#chocolate highlander cookie bars

[ledenews]

Crumbl Cookies Coming to The Highlands

There are two types of customers who enter a Crumbl Cookies. The first is the newbie who, rightfully so, may become hesitant because of sticker shock. Why? Well, consider one gourmet cookie in a box is $4.78 plus tax and a half-dozen box will run nearly $24. Eyes wide yet? How about that wallet? THEN, there’s the other type of Crumbl Cookies customer; the one who’s already tasted a Crumbl cookie. Their response? Two words: More. Please. Owners Mary and Mark Ornowski pose inside their Highlands' Crumbl Cookies location. The best part is soon, Ohio Valley Crumbl Cookies' customers of both varieties won’t have to trek into Pennsylvania to partake in the delectable deliciousness that is a Crumbl cookie. A location will soon be opening at The Highlands in Triadelphia, housed in the original site of El Paso, right next to Game Stop and in the same plaza as Fusion Japanese Steakhouse. The cost of Crumbl Cookies is not lost on owner Tammy Ornowski, who opened the first Pittsburgh-area Crumbl a little more than a year ago in North Huntingdon. That’s why she ensures her customers receive the proper experience, not just cookie quality. “It’s definitely a gourmet cookie, so we do get (initial) questions about the price a lot,” Ornowski admitted. “We encourage people to taste it and hopefully they enjoy it enough to justify the cost of the cookie. “That’s also why when you walk into our location, you’ll receive the white-glove treatment. We provide that to all of our customers. In these times, money is tight and we know this is a lot of money for a cookie. The experience has to match the taste.” And it does. This writer can personally attest to spending more than $24 on a box of six cookies for my daughter, my girlfriend, and myself—two apiece. I too had the initial sticker shock, but given the drive to Robinson, decided to take the plunge. I eagerly await the opening of Ornowski’s Highlands location, which barring any shipping delays or construction issues, she believes will come in late June. “I don’t foresee any issues, but we’re looking at the end of June,” Ornowski said. Crumbl's menu of six cookie offerings changes on a weekly basis This writer's box of six (well, someone got hungry) cookies shows that week's variety. The Crumbl Experience There are many aspects of Crumbl that set it apart from other stores. One of its most famous is the weekly rotating menu. When you enter a Crumbl there are six cookie options to choose from. Those options change weekly, with the official Crumbl Facebook page displaying a video announcement as to what the coming week’s lineup will be. The chocolate chip cookie is a rotation staple. The equally beloved pink sugar cookie is almost always included as well. This week’s options also include: the Cotton Candy cookie, Peanut Butter Munch, Caramel Shortbread, and Oreo Birthday Cake. If you try and like a cookie, best get your fill as while popular cookies find their way back into the rotation, it may be a while before it returns. No matter the flavor, people love their Crumbl Cookies. Need another example? Ornowski opened her North Huntingdon location back in March of 2022. It was the greater Pittsburgh area’s first Crumbl. So how was opening day? “It was crazy,” Ornowski said. “We broke records. It was the first Pittsburgh location and at our grand opening, we sold 9,400 cookies on that Friday. “The line wrapped around the building. People were parking and walking down the hill from Walmart. It was crazy.” Ornowski and her husband do not own the Robinson nor the Washington locations. They were on the hunt for a second spot when they made at a stop at The Highlands and noticed the storefront opening in the plaza. “We were driving around, considering different locations and my brother and sister-in-law live in St. Clairsville and we just love the area,” Ornowski said. “We took a trip to the Highlands and fell in love with the plaza. It’s one of the nicest areas and shopping plazas around.” It doesn’t hurt, either, that this will be the closest Crumble Cookie to the majority of Upper Ohio Valley shoppers. Aside from the Pittsburgh-area stops, the closest Crumble in the Buckeye State can be found in Canton, making the Highlands location the Ohio Valley’s Crumbl hub. Crumbl Cookies will be available for carryout or curbside pickup, along with delivery. Customers can order through the Crumbl website, or app, directly, or through Door Dash. Read the full article

[mainsllc]

Cvs highland park

CVS HIGHLAND PARK MOVIE

CVS HIGHLAND PARK FULL

Contains one (1) 10.29-ounce bag of KIT KAT® Breaking Bones White Creme Snack Size Wafer Candy Bars Fill snack drawers, lunch boxes and candy dishes throughout the fall season with with white creme and wafer KIT KAT® candy bars Kosher-certified, snack-size white creme and wafer candy bars individually wrapped for lasting freshness and convenience Be the biggest hit at the birthday, anniversary, retirement, graduation, new baby or wedding party with classic wafer candy bars with a fun bone-breaking white creme twist Take a break from the tricks by giving out KIT KAT® Breaking Bones wafer and white creme Halloween treats Place a whole or chopped KIT KAT® snack-size candy bar on top of any cookies or brownies you bake for an extra sweet treat sure to become everyone's new favoriteīe ready for your Halloween parties and neighborhood trick-or-treaters with this delicious assortment of chocolate Halloween candy! Boasting 170 individually wrapped pieces per bag, it covers all your Halloween candy needs! Complete with SNICKERS Milk Chocolate Candy Bars, TWIX Caramel Cookie Bars, SKITTLES Original flavors Chewy Candy & STARBURST Original Chewy Candy every monster can choose their favorite. Snack on these crisp wafer bars straight from the wrapper, chill them in the fridge for a cold treat or top your best Halloween desserts with them to show off your culinary genius. Add some crispy wafers coated in flavorful white creme to any fall season gathering for an extra exciting, thrilling touch that satisfies the whole crowd.

CVS HIGHLAND PARK MOVIE

Preparing for a specific seasonal occasion? Whether you need to put costume party prizes together, offer the right treats to trick-or-treaters or deck out your spooky movie night snack selection, KIT KAT® Breaking Bones white creme candy is the way to go. Throw a few in your lunch box to treat yourself to a sweet dessert, or stock your home and office candy bowls with an easy snacking classic wrapped in smooth white creme. Whether you gift them to friends, pass them out in the office or hold onto them for snacking moments, you can expect a delicious treat in the perfect on-the-go size. Ready for a delectable twist on a classic everyone hopes to find in the candy dish? These snack-size white creme KIT KAT® candy bars are individually wrapped for optimal convenience, easy sharing and lasting freshness. Even during the holidays, these scrumptious sweets pair perfectly with Christmas stockings, Valentine's Day candy bags, Easter gift baskets and Halloween candy bowls. Sprinkle MOUNDS candy pieces into your brownie mixture for a coconutty surprise with each bite or on top of ice cream and other desserts. While these snack-size bars of dark chocolate and coconut are "indescribably delicious" on their own, you can also chop them up, adding them to your baked goods. They even make great holiday candies no matter the season. This snack-size sweet is also great for filling candy bowls at home. Slip a few into your lunchbox, keep a handful in your purse or send the kids off to school with a tasty treat. With the unique combination of ingredients, MOUNDS candy bars deliver the feeling of carefree pleasure. The sweet taste of coconut drenched in rich dark chocolate will help you unwrap and unwind wherever you are.

CVS HIGHLAND PARK FULL

Delivered to you as a snack-size sweet, they pack a full tropical flavor. Pass around the tropical flavor of MOUNDS dark chocolate and coconut candy bars with friends, family, co-workers and everyone in between.

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

"Workers at General Motors, Toyota Motor, Target, and Macy’s in the Lone Star State will maintain face-covering protocols at work, the companies announced Tuesday, according to Reuters."

Restaurants in Dallas-Fort Worth requiring masks:

8 Cloves at the Dallas Farmers Market

AllGood Cafe in Deep Ellum

Armadillo Ale Works in Denton

Armoury D.E. in Deep Ellum

Asian Mint in Dallas and Richardson

The Basement Lounge in Fort Worth

The Bearded Monk in Denton

Bendt Distilling Co. in Lewisville

Beto & Son in West Dallas

Billy Can Can in Victory Park

Bisous Bisous Patisserie in Uptown

Black Coffee in Fort Worth

Blackland Distillery in Fort Worth

The Blue Fish in Allen, Fort Worth, Irving, Plano, Galleria Dallas and Lower Greenville in Dallas

The Boiled Owl Tavern in Fort Worth

Boulevardier in Bishop Arts

Braindead Brewing in Deep Ellum

Brown Bag Provisions

Burgerim in the West End

Cattleack Barbeque in Dallas/Farmers Branch

Cedar Springs Tap House in Dallas

CiboDivino Marketplace in West Dallas

Cindi’s NY Deli in Dallas and Carrollton

CocoAndre Chocolatier in Oak Cliff

Cold Beer Company in Deep Elum

Cookie Society in Frisco

Cox Farms Market in West Dallas

Cris and John in Far North Dallas

Cultivar Coffee in East Dallas

Detour Doughnuts and Coffee in Frisco

Division Brewing in Arlington

Double Wide in Deep Ellum

Dream Cafe on Mockingbird Lane and in the Quadrangle, both in Dallas

Dude, Sweet Chocolate in Oak Cliff

Dugg Burger on Garland Road and Walnut Hill Lane, both in Dallas

Easy Slider in Deep Ellum and Grapevine

Fat Straws in Dallas, Plano and Richardson

Fiction Coffee near downtown Dallas

The Fillmore Pub in Plano

Flying Fish in Addison, Arlington, Fort Worth, Garland, Plano and all Dallas locations

Flying Saucer in Fort Worth, Rockwall and Coppell

Four Bullets Brewery in Richardson

Four Corners Brewing in the Cedars

Full City Rooster in the Cedars

Funky Picnic Brewery & Cafe in Fort Worth

Gemma in East Dallas

Gold Rush Cafe in East Dallas

Golden Boy Coffee Co. (Denton, Coppell, Plano)

Goodfriend Beer Garden and Burger House in East Dallas

Goodfriend Package in East Dallas

Halcyon on Greenville Avenue in Dallas

Haute Sweets Patisserie in Lake Highlands

Hillside Tavern in East Dallas

Hive Bakery in Flower Mound

Homewood near Highland Park

Houndstooth Coffee on Henderson Avenue, Sylvan Avenue and North Central Expressway at Walnut Hill, all in Dallas

Invasion in East Dallas

Khao Gang (the takeout restaurant in place of Khao Noodle Shop) in Old East Dallas

Korean Street Eats in Carrollton

Las Almas Rotas in Exposition Park

La Casita Bakeshop in Richardson

Leaves Book and Tea Shop in Fort Worth

Liberty Burger, all five locations

The Local Oak in Oak Cliff

The Londoner in Addison

Los Vaqueros in Fort Worth and Weatherford

Lucia in Oak Cliff

Mario Bros. Tacos in Dallas and Plano

Marugame Udon in Carrollton and Dallas

Meddlesome Moth in Dallas Design District

Medieval Times near the Dallas Design District

Melt Ice Creams in Fort Worth and Dallas

Miriam Latina Cocina in Uptown

Nature’s Plate in Plano and Dallas, on Preston Road and on Northwest Highway

Neighborhood Services

Nickel City in Fort Worth

Niwa Japanese BBQ in Deep Ellum

Noble Coyote Coffee Roasters in Exposition Park

Nobu in Uptown

Nori Handroll Bar, Dallas

Oddfellows in Oak Cliff

Off the Bone Barbeque in the Cedars

One90 Smoked Meats in Lake Highlands

Opening Bell Coffee in the Cedars

Osuba Hibachi Sushi and Bar (Waxahachie, Cedar Hill)

Parigi on Oak Lawn Avenue

Partenope in downtown Dallas

Peaberry Coffee in Oak Cliff

Pho is for Lovers in Dallas and Richardson

Proper in Fort Worth

Rapscallion on Lowest Greenville

Resident Taqueria in East Dallas

Ricky’s Hot Chicken in Richardson

Rodeo Goat in Fort Worth, Dallas, Plano, Rockwall and Coppell

Roots Chicken Shak in Plano

Round-Up Saloon near Oak Lawn

Ruins in Deep Ellum

Sachet near Highland Park

Salsa Limon in Fort Worth and Dallas

Salum near Uptown

S&J’s Hot Chicken in northwest Dallas

Sandwich Hag in the Cedars

San Martin Bakery & Restaurant in Uptown Dallas

Single Wide on Greenville Avenue in Dallas

Slow Bone BBQ near the Dallas Design District

Smallcakes on Northwest Highway in Dallas

Society Bakery in East Dallas

Spiral Diner in Fort Worth, Dallas and Denton

Sprinkle’s Cupcakes (all locations)

Stevie’s Diner in Fort Worth

Streets Fine Chicken near Oak Lawn Avenue

Swizzle on Lowest Greenville

Szechuan Chinese Restaurant near the Medical District

Tacodeli in Plano and Dallas

Tarantula Tiki Lounge in Fort Worth

Tasty Tails in Richardson and Addison

Teasom in Uptown

Ten Bells Tavern in Oak Cliff

Thunderbird Station in Deep Ellum

Trova Wine Bar near Highland Park

True Kitchen + Kocktails in downtown Dallas

Twilite Lounge in Fort Worth

Uchi and Uchiba in Uptown

Urbano Cafe in Old East Dallas

Urban Taco at Mockingbird Station in Dallas

The Usual in Fort Worth

Val’s Cheesecakes on Greenville Avenue and Maple Avenue, both in Dallas

Vector Brewing in Lake Highlands

Veritas Wine Room in East Dallas

Vitality Bowls in Frisco, Las Colinas, Plano, Southlake and Dallas’ Preston Hollow

Wayward Coffee in Oak Cliff

Westlake Brewing Company in Deep Ellum

Whisk Crepes in West Dallas

Wits End in Deep Ellum

Xaman Cafe in Bishop Arts

Zaap Kitchen on Fitzhugh Avenue, Buckner Boulevard and Greenville Avenue, all in Dallas

Zen Sushi in Oak Cliff

[besidemethewholedamntime]

I was tagged by the lovely beans that are @2minutes2midnight and @beth-is-rainpaint - thank you so much!!

1. What is the color of your hairbrush?

Just plain black unfortunately :(

2. Name a food you never eat

Fish and mince 

3. Are you typical too warm or too cold?

I’m always too warm! I definitely prefer the cold and I don’t like it when I’m all hot and uncomfortable 

4. What were you doing 45 minutes ago?

Getting ready for a full day of dissertation writing....yay

5. What’s your favorite candy bar?

Galaxy cookie crumble! Or Milky Bar because I am a Child

6. Have you ever been to professional sports event?

I’ve been to see the Scotland Rugby Team play a couple of times. We were meant to see them play New Zealand this year but, well, ya know

7. What is the last thing you said out loud?

Probably ‘goodnight’ to my flatmate last night, which is weird because I do have a habit of talking to myself but I don’t remember doing it 

8. What is your favorite ice cream?

Chocolate fudge brownie!

9. What was the last thing you had to drink?

Water!

10. Do you like your wallet?

It’s alright! It’s blue but it’s an awkward shape and hard to fit into certain bags

11. What is the last thing you ate?

The cereal I’m eating right now!

12. Did you buy any new clothes last weekend?

I did!! I bought a purple jumper and some checked trousers 

13. What’s the last sporting event you watched?

I don’t remember the last proper thing I watched, but I watched the end of the football game last week that meant Scotland is finally going to the Euros!! (and I’m still not over it)

14. What is your favorite flavor of popcorn?

Sweet and Salty

15. Who is the last person you send text message to?

The first year student I’m paired up with in our academic families. I just wanted to make sure she was alright because the last time we spoke she was so stressed

16. Ever been camping?

Yeah!! I did it for DofE and then in the cadets. I wish I could say I enjoyed it but there’s always just so many midges and I always get bitten

17. Do you take vitamins?

I try to take a daily multivitamin but I just always forget 

18. Do you regularly attend a place of workship?

No, not really. I go to church every year on Remembrance Sunday (well not this year) but that’s about it. Even though I live in a street that literally has a church at either end

19. Do you have a tan?

No, never! I get really bad prickly heat which means I then have to stay indoors until it disappears, and on the rare occasions I do venture out when it’s sunny enough I just get burnt 

20. Do you prefer chinese or pizza?

Pizza! I love Chinese too but it’s always so expensive 

21. Do you drink your soda through a straw?

Sometimes, in restaurants or like from McDonald’s, but if it’s just me then no. Unless I’m at my gran’s because she always gives us straws even though I’m 20

22. What color socks you usually wear?

White socks because that’s what my mum always drilled into us!

23. Do you ever drive above the speed limit?

Ahahaha no. I’m such a cautious driver and my driving instructor used to shout ‘SPEED IT UP, REBECCA, PLEASE’ when I would drive at like 25mph in a 30. I’m better now and I actually go at the speed limit but I never drive over it

24. What terrifies you?

Gosh the list is endless. Not being enough, not doing anything worthwhile with my life, losing my family, failing my degree, never getting a job... it’s a fun time to be me

25. Look to your left, what do you see?

My bed... I’m sitting on the floor :)

26. What chore do you hate the most?

Ironing ugh. (keeping this because it is a Mood)

27. What do you think when you hear Australian accent?

I know I shouldn’t but I do think of Neighbours or Home and Away, because my sister is obsessed with both of them and we watched them during lockdown together 

28. Whats your favorite soda?

Basic but Irn Bru

29. Do you go in a fast food place or just hit drive through?

I don’t know why but I really don’t like Drive Thru so I usually just go in. Though that means parking and I am the world’s worst parker

30. What’s your favorite number?

24 

31. Who’s the last person you talked to?

My flatmate 

32. Favorite meal?

It always depends but either my dad’s fajitas or my mum’s macaroni cheese 

33. Last song you listed to?

‘Midnight by Kodaline

34. Last book you read?

‘Rebecca’ by Daphne Du Maurier, which I know I finished weeks ago but uni has honestly taken over my life and I’m working from about 10am to 11pm at the minute and after I just never want to read another word

35. Favorite day of the week?

Tuesday but I do not know why

36. Can you say alphabet backwards?

If I concentrated then probably?

37. How do you like your coffee?

I don’t like coffee, sorry!

38. Favorite pair of shoes?

My yellow shoes!! I love them so much

39. Time you normally get up?

This is so bad but 8:30-9 lately. It used to be 7:30 when I was actually in class but now I’m only in lab on a Tuesday and it doesn’t start until 11:30

40. What do you prefer, sunrise or sunset?

Both!! But since I never see sunrise then probably sunset

41. How many blankets on your bed?

Just the one

42. Describe your kitchen plates.

White with a blue border

43. Describe your kitchen at the moment.

Um... it’s alright. We have a box of decorations in one corner, our new wii in another, our damp wall that our landlord won’t fix and our illegal hamster on the kitchen table but it’s really clean!!

44. Do you have a favorite alcoholic drink?

Eh, not really. I only really drink if I’m going out. It has to be fruity though, because otherwise I just can’t drink it 

45. Do you play cards?

I play card games with my family but not really with everyone else

46. What color is your car?

Black (it’s not technically mine, but since I’m the only one who drives it I feel like it’s fine)

47. Can you change a tire?

No but I really want to learn!!

48. Your favorite state or province?

Umm... we don’t really have either here, but my favourite place here has to be the Highlands. I’d go there and never come back if it was allowed

49. Favorite job you’ve had?

I’ve only ever had two and the first one was McDonald’s which was an ~experience~ but I really like the job I’m in now! It was in tourism and hospitality though so I’m not sure if I’ll get to go back

Thank you so much for tagging me! I tag (only if you want to, of course!) @justanalto @ohfaiths @springmagpies @infinitestarsintheskye @daisylincs and anybody else who wants to have a shot <3

[eclecticstarlightconnoisseur]

TWENTY QUESTIONS

Just a little something to breakup the monotony of being in lock down. Thank you @ladywynne​ for asking.

Twenty Questions

Rules: Answer twenty questions and then tag twenty some people who you want to get to know better! Tagged by @ladywynne thanks!

P.S. There weren’t actually twenty questions so I added a couple to make it go with the title. I couldn’t help myself. I hope you don’t mind.

Name: Anne

Nickname: So this is a story. When I was little I was watching Looney Tunes with my younger brother. We were watching  Pepé Le Pew who was chasing the lady cat with a stripe up her back from paint. Pepé  called her chérie. My brother thought that was terrible funny so he tried to call me that and it came out shed. So my nickname for ever after has been shed. 🥴 

Zodiac: Taurus

Languages: English/some Spanish

Favorite season: Spring and fall 

Favorite flower:  Truthfully I don’t have one because I love all flowers. If I had to pick one it would be a rose.

Favorite animal: Doggies. Non-domestic: Snow tigers.

Favorite fictional character: Jamie & Claire. Who else?

Favorite color: Blue

Rocket pop or creamsicle: Neither, Fudgesicles

Coffee, tea, hot chocolate: Coffee, lots of coffee

Average hours of sleep: before the stay at home order? 5-6

Dogs or cats: Doggies. Allergic to cats.

Blankets: My comforter.

Dream trip: UK/Scotland, side trip to Italy

Blog established:  I think 3 years ago, not sure.

Followers: a surprising number

Three things you would bring to a deserted island: Hubby, of course, machete, fishing equipment/net. If hubby doesn’t count, then a signal mirror.

Last book you finished: Currently reading The Plague by Albert Camus. Last finished The Dark Highlander by Karen Marie Moning.

Interesting fact: I like to bake. I always wanted to open up a cookie shop and call it Bar None as my favorite type of cookie to make are bar cookies.

Tagging:

1. Anyone who wants to play is tagged!

2. If I tag you and this isn’t your thing, no worries!

I tag @ladyviolethummingbird @renee-writer @scubalass @smashing-teacups @underthewingsofthblackeagle @gotham-ruaidh @auburncurlslass @maviemesregles @lallybrochloser @boles44 @missclairebelle @beaauchamp @michelead @logi1974 @lovetolearnposts​ @ladymeraud​

[not-without-bucky]

Chocolate Highlander Cookie Bars

Chocolate Highlander Cookie Bars

When I hear “highland” I think Scotland. When I hear “highlander” I still think Scotland, but now also of that one movie/TV show from the 80s that my husband just binge-watched of that guy with the sword.

You probably know what I’m talking about.

Chocolate Highlander Cookie Bars have nothing to do with either. It’s a recipe from Joanne Fluke’s novel Strawberry Shortcake Murder. You can…

[epchapman89]

The Sprudge Guide To Edinburgh, Scotland

Coorie (ku:ri) is the Scottish art of living happy. It used to mean something akin to snuggle—coorie in, coorie down—but in the last couple of years it’s developed into a style of aesthetics and living. It’s not just about candles and coffee. Coorie is about taking comfort and energy from both the wild landscapes of Scotland and the cheerful interiors that inspire cozy togetherness. You might have experienced something like coorie if you’ve ever walked into your best friend’s living room or your favorite coffee shop and immediately felt welcomed and loved.

While traveling around Scotland last fall, I searched high and low for the best coffee I could find, the places that made us want to coorie down with loved ones, a book, and coffee. The local coffee haven is Edinburgh. Here, coffee shops sprout up like mushrooms after a good rain. In the center of the city, it’s unlikely you’ll walk a block without spotting at least one. In the last few years, the local scene has begun shifting more towards specialty coffee with a focus on top quality and good service. We’ve rounded up our top eleven coorie shops to help you get around the city without getting caught in the rain.

This guide is meant to be used in conjunction with Edinburgh cafes previously featured on Sprudge.

Artisan Roast

Artisan Roast is a welcoming, homey spot that feels worlds away from the central tourists hubs of Edinburgh. Here the roasters care deeply about their coffee, and tucked among plants, art, and knick-knacks are colorful flavor wheels and descriptions of the current coffees they’re roasting. Bags of coffee are displayed prominently and the bar is visually open, inviting everyone into the space.

When I visited Artisan, customers from the neighborhood and tourists from all over were making themselves at home in the front tables by the picture window and their comfortable back living room-style sitting area. When you visit, look closely at your surroundings, because hidden among the usual coffee shop trappings and home-like decor is a collection of funky wall art, a gold-framed photo of Morgan Freeman who reminds everyone to hydrate, and a cheeky promise “from” JK Rowling to never write there.

Artisan Roast has multiple locations in Edinburgh. Visit their official website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Baba Budan

Baba Budan has the kind of bubbly atmosphere that comes from baristas who are having fun behind the bar. The space is cheery too: high ceilings, sleek wood, and skinny lights pair well with their coffee to brighten up even the darkest winter afternoon. Named for the 16th century Sufi saint who is said to have introduced coffee to India, Baba Budan is a continued celebration of the spread of that beverage. The community table is a good space to work, and the whole cafe is a great place to meet up with a friend. The baristas were brewing up a Salvadoran coffee from Girls Who Grind on drip, along with espresso from Workshop. Rotating roasters include Square Mile, The Barn, Coffee Collective, and Dark Arts Coffee. If you’re feeling a little jittery from caffeine already, they have a selection of food using seasonal ingredients. It’s all made in-house.

Baba Budan is located at Arch 12, 17 East Market Street, Edinburgh. Visit their official website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Black Medicine

If you’re trying to drink coffee in the cafe where JK Rowling first wrote Harry Potter, Black Medicine is the closest you’re going to get. It stands where Nicolson’s used to, which is where Rowling wrote most of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. (Later books were written at Elephant House, but despite claims to be “the birthplace” of Potter, they didn’t open until Philosopher’s Stone was almost published.) Today, Black Medicine is a bustling coffee shop serving up good brews, bagels, and high energy. The baristas are an upbeat and friendly group, even when there’s a chaotic line. Their menu of milk-based drinks is reliably good, and espresso is served with a ginger cookie to make your coffee break just that bit more exciting. The bohemian decor and excitable environment is conducive to any creative who finds people-watching inspiring, and you’ll find writers camped out with laptops everywhere.

If you care about the environment (and don’t you?), you’ll be happy to know Black Medicine has experimented with using steel straws for cold drinks, has completely banned drinking from takeaway coffee cups inside, and offers a 10% discount if you bring your own mug.

Black Medicine is located at 2 Nicolson St, Edinburgh. Visit their official website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Brew Lab Coffee

True to its name, Brew Lab Coffee has an underground bunker laboratory feel that makes it a favorite of students. The rooms are laid out like a rabbit’s warren and packed full of young millennials writing, studying, and talking. There’s more exposed brick than you can shake a fist at, and the decor is focused on the scientific, including a menu that visually mimics the element squares of the periodic table. The focus here is on coffee: equipment is top of the line and the baristas are clearly extremely knowledgeable about the drinks they’re serving. Brewed coffee itself is not a rarity in Edinburgh, but the pour-over bar in central view for everyone is. Service includes drinks brought to the table (if you’ve found one) and friendly baristas. V60s are brewed into carafes and served on trays; flat whites show up with perfectly symmetrical rosettas.

Though it’s one of Edinburgh’s more spacious specialty cafes, popularity and proximity to the University of Edinburgh means finding a place to sit can be a challenge. If you can, try to snag one of the arm chairs at the back and settle in. When you’re done with caffeine for the day, Brew Lab also serves beer, wine, and cocktails.

Brew Lab Coffee is located at 6-8 S College St, Edinburgh. Visit their official website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Cairngorm Coffee

Behind the bar in Cairngorm read the words “Coffee and grilled cheese.” Generous sandwiches are constructed by the staff, and the coziness of this childhood favorite meal perfectly matches the coziness of Cairngorm. The ceiling is hung with burlap coffee sacks, and the natural wood and forest color palette evokes the eastern Highlands mountain range it’s named for. A snowboard, a skateboard, and skis hang on the walls to bring mountain adventure inside, or you can pick up an AeroPress and bag of this micro-roaster’s coffee to take on your next outdoor escape. When I dropped by, Cairngorm’s baristas were brewing up an excellent selection of Five Elephant coffee and their own Central American selection. They served up what was, hands down, the best flat white I had in Edinburgh. Attention to service is in everything Cairngorm does: tea was served with a timer to ensure it wasn’t over-steeped, newspapers were available for reading, and tablets set into bar seating were available to browse their website.

Find Cairngorm by descending some stairs from the main level of Frederick Street. The small patio outside is aces when the weather is great, or cozy up inside.

Cairngorm Coffee has multiple locations in Edinburgh. Visit their official website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Castello Coffee

Just a block off of the Princes Street Gardens and the main tram line, Castello Coffee waits to supply you with coffee and food to fuel up. The space is clean and bright, and framed art features prominently on the walls. Clearly named for Edinburgh Castle nearby, this shop serves up an Americano made with Allpress Espresso that’s fit for a monarch and delicious hot chocolates for everyone else. The breakfast and lunch soup options are great, as well. Friendly baristas are behind the bar and the bustling energy patrons bring in and out of the shop is the perfect pick-me-up to accompany the coffee when you need one.

If you’re out playing tourist or shopping nearby, Castello is a convenient and reliably good shop to drop in on. Grab a seat at the counter facing the window to watch people stream by in this busy neighborhood or enjoy their wide patio seating under umbrellas to protect you from the elements.

Castello Coffee has multiple locations in Edinburgh. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Cult Espresso

Tucked away on a small road close to the University of Edinburgh is wee gem Cult Espresso. This long narrow shop has a sapphire blue facade that makes it stand brightly out from the rest of the store fronts on the street, and the front door promises coffee, brunch, and good times—indeed, the service is amazing and the energy in the shop is cheerful and welcoming. When I visited I had a delicious long black and a good long chat with the baristas about the coffee scenes in the US and Scotland, what makes Cult special, and how excited they were about the coffee they were serving that day. As a group of self-proclaimed “coffee nerds,” Cult is constantly curating seasonal single-origin coffees from the UK and Europe, and they’re truly dedicated to making sure each cup is delicious.

Cult Espresso may not be an actual cult, but I could come to be (almost) as dedicated to it as a real one. Drop by the shop for their ritual brunch and coffee combo, and don’t forget to snag some of their branded swag on the way out.

Cult Espresso is located at 104 Buccleuch St, Edinburgh. Visit their official website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Fortitude Coffee

More than any other, Fortitude Coffee feels like a barista’s coffee shop. It retains the appearance of a converted rowhouse and is a peaceful background for great coffee, friendly baristas, and a community vibe. I sat by the windows and enjoyed a juicy pour-over roasted by Fortitude and perused the simple food menu. When I visited, they were quick to talk up the other coffee shops on the Disloyal 7 card, as well as recommend other must-try places around Edinburgh. They host the occasional cupping with their full lineup of coffees, and recently co-hosted a Meet the Roaster event with Edinburgh Coffee Society, so if you’re just visiting, check with the baristas to see if there’s an event coming up. Though still a relatively young scene, Fortitude is proof of how great a city’s coffee network becomes when everyone in it cares about the same main goals: delicious beverages and open community.

On a busy day, Fortitude is the perfect tranquil spot to relax, chat about coffee, and grab a bite to eat. Their full wall of retail coffee and coffee equipment is a great source for whatever your coffee-loving heart needs.

Fortitude Coffee is located at 3C York Pl, Edinburgh. Visit their official website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Lowdown

Literally low—down a flight of stairs—Lowdown is a minimalist shop. It’s a peaceful place to get away from the bustle of the main road, and has an airy feel to the decor and art. If you’re looking for a quieter place than Black Medicine to get work done, Lowdown is going to be your best bet for a distraction-free environment—the baristas are focused on careful, precise brewing. The coffee served and sold at Lowdown comes from all over Europe, including the delicious balanced shot of Ethiopian coffee from Colonna that was on drank when I stopped by. Similar to Artisan, Lowdown’s espresso bar is open and visible to guests, which invites an easy engagement that the baristas welcome.

The pastry case was full of beautiful pastries, including several cake options that are always the perfect pairing with any coffee for a good mid-morning snack. Bring a friend to take a break from shopping or sightseeing, or hunker down here with a good book. Lowdown is the perfect place to pass an afternoon with a cup of coffee.

Lowdown is located at 40 George St, Edinburgh. Follow them on Twitter and Instagram.

Machina

The coffee aesthetic is strong with this one. Above the bar hangs a black metal industrial light fixture from which a portafilter, a pitcher, and other various coffee implements hang from to float over the space. The walls are clean and white, and the tables are modernist sturdy wood and black metal. In Machina, several shelves are dedicated to different retail options; if you’re looking for equipment Machina seems to have the largest selection in Edinburgh. Located just up the street from Filament, this micro-roaster’s shop is another warm and relaxing space to escape rush hour or a quick rain shower.

Drop by early to enjoy the food menu options and sign up for their coffee subscription service while you’re there. Try to snag the window seat—not only is it super comfortable, it’s the perfect setting for your next Instagram photo with coffee.

Machina has multiple locations in Edinburgh. Visit their official website and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Valorie Clark (@TheValorieClark) is a freelance journalist based in Los Angeles. Read more Valorie Clark on Sprudge.

The post The Sprudge Guide To Edinburgh, Scotland appeared first on Sprudge.

seen 1st on http://sprudge.com

[laptopcamper]

Kumquat Coffee Co., 4936 York Blvd., Los Angeles (Highland Park), CA 90042, Score: 34/50

Highland Park seems to have one of the highest concentrations of coffeehouses in LA and Kumquat Coffee is the newest entrant. It’s a block away from the first hipster coffeehouse in the neighborhood, Café De Leche. It’s a lovely little spot but they just opened, so they had a few issues (no espresso drinks available, spotty internet). I think it’s Korean owned and it reminds me of Japanese coffeehouses.

Score: 34/50

Food: 4/5 – They have a case of nice looking pastries, including muffins, donuts, cookies, etc. The case didn’t have much in it but the artichoke bread I had was excellent (moist, full of artichokes – it was a bread pudding, I think). They also have high end chocolate bars. The muffins are tiny.

Coffee: 5/5 – No espresso drinks were available because the grinder was broken. The pour over Kenya ($5.50) was pricey but had berry notes. They seem to care about coffee quality. They have drip coffee, espresso drinks, pour over and cold brew, plus tea lattes. The pour over wasn’t that hot but that usually seems to be the case with pour over. They mostly serve coffee from Ceremony Roasters of Baltimore, MD.

Wi-fi: 3/5 – Free, unlimited, but spotty. The password is posted by the register.

Ambiance: 5/5 – No outdoor seating. Modern furniture. White walls, light woods. Clean and minimalist in a stylish way.

Noise: 5/5 – Quiet, chill music

Plugs: 3/5 – There are a few but not enough for everyone

Parking: 4/5 – Two hours free on York, unlimited free parking off York. One block over to the west, there are meters. People park in the parking lot next to Kumquat too.

Comfort: 3/5 – Benches, stools, and chairs are not padded but they are new

Bathroom: 4/5 – One unisex, it’s very nice

Art: 3/5 – None – just bare white walls but maybe they’ll add some later?

Tips: Closed on Mondays.  

“Laptop Campers Unite!”

[spicerevolution]

I think today is definitely a peanut butter pie bar day! Shops open 12-4 with LOTS of spice, seasonings, cookies, chocolate and more! Congratulate yourself for making it to Thursday 🥳 #thursdayvibes #peanutbutter #pie #bars #local #ingredients #madefromscratch #bakery #spiceshop #mainstreet #coldspring #shoplocal #shoosmall #highlands #hudsonvalley #beacon #peekskill #dessert #delicious #raiseyourstandards #eatbetter #treats #spice #thursday #celebrate (at Spice Revolution) https://www.instagram.com/p/CZg7EgDr2Gk/?utm_medium=tumblr

[farfarbetterdream]

another tag game!

I was tagged by: @absentmindeduniverse. I enjoy seeing you on my dash and reglogging (probably too much) from you!

rules: answer these 85 statements about yourself, then tag 20 people. 

damn that’s a lot of statements. and a lot of people to tag...

last

1. drink - water. before that, coffee. 2. phone call - skype call with my parents 3. text message - a friend about her afternoon plans 4. song you listened to - Astronaut by Gregory Alan Isakov 5. time you cried - a week ago

ever

6. dated someone twice? - no. never even dated anyone once. 7. kissed someone and regretted it -  never kissed anyone besides a dare when i was 10 that barely counts, so... 8. been cheated on - again, never been in a relationship so no. 9. lost someone special - romantically, no. family, yes. 10. been depressed - not sure 11. gotten drunk and thrown up - ok yes BUT iblamethecheapalcoholnottheamoutidrank

fave colours

12. forest green 13. a nice warm neutral tan/beige 14. deep blue

in the last year have you…

15. made new friends - yeah! 16. fallen out of love - would have to fall in love first 17. laughed until you cried - all the fucking time 18. found out someone was talking about you - nope 19. met someone who changed you - not really 20. found out who your friends are - yeah i guess? 21. kissed someone on your facebook friends list - wow this thing is just trying to rub it in my face that i’ve never been kissed, isn’t it :/

general

22. how many of your facebook friends do you know irl - pretty sure all of them. or at least used to know irl.

23. do you have any pets -  black standard poodle named Tikva. his name means hope in hebrew, because we got him right before the 2008 election and Obama’s slogan was hope!

24. do you want to change your name - when i was a lot younger i used to consider changing to the normal american pronunciation of hannah instead of the hebrew pronunciation. now i like it.

25. what did you do for your last birthday - it was my 21st so even though i’m abroad and could already drink, I went out and celebrated by going to a few bars and pubs.

26. what time did you wake up today - 4 AM when my noisy flatmate came in >:( then again at 8.

27. what were you doing at midnight last night - zzzzzzzzzzzz

28. what is something you cant wait for - getting to travel around the Scottish Highlands and do a bunch of hiking over spring break!

idk why there’s no 29...

30. what are you listening to right now - not currently listening to any music but in general i’ve been listening to dermot kennedy a lot recently

31. have you ever talked to a person named tom - my best friend in preschool was named tom. then we didn’t see each other for six years. then we went to the same middle school and was a dick to me. probably because he wanted to be part of the cool crowd and i was decidedly not cool 32. something that’s getting on your nerves - my flatmate constantly being so fucking loud and waking me up all the time 33. most visited website - my university email 34. hair colour - brown 35. long or short hair - currently just past shoulder length but that’s longer than i usually like it 36. do you have a crush on someone - maybe. i had a crush on a guy last year for a while. haven’t seen him in forever but also haven’t gotten any new crushes. if i saw him again i think i’d probably still have a crush on him tbh. good thing he’s graduating so i’ll probably never see ihm again :/ 37. what do you like about yourself - honestly? most of the time nothing. 38. want any piercings? - i have one lobe piercing and one cartilage piercing in each ear, but I want more. probably won’t get it though since my ears don’t heal very well from them. 39. blood type - O negative. universal donor, woo woo. 40. nicknames - hannahleh and pumpkin by my parents

41. relationship status - unfortunately single

42. zodiac - Aquarius 43. pronouns - she/her 44. fave tv shows - Black Sails, The 100, and Doctor Who. Also Game of Thrones, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, Wynonna Earp, The X-Files, and countless others. 45. tattoos -  no but i kind of want want 46. right or left handed - right handed 47. ever had surgery - i had my wisdom teeth removed, but that’s it. 48. piercings - two on each ear 49. sport - i run and work out for exercise and recreation, but have never done any sports. i enjoy watching basketball occasionally  50. vacation - i like going places with beautiful nature to hike in or lots of historic sites to visit. technically you could say that i’m on an extended vacation right now since i’m studying abroad in scotland. last vacation was to Italy, next one is to the Highlands (unless it decides to snow). 51. trainers - such a weird word. yeah i wear them a lot because i run/work out and also they’re so comfortable to walk around in

more general 

52. eating - does this mean what i’m eating right now??? if so then nothing. at tortellini, spinach, chicken, and a sweet potato about 2 hours ago. about to go eat some chocolate fudge ice cream.

53. drinking - water. i constantly sip water.

54. i’m about to watch - nothing. i’m about to go eat dessert, take a shower, and then do homework.

55. waiting for - the results of the two essays i’ve turned in so far this semester, spring break, and The 100 season 5 premier

56. want - fresh baked cake or cookies, to see my family and my dog, warm weather, to fall in love, to figure out what i want to do with my life 57. get married - definitely, but not anytime in the near future.

58. career - currently a student, don’t really know what i want my career to be in. probably something related to sustainability, environmental education, climate change, cultural heritage protection, or museums. something that helps the world.

which is better

59. hugs or kisses - hugs 60. lips or eyes - i’m assuming all of these are about what we prefer/care more about in a romantic partner. eyes maybe? 61. shorter or taller - kinda have a thing for really tall boys. 62. older or younger - definitely older. 63. nice arms or stomach - holy fuck nice arms do something to me. 64. hookup or relationship - relationship. zero interest in hookups.  65. troublemaker or hesitant - hesitant. that’s my middle name. jk it’s leah. but i would actually say that being hesitant is one of my worst character traits.

have you ever

66. kissed a stranger - we’ve already established here that i have kissed no one. 67. drank hard liquor - i tried rum once when i was like 12 because we found it in a cabinet in our house and i wanted to be like a pirate. pretty sure my dad laughed at me when i choked on it. also done shots of hard liquor. 68. lost glasses - occasionally but only for very brief periods of time. sometimes i’ll take them off at home and forget where i left them in the house. 69. turned someone down - yes 70. sex on first date - no 71. broken someones heart - no but then again i’m usually clueless/oblivious so idk. maybe disappointed people briefly but not broken their heart. 72. had your heart broken - no  73. been arrested - naw 74. cried when someone died -yeah 75. fallen for a friend - i got a crush on a guy i was friends with freshman year of high school. 

do you believe in

76. yourself - rarely 77. miracles - no 78. love at first sight - i don’t think so. attraction, yes. love, no. 79. santa claus - jewish, so no. 80. kiss on a first date - please someone take me on a first date and kiss me. 81. angels - no

other

82. best friend’s name - i’m don’t really think i have a best friend. i have a number of close friends but i’m not good at opening up to people the way i think best friend connotes. but probably my oldest closest friend has the same name as me. 83. eye colour - green 84. fave movie - The Princess Bride even though I always get annoyed by how little Buttercup does. Crossing Delancey is my favorite rom com because it’s hilarious and sweet and super jewish. Also Romancing the Stone because it’s an adventure rom com. The Pride and Prejudice with Keira Knightley is gorgeous. Also always a sucker for the first three Pirates of the Caribbean movies, and the Lord of the Rings movies. 85. fave actor - Tom Hanks because he’s an amazing actor, I’ve liked him in everything I’ve seen him in, and he’s just a precious human being.

tagging a combination of people i know irl and mutuals that I’ve mostly never talked to because i’m super awkward, you can do this if you want, or feel free to ignore it: @the-sadpotato, @ryostrenchcoat, @pinevillagegirl, @ineedpeetalikehekneadsbread, @hufflepuffhermione, @dweebshark, @kleinundasinine, @im-wallpapering-my-locker, @captain-fflewddurfflam, @thedarrparrot, @theavathedork, @geese-juggler, @addyleeliu, @bellarkeaddict, @thren0dy, @veganmewsings, @mistamie

[perfectirishgifts]

Get the Flavors Of Large Format Libations, Even For Parties Of One

New Post has been published on https://perfectirishgifts.com/get-the-flavors-of-large-format-libations-even-for-parties-of-one/

Get the Flavors Of Large Format Libations, Even For Parties Of One

Fruit punch with ice served in beautiful big glass bowl

A party just isn’t a party without gathering at punch bowls and buffet tables, but, unfortunately, this is the year we can’t have parties. 

However, to paraphrase the late Michael Hutchence of INXS, if you “miss the people, and miss the fun,” at least this is the year ready-to-drink innovations and other cool products have made it possible to experience that buzzing party vibe in smaller servings.

So freeze those ice cubes, don you now that ugly sweater, break out the cat’s earmuffs and/or the dog antlers and pour yourself a cup of holiday cheer!

All of the following items are available at select retailers in store or online. But to spread even more cheer to businesses that could really use the support, please consider using these products as inspiration to order similar format cocktails to-go from local bars and restaurants, many of which are offering holiday menu selections. (Bonus if you live near a Miracle pop-up bar!) 

Punch

No reason you can’t pour these RTD punches into a bowl (even a plastic container) with ice, and add citrus wheel garnishes and/or cranberries to capture that festive vibe. 

Drnxsmith Rum Punch

The motto of Drnxmyth is “the best bar in town delivered to your door”, and each canned cocktail is developed by real mixologists, not a boardroom. The Rum Punch, created by Los Angeles bartender Bad Birdy, is made with real fresh juices and was fashioned to be refreshing, but not too sweet. 16% ABV, $11

Rockey’s Milk Punch: For those who don’t know, milk punch is not actually milky, though it’s made with clarified milk—which adds a special tartness to drinks. The centuries’ old technique involves a chemical reaction with tea, and is rather tedious to do at home, especially just for a serving or two. Thank heavens NYC bartender Eamen Rockey came up with a delicious, bottled version of milk punch! Sip it on the rocks, or add a splash of spirit (rum, whiskey, tequila, gin, etc.) or even bubbly. 12% ABV, $26

BeatBox Peach is the newest flavor from this line of tetra-pak, single serve RTDs and is meant to evoke the flavor of peach ring candies, though the flavors are only a touch sweet, and they are still fairly low in calories, considering (130). $4 per pack 

Eggnog Christmas milk cocktail with cinnamon, served in two glasses on vintage tray with shortbread … [] star shape sugar cookies, decor toys, fir branch over white wooden plank table. (Photo by: Natasha Breen/REDA&CO/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Eggnog

It could be argued that no single party cocktail says “December” quite like an eggnog. The problem is, that’s a lot of preparation for a single party. Luckily there are some festive and delicious bottlings that only require a chill, and perhaps a sprinkle of nutmeg. Bonus: lipstick is also canceled in 2020, so nothing to re-apply when the spice rubs off your lipcolor. 

Priced at only $9 for a 750 ml bottle (though it tastes wayyyy more expensive), Evan Williams Southern Eggnog the #1 seller in the all-in-one nog category. The real dairy cream recipe combines Evan Williams bourbon as well as well as rum and brandy. 15% ABV 

Bacardí Coquito

Coquito, which translates to “little coconut”, is a traditional Christmas eggnog variation that is a staple of home kitchens in Puerto Rican households. Bacardí’s bottled version—with rum, coconut cream, vanilla, toasted spices and cinnamon—sold out quickly last year, but they’ve brought it back for a limited time in 2020. 13% ABV, $20 

Drinks Inspired By the Dessert Table

RumChata Peppermint Bark

As if a rummed up, shelf stable version of the popular Mexican comfort rice milk drink, horchata, wasn’t clever enough, this year the makers of RumChata have launched a Peppermint Bark flavor. Who needs to be judged grazing at a party cookie tray when you can pour yourself a chocolate-mint dessert (in the elastic pants-friendly privacy of your own home) that needs zero preparation—not even ice! 14% ABV, $22

Dr. Bill Lumsden and Glenmorangie A Tale of Cake

Glenmorangie A Tale of Cake is the latest limited edition of this Highland Scotch from the mind of Director of Whisky Creation Dr. Bill Lumsden, who says his most joyful childhood memories involved cake. This fruity, comforting whisky is 46% ABV, $100. 

Aberfeldy 12 Year Scotch Hot Chocolate kit

Sparkly, Scotchy Hot Chocolate 

Personal pampering is taken to the next level with this luxurious, velvety rich Aberfeldy Golden Hot Chocolate kit created in partnership with Exquisito Chocolates in Miami. A $45 all-in-one set includes an entire 750 ml bottle (I know!) of Aberfeldy 12 Year Single Malt Scotch (this is a non-peated, Highlands malt), a 6.8 oz bag of Limited Edition Aberfeldy Golden Hot Chocolate Mix, 6 Aberfeldy-infused marshmallows, and to make it extra festive, 4 g of edible gold glitter, along with 2 branded mugs. So fire up the virtual yule log (or queue the holiday rom com—no one is judging), and order one at Reserve Bar (note: if it is sold out, I am told they plan to restock by Friday the 11th) to cozy up to.  

Death Valley Nails Death & Co. polish collection

Look (and Mix) Your Best at Home 

Speaking of pampering, since you’re home relaxing, why not give yourself a mani/pedi to feel more gussied up for your personal holiday cocktail party? Death & Co. cocktail bar has teamed up with Death Valley Nails to develop limited edition polishes inspired by bartenders on the national team—Devon Tarby (Co-Owner, Los Angeles), Shannon Tebay (Head Bartender, NYC), and Alex Jump (Head Bartender, Denver). A percentage of sales for each shade of the vegan, cruelty-free, non-toxic line goes toward Mojave Desert Land Trust, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation and Soul Fire Farm. They are available from Death & Co Market and Death Valley Nails for $12 each, or $35 for the trio. 

Finally, if you want to give the gift of home cocktail classes, or take some yourself, Santa Teresa 1796 Rum has the 1796 Virtual Holiday Speakeasy, where some of the country’s most talented bartenders from NYC, Los Angeles and Miami can personally guide your way! Details here—just pick a cocktail and book!

More from Spirits in Perfectirishgifts

[exploringatlanta]

Celebrate the Holidays - 2017

It’s finally cooling down here in Atlanta after a long and steamy summer, so now that Halloween has come and gone, it’s time to look ahead to fun holiday events in Atlanta! Some are must-do decades-long traditions, some are new ones to add to your list. Light displays, shows, shopping, and more.

Atlanta has something for everyone, so don’t miss out this holiday season!

Light Displays:

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights - Atlanta Botanical Gardens. 11/11- 1/7/2018 5-10pm. $13+ (non-members). Over 1 million lights and 200 show-stopping color changing topiaries transform the garden into a must-do holiday event. Enjoy a new feature this year, Nature's Wonders, illuminating the world's natural phenomena through countless strands of synchronized dancing lights strung high over Storza Wood. Coming back this year are the Walk of Flame, Tunnel of Light, Orchestral Orbs, Glittering Galaxy, Radiant Rainforest, and Model Trains that continue to make the exhibition a must-see holiday tradition. Ticketing options include a Premium Ticket (3D glasses & drink ticket included) and a Flex Ticket, in case your plans change. For adults who can stay up a later, the cheapest ticket is a walk-up after 9pm for $13.95, but only gives you an hour to see everything. Highly recommend buying tix in advance to secure family plans on premium nights/weekends.

Magical Night of Lights - Lake Lanier. 11/17- 1/3/18. $35+ per car. This year the 25th anniversary display celebrates the 12 Days of Christmas!  7 miles of lights, Snowflake Bridge, holiday village, Santa, Petting Zoo, Carnival Rides, s’mores, and more. 

Fantasy in Lights - Callaway Gardens. 11/17-1/6/2018. $10.50+. Named “Top 10 Places to See Holiday Lights,” as named by National Geographic Traveler, experience an amazing light and sound show! 8 million lights, 15 scenes, Christmas Village with kids activities, Grinch Holiday Dinner Show, Character Breakfast, Story Time with Mrs. Claus, pictures with Santa, shopping, and train rides. Also check out the specialty nights.

Lights of Life - Marietta/Life University. 11/23- 12/31. $5-$10. One of the most affordable and always delightful light displays OTP, check out Life University’s iconic holiday scenes in lights. The 65 foot tall rendition of Santa and his sleigh is the tallest display in the Southeast!

Ice Skating Rinks:

Skate at Atlantic Station - 11/18 kick off. $10+. right in the heart of Midtown - enjoy the largest outside ice skating rink in town! Unlimited skating and skate rental included. Make a day of it with shopping, eats, Santa’s Cottage, and ice skating. The lighting of the AS tree happens on 11/18 to kick off the holiday season. 

Avalon on Ice - 11/19-1/21/18. $14+, includes skates. Spend the day shopping and skating at Avalon in Alpharetta! Holiday festivities kick off on 11/19 with the lighting of the tree and the arrival of Santa. Also offered, private skating lessons, skate school, private party rental, and a Disco Skate Party on 1/14!

Skate the Sky at Ponce City Market - 11/20-12/31. $15/$8 + rooftop admission. New skating rink opens this year at Skyline Park and enjoy games, eats and drinks.

St. Regis Astor Holiday Rink - 11/24 - 1/1/2018. $18-$30 per hour. Reservations recommended for this upscale skating experience with holiday tunes, s'mores, and hot chocolate.

Holiday Shows/Events:

Adults Only:

Invasion: Christmas Carol - Dad’s Garage Theatre. 12/1 - 12/30. $17.50+. The ultimate holiday improv experience, what happens when a new character gets introduced to a classic tale? With new characters added each night - each show is unique and will keep you laughing all month long!

Miracle on Monroe. 11/24-12/24. Holiday themed pop-up bar was a big hit last year and is back with TWO locations, one in Midtown and the new second spot in Buckhead! Fun cocktails, the bar’s ‘halls’ are decked to the max and patrons can enjoy themed cocktails in custom Miracle glassware including Santa’s Pants mugs and reindeer Collins glasses. 

The Santaland Diaries - Horizon Theatre. 11/17 - 12/31. $25+. Hilarious David Sedaris holiday play about the life of a department store elf. Always a fun night out - check out the cool VIP Experience offered that features reserved seating & holiday beverage.

12 Dates of Christmas - Aurora Theatre. 11/25-12/23. $20+. Laugh off the stress of shopping and family hijinks with this new comedy show about dating craziness & the holidays. Amazing one-woman show.

Atlanta Santa Speedo Run - Midtown. 12/9 2pm. One of the most hilarious ways to raise $ for an amazing local charity. Proceeds benefit Bert’s Big Adventure!

Family-Friendly:

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer - Center for Puppetry Arts. 11/7 - 12/31. $11.25+. One of the hottest tickets in town for families, don’t wait to get yours as they will sell out. This year also features a Create-A-Puppet Workshop™ to create a King Moonracer™ Rod and String Puppet. Your ticket also gives you access to the Worlds of Puppetry Museum.

Wake Up Santa - Georgia Aquarium. 11/18 9-10:30am. $9.95+. Kids can help ‘wake up’ Santa with fun activities, hot cocoa bar, cookies and of course photos with the Jolly One. Reserve your spot online! 

A Christmas Carol - Aurora Theatre. 11/24 - 12/23. $20+. Those outside the perimeter can also check out a local production of the classic holiday tale in Gwinnett! This performance is a one-man show starring Anthony P. Rodriguez. his 11th year using classical storytelling to bring you into the world of Charles Dickens. 

Madeline’s Christmas - Horizon Theatre. 12/2- 12/31. $12-$15. The little girl from Paris embarks on a holiday adventure! Family-friendly holiday favorite.

The Nutcracker by The Atlanta Ballet - The Fox Theatre. 12/8 -12/28. $21+. Classic holiday ballet that is a must-see every season! Stunning performance by Atlanta’s best dancers. Runs 2 hours with a 25 minute intermission.

A Christmas Carol - Alliance Theatre. 12/8 - 12/24. $24+. A performance of the classic Christmas tale that features live music and ATL-based actors that always deliver an amazing experience. Create a new holiday tradition for your family today, best enjoyed by ages 5 and up. Performances sell out quickly, so get your tickets ASAP!

A Charlie Brown Christmas - Venkman’s. 12/10 and 12/17 6-7p. $5pp. Get into the holiday spirit with this family-friendly live musical performance of the score for the classic Peanuts special. 

Mighty Mo' & Miracle on 34th Street - The Fox Theatre . 12/19 7:30p. FREE w reservation. Movie Screening, Snow on Ptree, Sock Donation, organ show and more. 

Atlanta Classics & Art:

The Pink Pig - Macy’s Lenox Mall. Now thru 12/31/17. $3 a ride, purchase tickets on-site! An Atlanta family tradition and a portion of the ticket sales goes to benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. 

Stone Mountain Christmas - 11/11- 1/3/2018. $21.95+pp (Flash Sale Price- Christmas Adventure Pass). Enjoy the Rudolph The Red-Nosed-Reindeer 4-D movie experience and the Skylights Spectacular, which is a musical walk-through experience of lights! Also back are live performances of The Littlest Christmas Tree, Forever Christmas, Twas The Night Before… A Holiday Cabaret, and A Christmas Carol.  Ride the Sing-a-long Train and enjoy a nightly Christmas Parade, Snow Angel® Snowfall and Fireworks Finale. Named by USA Today as one of the ten best places in the country to catch Santa Claus, don’t miss out on meeting the man in red!

Winter Wonderland - Fernbank Museum. 11/17-1/7/2018. Free for members/included in museum admission. Exhibit features two floors of decorated trees that feature the cultures, holidays and traditions celebrated around the world. 

Festivity + Trees Reveal Party -  Colony Square . 12/1 4p. FREE! Get into the spirit of the holidays in the heart of Midtown as 25+ local artist trees are revealed. Also enjoy hot cider, live music and themed eats.

Cookies with Santa - Zoo Atlanta. 12/2-3. $12+. Sign up for one of 4 time slots each day - 8:30am (members only), 10:30am, 12:30p, 2:30p. $10+. Tix sell out fast, so get yours ASAP. Kids can meet Santa, enjoy cookies and hot cocoa!! Also, crafts, costume characters and caroling.

A Victorian Holiday - Oakland Cemetery. 12/2 11-4pm. $6+. Tickets go on sale 11/4. Enjoy a day in this historic park with a Holiday Artists Market, carolers, historic crafts (Victorian Ornaments) cocoa, and a special mausoleum tour. Attendees will have the chance to meet Saint Nicholas himself and also purchase one of Oakland’s signature Balsam fir wreaths. Step back into time with costumed characters that will bring the past of Atlanta to life.

Virginia Highlands Tour of Homes. 12/2-3. $25+. Children 10 and under are free. Tour 8 gorgeous homes and shop locally for holiday gifts. Also enjoy food tastings in John Howell Park from local restaurants including neighborhood faves Atkins Park, Highland Tap, Fontaine’s, Marlow’s Tavern, Press & Grind, San Francisco Coffee, Tapa Tapa and newcomers The General Muir & St. Germaine Bakery.

Candlelight Nights at the Atlanta History Center. 12/15 & 12/22. $20+. Candlelight tour of 3 historic houses, Christmas market with local crafted items, food/drinks, jump start that holiday spirit with this great event.

Holiday Shopping:

ICE Holiday Shopping Extravaganza - 11/18-19. $5. This is a very cool holiday expo featuring handmade gifts from 175+ local/regional vendors. Free swag bags for the first 250 attendees each day! Soaps, clothing, artwork, jewelry and more! Photo booth, local food vendors, gift wrapping station and all kinds of fun. A must in Atlanta! Holiday Pop-Up shop opens 11/9.

Christkindl Market at Atlantic Station - 11/24-12/23. FREE! Enjoy Atlanta’s version of a traditional German market with great holiday gift options, themed foods/drinks and holiday cheer. 2 hours free parking! 

Root City Holiday Pop-Up Shop - 11/25-12/23. Shop local this holiday season at this Decatur pop-up. Shop features gifts from local artisans and will feature maker demos, adult and kids workshops, and an opening night party.

Holiday Pop-Up Shop - 11/28. Small Town Creatives hosts 20+ makers with unique gifts at Reformation Brewery in Woodstock. Shop, sip and support local artists! 

Back to Nature Holiday Market - Chattahoochee Nature Center. 12/2 12-2p. Shop 40+ local vendors selling handmade and eco-friendly gifts. Skip the traditional retail options and get really unique gifts for family and friends.

Open Studios & Holiday Sale at the Goat Farm. 12/8-9. Meet artists in their studios and shop for locally crafted gifts at this annual open house event! 

Holiday Artists Market - Peachtree Road Farmer’s Market. Sat 12/16. Shop 30 local artists and vendors at this special holiday Farmer's Market. 

Holiday Craft Bazaar at the Grant Park Farmer’s Market. 12/17 9a-1p. #FREE! Stock up on locally made gifts, goods, and veggies for the holidays! Live music, more.

Don’t see your fave holiday events, shows, and local shopping on here, send me a note! This list will continue to grow as we get closer to the holidays.

Enjoy everything our city has to offer this holiday season!!

[not-without-bucky]

Chocolate Highlander Cookie Bars - Recipe Only

Chocolate Highlander Cookie Bars – Recipe Only

-this recipe is taken from Joanne Fluke’s novel, Strawberry Shortcake Murder–

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

  Ingredients

1 cup softened butter

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 cups flour

4 beaten eggs

1 cup melted butter, cooled to room temperature

1 cup white sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup flour

2 1/2 cups chocolate chips

1/3 cup powdered sugar

  Directions

Cre…

[tripkenus-blog]

Top 10 Restaurants in Las Vegas

We’re talking about Las Vegas, so even the culinary scene has to be extraordinary, unique and, above all, surprising. There is no shortage of choices in Las Vegas when it comes to cuisines and restaurants, so you will find from refined French cuisine to the always delicious budget-friendly burgers.

It’s true that this is the place where many famous chefs, such as Wolfgang Puck and Emeril Lagasse, have found the perfect spots to open their restaurants and pamper the taste buds of guests who have the desire and budget to book a table there, but you can also find numerous casual dining establishments. If we were to consider the tourism board message regarding the culinary scene of the city, then it seems that Las Vegas is “the biggest thing to happen to food since salt”.

The Strip abounds in a variety of restaurants, and it won’t always cost an arm and a leg to have dinner here. The menus are often rich in burgers, pizza, Chinese dishes and seafood, so feel free to surprise your palate.

If you want to make sure your culinary experience will be absolutely amazing and unforgettable, you can always select to book a table at one of the top 10 restaurants in Las Vegas. Satisfaction guaranteed! Here they are:

Cugino’s Italian Deli

For authentic Italian specialties on the Las Vegas Strip, we recommend a visit to the Cugino’s Italian Deli. Situated just across the street from the University of Nevada Las Vegas, this restaurant invites guests to taste from pizza and pastas, to handmade sandwiches and mouthwatering Italian desserts. The restaurant provides also take-out and delivery.

Off the Strip – Southern Highlands

This restaurant charms its guests with a casual and relaxed ambience, and a menu that abounds in Italian and American cuisine specialties, and also plenty of vegetarian dishes such as vegan chicken Caesar salad, spicy hummus and veggie burgers. Most of the guests who had try the restaurant’s cheesecake say that it is ridiculous delicious, so you have no other option than to taste it and see for yourself if the rumors are true.

Andiamo Italian Steakhouse

Let’s stay a few moments more in the world of Italian flavors and visit the Andiamo Italian Steakhouse, a classic and elegant restaurant famous for its sumptuous steaks. Housed by the D Las Vegas Hotel, this restaurant embraces the hotel’s classical luxurious vibe, and welcomes guests to savor from hearty steaks such as Strauss American lamb and veal of Milwaukee to fresh seafood and traditional pasta, in chic vintage setting.

Del Frisco’s

A sophisticated restaurant designed to enchant even the most pretentious guests, Del Frisco’s specializes in serving USDA prime beef and Australian cold water lobster trail. However, its menu includes also appetizers, seafood, and plenty of vegetables. Although the decor is elegant, the ambience is casual and even family-friendly, being accompanied by southern style hospitality. The restaurant boasts an impressive wine list and is proud to have been awarded the Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence from 2000 to 2013.

Fat Tuesday

Fat Tuesday is a very popular and appreciated lounge in Las Vegas that serves the largest selection of frozen drinks in the world, and is known worldwide for the fabulous 190 Octane Daiquiri. Basically, Fat Tuesday manages to bring the festive Mardi Gras atmosphere straight from Bourbon Street, along with a bit of Southern hospitality. The combinations are simply extraordinary, and you can even taste free samples to find your favorite flavors. There are plenty of Fat Tuesday locations on the Strip, so it will be very easy to refill!

Fogo de Chao

An authentic Southern Brazilian steakhouse, Fogo de Chao will surely surprise your taste buds and offer a memorable culinary experience in Las Vegas. This restaurant revolves around the gaucho way of preparing meat in Porto Alegre, Brazil, which means that the restaurant’s chefs are experts in grilling each of the 16 cuts of meat served here. The menu includes also Brazilian side dishes, a gourmet salad bar and an award-winning wine list.

Freed’s Bakery

Voted the best bakery in Las Vegas over 30 times now and having a tradition of more than 50 years, Freed’s Bakery is the place to visit whenever you’re craving for sweet homemade desserts or you’re choosing a wedding cake. A family-owned business, this bakery offers from traditional pastries and cookies to signature cupcakes and event cakes.

Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse Las Vegas

Often voted one of the best 10 steakhouses in North America, Vic & Anthony’s is truly a place worthy of your time and appetite. Serving from classic beef dishes and chicken specialties to seafood and lobster, this restaurant is one of the most popular dining establishments in town. The menu abounds in unique appetizers such as the maple glazed quail or steak tartare, and has an eclectic wine selection. The setting follows the classically luxurious style, while the service is impeccable.

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

This is a branch of the legendary coal-fired pizza baker from beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. The restaurant serves absolutely divine pizza in different locations in Las Vegas. With over 100 years of pizza-making tradition, Grimaldi’s is really an institution in the world of pizza, the perfect place to enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza served with a “secret recipe” pizza sauce, homemade mozzarella and dough, and toppings such as spicy sausage, meatballs, ricotta cheese, and baby spinach and jalapenos. The menu includes also pasta and delicious desserts.

Hugo’s Cellar

The perfect setting for a romantic dinner, where ladies are greeted with a rose and welcomed to a gracious ambience, Hugo’s Cellar is a longtime favorite.  The menu is classic old-style Vegas, so guests will have a chance to order specialties made with black Angus beef, veal, lamb, duck, chicken and seafood. Salads are prepared table-side, as well as the famous flambeed desserts. Some of the most popular desserts in the menu are the cheesecake, Black Forest cake and chocolate-dipped fruits. In 2013, Hugo’s Cellar received the best gourmet room in Las Vegas distinction awarded by The Best of Las Vegas Review Journal.

Source for the featured image: Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, one of the top 10 hotels in Las Vegas

[foodieoutloudblog-blog]

8 Places That All Food Lovers Will Love in Madison, Wisconsin

Leave it to Wisconsin to do cheese, Beer, cheese curds, barbecue, and kindness right. Madison is the place for food, shopping, views, people watching, and site seeing. State street takes care of everything you could possibly need in your life. The gift shops are unlike any other and the food options are pretty endless. Madison is full of plenty of commercial chains while having some local gems that locals all swear by.

1. The Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned was recommended to me by locals to Madison, and expert tourists to Madison. The Old Fashioned is a rock throw from the capital building, a cozy bar scene, where they are killing the game with their old fashioned cocktails, burgers, pub sandwiches, and more! 

2. Cafe Hollander

Cafe Hollander was recommended to me by a local, and I can’t express enough how great of a recommendation this one was. About 10 minutes outside of the downtown area, Cafe Hollander is a local hang or educated tourist spot serving up kick ass breakfast, brunch, lunch food. I got the Pulled Pork Poutine and requested the gravy served on the side. One of the best things I’ve ever eaten.

Order this: Pulled Pork Poutine, The Sconnie Burger, Big Smoky Burger, Kipenwafle, Highlander Mimosa, Bloody Mary

3. Fromagination

Fromagination is best described as every food lover’s paradise. When I walked in I was greeted with hot apple cider, and the opportunity to sample anything displayed. The entire store is covered in only the finest cheeses, olive oils, jams, syrups, mustards, and much more.

Order this: Sandwiches, Evalon Aged Goat Cheese

4. Kilwins 

Kilwins is a wonderland of candy apples, made in house, fudge, popcorn, chocolate, and ice-cream. The array of popcorn will put you over the edge, and the selection of house made caramel apples is one of the most beautiful sights you will ever see. The workers are lovely and minutes after you walk in, will offer you one of their finest samplings of fudge. Mmmmm! 

What To Order: The Nutcracker popcorn, Sea-salt Carmel fudge, Dark Sea-salt caramel fudge. 

5. Teddywedgers

Teddywedgers is famous for their super stuffed pastries. Their traditional pastry is stuffed with Wisconsin ground steak, potatoes, and onions. Your stuffed pastry prayers are answered being that you can get a savory breakfast pastry, an indulgently sweet dessert pastry depending on the day’s offering, or an adventurous special stuffed pastry. Small place, but a reliable local gem. 

What To Order: Traditional Stuffed Pastry, Chicken Pot Pie, Classic Breakfast 

6. Short Stack Eatery

Consider your brunch dreams made at Short Stack Eatery. Never have I experienced a truly perfect brunching experience. You walk in…don’t be intimidated by the line. You look at the menu while your in line, order and pay up at the counter. You take a number which is a license plate, and take a seat. Your drinks and food is brought to you and you are in for the ultimate brunch experience. Get anything that involves pancakes. The Sweet Potato Oatmeal Pancakes are ridiculously good, and the Maple Bourbon Mascarpone whipped cream is the whipped crack that comes with it. I got the trio which allowed me to chose pancakes, eggs any style, meat, potatoes, fruit, or mixed greens. I went with the Sweet Potato Oatmeal Pancakes, Scrambled Eggs, and Mixed Greens. Another popular pick amongst the locals was the Biscuits & Gravy. They have coffee, milkshakes, and a full bar of basic brunch cocktails not so basic 25 ingredient Award Winning Bloody Marys and specialty cocktails. I went with a Salty Dog, with a salted rim, and Fresh Grapefruit Juice. It was such a great pour, no need for a second.

What to Order: Sweet Potato Oatmeal Pancakes, The Trio, Salty Dog

7. Chocolate Shop Ice Cream

According to Chocolate Shop, this is the best ice-cream made in Wisconsin. I have to agree that it is stellar, thick creamy goodness. Due to the “gobs of rich Wisconsin cream, tons of real ingredients, and boat loads of luscious flavors,” everyone loves it, as will your soul. Their Cookie Dough ice-cream has hunks of rick chocolate and cookie dough. The Latteda is every coffee aficionado’s paradise! These two flavors together make a dynamic duo. The ice-cream is not icy, it is soft and creamy. Its irresistible and a must stop!

What To Order: Cookie Dough, Latteda

8. Vom Fass

Vom Fass is a wonderland of local and internationally made liqueurs, wines, bourbons, gins, vodkas, whiskeys, scotch, olive oils and vinegars. Just think, all of the major food groups covered under one roof. You definitely need to spend some time in here, as everything is sample able, and you are encouraged to taste as much as you want. This is a great store to come in to if you are looking for a gift for that someone in your life who loves to cook. The workers ideally know what they are doing when it comes to educating you on the most authentically foreign selections, mine certainly did here in Madison.

What To Look For: Ginger Sesame Oil, Honey Balsamic Vinegar, Apple Balsamic Star Vinegar, Calamansi Balsam, Latte Macchiato Cream Liqueur, Rich & Spicy Cabernet Sauvignon

Stay connected with Foodie Out Loud on Instagram, & Yelp! Megan & Kelly Finding you bangin’ food everywhere. 

[look-at-lauren-blog]

New York City day four

Today we woke up a little bit earlier so that we could go and grab a little breakfast before our big day out in the city. The café we went to was called The Red Café, they had the best bagels and could put fresh avocado on just about anything. If you know me fairly well then you have to know that this brought tears to my eyes. 

We hoped on the subway and by this time we are finally figuring out the system. Our main meeting of the day was with Doneger group. This is the company that does the research and picks what is going to be trendy in the next couple of seasons. They work 18 months in advance so we got to see the up and coming trends for fall 2018! Companies come to them for help to lead them in the right direction for colors and styles. Another big service they provide to their clients is helping them rebrand to become more to the “IT” store in today’s society. Most definitely a place I will apply for when it comes time to find an internship.

After our meeting we went to the FIT museum and got to explore the student’s works. It was most definitely a really nice school with an amazing program but after visiting I still stand by my decision of attending the University of Alabama. I just feel like if I was to come here I wouldn’t get to have the full college experience that I want. 

For lunch we went to this adorable salad bar café. It is just like a chipotle but with salads, lets just say I was a very happy girl. We then decided to visit the store called Story. THIS IS A MUST SEE IF YOU COME TO NY! The store changes every six weeks and comes up with a new theme and totally redesigns the store. The theme when we went was fresh so there was fake grass everywhere and lots of kitchen and bar supplies all around. After the store we decided to go take a walk on the highland and take some cute pictures because of course you can never have too many pictures. All this walking made us starving again so we decided to head towards NYU where we found the COOKIE DOUGH shop. We got two huge cones for five girls and could barely eat just one. My advice is to just get the main chocolate chip if you go there. 

Still having a ton of time left before our next even we decided to go shopping and ended up in Urban Outfitters. Im actually pretty proud of myself because I didn't buy anything, major self control. Having two hours left we decided to go back to the hostel but ended up taking the wrong subway and ended up down at the Brooklyn Bridge! So we made the most out of the situation and took some more cute pics for the instagram.. so many options to post. 

It was finally time to head back into Midtown for out lecture with Fern Mallis (Creator of New York fashion week) and CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN! I was defiantly geeking out the entire time such a cool experience to hear him talk about the start of his company and what keeps it up and so successful. 

Walking an average of 8 miles a day we were starving AGAIN... We wanted super unhealthy food so we obviously ended up in Times Square at a cute little diner. Little did we know this was the IT place in town. WE were seated almost right away which was super nice and then it started. All the waiters and waitresses are performers on Broadway!! They would get up on the tables and start singing and dancing around the whole place. Ellen’s Stardust Diner is the place to go for a good time and killer chicken fingers. 

Xoxo,

Lauren