The Germination of Thunder Farms at Matarazzo Farm

by Melody Kettle

Jim Matarazzo and Chef Michael CarrinoChef Michael Carrino, owner of Restaurant Passionne, is often heard saying, “No farmers, no food.” The concept makes sense, and people often agree, but only a few actually put their money, time and effort where their mouth is.  This past weekend, Chef Carrino took the farm to table concept one step further, again affirming his dedication to local farming and agriculture.

Carrino, accompanied by his two sous chefs from Passionne, headed to Matarazzo Farm, in North Caldwell, to commence the third season of “Thunder Farms,”  a planting project Carrino began two years ago, which has doubled in yield each year.

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Thunder Farms at Matarazzo Farm

by Melody Kettle

Inside Smashburger

by Melody Kettle

Today burgers come in all shapes and sizes.  From hulking half-pounders, towering double-stacks, scrumptious sliders, and White Castle’s famous squares, to the current burger trend – flat-out smashed. 

I’m talking about Smashburger! There’s quite a lot of buzz surrounding Smashburger, and I wanted to understand what makes this quarter inch thin burger so appealing and blazingly popular. 

So, I visited the kitchen of Smashburger in Montclair and met manager Ed Basch, who greeted me with the phrase,  “It’s a smashing day at Smashburger!”

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Summer Cocktails: Part 2

by Melody Kettle

Cucumber Margarita, photo courtesy of Ryan DePersioAs the temperatures continue to rise, al fresco parties are becoming the trend.  But every good party needs great libations.  Therefore, as your local ambassador of good food and good drink, please enjoy Part 2 of the Summer Sipping Series!

Amanti Vino, 33 Church Street, Montclair, has offered a recipe for a “beat the heat” cocktail that “hails from the rain battered borders of the United Kingdom,” a drink called  Think Pink.

But before you get shaking, Amanti Vino provided a little background about the cocktail:

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Emeril's Table

by Melody Kettle

A few months ago, I thought interviewing Anothy Bourdain was my dream come true.  It was indeed an interesting conversation,  but today was pure foodie fun!

I was cast to participate in an episode of Emeril Lagasse's new show, Emeril's Table. The show will air on the Hallmark channel in the fall.  I can't say much more, but take a look at the pic taken from the green room!

Montclair Farmers' Market Opening Day 2011& Name That Produce!

by Melody Kettle in ,

The Montclair Farmers' Market, which is as much a mecca for fresh local produce as it is for local conversation and socialization, opened today.  Gorgeous peonies and live music played by local musicians, including John Ehlis with Cham Rand,  set the scene! 

I was there to pick up some produce and snap a few pics. Take a look!

Here's a quiz for the produce proficient: Name that produce pictured (at left) next to the scallions?