Gordon’s cake recipe was released as the result of a humorous interaction on TikTok with his daughter, beauty and lifestyle creator, Holly Ramsay, as she attempted to bake a cake inspired by the blush via her Instagram and TikTok.

Gordon, who is known on social media for his lighthearted critiques of amateur chef content, posted a stitch video cheekily criticizing Holly’s baking skills and promptly dropped an official cake recipe of his own.

“I never thought I would be part of a beauty campaign with my daughter, but what drew me to this partnership with NYX was the opportunity to entertain our global audiences in a fun and unexpected way,” said Gordon Ramsay. “On top of that, working with my daughter was the icing on the cake!”

The Buttermelt Blush cake recipe features ingredients such as almond butter and shea butter, which are found in the new product. The colors in the frosting were also inspired by the 12 different shades offered in the pigment-packed assortment.

In line with NYX Professional Makeup’s community-first strategy, the brand has scaled the partnership even further by partnering with chefs and top-tier creators, such as Next Level Chef’s Tineke Younger, to join in on the challenge by testing out Gordon’s recipe and posting their version of the NYX Professional Makeup Buttermelt Blush cake on their channels.

“What sets NYX apart from other beauty brands is the ability to innovate and collaborate with unexpected partners, like iconic chef Gordon Ramsay,” said Denée Pearson, Global President of NYX Professional Makeup. “We connect with our communities by being part of the cultural conversations and breaking the boundaries of traditional beauty and entertainment. Plus, who doesn’t love cake?!”

NYX Professional Makeup continues to entertain audiences with out-of-the-box and unexpected collaborations. This social-driven, multi-faceted partnership also gives audiences an opportunity to try an exclusive Gordon Ramsay recipe at home.

The recipe can be accessed on NYX Professional Makeup’s social channels and at nyxcosmetics.com

Buttermelt Blush is a cruelty-free pressed powder blush that offers up to 12 hours of pigmented wear. The formula is fade and transfer-resistant and gives off both, soft matte and glowy finishes. Available now on nyxcosmetics.com, ULTA, Target, Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, JCPenney and Amazon.

ABOUT NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP

NYX Professional Makeup is a modern, digitally native makeup brand on the forefront of today’s emerging beauty trends. A leader in the global color cosmetics industry, NYX Professional Makeup is an affordable professional makeup line with every shade, color and tool needed to create makeup artistry at every level. Rooted in a professional artistry heritage, NYX Professional Makeup boasts a successful multi-channel approach at the forefront of digital and retail. A social media pioneer, NYX Professional Makeup is one of the most influential and top-ranked brands, and is followed by top beauty vloggers, Instagram stars, and their millions of fans. While headquartered in the heart of Los Angeles, NYX Professional Makeup is a global brand available in more than 70 countries at thousands of retailers consisting of specialty beauty and fashion stores, freestanding shops and beauty supply stores, as well as on www.nyxcosmetics.com.

SOURCE NYX Professional Makeup

The post NYX Professional Makeup Teams Up with Gordon Ramsay and Holly Ramsay to Create Exclusive Buttermelt Blush Cake Recipe appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Chipotle’s Board of Directors has appointed Scott Boatwright, the Chief Operating Officer, as Interim CEO. Boatwright, who joined Chipotle in 2017, has played a key role in advancing restaurant operations for over 120,000 employees and more than 3,500 locations. His contributions include integrating new technology, fostering a culture aligned with the company’s values, and achieving top industry retention rates, which have led to notable improvements in throughput and guest experience. Boatwright was instrumental in the leadership team that developed and executed the turnaround strategy starting in 2018, which has yielded significant results. He and the leadership team will continue to implement the company’s strategic plan seamlessly.

In addition, Jack Hartung, who recently announced his retirement from Chipotle in 2025, will stay with the company indefinitely in his new role as President of Strategy, Finance, and Supply Chain. Hartung will assist Scott Boatwright as Interim CEO and continue overseeing Adam Rymer, Vice President of Finance and incoming CFO, as well as Carlos Londono, global head of Supply Chain.

With this leadership transition, Scott Maw, Chipotle’s Lead Independent Director, has been appointed Chairman of the Board, effective immediately. Scott Maw stated, “Thanks to our robust talent planning process, we are well-prepared for events like this due to the deep bench within the organization. The board is excited to see other strong leaders expand their roles and support the growth and development of more people within the company.”

Brian Niccol, the outgoing CEO, remarked, “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished since I joined Chipotle in 2018. The strategic priorities we’ve set have positioned Chipotle for current success and future growth. Although it’s difficult to leave such a great company and the talented people I’ve worked with, I’m confident that the business is in excellent shape and poised for continued growth with a strong leadership team.”

Scott Boatwright expressed confidence in the company’s future: “I have the utmost confidence in our five key strategies and am excited to lead the business forward. We have a world-class organization with passionate leaders who are dedicated to our brand and our goal of growing to 7,000 restaurants in North America and expanding internationally.”

About Chipotle
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is committed to cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically-cooked food with wholesome ingredients free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. As of June 30, 2024, Chipotle operates over 3,500 restaurants in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Kuwait, and is unique in its ownership and operation of all its North American and European restaurants. Chipotle is featured on the Fortune 500 and recognized on Fortune’s Most Admired Companies 2024 list and Time Magazine’s Most Influential Companies. With over 120,000 employees dedicated to delivering a great guest experience, Chipotle continues to lead and innovate in the food industry. For more information or to place an order, visit Chipotle.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including those concerning Chipotle’s future growth. These statements are based on current information and assumptions, and the company does not assume any obligation to update them. Risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ significantly, including factors such as wage inflation, labor market conditions, supply costs, food safety, reliance on IT systems, competition, regulatory changes, international expansion, and other risk factors detailed in SEC reports available on our investor relations page at ir.Chipotle.com.

SOURCE Chipotle Mexican Grill

The post CHIPOTLE ANNOUNCES CEO DEPARTURE appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

The event will cap off one of the most anticipated restaurant weeks in the U.S. and will run from Friday, Aug. 16 through Saturday, Aug. 17, with specific times at each restaurant. Diners and their canine companions will be treated to a specially curated experience. Four-legged guests can enjoy a unique menu featuring CESAR Mini-Pouch, CESAR® WHOLESOME BOWLS, and CESAR® SIMPLY CRAFTED, paired with complementary human food offerings, such as a steak for pet parents and CESAR Mini-Pouch Filet Mignon Flavor for dogs. Additionally, CESAR Restaurant Weekend staff will provide extra perks, including tableside belly rubs and doggy bags filled with bandanas, food bowls, and more, ensuring that furry friends are pampered from the moment they arrive.

Jean-Paul Jansen, Chief Marketing Officer of Mars Pet Nutrition North America, said, “We are dedicated to celebrating the special bond we have with our canine companions. Ultimately, they are more than just pets—they’re family. CESAR Restaurant Weekend offers dogs a chance to experience these cherished moments of togetherness alongside their owners.”

The event will be promoted by the Insta-famous “Maître d’og,” Dash from Dash & Lili The Corgis, along with their pet parents, to encourage New Yorkers to dine out with their dogs during CESAR Restaurant Weekend. Dash and Lili, a beloved NYC duo, are frequently seen sharing both grand and small adventures with their humans—whether exploring the city, attending local dog-friendly events like CESAR Restaurant Weekend, or creating playful chaos with their toys.

The launch of CESAR Restaurant Weekend is part of a broader partnership between Mars Petcare and Tripadvisor, announced earlier this year. According to Mars’ 2023 “Pets Connect Us” Report, only 20% of pet owners in the U.S. and Canada feel their neighborhoods offer pet-friendly dining options. This collaboration underscores CESAR’s dedication to enhancing travel, dining, and pet-friendly experiences for pet parents throughout their journey.

Participating restaurants (which were all identified leveraging the Tripadvisor platform) in CESAR Restaurant Weekend include:

• City Vineyard at Pier 26 in Hudson River Park
  • Friday: 12:00 – 4:00PM
  • Saturday: 12:00 – 4:00PM
• Torch & Crown in SoHo and Union Square
  • Friday: 5:00 – 8:00PM
  • Saturday: 12:00 – 3:00PM
• Miriam in Brooklyn
  • Friday: 11:00 – 3:00PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 – 2:00PM
• 1803 in Tribeca/Manhattan
  • Friday: 4:00 – 8:00PM
  • Saturday: 4:00 – 8:00PM

“It’s been so much fun working with the CESAR brand to create an event that offers pets and pet parents a menu inspired by the flavors of CESAR Canine Cuisine’s bold recipes for this special weekend,” added Michael Dorf, Owner/Founder of City Winery. “We’ve always tried to offer food that pairs well with wine – so why not find a way to pair our food with the flavors of our favorite companion’s food offerings. I’m excited to offer the CESAR Restaurant Weekend to my guests at City Vineyard at Pier 26 to help further connect people and their pets to bring them together over a shared dining experience!”

Pet parents can use the Tripadvisor Restaurant Guide to discover where to dine with their dogs during CESAR Restaurant Weekend. For more promotions and ideas on pet-friendly travel and dining, visit the Tripadvisor platform. If you’re a business interested in hosting a restaurant weekend in your own city, please reach out to us through our B2B hub for more information.

To learn more about the CESAR brand’s commitment to ‘Go Dog-Friendly’, visit CESAR.com, and follow the brand on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn.

¹ KRC Research online survey of 2,000 pet parents each from the U.S. and Canada conducted October 30 to November 6, 2023.

About CESAR^® Canine Cuisine

CESAR Canine Cuisine is a high-quality line of premium dry and wet dog food, and canine meal complements for small- to medium-sized dogs. The CESAR brand wants to transform mealtime into moments of shared joy by providing irresistible taste and varieties dogs love. The CESAR brand offers a wide variety of irresistible wet food flavors through their classic tray offerings, including the HOME DELIGHTS line that features comfort food favorites. The SIMPLY CRAFTED range is designed to give dogs a simple and tasty meal complement, while WHOLESOME BOWLS meals are a healthy and culinary inspired meal or dry kibble topper. The brand also offers three flavors in their dry food line. To learn more, visit www.cesar.com.

About Mars Petcare

Part of Mars, Incorporated, a family-owned business with more than a century of history making diverse products and offering services for people and the pets people love, the 85,000 Associates across 50+ countries in Mars Petcare are dedicated to one purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS. With 85 years of experience, our portfolio of almost 50 brands serves the health and nutrition needs of the world’s pets – including brands PEDIGREE®, WHISKAS®, ROYAL CANIN®, NUTRO, GREENIES, SHEBA®, CESAR®, IAMS and EUKANUBA, as well as the Waltham Petcare Science Institute that has advanced research in the nutrition and health of pets for over 50 years. Mars Petcare is also a leading veterinary health provider through an international network of over 2,000 pet hospitals and diagnostic services including BANFIELD, BLUEPEARL, VCA, Linnaeus, AniCura and Antech. We’re also active in innovation and technology for pets, with WISDOM PANEL genetic health screening and DNA testing for dogs, the WHISTLE GPS dog tracker, and LEAP VENTURE STUDIO accelerator and COMPANION FUND programs that drive innovation and disruption in the pet care industry. As a family business and guided by our principles, we are privileged with the flexibility to fight for what we believe in – and we choose to fight for our Purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS.

CONTACTS
Wes Bottoms
Mars Pet Nutrition North America
317-270-3283
wes.bottoms@effem.com

Jaime Castile
Weber Shandwick
314-368-6616
jcastile@webershandwick.com

SOURCE CESAR® Canine Cuisine

The post BRING YOUR DOG TO DINNER DURING THE FIRST-EVER CESAR® RESTAURANT WEEKEND appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

The James Beard Award-winning ”Best Chef: South” and semi-finalist for James Beard’s “Outstanding Chef” Award, Nina Compton was born and raised in St. Lucia, the daughter of St. Lucia’s three-time late prime minister, Sir John George Melvin Compton. At the Compton home of seven, the kitchen was the center of activity, and young Compton wanted to spend as much time as she could there. Like her siblings, she was sent to England for secondary school. When she returned home, she told her parents she wanted to be a chef. They tried to discourage her, but she insisted, so they arranged a two-year internship at a friend’s hotel in Jamaica. We caught up with the busy chef in New Orleans.

What did you learn in the kitchen at the Jamaican hotel?
For me, the biggest thing was never stop learning. I thought I knew everything and then the chef said the next step was for me to go to culinary school. I went to The CIA [Culinary Institute of America] in Hyde Park and, after, decided to learn from the best: Daniel Boulud at his three-star Michelin restaurant in NYC: Daniel.

What was the most important thing you learned from Boulud?
It was excellence or nothing. He really pushed to make the people around him excellent.

You met Emeril Lagasse. What did he say to you?
He said, always engage people; when they come up to you, always smile. People have this expectation of you, so you need to be engaging.

You moved to Miami to work at the iconic Norman’s and, eventually, Casa Casuarina, the former Versace Mansion in Miami’s South Beach, where you met your husband and rose from sous chef to executive chef. Wasn’t this a very fast-track advancement?
It was, but it’s about paying attention and reading and researching and pushing yourself. I think that’s why people excel; you learn from your mistakes and try to be better each day.

In 2008, Fontainebleau Miami Beach re-opened, and you joined Scott Conant at Scarpetta there as sous chef. Then you were appointed chef de cuisine. What was that like for you?
I was able to learn Italian food from the Maestro, who is very, very talented in what he does and the way he’s able to showcase food at that level.

You fell in love with New Orleans and opened your first solo restaurant, Compère Lapin, which has become a hugely successful restaurant included in “Best Restaurants in America” and Food & Wine’s “40 Most Important Restaurants of the Past 40 Years.” What makes Compère Lapin so successful?
Some of those flavors that I grew up with as a child are very unique to people who’ve never had them before. There are green figs and salt fish, conch croquettes, callaloo soup with spinach okra, nutmeg, coriander and chili flakes, and much more. We don’t make food for everyone else, we make food for you.

Why is NOLA such a great foodie town?
I think it’s the most culturally rich city in the U.S. There are influences here you don’t find anywhere else in the country or world. But it’s really about the people who live here and the people who came before us and instilled such strong cultural roots for us to carry that on.

What is your comfort dish?
I think, coming from the Caribbean, curried goat is probably something that people can identify with. That is definitely my comfort food.

In 2018, you opened Bywater American Bistro, recently relaunched as BABs this past January. Why did you change the name and what kind of food do you serve?
It was always supposed to be a neighborhood restaurant: casual, no frills. But the name was very long, and I just felt like BABs, the abbreviated version, would be more playful. We focus more on Italian cuisine.

You’ve opened Nina’s Creole Cottage, a fast-casual concept featuring affordable, heritage-inspired dishes which offers bold flavor combinations traversing St. Lucian savors with Louisiana Creole flavors. Why did you open it, and what’s your favorite dish there?
Doing fast-casual is really a nod to pretty much all the things I love to eat, but in a fast-casual format. My favorite dish there is the Hot Fire Chicken because with each bite the flavor builds, which I love.

How can you run all these restaurants at the same time?
I don’t know. I haven’t figured it out yet.

You were recently named the Godmother of  Silversea’s newest ship. Silver Nova. How did that feel?
I’ve always explored the many ways in which the world’s cuisines – especially St. Lucia and the Caribbean – strengthen human connections and honor heritage, tradition, and identity. I believe food and drink have the power to bond people together and serve as a unifying language.

How do you describe your cuisine?
I would just say it’s fun. It’s not meant to be too crazy, where people don’t feel comfortable, but adventurous people can enjoy lots of flavors.

What is your guilty pleasure?
Pig. I’ve compared it to crispy savory gummy bears. I’ve tried to cut back on it and it’s just not possible.

When you taste a dish, what exactly are you tasting for?
It depends. Whenever we try a new dish at the restaurant, a lot of the young kids say, ‘Oh, Chef, I think it needs more acid or more lemon juice’ or something. And my response to that is, ‘Do you put lemon juice in your macaroni and cheese?’ And they always say no. I think having the balance of the flavors to build within the dish is very important, and having complexity where it’s not just one note. I like things to either be salty or spicy or acidic, not where it’s just one flavor you’re tasting.

You are the culinary ambassador for St. Lucia. What do you do to promote it?
I take visitors to my home island, St. Lucia, every year for a week [this year it’s July 21-27, 2024, at the luxury resort Cosmos]. I focus on the history and technique of the island’s food, but we also explore everything from markets to waterfalls. I try and show the special secrets St. Lucia holds for me and get people to understand the beauty of the island through my eyes.

Do you have any new restaurants on the horizon for the future?
I’m trying to retire.

What advice would you give to those who want to be a chef?
Don’t give up. Don’t lose sight of your goal. And have fun. We spend too many hours in the kitchen not to have fun.

What’s the most important thing about being a chef?
Get rest. Take time for yourself in the day, whether it’s 10 minutes or an hour. And go outside. When I wake up in the morning, I make a cup of coffee and sit outside and either plan out my day or disconnect for a second. My husband/business partner, Larry Miller, and I run the business together and talk about our day together. It helps to have somebody.
Also, I think the most important part of it is to stay grounded. You have to really know who you are and be comfortable with everything you’re doing and not doing it for social media or anything like that. It’s just really about how you’re projecting yourself to the people.

What’s the most favorite meal you’ve ever eaten?
It could be having grilled lobster on the beach or eating dinner in Paris. It’s really about time and place, not so much about the food but really about where I am and who I’m with.

What’s the biggest mistake you ever made as a chef?
Everybody makes mistakes. I try and look at it as a Bob Ross situation where they’re happy mistakes. At the time, we think it’s terrible, but I think everything happens for a reason in a very Seinfeld roundabout way. I think it all makes sense.

What do you want your legacy to be?
I want my legacy to be Caribbean food is unique. The Caribbean is very big and very diverse with a lot of culture people don’t know. If you venture to the Caribbean, I think you should really go to underdeveloped places. Don’t go to the touristy places. Go to areas that are off the beaten path because sometimes that’s the most authentic food that you can get to understand the island.

By Margie Goldsmith

The post Nina Compton; Breaking the Boundaries of Southern Cooking appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

THE KITCHEN BAR AT CHEF & THE FARMER

In 2006, Chef & the Farmer helped create the farm-to-table movement which quickly spread across the country with fervor. For more than 15 years, Chef & the Farmer was the flagship of the movement.

In 2023, Chef & the Farmer reinvented itself as The Kitchen Bar, under the leadership of Chef Vivian Howard. Howard’s vision for Chef & The Farmer’s new methodology is to create an intimate experience one weekend a month. If you are lucky enough to get a table, Howard cooks the meal herself and 14 patrons get to experience a 7-course dinner and optional wine pairings, served right at the kitchen bar. The dedication to creating this experience is backed by Howard’s drive to locally source vegetables and meats, and a desire to interact with her patrons one-on-one.

KINGS BARBECUE

A legacy has been built here. King’s takes the same old fashion flavor perfected in 1936, and brings it into the present, right onto your plate. Picture this: Tender, pork barbecue painstakingly hand-chopped daily and slathered in our secret family sauce.

You can taste the family recipes and traditional Southern cooking methods in every morsel of their signature vinegar-based chopped pulled pork and Ribs. How good is it exactly? Well, King’s BBQ ribs were voted best in the country on the Drew Barrymore Show’s Battle of the Bites. So, nations’ best is pretty good.

SOCIAL HOUSE VODKA & PUMPHOUSE 1906

Social House Vodka is the place for vodka. It’s here that Social House has converted an old power station into a farm-to-flask distillery. Made in Kinston, this corn-based vodka is all locally sourced from North Carolina farmers. Their craft spirits are premiere in their flavor and presentation. Offering distillery tours by appointment, you can see the process of how Social House creates liquid gold from grain. The corn gives the Vodka a sweet, buttery, soft, subtle note suitable for sipping on the rocks or mixing into cocktails.

You can taste those cocktails at the PumpHouse 1906. The local speakeasy is owned and operated by Social House and it showcases small batch collections of craft spirits, infusions, syrups, and bitters. No one cocktail is quite like the other. Choose from their extensive menu options or ask one of their mixology specialists to create something special for you.
When you’re in Kinston, every meal has meaning. It’s about the experience of sitting at the table with friends and family. It’s about the sustainable practices that go into every sip. It’s about supporting local farmers. It’s about a culinary experience that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s not just food, but it’s memories. It’s not just southern, it’s southern with a kick. Consider yourself invited.•

Plan your trip today at VisitKinston.com

The post A Taste of Kinston, North Carolina appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Located in the Phoenix-Metro area, the city’s year-round sunny climate makes it the ideal place for outdoor recreation, and it abounds here! Surprise boasts one of the largest public tennis and racquet complexes in the Southwest including 25 tennis courts, two racquetball courts, a table tennis room, clubhouse and event space. If you prefer pickleball over tennis, there’s a place for that, too. Home to 16 dedicated pickleball courts – the Surprise Community Park – is a haven for pickleball fans. The Community Park also includes an urban fishing lake, basketball courts and a playground all nestled within a sprawling downtown park.

Surprise is also a golf aficionado’s dream destination with eight courses to choose from. Be sure to check out Surprise’s newest course, Sterling Grove Golf & Country Club. This world-class Nicklaus Design course draws inspiration from some of the world’s most famous courses. And there’s more than just 18 holes with grove-lined fairways – it’s also home to a state-of-the-art practice facility that includes an indoor golf simulator.

Surprise Stadium, ranked the #1 Spring Training Stadium in Arizona by USA Today, is the Spring Training home of Major League Baseball’s Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers – 2023 World Series Champions! Baseball fans from all over the country travel to Surprise every Spring to experience the fun atmosphere of a spring game in the Arizona sunshine. With unique game viewing options, family entertainment, mouthwatering foodie favorites and craft brews, Surprise Spring Training is a can’t miss when traveling to Arizona.

If you are looking for outdoor adventure, the White Tank Mountain Regional Park, which rises from the border of Surprise offers hiking, biking, camping and a nature center. Maricopa County’s largest regional park is nearly 30,000 acres and provides endless options to fit every age, experience level and ability. There are approximately 30 miles of hiking trails at the park that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and panoramas of the valley below.

Surprise also has an emerging arts and culture scene with an array of public art, local galleries and performing arts venues. The Vista Center for the Arts is a state-of-the-art 1,300 seat performing arts center that hosts a variety of music acts, comedy shows and live performances. In addition, West Valley Arts HQ is an art gallery and cultural event center that holds exhibitions, performances and events.

As a growing city, Surprise’s retail and culinary scene continues to expand, showcasing everything from local hot spots to regional shopping centers. Local favorites include Saigon Kitchen, offering a traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern touch. For Mexican fare, Rio Mirage Café features Sonoran-style recipes handed down for generations including homemade tortillas, sizzling fajitas and delicious margaritas. Vogue Bistro is perfect for a date night out with an intimate setting, delicious French-American style dishes, designer martinis and an extensive wine list. Surprise also has great options if you are in the mood for a nice cold beer – locals love State 48 Brewery, Bonfire Craft Kitchen & Tap House and Irish Wolfhound.

And for the shopping enthusiasts, check out the Village at Prasada and Surprise Towne Center & Marketplace. These open-air malls are a perfect escape for a day of retail therapy!

There’s something for everyone in Surprise, Arizona. Find your game. Find your adventure. Find your retreat. Find your Surprise!

ExploreSurprise.com
SurpriseStadium.com

The post Find Your Surprise in Surprise, Arizona appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

ART.

MARFA is world-renowned as the home of artist Donald Judd, and his influence can still be felt today. Reserve a tour at Judd Foundation and Chinati to view the museum he established to house large-scale works of art. You can also set up an appointment for a studio visit with one of the many artists currently residing in MARFA.

CULTURE.

With a tight-knit community of around 1,800 residents, MARFA is a walkable West Texas destination where the pace slows down and you find yourself appreciating the simple things in life. You will find a great selection of restaurants, from food trailers to fine dining, Texas BBQ to international cuisine. Leave yourself plenty of time for browsing the independently owned bookstores, art galleries, and specialty shops. The Central Marfa Historic District was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places. The newly listed district encompasses the city’s core, including 183 significant locations in MARFA.

HISTORY.

West Texas encompasses an incredibly rich history. Geologic time scale is on full display in the mountains that surround the area. Archaeological evidence of early Native people exists in the nearby state and national parks. Stories from early settlers have become legend. Cavalry forts, military bases, army airfields, and German POWs have all had a home in MARFA. The MARFA and Presidio County Museum holds an incredible archive of historic objects that is a must-see for history buffs. You can also visit the Blackwell School, America’s newest National Historic Site, to learn about an important and often painful era of our national history.

MYSTERY.

MARFA, Texas. You’ve probably heard of it, but have you been? It’s where ranchers begin the day at dawn and artists lay down roots. It’s where Anthony Bourdain dined, Rick Bass wrote, and Beyoncé went to unwind. It’s where land as far as the eye can see meets more stars than you can count. When you arrive at this peaceful desert plateau surrounded by mountains, sprawling ranches, and stunning sunsets, you’ll know the journey to get there is well worth it. The Marfa Mystery Lights have been observed for over 175 years, yet no geologist, meteorologist, or ranch hand has found an explanation – can you? Open to the public 24/7/365.

LAND.

MARFA is located in the high plains of the Chihuahuan Desert, sitting at an elevation above 4,500 feet. Experience big, vibrant skies and rolling landscapes for miles in every direction. A sunset drive down Pinto Canyon Road gives uninterrupted views from horizon to horizon into the Chinati Mountains. MARFA is a gateway to the entire Big Bend Region.

SKY.

MARFA is part of the Greater Big Bend Dark Sky Reserve boasting incredible opportunities for stargazing, even within city limits. A short jaunt outside of town will present you with more stars than you thought possible. Nearby, at the McDonald Observatory, world-renowned astronomers will unravel the mysteries of the night sky at one of their wildly popular star parties. Be sure to book ahead!

The post Marfa Texas Marvels appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Nestled along the shoreline, this charming region boasts a treasure trove of upscale restaurants that blend local flavors with a touch of sophistication. From charming waterfront eateries to hidden gems tucked away in historic towns, the Shores & Islands Ohio dining scene promises a delectable experience for discerning palates. Explore these culinary gems that elevate dining to an art form.

Celebrating 10 years of bringing “big city dining to a small town” in 2024, Ørchard Bar & Table at Catawba recently debuted major renovations and an expansion project. The new-and-improved restaurant offers a luxe and inviting atmosphere with a combination of indoor soft seating, traditional dining tables, bar seating, and a gorgeous expanded patio, in season. In addition to the intimate and more formal main dining room, consider watching chef’s preparations at the all-new sushi and raw bar. The dining concept offers prime steaks, fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and a large selection of wine in an elevated, warm and welcoming space.

1812 Food & Spirits features fine dining but casual dress. Named for the region’s history and close association with the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie, 1812 Food & Spirits offers an upscale dining experience featuring local favorites like Lake Erie yellow perch and walleye as well as other culinary treats. The rich menu also includes steaks, ribs, chops, seafood, pastas, and homemade desserts.

Bay Harbor Waterfront Restaurant in Shores & Islands

Bay Harbor Waterfront Restaurant is located at the Cedar Point Marina, offering water views and sitting in the shadow of some of the world’s most amazing roller coasters. This casually-elegant eatery features fresh seafood, delicious pasta, and prime rib. Outdoor eating on the patio is available in season, but the restaurant is open year-round. Come by lake or land for a romantic dinner or casual get together with friends.

Get dressed up for a fancy night out at Chez François, a French gem along the Vermilion River. The main indoor dining room does require jackets for men and a refined dress code. This elegant dining experience comes with top-rated food and service. Regularly one of the top restaurants in the region, Chez François features a highly-rated wine list and delicious French cuisine, fit for a special occasion. Their other onsite venues, Riverfront Café and Touché Wine and Martini Bar feature a more casual dress and atmosphere.

A more casual choice is Crush Wine Bar, offering both small plates and entrees with an extensive wine menu. Crush is known for its sushi and raw bar items, as well as a number of sharable dishes, pizzas, pastas, steaks, and chops. During the warmer months, the outdoor patio offers a casual place to enjoy an evening in downtown Sandusky.

Gideon Owen Wine Company

For more than 150 years, there has been a winery steeped in history and style on the Catawba Island peninsula. Now known as Gideon Owen Wine Company (formerly Mon Ami), this premier food and wine destination is the perfect fusion of old-world charm, innovative design, and immersive experiences. Offering a formal dining room as well as a more casual patio and a wine bar, Gideon Owen serves lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Visit for one of many special events, including live entertainment and wine cellar tours, or plan your own special event! Dinner menu includes elevated entrees featuring seafood, steaks, and pastas, all enjoyable with a glass of local wine!

Looking for an upscale island dining experience? Enter The Goat, Soup & Whisky which offers casual fine dining with a farm-to-table focus. It’s large eclectic menu features foods created with and utilizing herbs from the onsite garden. Not only does this eatery present a nice wine list, but they also boast an outdoor Austrian/German Biergarten, open seasonally.

Another downtown Sandusky option for a fantastic night out with a delicious meal is J Bistro, a fine-dining restaurant offering steak, seafood, and pasta with a large wine selection, homemade desserts, and both indoor and patio seating.

Sawmill Creek by Cedar Point Resorts offers a beautiful resort property with a number of amenities and dining options, where they definitely don’t offer typical hotel restaurant fare. The Miller’s Table is an experience, dedicated to sourcing the best sustainable and local Ohio ingredients and bringing them fresh to your table. It’s obvious in the rotating menu and your unforgettable meal. Hand-crafted cocktails from the full-service bar will complement your meal. The best part is you do not have to be an overnight resort guest to enjoy this experience, but upscale stays are always available for a memorable getaway.

These culinary delights are perfect when you are looking to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a night on the town. Which of these Shores & Islands Ohio upscale dining experiences will you try first? Get more information and order your Play + Stay Guide at SHORESandISLANDS.com.

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Each Spring, there’s one seasonal delicacy on every Southerner’s mind: crawfish. There are appetizers, entrees and loads of crawfish being boiled and sold by the pound. The South clearly takes crawfish season seriously. If picking up a sack of fresh caught crawfish, shrimp, or oysters and hosting a boil in your own backyard isn’t on your agenda, our restaurants have got you covered. Begin your adventure surrounded by gameday hype at Heroes Sports Bar & Grille, where crawfish are served in a creamy spinach dip with warm toasted pita. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, Wintzell’s Oyster House offers a signature crawfish-infused sauce over a variety of dishes, and their acclaimed seafood gumbo pairs perfectly with their freshly shucked oysters. If you’re looking for some heavenly handheld options, you’ll love the fried soft-shell crab po’boy from Debris Po-Boys & Drinks.

Dinner wouldn’t be complete without a view. Add a taste of local flair and a stunning view of Mobile Bay at Felix’s Fish Camp. In addition to the variety of daily fresh catch options, the restaurant’s seasoned and sauteed crawfish tails are a must-try for those searching for a medley of Gulf Coast flavors. The waterfront setting adds an extra layer of charm to the dining experience. Dauphin’s crawfish and beurre blanc Delta Cakes are complemented by panoramic views of Mobile’s skyline from the 34th floor of the RSA Tower.

Beer and crawfish go hand in hand. Mobile’s award-winning craft breweries carry an array of drafts, cans and bottles that complement the local dishes in the area while matching the tastes of guests. Mobile’s oldest brew house, Iron Hand Brewing, specializes in British-style ales. For those who prefer to match Gulf Coast’s flavor and culture while prioritizing sustainability, Braided River Brewing Company is the ideal spot. One of their core brews, “Hoppy By Nature,” features notes of mango, pineapple and grapefruit. The refreshing taste of Oyster City Brewing Company’s flagship and seasonal drinks adds to the longing of sunny days ahead. This indoor/outdoor pub provides enough space for you and your crew to beat the Mobile heat in the taproom or enjoy a spring day with local food trucks on the partially covered patio.

Once the cravings have been satisfied and the beer has been enjoyed, it’s time to venture into Mobile’s entertainment district for some refreshing cocktails and mocktails. The Royal Scam, a popular and upscale spot known for its eclectic cocktail selection, offers the perfect setting to unwind near the buzz of downtown Mobile’s nightlife. Try the “Black Cadillac” from Squid Ink Eclectic Eats & Drinks, a bubbly gin beverage with a splash of real squid ink. Complete the evening at the Haberdasher, where a team of skilled mixologists serves modern takes on old classics and libations.

Spring enhances the flavors of Mobile. Coastal dishes, brews and cocktails set the tone for the upcoming season and create a signature experience like no other. Every bite and sip are celebrations of the diverse and vibrant spirit of Mobile. Cheers to good times, unique cuisine and a warm Spring welcome on the Gulf Coast.

Plan your destination at Mobile.org

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Shreveport-Bossier is located at the crossroads of I-20 and I-49. It’s just three hours from Dallas-Fort Worth making it an easy drive, and The Shreveport Regional Airport brings in many direct flights from around the country.

In the heart of Shreveport-Bossier, history and culinary excellence converge at iconic restaurants that have stood the test of time. Step into the nostalgic ambiance of Strawn’s Eat Shop, a Shreveport landmark since 1944, renowned for its mouthwatering pies and hearty breakfast fare. Another gem is Herby-K’s, a Cajun institution with a history dating back to 1936. This beloved eatery has preserved its timeless charm, offering a menu rich in Creole and Cajun flavors. Known for its signature Shrimp Buster and lively atmosphere, Herby-K’s is a culinary journey through the cultural heritage of Louisiana.

Delving into the rich tapestry of Shreveport-Bossier’s culinary history, a notable gem stands out: Orlandeaux’s Café, the oldest black-owned restaurant in Louisiana. Established in 1978, Orlandeaux’s has been a pillar of the community, offering a taste of authentic Southern cuisine infused with a deep sense of tradition. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and a menu that pays homage to Creole and soul food classics, this historic establishment has become a cultural landmark. From flavorful gumbo to mouthwatering po’boys, each dish tells a story of culinary heritage. The warm hospitality and community spirit at Orlandeaux’s make it not just a restaurant but a gathering place where locals and visitors can savor the flavors of Louisiana while celebrating the resilience and creativity of the black-owned business community.

Shreveport-Bossier is a haven for art and entertainment enthusiasts. The city’s art scene is showcased at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery, where a stunning collection of American and European art awaits. For a touch of local creativity, explore art spaces like The Agora Borealis, featuring works by regional artists.

Indulge in the vibrant entertainment scene with a visit to the historic Strand Theatre in Shreveport, a venue that has hosted legendary performances since the 1920s. If you’re feeling lucky, head to one of the city’s riverfront casinos, where gaming excitement meets live entertainment.

No visit to Shreveport-Bossier is complete without experiencing the vibrant festivals that celebrate the region’s unique spirit. Plan your trip around the Red River Revel Arts Festival, a multi-day celebration of visual and performing arts. The Louisiana Film Prize attracts filmmakers from around the world, while the Mudbug Madness Festival showcases the best of Cajun cuisine and culture.

Shreveport-Bossier is famous for its music history and for giving many famous musicians their start. Shreveport Municipal Auditorium is the home of the famous Louisiana Hayride radio program that jumpstarted the careers of Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, James Burton, and many others.

Welcome to a place with enough flavor, style and soul for two cities – Shreveport-Bossier, Louisiana.

For more information, visitshreveportbossier.org

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