Food and Travel Magazine

09/24/2025

https://foodandtravelmagazine.com/2025/08/12/defending-california/

California is not a headline. It’s not a tweet. It’s not a caricature drawn by people who’ve never once heard a mariachi band echo off the walls of Olvera Street. California is a feeling.

09/19/2025

Welcome to The Palm Beaches, Florida’s Most Stylish Vacation Destination and home to a collection of 39 vibrant cities and towns from Jupiter to Boca Raton. Visitors can immerse themselves in the colorful culture and nightlife of West Palm Beach, soak up the unspoiled beauty of Jupiter, travel back in time to the Gilded Age in historic Palm Beach, and sample the boundless art and culinary treasures of Boca Raton. In between, dozens more coastal towns await —from funky Delray Beach to the golf haven of Palm Beach Gardens, home of the PGA.
Here, the diversity of travel experiences is matched by the warmth of its coastal communities. Pick your favorite spot on 47 miles of uncrowded beaches, and enjoy the warm, clear water from the Gulf Stream current. Walk in the footsteps of legends on more than 145 sun-soaked golf courses; the destination is known as Florida’s Golf Capital for good reason. Enjoy an indulgent collection of world-class spas that will melt away your stress. Find inspiration in artful museums and theatres, and enjoy some retail therapy in iconic shopping districts, including Worth Avenue. You’ll find fun activities for kids around every corner in The Palm Beaches, too. Whether you arrive by boat or by limo, dining in The Palm Beaches is a memorable experience. Award-winning and celebrity chefs head an eclectic culinary scene including everything from casual waterfront cafes to fine dining hot spots, and nine properties were recently recognized by The MICHELIN Guide.

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09/15/2025

t the grand opening of Sandia Resort & Casino's new Sportsbook—an innovative
venue that combines dining, sports betting, game coverage, and entertainment—
guests are welcomed with the warmth of New Mexico hospitality. The event featured a culinary showcase curated by Chef de Cuisine Sean Staggs of the resort's fine dining restaurant, Bien Shur. Known for blending local flavors with refined techniques honed over years of experience, Chef Sean brought his distinctive touch to the menu. Hosted in a lively, cocktail-style setting, the grand opening allowed attendees, including professional athletes like Brian Urlacher and Notah Begay III, to savor Chef Sean's unique creations. Known for his inventive dishes and fresh perspective, Chef Sean's approach combines high-end technique and local flavors, making Bien Shur a standout in Albuquerque's dining scene.

09/12/2025

The best road trip adventures happen when you find the perfect, walkable destination, where you discover enrichment in a culture that’s distinctly different at every turn. Where cuisine, art, and history arise from the birthplace of Mardi Gras in a city that's flown under six flags.
Mobile is nearly 325 years old, older than the State of Alabama. Its downtown entertainment district follows old Mobile’s north-south, east-west streets like lattice work. Whether you take a right or left at the next intersection could determine which delicious dish or hearty plate you enjoy!
In Mobile, the catch of the day may be fish, shrimp, crabs or oysters and you can guarantee it's Gulf-to-table fresh. Our local chefs are celebrated for their eclectic takes on cuisine, whether it's old-school, Southern contemporary or the family-secret BBQ recipe.
Le Moyne’s Chophouse is one of Mobile’s newest dining experiences, redefining downtown Mobile’s culinary scene. Located in the expertly and newly renovated Admiral Hotel, the richness of our French foundations hangs in the air alongside the sweet smell of magnolias and the lush scents of fine bourbon.
If progressive is more your speed, there are blocks full of delectable dining spots to tickle your fancy. Start with craft cocktails or mocktails from a rooftop bar, enjoy locally sourced fresh, small plates from The Noble South or have it all when you join one of many curated experiences with Bienville Bites Food Tour.
Mobile’s cultural heritage is a tapestry of its diverse historical influences, vibrant traditions and dynamic community life—a respite from the ordinary. The city’s early French and Spanish settlers left a lasting impact, while their significant African American population, with deep roots in the city’s history, contributed to its music, food and cultural festivals.
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09/08/2025

There’s this place where you can catch a wave and a concert on the same block. A place where the food is as genuine and homegrown as the people dishing it out. Where relaxation is a way of life, the rivers outnumber your worries, and yes—there’s no sales tax (go ahead, buy the extra souvenir). There’s this place where the great outdoors is literally right outside your hotel door. And that place is Missoula, Montana.
Situated at the confluence of three rivers, surrounded by seven wilderness areas and nestled between two national park royalty—Glacier and Yellowstone—Missoula might just be the most unexpected gem in the West. It’s a little bit wild, a little bit artsy, and totally original. Here, students, artists, outdoor junkies, musicians, and foodies all share the same zip code, often the same brewery patio, and definitely the same love for this quirky mountain town.
With a population just shy of 75,000, Missoula offers the friendliness of a small town with the unexpected perks of a much larger city. Think rooftop cocktails, boutique shopping, riverfront lodging, and a summer concert lineup that reads like your favorite playlist: Hozier, Shania Twain, Wilco, Modest Mouse, Pixies, and more. The local airport makes it all wildly accessible, with direct flights from 14 major cities and six airlines keeping the skyways buzzing, all just ten minutes away from downtown.
Where art and adventure share the same trailhead
On any given day, you might see someone heading to a riverside yoga class, a fly rod over one shoulder and a concert poster in hand. Outdoors and culture go hand in hand here. Start your day paddleboarding with views of Mount Sentinel or surfing Brennan’s Wave downtown (yes, you read that right—surfing, in Montana). Then wander over to a gallery, catch a set at the KettleHouse Amphitheater along the Blackfoot River, or hit the newest homegrown music festival, Zootown. And don’t miss First Friday art walks, where the city turns into one big pop-up gallery with (lots) of wine.

09/05/2025

Mark Your Calendars: The Southeastern BBQ Showdown Returns to Columbia, South Carolina - April 24-25, 2026!
Barbecue enthusiasts, food lovers, and live music fans—mark your calendars!
The Southeastern BBQ Showdown is gearing up for its highly anticipated return to Columbia, South Carolina, on April 24-25, 2026. Following the resounding success of its inaugural event in September 2024, which garnered national attention and aired on Bally Sports, the excitement continues to build as the event is set to debut on the Cooking Channel in April 2025. This will provide audiences with a tantalizing preview of the mouthwatering BBQ and thrilling experiences planned for 2026. planned for 2026. This fiery celebration of BBQ culture is gearing up to be even bigger and more unforgettable!
A Flavor-Filled Weekend to Remember
The Southeastern BBQ Showdown isn’t just another food festival—it’s a food sport competition that brings together the best pitmasters from across the country to battle it out for the coveted Grand Champion title. At the 2024 event, teams from states like Texas, Georgia, and across South Carolina, and even Japan lit up the competition with bold flavors and mouthwatering dishes. With the bar set high, 2026 promises an even fiercer contest, featuring elite BBQ teams and a new crop of celebrity judges ready to crown the champions.
This weekend-long celebration of food, music, and fun offers something for everyone. Guests can sample world-class BBQ, explore interactive exhibits, and enjoy live music. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just looking for an unforgettable weekend, this is the place to be.

09/01/2025

Book one of 252 sophisticated rooms or 30 deluxe suites in the all-new hotel that blends modern luxury with elevated comfort. Take in the scenic views and unwind in spaces thoughtfully designed to make your stay equal parts relaxing and indulgent. For those looking for an unmatched resort experience, book a stay in the exclusive two-story suite located at the top of the tower. No matter which room you choose, expect exceptional service from the moment you arrive. From check-in to check-out, our attentive staff goes above and beyond to make your stay truly unforgettable.With a wide range of dining options, you’ll find that there’s something to satisfy each craving. Experience the masterful culinary artistry and compromising quality of Shkodé Chophouse, with flame-grilled steaks, seafood and craft artisan cocktails. Then, explore vibrant Asian dishes at Lucky Dragon Noodle Bar, find classic American fare at CBK, or enjoy modern takes on favorite foods at Sandhill Café. For all things sports, 131 Sportsbar & Lounge is your destination. Also delight in handcrafted cocktails, great selections of beer and wine, and the inviting atmospheres of Social Bar & Lounge, Chill Bar, and On the Side Bar.Book a treatment at the serene Mnoyé Spa Retreat, a peaceful sanctuary where you can immerse yourself in complete tranquility and true restoration. Choose from a carefully curated menu of services, from signature massages to nourishing facials, manicures, pedicures, luxurious body wraps and more. Complete your spa day with revitalizing amenities like the Relaxation Lounge, exclusive VIP suites for couples, or take a dip in the soothing waters of our Vitality Pool.

08/29/2025

Nestled comfortably in the northern part of West Virginia, Bridgeport manages, with surprising charm and no small measure of sauce, to punch well above its weight.
Dining in Bridgeport, West Virginia, is a bit like stumbling into a local secret that everyone in town already knows. It is a reminder that great food doesn’t need flashing lights or big-city zip codes. Sometimes, it just needs a family recipe, a hot oven, and a town full of people who know the difference between a good meal and a great one—and who’ll gladly point you in the right direction, fork in hand.
Cody’s isn’t trying to be cool. It just is. Cody’s is what every gastropub wishes it could be—unpretentious, packed with locals, and run by someone who doesn’t just flip burgers, he engineers them. Chef Cody Thrasher’s Pub Burger, slathered in whipped pimento and brown sugar espresso bacon jam, tastes like it was designed to wreck your diet and ruin every other burger you’ve ever had. And then there’s the Cowboy Killer—a triple-stacked beast with fried pickles and a Korean barbeque sauce that, once you taste it, you’ll chase for the rest of your life.
But Cody doesn’t stop at pub food. No, he kicks it up a notch. One night it's Korean tacos, the next, Japanese udon. And then there’s Sunday brunch. From creative breakfast bowls to out-of-this-world eggs Benedict to chicken & waffles, you’ll leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit.
For the old-school, red-sauce, Sunday-dinner-with-your-grandmother kind of Italian, head over to Oliverio’s Ristorante. Do you want meatballs the size of your fist? Done. Lasagna that weighs more than a brick and tastes like a third-generation secret? They’ve got it.

08/25/2025

ooking for a North Georgia getaway that blends extraordinary dining with outdoor adventure? Destination Cherokee GA offers the perfect mix of farm-to-table cuisine, scenic landscapes, and laid-back lakeside vibes—ideal for your next weekend escape or last-minute summer trip. From locally sourced menus to sunset cruises on Lake Allatoona, this is where hidden gems shine brightest.
Savor Cherokee County’s Farm-to-Table Dining Scene
Start your culinary adventure at J Michael’s Prime in Canton—a premier Cherokee County steakhouse that’s redefining the local dining scene. Helmed by Chef Adam, this upscale restaurant is known for artful plating, curated wines, and high-quality ingredients. Savor hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and farm touches like Meats by Linz organic grain-fed beef, Circle A hydroponics lettuce, and farm-to-cup Alma Coffee. If you’re a foodie seeking an elevated Southern dining experience, this is a must-visit destination.
Just around the corner, Riverstone Corner Bistro (RCB) serves comfort food with a creative twist. With seasonal menus crafted in a scratch kitchen and a warm neighborhood vibe, RCB’s rooftop patio is the perfect spot to watch a Georgia sunset. It’s the kind of place where local flavor meets casual elegance.
Looking for something even more intimate? Frik and Frak’s Farm Dinners are a true Cherokee County treasure. These limited-seat, multi-course events celebrate the region’s bounty in a cozy café transformed into fine dining with white tablecloths, floral arrangements, china, glass, and silverware; the table is yours for the evening. A recent dinner featured shrimp and grits with colorful peppers, Real Cajun sausage, Suga’s pimento cheese, and their signature sweetheart sauce—a true flavor explosion. These events are more than a meal—it’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss.

07/05/2025

Smoked Brisket & Beer Cheese Pretzel Bombs

Ingredients

_1 pound smoked brisket, shredded

_1 cup beer cheese dip

_1 can refrigerated biscuit dough

_1/4 cup baking soda

_2 cups warm water

_Coarse salt

_Melted butter

Instructions

_Preheat your oven to 375°F.

_In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded smoked brisket and beer cheese dip.

_Roll out each biscuit dough on a floured surface and place a spoonful of the brisket and cheese mixture in the center.

_Wrap the dough around the filling, pinching the seams to seal and forming into a ball.

_In a separate bowl, mix the baking soda with warm water until dissolved.

_Dip each filled dough ball into the baking soda mixture, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

_Sprinkle the tops with coarse salt.

_Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

_Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter before serving.

06/02/2025

As the golden hues of autumn settle over North Texas, a quiet kind of magic takes root just outside the city limits of Wichita Falls. At Morath Orchard, the evening sun casts long shadows over rows of pecan trees and vegetable gardens, and the hum of conversation floats through the crisp country air. This is where the Morath family has been feeding the community for over four decades, and where, each fall, guests are invited to slow down, gather around the table, and savor a farm-fresh feast under the open Texas sky.

Farm-to-Table dinners at Morath Orchard offer a one-of-a-kind evening rooted in tradition and hospitality. Hosted seasonally on their 90-acre orchard, each dinner begins with a guided tour led by members of the Morath family, who have farmed this land since 1981. Guests stroll past rows of seasonal crops, many of which will appear on their plates later that evening, while learning about the family’s sustainable practices and their deep commitment to growing local, healthy food. The experience is a window into a way of life built on hard work, shared meals, and a deep respect for the land.

After the tour winds its way through the orchard, guests make their way to a long, family-style table set in the heart of the farm. The late afternoon light begins to soften, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The mood is unhurried, the company warm, and the setting picture-perfect. Laughter mingles with the clinking of glasses as guests settle in for a meal that feels both familiar and special. The menu, thoughtfully planned by the Morath family, features hearty entrees, seasonal vegetables picked at their peak, and handmade desserts that would make any grandmother proud.

05/30/2025

Ridgeland, Mississippi, is known for its breathtaking views of the Natchez Trace Parkway and a sprawling 33,000-acre lake. But what really sets this charming town apart? The food. Whether you're there for a weekend getaway or just passing through, these top five restaurants offer mouthwatering meals that will make you want to plan your next. Here’s a taste of Ridgeland’s culinary scene!
1. Ely’s Restaurant & Bar
Tucked in the heart of the historic Railroad District, Ely’s Restaurant & Bar is a shining example of Ridgeland’s local charm. Opened by Richard Shapley in 2008, this upscale steakhouse has become a favorite for those craving mouthwatering steaks and fresh seafood. The sleek, contemporary ambiance sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience, where every bite is cooked to perfection. Whether you’re indulging in a juicy ribeye or savoring expertly prepared seafood, Ely’s guarantees a meal that’s rich in both flavor and atmosphere. Richard’s motto, “Our service and friendships go hand in hand,” rings true here, making Ely’s feel like a special gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. If you're in the mood for an upscale dinner or a celebratory meal, Ely's is a must.
2. Amerigo
For a taste of Italy in the heart of Ridgeland, look no further than Amerigo. With over 30 years of culinary tradition, this beloved spot has been serving up rich, flavorful Italian dishes that keep guests coming back. The menu features crispy pizzas, savory pasta, and fresh seafood—all prepared with an Italian twist. The warm, inviting atmosphere is perfect for everything from a quiet dinner to a lively weekend brunch with friends. Don’t miss their gluten-sensitive options, which let everyone enjoy the flavors of Italy without compromise. A local favorite, Amerigo has earned its reputation as one of Ridgeland’s top spots for delicious, Southern-Italian fare.