Mix all of the ingredients except for the chocolate chips in one mug or a separate bowl; stir until completely combined. Then pour ½ of the contents into another mug. Add 2 tablespoons of chocolate chips in each mug; mix well and bake in the microwave for 3 minutes.
If using an oversized mug, combine all ingredients into the mug and then cook in the microwave for 3 minutes.
Serve warm and top with chocolate syrup, ice cream or whipped cream. Enjoy!
WHIPPED CREAM
Prep and mixing time : 10 minutes
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED :
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :
In a large bowl, whip cream with an electric mixer (on low setting) slowly until cream doubles in size. Beat in powdered sugar and vanilla. Once sugar and vanilla are incorporated, increase speed to medium for 30 seconds, then beat on medium-high for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, until stiff peaks form.
Special Note : Make sure your bowl is completely dry before adding ingredients.Do not over-mix. Whipped cream will become clumpy if over-mixed.
It is no secret that Insignia Prime Steak and Sushi is a success story that remains consistent with the legacy of the Scotto restaurant brand. Managing Partner and General Manager Emir Radoncic clearly explains “you must get to know your customers and insure satisfaction one table at a time.” In all the years I have come to Insignia, it is customary to see Emir working the floor, connecting with his patrons. “By far, this is the most critical element of our success,” says Emir.
As you drive up to the property, Insignia can best be described as a majestic country mansion with its interior filled with warmth and opulence. Plenty of comfortable horseshoe styled booths too, for family size gatherings. Unlike traditional steakhouses, Insignia delivers a perfect balance of premium steaks, the freshest seafood, with an impressive display of sushi creations that have become a trademark of the Scotto restaurant group.
This Tuesday night, the dining room was bustling and so were the specials. The King Lobster Roll appetizer comes presented in 10 oversized rolls made with spicy lobster, cucumber, avocado, topped with Wild Alaskan King Crab Meat and sweet mustard drizzle. Enough for two to share. A better tasting sushi roll, you will not find anywhere. The Australian Wagyu Brisket French Onion soup elevates this traditional appetizer, next level. A savory rich beef broth with morsels of tender brisket and brioche croutons with slightly charred gruyere cheese was over the top delicious!
For mains, I cannot seem to break away from the traditions of what their Bone-In Ribeye delivers. A stunning medium rare 24oz portion cut like butter. It is those first few bites along the rib cap that I just never seem get tired of, and at Insignia the consistency is uncanny. My partner had the Atlantic Swordfish. A thick center cut portion placed on a bed of root vegetable ragout. Spooned over the sword was a black olive tapenade. A salty, brine condiment enhanced the flavor profile of the fish. Insignia takes their seafood seriously. Fresh, flavorful and with the ragout veggies made this dish comfort food status. To accompany our entrees were sides of roasted cremini mushrooms, grilled artichokes, and a garlic mash.
One of their more popular desserts is their Celebration Platter. Great for special occasions, your party will be dazzled by the presentation. With sparklers abound, indulge the New York style cheesecake, chocolate mousse cake, two cinnamon sugar donuts topped with shaved white chocolate, raspberry sauce and vanilla ice cream. Since it was my birthday, they added a stuffed Nutella cookie served with, oh yes, another scoop of vanilla.
Insignia with its spacious bar suggests that you begin your dining experience here. Get there a half an hour before your party arrives and relax with one of their signature cocktails. Defined in the dictionary as a badge or distinguishing mark, Insignia Prime Steak and Sushi, in their eleven years of successful hospitality, has certainly lived up to their brand name reputation.
From kickoff to the final whistle, taking your game day party to the next level starts with serving an all-star lineup of menu items. With a flavor-packed, vibrant recipe, the lineup of Fresh Cravings Salsa offers a homemade-tasting alternative to softer, duller blends of jarred salsa. Made with high-quality ingredients like vine-ripened tomatoes, crisp vegetables, zesty peppers and spices, the salsas make a perfect addition to these recipes from celebrity chef and entertainer George Duran, author of “Take This Dish and Twist It” and host of Food Network’s “Ham on the Street” and TLC’s “Ultimate Cake Off.”
Kickoff your menu with an app like these Jalapeno Bacon and Salsa Biscuit Bites that meld together traditional tailgate tastes. Then put a Tex-Mex twist on a traditional favorite with this Enchilada Lasagna, perfect for feeding a crowd of hungry fans. To round out the playbook, this Layered Mediterranean Hummus Salad can make for an accompaniment to a variety of main courses. Find more game-winning recipes made for homegating and tailgating at FreshCravings.com.
ENCHILADA LASAGNA
Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran~Servings: 4-6
2tablespoons olive oil
1large onion, chopped (1 cup)
1deli roasted chicken, skin and bones removed, shredded
2tablespoons taco seasoning
1cup chicken stock or broth
8ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
2cups shredded Tex-Mex cheese blend
16ounces Fresh Cravings Chunky Salsa, plus additional for serving
1cup fresh cilantro, chopped
nonstick cooking spray
6flour tortillas (9 inches each)
1cup tortilla chips, crushed
1cup shredded cheddar cheese
Preheat oven to 350° F. In large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, 4-5 minutes.
Add shredded chicken and stir in taco seasoning. Add chicken broth and bring to simmer, about 5 minutes.
Add cream cheese, Tex-Mex cheese, salsa and cilantro. Stir until cream cheese is melted and simmer 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Spray square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Place two tortillas in bottom of pan, folding over or trimming sides of tortillas to fit.
Spoon half chicken mixture over tortillas. Repeat then place remaining tortillas over top. Mix crushed tortilla chips with cheddar cheese and sprinkle over top. Bake 30 minutes, or until lasagna is bubbling and lightly browned.
Let stand 10 minutes then top with additional salsa before serving.
LAYERED MEDITERRANEAN HUMMUS SALAD
Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran~Servings: 4-6
2containers (10 ounces each) Fresh Cravings Hummus, any flavor
1cup sliced cucumbers
1/2cup Kalamata olives, seeded and roughly chopped
1/2cup canned garbanzo beans, drained
1/4cup crumbled feta cheese
3/4cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
1/4red onion, finely chopped
2tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
1/2lemon, juice only
extra-virgin olive oil
zaatar, for sprinkling (optional)
pita bread or tortilla chips
On bottom of large, flat serving dish or platter, use spoon to evenly spread hummus. Layer cucumbers, olives, garbanzo beans, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion and parsley throughout hummus. Squeeze lemon juice over top. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Zaatar, if desired.Serve immediately with pita bread or tortilla chips.
Chronic inflammation can settle anywhere in the body – including your heart and cardiovascular system. During the pandemic, there has been an ever-growing link between COVID and cardiovascular disease. Pre-existing heart conditions such as damaged muscle in the heart or blockages in arteries threatens the body’s ability to survive the virus. A compromised heart is susceptible to lower blood oxygen levels, blood pressure dysfunction and blood clotting disorders. The best defense against viral infection is a healthy body.It’s important now more than ever to support heart health naturally and reverse inflammation in its tracks.
As a Naturopathic Doctor, I assess labwork based on optimal ranges, not normal ranges.This plays a major role in feeling your best. There is a cardiac marker that I have been following since before COVID and the clinical findings during the pandemic are quite astounding. The marker is hs-CRP which stands for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein.It measures the risk for a cardiovascular event for an individual even if they have no history of cardiovascular issues nor current symptoms.
By assessing hs-CRP, I provide preventative care so that a cardiac event may be avoided. Prior to the pandemic, this value was typically in optimal range for most of my patients which indicates low risk for a cardiovascular event.However, since the pandemic, hs-CRP values have been elevated. I have also connected a trend with the value of the marker decreasing as the chronic COVID antibodies (IgG) decrease. My patients feel better as these two lab values go down with the aid of Naturopathic Medicine.
There are many natural ways to decrease full body inflammation, support heart health and reverse long COVID symptoms. Naturopathic Care is always specific to the individual, so make sure to get your own health properly evaluated. Nutrition, lifestyle habits to decrease stress and quality supplementation are very effective at helping someone achieve wellness and get their life back.Minerals and vitamins that may contribute to heart health include magnesium, taurine, and ubiquinol to name a few. Vitamin D & K are best absorbed when taken together. Supplements can also decrease bad cholesterol such as, red yeast rice or plant sterols. Make sure your doctor is correctly evaluating your cholesterol panel as not all cholesterol needs to be lowered. Remember – cholesterol is brain food. High blood pressure can also be lowered with herbs, stress relief, exercise specific to your blood type and daily breathing techniques. Eat plant-based foods rich in omega 3s such as ground flaxseeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, winter squash and beans. Foods rich in antioxidants are a superb way to fight inflammation – think bright colors – beets, kale, and brussel sprouts. Plus, avoid inflammatory foods such as red meat and dairy which are a quick ticket to heart attack city.
Take your heart health into your own hands today. Ask your doctor to run inflammatory markers, especially hs-CRP.Make sure your labwork falls into optimal ranges. Choose habits to benefit your mind and body. Eat foods rich in fiber and nutrients – and you should be on the path to wellness!
Powering up for a successful game day starts with a pregame spread, and no tailgate or homegate is complete without a spicy dip that brings the heat.
This Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip is a perfect solution for firing up your crowd as it requires little preparation so you save precious time before kickoff. Whether you bake shortly before the game begins or make it ahead of time for a parking lot party, simply keep it warm and serve with chips or veggie sticks for a quick, shareable appetizer.
Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip
Servings: 3-4
2 cups shredded chicken
8 ounces cream cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, plus additional for topping, divided
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 heavy pinch dried dill
1/2 cup hot sauce
2 green onions, chopped
blue cheese crumbles
chips
vegetable sticks
Heat oven to 400 F.
In bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and dried dill until combined. Add hot sauce; mix until combined.
Transfer mixture from bowl to oven-safe dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, to taste.
Bake until cheese is melted, approximately 15 minutes.
Top with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onion.
Serve warm with chips and vegetable sticks.
If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.
(Culinary.net) Find more ways to turn up the heat on game day at Culinary.net.
“I found Rome built of bricks; I leave her clothed in marble.” ~ Caesar Augustus
No matter how many times you visit Rome there is always something new and exciting to see, do and eat! On a recent trip to Rome, we revisited some old favorites as well as worked in some new ones too.
Arriving in Rome exhilarated, yet totally exhausted from the overnight flight, we pushed on to do our “Five big sights in one day crawl.” Starting at the Spanish Steps, we make our way down to the Trevi Fountain, then onto the Pantheon, Piazza Navona; if we have enough energy, a quick look at the Colosseum before going back to the hotel and collapsing. It’s about a 2.5 mile walk and it’s truly the best of Rome by foot.
In the middle of our five sight walk, we stopped for lunch at the delicious and well located, La Piccola Cuccagna, near Piazza Navona, home to Bernini’s famous “Fountain of the Four Rivers.”The food and the service was first rate— just the thing for jet lagged minds and tired feet.
Later in the week, we took a day trip to Naples. It was a good choice as it’s only 1hr and 10 minutes on the fast train. Two companies now run this route from Termini Station: the state owned Trenitalia and the private Italo Treno. Both are similarly priced and you can purchase your tickets in advance or on your day of travel from machines in the station. Round trip (purchased in advance), was $50pp.
Naples is a fascinating city for a day trip. We did a lot of walking and eating. Starting with melt in your mouth and hot out of the oven, Sfogliatelle from Antico Forno delle Sfogliatelle Calde.Then, onto lunch at the pizzeria, made famous by Eat, Pray and Love— L’antica Pizzeria da Michele.
Another venture out of Rome that turned out to be our favorite day of the trip: I booked a “Classic Half-Day Wine Tour,” run by Old Frascati Food and Wine. It was an easy 25-minute train ride from Rome, and takes you worlds away from the crowds of the city. Take the local train from Roma Termini to Frascati, where you are picked up and driven to their incredibly scenic winery and given a tour and tasting. Afterward, you’re taken back to Frascati for samples of local specialties, along with a full lunch and more wine. Go to oldfrascati.com for more information and reservations. It was a delight and I highly recommend it.
Following the tour, you are free to take the train back to Rome at your leisure. We chose to stay at a hotel near Termini Station, as we knew we were going to be taking a few day trips. The Doubletree by Hilton Rome Monte was a great choice…very modern and comfortable.
So whether it’s your first time or tenth time in Rome, enjoy the Dolce Vita!
Portrait of young woman holding shopping paper bags and using mobile phone, discussing purchases during seasonal sales in the street. Beautiful and fashionable young woman with shopping bags
How Technology Will Transform Shopping in 2023 and Beyond
Above all, consumers value convenience, speed and good deals, according to new research by Sensormatic Solutions, and they can expect retailers to deliver these benefits in 2023.
In the recent survey, respondents cited stocked shelves (64%), quick and easy checkouts (63%), and discounts or sales (63%) as the top three cont
Portrait of woman relax use technology of laptop computer for fashion online shopping.Young girl enjoy shopping time summer sale and buy something purchases at home.online shopping concept
ributors to positive shopping experiences.
With 42% of respondents either very likely or moderately likely to abandon their shopping trip due to a long checkout line, omnichannel fulfillment options – from self-checkout to buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS) – are gaining widespread adoption by both retailers and customers, alike. Self-checkout for example, once a novelty, is now viewed as a way to complete a transaction more quickly, easily and privately than traditional checkout. In fact, nearly one-third of respondents said they will use self-checkout more often in 2023, with over half (52%) of respondents citing their main reason for doing so is because it’s quicker. Likewise, options like curbside pickup and BOPIS are being employed by customers more frequently, with 63% of respondents noting convenience as their primary reason for using these services.
At the same time, retailers are embracing B2B technology to improve the in-store experience. Shopper traffic data is helping retailers optimize staffing and reimagine floor layouts to mitigate crowding and encourage browsing, while inventory intelligence is helping customers find what they need, when they need it.
The survey also reveals that shoppers are eager to embrace the next big thing: 63% of respondents said they would like to see retailers implement interactive mobile apps to better blend in-store and online experiences, and many shoppers said they would like to see retailers implement virtual reality (24%) and augmented reality (17%).
“Shoppers are eager to try new options and explore the benefits of digitalization. They are seeking convenience to pursue better in-store experiences, while simultaneously thinking about their carbon footprint in relation to where they shop,” said Kim Melvin, global leader of marketing and communications, Sensormatic Solutions. “When it comes down to it, shoppers want safer, quicker, and more affordable and sustainable options.”
Along these same lines, consumers are still invested in what retailers are doing for the sake of the environment, with 69% noting that it is important to them that retailers continue to improve environmental performance and energy management in their stores. Consumers are looking for this to happen with the following changes: less plastic and packaging waste (62%), recycling bins for shoppers and employees to use (42%) and increased sustainable product and brand options (41%).
Further, consumers are planning to create their own sustainable habits in 2023, with 39% buying more items in-store to reduce shopping trips, 38% shopping in-store more often to eliminate packaging waste, and 33% shopping at thrift stores more often.
What’s clear from these trends and insights is that the industry’s march toward more sustainable, flexible, streamlined and efficient operations is just beginning.
To learn more about the evolving retail industry, as well as how emerging technology can help stores meet customers’ expectations in the 2023, visit sensormatic.com.
Job Interview With Employment Consultant Woman. Law Office
Few decisions impact your life more than deciding when to change your job. For many individuals, the beginning of a new year serves as a catalyst for action. Regardless of what moves you to take action, this is simply one of those decisions where there is no margin for error.
Why?
When you are exploring if the grass truly is greener on the other side, make sure that you are confident that it will be nearly impossible to make your current situation greener. If you feel you have become stale in your existing role, do not look to leap just yet if you haven’t already explored with your manager how to freshen it. If you are unhappy with your overall compensation, speak up. Prepare a persuasive business case for what you are after and go after it. There are far too many reasons to jump ship to list here. And, outside of working for Attila the Hun, or living in a toxic organizational culture, you can potentially influence and maybe even fix a situation that pains you.
Many of my clients placed themselves in the job market without trying to remedy an issue that could’ve been fixed beforehand. The most gifted managers on the planet cannot read minds. Speak up first; leap second.
Have No Doubt About What Greener Pastures Look Like
Changing jobs is like archery; you can be highly skilled, and have world-class equipment, but without a clear bullseye, you will underperform.
Changing jobs is fraught with countless emotional landmines. Most individuals are so motivated to get out of where they are that they are vulnerable to making a rash decision that is not in their best interests. Before you send out your first resume, invest time in critical and deep thinking. List the “must haves” and “nice to haves” in a prospective new role. Answer the question, “What is non-negotiable?”
Check yourself around the urgency to say yes. Looking for a new gig is like a root canal without anesthesia. Ditching the pain without being completely convinced that it’s the right move will only put you back in the oral surgeon’s chair in a couple of months.
Interview Them as Critically as They Are Interviewing You
Like a first date, both the interviewee and the interviewer are on their best behavior. If the chemistry and the evaluation of your competence are positive, the process of wooing you will begin. Let’s face it-the only reason company X is courting you is because they have yet to meet their perfect match. The interview will unfold in your favor. The interviewer, through both verbal and non-verbal messages, will act as if the organization wouldn’t survive without you. You can almost envision that offer letter!
One of the nuances of persuasion is to sell the sizzle, not the steak.
Many people on the hiring side have their compensation linked to how expeditiously vacancies are filled. Most are gifted salespeople, so be aware and listen to their pitch with detachment.
Having interviewed many possible individuals where my decision would be, “I want hire you,” for a role, I always put a lot of credence into how they interviewed me about the company. After sitting in the hot seat, would their evaluation of our company suggest a great fit or drive me back to the resumes piled on my desk?
Supposedly, more people depart from their jobs in January than any other time of the year. Perhaps January should be known as National Quit Month. For all that envision a move in the new year, I hope my guidance helped.
Wishing you all a job that makes you leap out of bed in the morning.
The 2023 New Year journey and future vision concept . Businessman traveling on highway road leading forward to happy new year celebration in beginning of 2021 for fresh and successful start .
Living in the present means celebrating each moment as it happens without worries about the past or anxiety for what the future holds and enjoying life to the fullest. Many people find themselves thinking about what happened yesterday or what might happen tomorrow, making living in the now a challenge.
You can overcome those hurdles and live each day more fully by adopting habits that promote physical and mental well-being, including these suggestions from the experts at Natrol, the No. 1 drug-free sleep aid brand, according to data from Nielsen^.
Regular Exercise
You’ll find exercise on virtually every list of self-care advice, and for good reason. Exercise stimulates your body in numerous beneficial ways, not the least of which is getting your heart pumping and oxygen flowing throughout your body, including your brain. Exercise also pairs well with meditation or mindfulness activities, which allow you to align your body’s movement with your thoughts and focus on the act of nurturing your body while freeing your mind.
Quality Sleep
Getting quality sleep is linked to improved concentration and productivity, consciously managing your sleep habits can help you be more present each day. Creating a bedtime routine and establishing a comfortable, quiet sleeping environment are important steps. In addition, drug-free sleep aids like Natrol Melatonin products are designed to work with the body’s natural cycles and help users fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and wake up revitalized with a clearer, calmer mind†. Made with clean ingredients and no artificial flavors, sweeteners or preservatives, the line of melatonin products may help you rethink your relationship between sleep and living life to the fullest.
Deep Breathing
Focusing on the here and now can be easier said than done. However, it’s possible to train your body and mind to concentrate on specific thoughts and tasks. Deep breathing exercises are an example of physically focusing yourself. Initiating a slow, steady breathing pattern and paying close attention to that rhythm can be an effective way to ward off negativity, whether it’s fear, anxiety or another undesirable emotion. Managing your breathing gives you a degree of control that can help you navigate a tricky situation or establish a deeper connection between your body and mind.
Time Management
For many people, the modern world’s frenetic lifestyle often demands constant multitasking. However, that continual juggling act makes it virtually impossible to give your full attention to any one aspect of your life. While a full stop to your multitasking tendencies may be impractical, you can carve out time to dedicate your mind more intentionally and completely. You may be surprised by how much joy you derive from simply being present.
Develop Healthy Sleep Habits
Healthy sleep begins with 7-9 hours of sleep a night, but there’s more you need to know to achieve the sleep you deserve. By getting the recommended amount of sleep and hitting all your sleep stages, you can wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to own the day.
Create healthy sleep habits. Establishing a consistent sleep-wake schedule helps regulate your circadian rhythms and increases your quality of sleep.
Avoid bright screens 60 minutes before bedtime. Exposure to bright LED lights such as smartphones, laptops and TV screens before bed can interfere with your body’s natural release of melatonin.
Consider taking a melatonin supplement. When you need a little extra nudge toward dreamland, melatonin may help you fall asleep and stay asleep so you wake up refreshed.†
Create a calm and dark bedroom oasis. A dark, noise-free bedroom can help you sleep better throughout the night. Mask noise pollution with calming sounds and block out disruptive light with darkening curtains or a sleep mask.
Walk or exercise daily. Walking as little as 10 minutes a day can help improve sleep quality.
Explore more advice and products to help you stay present at Natrol.com.
^Nielsen, xAOC, 52 weeks ending 09/10/22
†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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Source: Natrol
A new year is a perfect time to consider the habits you want to keep and the ones you’d like to develop. One resolution to consider is helping your children develop a growth mindset this year.
“We know one of the greatest boosts to parents’ confidence over the past year came from knowing their children’s whole selves are being nurtured, and we want to see that trend continue,” said Carter Peters from KinderCare Learning Center’s education team. “A growth mindset helps children try new things despite fear of failure. It’s the kind of thinking that allows inventors and creative thinkers to get excited about trying something new and ensures they have the cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills to work through hurdles.”
Adults can often easily spot when children are engaged in creative thinking and prideful of their work, but that confidence may be lost as failures turn into insecurities. By nurturing a growth mindset and showing children they can learn and develop new skills in any area, it better sets them up for long-term success.
Consider these three tips to help children build a growth mindset:
Praise effort: It’s easy to fall into the habit of praising successes. However, praising effort encourages children to try new things without the fear of failing. It also teaches children personal growth and achievement are possible, even if their overall effort wasn’t a success.
“Young children often get excited to try something new,” Peters said. “By praising effort and showing children they’ll still be loved and valued despite the outcome, you can reframe how they approach challenges and teach them that difficult doesn’t mean impossible.”
Encourage the process: People often withhold praise until there’s a result, which leads children to hurriedly scribble a picture to hold up for a “good job” instead of taking time to focus on their efforts. When children know adults will encourage them during the process, instead of only upon the achievement, they’re more likely to try new things or master a new skill. For example, try providing encouragement such as, “I can see you’re focused on drawing that tree. It looks so lifelike because you’re putting so much thought into what you’re doing.” Once their project is finished, continue the encouragement by hanging up their artwork or school projects in a prominent place.
Model a growth mindset: You can model a growth mindset for children by narrating your actions when you are facing a challenge: “I am having a difficult time putting this shelf together, but it’s OK. I’ll take a break then read the instructions again.” Remove negative words from your vocabulary, such as “I can’t” or “I’m stupid.” Even when you are joking, children may not be able to tell the difference. You can also ask your children to join you in problem-solving. Take time to hear their ideas and try them even if you think they won’t work. This not only supports the development of their growth mindset, but the quality time and encouragement reinforces their sense of self-worth and builds confidence.
For more tips to help children develop a growth mindset, visit kindercare.com.
#16529
Source: KinderCare
Let’s face it, trendy restaurants come and go. That’s why, it’s time to bring it back old school and share with you all that Filetto’s of Commack is, and why their customers keep coming back. Almost 20 years ago the original Filetto’s opened in East Northport. A success story onto itself, the owners decided it was time to expand. Opening their doors about one year ago, Filetto’s of Commack has gotten stellar reviews from its patrons. Partner Vinny explains, “For me, it is all about the service. The food must be spot on, but my customers keep coming back, because they know how much we care about them.
Tonight, we tried a variety of dishes that I am pleased to share with you. Fried Raviolis: A crispy exterior stuffed with creamy ricotta was the perfect balance. Served with a bright pomodoro dipping sauce was fun and delicious. Hot Antipasto for two: Typically, laden with lots of cheese and sauce, you can barely see what is on the plate. Am I right? Filetto’s has taken a lighter approach, which for me, makes this dish far more appealing. Baked clams, stuffed mushrooms, eggplant rollatini, shrimp oreganata, and zucchini sticks was a wonderful change. Light and more than enough for two guests.
I rarely eat pasta before an entree, but with such a wide selection of interesting choices, I could not resist. We shared a bowl of Penne Melanzane; A pasta tossed with battered eggplant, sauteed in a marsala plum tomato sauce, topped with ricotta cheese was incredible. The sauce was rich and flavorful, just like Nonna’s Sunday sauce.
For entrees, we had the Shrimp Parmigiana: typically, when I have ordered this dish at other restaurants I’ve dined, I could barely see the shrimp buried under all the cheese. Not so at Filetto’s. Plump and breaded jumbo shrimp, delicately positioned on a plate, were topped with pomodoro sauce with just enough melted mozzarella. Classic Southern Italian, delicious and plentiful.
Following suit was the Veal Milanese; pan fried veal cutlet topped with arugula, pecorino cheese, diced onions & cherry tomatoes, dressed with balsamic glaze. I love the layers of flavors and texture of this dish. The golden crunch from the breaded veal with the sweetness of fresh plum tomatoes and saltiness of the pecorino was well balanced. Squeeze a little lemon on top to brighten up the dish. A popular favorite at Filetto’s.
As traditional as Filetto’s may be, their take on southern Italian fare is not heavy handed. It is apparent that much thought goes into their preparation, presentation and hospitality that will turn you into a Filetto’s loyalist too!
The Super Bowl is coming, and we’re all looking for places to watch the game. While we have our generic contenders, it’s always nice to find a unique, hidden refuge with a solid beer list, food menu and reputable TV count. If you head to Huntington, Patchogue, Babylon, or any of the island’s happenin’ towns, there’s always a solid turnout for the sports events – especially this one. Some of my go-tos include Rust & Gold in Huntington, Changing Times in East Northport, Napper Tandy’s in Northport and Croxley’s Ale House.
What makes for a good “sports bar”? I hear this question often. In my opinion, it’s a combination of elements. Solid staff, memorable bar food, drink specials and a comfortable atmosphere. Whether I’m with friends and family, or solo, it’s important to me that my experience is a positive one.
Rust & Gold in Huntington Village is groovy. Seriously, the vibes are reminiscent of my time in Williamsburg and the people are equally as memorable. Good drink list, beer list (the El Sully is my go-to), snacks and games. Although my personal preference is the Buffalo Chicken Dip with a side of Jenga, they truly offer something for everyone. Wings, Burgers, Apps – the list is endless. Also, did I mention the huge projector screen? I imagine that’s going to come in handy for everyone watching the game… or the half time show.
Changing Timesin East Northport is classic. Everything from the menu to the staff to the crowd – it’s all old school. There’s something so comforting about the atmosphere that I always seem to end up here. Their wings are awesome, and so is most of their bar food.(Think apps and burgers!) They have stellar specials and an eye-opening number of TVs, making this spot perfect for watching the big game.
Napper Tandy’s is a classic go-to. Close to my apartment in Northport, consistent, and filled with entertaining locals – this place is a good time. Surprisingly food forward, this place offers a number of unique, unexpected appetizers and entrees. I personally stick to the wings and drink specials, however my friends prefer to try the wacky menu additions including the coconut shrimp and potstickers.
Last but not least, Croxley’s Ale House. Most of you are familiar with this place. Although my personal preference is the Franklin Square location, Long Islander’s have their neighborhood favorite. Reliable, relaxed – Croxley’s never disappoints. Order some drinks, apps and enjoy the game with friends.
Whether you prefer your neighborhood spot or trying something new, there are options for everyone this super bowl season. Chat with friends, peruse reviews, choose a spot and enjoy the big game!
A new year is a perfect time to consider the habits you want to keep and the ones you’d like to develop. One resolution to consider is helping your children develop a growth mindset this year.
20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000.