic Caesar Salad Dressing made by Canyon Specialty Foods of Dallas.

What I Could Be Eating Now

2010-04-29T08:19:00.000-05:00

If I were in Canton at First Monday Trade Days today. It's a Fried Egg BLT, or for ordering purposes at the World Famous Dairy Palace, it's a Bacon and Egg Breakfast Sandwich (no cheese) add lettuce, tomato and mayo. Maybe tomorrow.

13 Years Ago This April

2010-04-27T12:05:00.004-05:00

May 7th marks the 13th birthday of our "baby" (more like triplets some days) Sevy's Grill, but in April I always remember the anniversary of another, less happy occurrence. It was during one of those epic Dallas rainstorms on the afternoon of April 25, 1997 when Steven Ridge was driving in his truck with 10-year-old Shamanic Johnson and 6-year-old Steven Ridge [Jr.] who had just been picked up

Second Clue - Location 3

2010-04-26T15:09:00.001-05:00

Did I mention the boss is out of town for a few days? Doing a little hunting and fishing. He just told me he shot a wild turkey. I just told him I haven't gotten any work done since he left. Let's see if this clue helps with the others posted earlier. First to answer correctly the names of any of the restaurants that have been in this location wins a jar of Jim "Sevy" Severson's Sweet Ancho

RAKS Test - Math Portion

2010-04-26T14:10:00.000-05:00

Restaurateurs Assessment of Knowledge and Skills - hey, it's TAKS week in public schools. For those contemplating the food business, perhaps you should first pass Chef William Koval's (now Executive Chef of Lakewood Country Club) math for the kitchen.

Where's Amy - Location 3

2010-04-26T08:51:00.003-05:00

This beautiful fountain has a lonely seat on the patio of this closed eatery. The location has housed many places over the last 30 years, whoever can give me any of the correct names of restaurants that have been in this location will win a jar of Jim "Sevy" Severson's Sweet Ancho Chile Relish from the Star Chef Collection by Canyon Specialty Foods. UPDATE (Additional Clue): Two guesses for Il

Acceptance Speech - First Draft

2010-04-24T14:52:00.004-05:00

You love me, you really, really love me (sobs). I won Staff Favorite! I owe this recipe to the lessons learned long, long ago at the euchre tables of mid-Michigan - when you have a winning ace, play the damn card don't hold it in your hand. I have very few aces in my repertoire of food, most you'll find posted on TDCB don't involve cooking as much as they involve "making". So when it

I've Got A Secret Weapon For Tomorrow's Contest

2010-04-23T11:22:00.000-05:00

No, I'm not using the professional chef I love - that wouldn't be fair. I'm making my own recipe for tomorrows Herb Salad Dressing Contest over at North Haven Gardens. I've been soaking something for weeks to include in the recipe, hope it works. Because so far this thing is in my head, never made it as a dressing, per se. We'll see what the judges say tomorrow. There is no pre-entry

New Location - Where's Amy?

2010-04-23T10:13:00.002-05:00

Fridays should be fun, so here's another empty Dallas restaurant location for your puzzling enjoyment, I hope. Can you guess the original restaurant that was in this space? It was nice, steaks, seafood, a lyrical theme that was kind of jazzy. First to answer correctly wins a jar of Chef Jim "Sevy" Severson's Caramelized Onions from Canyon Foods Star Chef Collection. And family members, you

Spring Update on Dallas ZooTube

2010-04-23T10:08:00.000-05:00

I doubt the very nice folks at the Dallas Zoo realized the more international meaning of ZooTube, it took a few hundred Google search hits on TDCB for me to figure out all the traffic looking for "zootube". So with that in mind, I've reviewed the attached video they sent and it is completely G-rated. Good news for some, not so good for others. Camel rides, $5? I'm in.

Second Clue - Where's Amy?

2010-04-14T11:17:00.000-05:00

Again, first to guess correctly the name of the original restaurant in this empty location, either on this blog or on Facebook (Amy Severson) wins a bottle of Sevy's Caesar Salad Dressing by Canyon Foods of Dallas. No family members allowed to guess, sorry.

Kids + Farmers Market = Fun, Volunteers Needed

2010-04-13T20:47:00.004-05:00

Are you looking for a one-time, food-related, fun volunteer gig? The Dallas/Ft. Worth Chapter of the AIWF is looking for a few good persons who want to volunteer for the annual Days of Taste down at Dallas' Farmers Market. I'm signing up, not because I have a 4th grader, but because it's one of my favorite bring-a-smile-to-your-face things to do in Dallas. You don't have to be a foodie, you

Let's Play! Where's Amy?

2010-04-13T17:17:00.001-05:00

Been having fun on my lunch hours with my camera and my car, for the hell of it, why not? Can you guess the original restaurant that was in this space? First to answer correctly wins a bottle of Chef Jim "Sevy" Severson's Truly Authentic Caesar Dressing from Canyon Foods Star Chef Collection. Family member not eligible to win - we ate at this place too many times together.

Sevy's Grill April Wine & Food Dinner

2010-04-13T14:51:00.001-05:00

Join us on Monday, April 26th at 6:30 p.m.for our monthly food and wine dinner. This month we are pleased to feature Delicious Wines from DeLoach Vineyards Four courses plus a sparkling reception of some of their finest varieties, paired with uniquely created dishes designed to compliment the flavors of each wine. Seating is limited, reservations required, please contact Jimmy, Stefaan or Amy M.

Everybody's on Facebook These Days

2010-04-13T14:41:00.003-05:00

Write a check on a closed account? That's a felony, dude, you owe us $160 for that bad check. Nobody at the restaurant seems to know you, but moi, recently turned ON to Facebook figures you're there somewhere. And I was right, and so I feel lucky it was only $160, someone is obviously pissed off about the $12,000+ you scammed. Stephen Michael Luedders, you've been a very, very bad boy. Shame

Would Everyone Please Stop Chewing On Unicard?

2010-04-13T10:41:00.008-05:00

Many people who hear the word "Unicard" think the whole alcohol sales/club membership issue revolves around having a gold (well mine is anyhow) Unicard in their wallet or purse. It has nothing to do with this at all. State law mandates that people who drink in a non-wet area join a club formed by the restaurant, Unicard provides a record-keeping service to these neighborhood spots that want to