Food and Travel Magazine

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.

05/28/2025

Just 25 miles south of the world’s busiest airport, explore Peachtree City at your own pace. Peachtree City offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and modern convenience, making it an ideal destination for families, foodies, and travelers. Its proximity to Atlanta also means residents and visitors can easily enjoy day trips to popular attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. After a day in the city, you can return to Peachtree City’s serene environment, where you can unwind in peace or continue the fun with local evening events and entertainment.
Experience the Beauty of Peachtree City
Peachtree City’s extensive network of multi-use paths, stretching over 100 miles, offers a perfect way to explore by foot, bike, or golf cart, creating a unique sense of freedom and adventure. The community takes pride in its lush parks and green spaces that offer recreational activities for all ages. Families can spend quality time at Drake Field or Line Creek Nature Area, while sports enthusiasts enjoy the many amenities, including a highly anticipated indoor pickleball court set to open in late 2025.
A Culinary Destination for Food Lovers
With various eateries offering everything from classic Southern fare to international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Enjoy Southern favorites with a modern twist at local establishments, or savor authentic flavors from around the world at the diverse array of restaurants throughout the city.
Check out the exclusive PTC Culinary Tour, which shuttles guests via golf carts to sample delicious treats at restaurants throughout the city. This popular tour runs once a month from spring through fall. For a casual dining experience, visit one of the many family-friendly cafés or bistros, where you can enjoy a leisurely meal or grab a quick bite before heading out shopping. For an upscale option, Peachtree City has fine dining restaurants that showcase local and seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes crafted by talented local chefs.

05/26/2025

New Bedford is a city known for its historical charm, picturesque views, and cultural diversity. In the 19th century, the city was a safe haven for freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad, with abolitionist Frederick Douglass making it his first home as a free man. Today, visitors can explore landmarks that played a crucial role in the fight for freedom along New Bedford’s Black History Trail.
At the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, walk along cobblestone streets, historic 19th-century buildings, and engaging exhibits at the New Bedford Whaling Museum. In the city’s south end, visitors can enjoy the salty sea air at Fort Taber Park. This public park has a playground, a walking path around a Civil War-era fort, and the Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Military Museum and Veterans Memorial.
For those eager to experience maritime history firsthand, join a tour of the working waterfront led by the Fishing Heritage Center, dedicated to sharing the stories of New Bedford’s fishing industry. For a unique on-the-water experience, climb aboard the Schooner Ernestina-Morrissey for a sunset sail. This National Historic Landmark, gifted to the city by Cabo Verde, has served as a fishing vessel, an Arctic exploration ship, and even a transatlantic immigrant transport.
Taste the Tradition
As the #1 fishing port in the nation, visitors can enjoy a robust “boat-to-table” dining scene that celebrates the freshest seafood available, with local favorites such as New Bedford scallops, stuffed quahogs, and cod.
At The Black Whale, visitors can enjoy fine dining and fresh seafood overlooking the working waterfront. The city offers a surprising array of international flavors in family-owned restaurants. For a truly local experience, join New Bedford Food Tours to explore the restaurants on Acushnet Avenue, known as “The Ave,” serving dishes from Guatemala, Mexico, Honduras and more. The whaling era brought cultures from fishing communities around the world including Portugal and Cape Verde. Visitors can enjoy several Portuguese and Cape Verdean restaurants and festivals.
Celebrate Art and Culture

05/23/2025

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lynchburg is affectionately known as the City of Seven Hills. A revitalized riverfront, lush green spaces and scenic mountain trails beckon visitors outdoors all summer long. After a day of adventure, visit one of the area’s charming neighborhoods, where local restaurants dish out warm hospitality and fresh cuisine to renew the body and spirit.

Take a Hike

While the nearby Appalachian Trail is a bucket-list item for avid hikers, Candlers Mountain is another must-visit. The city’s tallest mountain features a 65-mile network of scenic trails, earning Lynchburg a spot among Trail Runner magazine’s “Top Trail Towns” and a “Runner-Friendly City” designation by Road Runners Club of America.

With 40 miles of urban flat trails, there’s a hike for every skill level and terrain preference. For a great summer hike, check out Dirty Ridge and Lake Trail Loop. Be sure to stay for the sunset — the mountain offers some of the best views in town.

Refuel: Head down the mountain for upscale Mexican cuisine at Papa Gallo, located in the popular River Ridge lifestyle center. Start with a skinny margarita and a basket of chips with four fresh salsas made in-house.

Get out on the Water

Grab an innertube and go with the flow on the historic James River. Take off on a three-mile river trip with one of the city’s outfitters, splash through gentle rapids, and stop off at one of several islands. Kayaking and canoeing trips can also be arranged either on the James River or at Ivy Creek Park’s Clemmons Lake.

Refresh: Check out Lynchburg’s new dining hotspot, Trailhead, named for its prime location on Percival’s Island Trail. Sit outside on the covered patio for casual fare, buckets of beer, and Sunset S’more Kits for the kids. Another go-to is Jo Jo Pizza, where locals can’t get enough of the authentic Sicilian dishes, specialty pastas and cheesesteaks.

05/21/2025

he 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. 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.
Looking Back at the 2024 Champions
The 2024 Southeastern BBQ Showdown set the stage for greatness with First Class BBQ from Texas taking home the Grand Champion title and $10,000 in prize money. Led by Head Chef Robert Smith, the team impressed judges with their unbeatable flavors and flawless techniques. Will First Class BBQ return to defend their crown in 2026? Or will another team rise to claim the title? The competition is wide open, and the anticipation is already building.
Star-Studded Judges Panel

05/19/2025

ust an hour west of Washington, DC, Jefferson County, West Virginia, is famous for the saga of John Brown and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. However, visitors have discovered that this piece of almost heaven delivers equally well on outdoor recreation venues and an incredible dining scene throughout five unique and memorable small towns: Bolivar, Charles Town, Harpers Ferry, Shepherdstown, and Ranson.

The legendary Appalachian Trail runs right through Harpers Ferry, near the headquarters and visitor center of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Miles of scenic hiking and biking trails traverse the county. The Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers are home to great fishing, whitewater rafting, kayaking and tubing. An assortment of professional outfitters can take care of all the logistics and equipment for any adventure and guide you on a memorable experience.

When it is time to relax, have some great food and reminisce about your day. The neighboring towns of Harpers Ferry and Bolivar offer a variety of great options. Kelley Farm Kitchen is the first area vegan restaurant and provides mouthwatering meals that will be appreciated by vegans and non-vegans alike. Battle Grounds Bakery & Coffee is known for amazing sandwiches, great coffee, pastries and frozen custard. Wander to The Rabbit Hole gastropub for a Blue Ridge Burger and a drink from its impressive craft beer selection, all enjoyed with a gorgeous view at one of its outdoor tables overlooking the river. At the end of the evening, head to The Barn of Harpers Ferry for some live music and cold beer. Stop in the Country Café for a good old-fashioned, homemade breakfast. Nothing fancy, just delicious food like your grandmother used to make. Or find a range of fresh goods, including cinnamon rolls, biscuits, scones and West Virginia’s best pepperoni rolls at Bolivar Bread Bakery.

05/16/2025

DISCOVER YOUR LOVE OF CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND
Outdoor Adventure, Coastal Cuisine, History & Wild Ponies Are a Road Trip Away

As you wind your way across the five-mile causeway connecting Chincoteague Island to the mainland, the vibrant colors of the marsh and unique sounds of over 300 species of birds and waterfowl greet you, guiding you to this secluded little paradise island. Truly living up to its moniker, the “Beautiful Land Across the Water,” this peaceful village moves at a quieter pace, giving the traveler respite with its Southern hospitality. As the marshland gives way to the Atlantic Ocean, you will find yourself in nature’s playground.
Known for the world-renowned wild pony roundup, swim, and auction, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, Chincoteague offers something for everyone. From pristine natural beaches, miles of nature trails, kayaking and boating, to shopping, dining, and adventure, there are so many things to love.
Drive, bike, or walk over the bridge from Chincoteague Island to Assateague Island, Virginia, home to the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and Assateague Island National Seashore. Explore the outdoors on the beautiful beaches that are perfect for surfing, swimming, fishing, beachcombing, and relaxing. Search for the world-famous Chincoteague Ponies while hiking or biking the miles of nature trails or kayaking or boating the waterways, and witness the migratory birds as they travel the Atlantic Flyway during the spring and fall. Don’t forget to visit the majestic Assateague Lighthouse, with its bold red-and-white stripes and stunning views.
While you are there, enjoy the rich culinary history of the island. The waters surrounding Chincoteague boast an abundance of fresh seafood, with oyster and clam shoals, the bivalves of the aqua farms in Tom’s Cove.

05/14/2025

Adventure Meets Flavor on the Trail in Cherokee!
Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains, Cherokee County offers a blend of scenic beauty, craft beverages, and culinary delights. The charm of small-town living meets the convenience of city life right where metro meets the mountains. Whether a nature lover, beer enthusiast, or foodie, you will enjoy amazing views and quality tastings on your visit.
Savory flavors and breathtaking views
Begin your morning at one of the stops on the Beans, Barrels, & Bottles Trail, which guides you through Cherokee County’s best coffee shops, breweries, beer gardens, and wineries. Barrel House Coffee is a cozy café offering expertly brewed coffee in an inviting atmosphere. Before your adventure, fuel up with bold espressos or smooth lattes in the indoor café or outdoor pet-friendly spaces.
Next, immerse yourself in nature at Gibbs Gardens, one of the Southeast’s most breathtaking gardens. Spanning over 300 acres, this floral paradise recently was voted the #1 Daffodil Festival by USA Today and hosts peaceful Japanese gardens with cascading waterfalls and bridges. Soak in the natural beauty and stunning vistas while strolling through six featured gardens, then head into town for lunch.
Wind Down with Burgers, Brews, and Bottles
After your refreshing garden walk, satisfy your appetite at the Burger Bus, a unique restaurant housed in a converted vintage bus. Known for its creative burger selections and crispy sweet potato tots, it’s a must-try!
For wine lovers, visit Dot’s Fine Wine & Craft, a charming shop offering a curated selection of fine wines and craft beers. Whether you sip a glass on-site or grab a bottle to-go, Dot’s is delightful.
Prefer beer? Rock Solid Brewing Co., offers a rotating selection of craft beers, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts. Their taproom is the perfect place to unwind before heading south.

05/12/2025

Thank you Antonia LeFaso for your interview! It was such a pleasure! I hope all of you enjoy the Spring issue.

05/02/2025