Sunday, March 16, 2014

Naples knows how to eat! The options are endless from local diner dives to affordable, family-friendly restaurants and award-winning gourmet bistros.

Once a quiet, upscale winter retreat that would make you think of a ghost town during long, sleepy summers, Naples is anything but that today. Naples has experienced a true renaissance, evolving into a popular — and well-populated — year-round playground. It’s alive with people, plus enough dining options to satisfy the pickiest of palates. Want a sizzling, mouthwatering steak, fresh seafood, ethnic dishes and or the ultimate in a fine dining experience?  Naples will never disappoint! You, too, can have your pick of whatever you’re craving, choosing from casual, family-friendly venues or swankier, albeit pricier locales.

Chances are, you’re drawn to Naples because of the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico. And there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy waterfront dining, complete with light, warm breezes and romantic sunsets.  Some of our favorites: The Village on Venetian Bay and the Waterside Shops at Pelican Bay.

For some equally intriguing urban hot spots in other key Naples’ areas, look for restaurants on Fifth Avenue South, Third Street South in Old Naples, at Tin City, and along U.S. 41 heading north to Ft. Myers.


Want the familiarity of a reputable, nationally recognized restaurant? Try something savory like the hearty portions served at Bravo Cucina Italiana, Capital Grill’s predictably delicious steaks, and the specialties from McCormick and Schmick, located at The Mercato.

Naples Restaurants: Click Here

Saturday, March 8, 2014

New Orleans Cooking - Take an entertaining and informative cooking class at the New Orleans School of Cooking!

Located in a renovated molasses warehouse built in the early 1800s, this cooking class brings you to the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter. Learn the basics of Louisiana cooking from professional chefs and learn how to make classic New Orleans specialties such as gumbo, jambalaya and pralines. Enjoy samplings of these delectable dishes accompanied by complimentary beer, iced tea and coffee, and take the recipes home with you!

Food is considered one of the defining elements of Louisiana’s culture, and there's no better way to experience New Orleans than to taste it! During your New Orleans cooking demonstration class, embark on a sensory journey in the kitchen to discover Louisiana's rich tapestry of culinary influences -- French, Spanish, Native American, African and Indian -- as they blend into modern- day Cajun and Creole cuisine.

Your cooking experts will demonstrate how to prepare classic New Orleans specialties such as gumbo, jambalaya and pralines, and will season them with history, trivia and tall tales. Learn the basics of Louisiana cooking and discover the array of spices used in this unique cuisine.

Enjoy generous samplings of the demonstrated items, as well as complimentary coffee, iced tea and beer. At the end of the class, take home the recipes to show off your new skills to your friends and family!


Duration: 2.5 hours (approx.)
Ticket Price: $23.99

Italian Cooking Class in Milan - Dive into the world of culinary Italy!

Learn how to make mouthwatering pastas, pizzas and pastries the traditional Italian way during this intimate cooking class in Milan led by an enthusiastic chef. Discover the secrets of Italian home cooking as you make a 4-course meal of tasty dishes like bruschetta, risotto, gnocchi, ravioli, minestrone, tiramisu and panna cotta, all using fresh ingredients from a local market in Milan. At the end, savor the fruits of your labor with some wine!

Your Milan cooking class takes place in the private home of your cooking instructor in Piazza VI Febbraio. An enthusiastic Italian foodie and experienced cooking teacher and sommelier, Chef Clara invites you to discover the secrets of classic Italian home cooking while learning about the culture and traditions of the Italian way of life.


Duration: 4 hours (approx.)
Location:  Milan, Italy  
Ticket Price: $112.64