Daily Loaf

Try tasty Coq au Vin at the Toasted Pheasant's Thursday wine dinner

Wednesday, November 18: Cork and Olive Carrollwood
Winey Women Wednesday. This is the only time it’s good to be a “winey” woman. Bring a friend, leave with a buzz and a bottle! Free. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 10019 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-868-3733)

Thursday, November 19: Total Wine
South African Roadshow. Discover sweet new surprises with South African wines like Brampton Cabernet Sauvignon, Brampton Chardonnay Un-Oaked, Hands Cabernet, Hands Chardonnay, Indaba Chenin Blanc, Indaba Sauvignon Blanc, Mulderbosch Cabernet Rose, Mulderbosch Faithful Hound Red, and Mulderbosch Sauvignon Blanc. Free. 1-6 p.m., 1720 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-350-9601)

Thursday, November 19: Toasted Pheasant
Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Dinner. In one of the best all-inclusive meal deals I’ve ever seen (not to mention a fabulous pre-weekend night of indulgence), the Pheasant offers a wine-accompanied three-course meal of your choice of one appetizer (choose from French onion soup with a swiss cheese crouton;  lobster bisque; salad with French vinaigrette; or mussels steamed in chardonnay and garlic), one entree (choose from coq au vin, [chicken with red wine and mushrooms]; roasted beef with béarnaise sauce; escargot tossed with garlic butter over linguini; grouper and shrimp provençale; or fried frog legs in a crispy beer batter), and dessert (French chocolate grandmarnier mousse and chantilly cream with strawberry  confit). $19.95. 14445 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-265-6700)

Many more events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Sample a selection of Fontodi wines at Bern's Tuesday tasting

Tuesday, November 10: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Fontodi Wine Dinner. There’s no better way to start the week than with an elegant wine dinner, and this one truly delivers with its selection of six wines from the Fontodi estate specially paired with six modern Mediterranean cuisine courses by SideBern’s Chef extraordinaire, Chad Johnson. $125. 6:30-9:30 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-253-0358)

Tuesday, November 10: American Spirits
Spanish Wines. Ben Carson of Ole Imports, which brings more than 100 Spanish wines stateside, offers a tasting of vinos from the Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Rueda and Yecla regions. Free. 7-9 p.m., 280 Third St. S., St. Petersburg (727-895-8700)

Wednesday, November 11: Cork and Olive Carrollwood
Wine for Dummies. Learn the basic rules and etiquette of wine tasting and how to choose the right bottle for the occassion. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 10019 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-868-3733)

Thursday, November 12: Total Wine
Celebrate with Champagne and Sparkling. A trained sommelier helps you find the best bubbly for your budget and palate — it’s never too early to stock up for New Year’s. Taste eight zippy, fizzy sensations, including Crémant de Bourgogne, Cava and four stunning selections from Champagne. $25. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 4880 Park Street N., St. Petersburg (727-544-6018)

Thursday, November 12: Cork and Olive Carrollwood
PACE Benefit Wine Tasting. Live music, hand-selected hors d’oeuvres and a holiday raffle round out this wine tasting to benefit the PACE Center for Girls. $30 in advance, $35 at the door. 6:30-9:30 p.m., 10019 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-868-3733)

Friday, November 13: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Cult Cabs Crush Hour. Movies, books and Christopher Walken all have cult followings — but so do a select (and tasty) number of wines. Tonight’s featured flavors (which garnered aficinado attention via high prices, limited production, famous winemakers and gushing reviews by wine critics) include Hartwell by winemaker Andy Erickson of Screaming Eagle, Robert Foley Vineyards, Sherwin Family Vineyards, Beau Vigne and more, accompanied by five hand-selected accompaniments from the Bern’s Cave du Fromage. $25. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-253-0358)

Many more events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Get squashed at Publix Apron's cooking class.

Wednesday, November 4: Snookers Grill
Champagne and Sushi. It seems like the words I’m reading are too good to be true, but unless my senses are deceiving me, it appears that Snookers is offering unlimited — yes, like, all you could ever imbibe — champagne and chef-selected sushi. Those just happen to be two of my favorite delicacies, and though I admit to never having tried them together, it sounds like a damn fine idea. $15. 7-9 p.m., 606 N. Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs. (727-937-6665)

Wednesday, November 4: Toasted Pheasant
Autumn Wine Dinner. Fall has finally come to Florida, and although that may not mean a changing of the leaves, it does mean that it’s cooling down at last — and we can swap our cooling whites for a sumptuous selection of warming reds at this wine tasting and dinner, with a menu that includes: autumn sausage and sage corn chowder paired with Shug Pinot Noir Sonoma; grilled asparagus and swiss strudel with a duet of tomato and asparagus coulis paired with Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc; a quail and beef short rib  duo of roasted quail filled with chestnut and sage with rich beef roast, paired with Mettler Zinfandel; and caramel apple ginger snap with cinnamon ice cream paired with Santa Alicia Late Harvest Muscatel. $45. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 14445 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-265-6700)

Wednesday, November 4: World of Wines
Holiday Wine Tasting. Warm up with toasty wines to heat the cockles of your heart, including: Kenwood Yulupa Cuvee, Piper Sonoma Brut, Caposaldo Prosecco, Cristalino Brut and New Age White Wine, accompanied by hand-selected, catered hors d’oeuvres. $10. 6-8 p.m., 3431 S. West Shore Blvd., Tampa (813-835-9463)

Thursday, November 5: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
Get Squashed. Learn to make the most of this seasonal staple with a menu that includes: butternut squash with curried shrimp; baked acorn squash filled with chorizo sausage; hubbard squash cheese soufflé; zucchini and yellow squash chutney; and a classic pumpkin pie. $35. 6:30 p.m., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

Many more events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

(Want to follow all of CL’s Food, Drink and Restaurant news? Bookmark the food section of the blog, add the CL Food RSS feed to your reader of choice, follow @BrianRies on Twitter, or check out the Food Section page multiple times daily.)

Tuesday, October 27: Snookers Grill
Champagne and Sushi. It seems like the words I’m reading are too good to be true, but unless my eyes are deceiving me, it appears that Snookers is offering unlimited — yes, like, all you could ever imbibe — champagne and chef-selected sushi. Those just happen to be two of my favorite delicacies, and though I admit to never having tried them together, it sounds like a damn fine idea. $15. 7-9 p.m., 606 N. Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs. (727-937-6665)

Wednesday, October 28: Splash! An Ocean Grill
Kennedy White House Wine Dinner. It’s no run-of-the-mill wine pairing, that’s for sure. Sommelier and foodie Perry Thomas dares you to test your tastebuds against the personal favorites of the Kennedy family, with a menu that includes: Clams Jaqueline, Little Neck clams stuffed with  pernod spinach and watercress, topped with asiago bread crumbs and oven roasted, paired with Chateau La Freynelle, Bordeaux Blanc, 2007; Homard en Bellevue, rock lobster medallions stuffed with a shrimp mousse and asparagus, served in a chilled lobster consommé with caviar-stuffed new potatoes, paired with Jadot, Pouilly Fuisse, 2007; Spring Lamb a la Broche aux Primeurs, lambsickles pan seared and glazed with a rosemary and garlic mint aspic, served with pan roasted thumbelina carrots and truffled fingerling pommes frites, paired with Chateau Bellevue Peycharneau, Bordeaux Superior, 2005; Salade Mimosa, fresh baby spring greens tossed in a light champagne-horseradish vinaigrette, garnished with sliced avocado, lump crab and chopped egg yolk, paired with Piper-Heidsieck 1785 Champagne; and Strawberries Romanoff, Plant City strawberries macerated in Grand Marnier topped with crème anglaise and chantilly cream, paired with Chateau Laribotte, Sauternes, 2003. Reservations required. $90. 7 p.m., 3973 Van Dyke Road, Tampa (813-269-8611)

Many more events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

(Want to follow all of CL’s Food, Drink and Restaurant news? Bookmark the food section of the blog, add the CL Food RSS feed to your reader of choice, follow @BrianRies on Twitter, or check out the Food Section page multiple times daily.)

Wednesday, October 21: The NoHo Bistro
A Palette for Your Palate. The bistro’s ingenious culinary team pairs five tapas tastings with a new wine each week. Tonight’s Pinot Grigio palette promises to be lip-smackingly lovely. $15. 5-8 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

Wednesday, October 21: Rigatoni Tuscan Oven
Wild Tuscan Wednesdays. Indulge in decadent seafood at dirt-cheap prices on high-end items like all-you-can-eat Alaskan snow crab and oysters, along with beer and pasta specials. $7-$22. 5-10 p.m., 3437 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (813-879-7000)

Thursday, October 22: Michael’s 717 South
Wine and Music Series. Winemakers Dan Whitaker and Ben Benvenuti host tonight’s installment in the samping series, and offer Mairena’s wines of Argentina –like Malbec, Bonarda and Sauvignon Blanc — paired with assorted cheese. Half Circle and Friends provide live tunes. $10. 7-9 p.m., 717 South Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-1661)

Thursday, October 22: Carrollwood Cultural Center
Teach and Taste Wine. Wine guide Charles Visalli leads this series of workshops on wine etiquette, how to sample wine when dining out, wine varietals, the art of pairing food with wine and more. This week’s focus is “the art of blind tasting.” E-mail timeforwine@tampabay.rr.com to reserve a spot. $25, $20 for CCC members. 6-7:30 p.m., 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa (813-269-1310)

Many more events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

(Want to follow all of CL’s Food, Drink and Restaurant news? Bookmark the food section of the blog, add the CL Food RSS feed to your reader of choice, follow @BrianRies on Twitter, or check out the Food Section page multiple times daily.)

Wednesday, October 14: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping in for SideBern’s gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is cassolette with pork belly, lamb, white beans and an herb crust . $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Wednesday, October 14: Cafe Dufrain
New Twist Vodka Tasting. Most of us need a little pick-me-up by mid-week, and this free tasting, featuring Hangar One vodkas,  is just what the doctor ordered. Free. 6-7:30 p.m., 707 Harbour Post Dr., Tampa (813-275-9701)

Wednesday, October 14: Rigatoni Tuscan Oven
Wild Tuscan Wednesdays. Indulge in decadent seafood at dirt-cheap prices on high-end items like all-you-can-eat Alaskan snow crab and oysters, along with beer and pasta specials. $7-$22. 5-10 p.m., 3437 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (813-879-7000)

Thursday, October 15: Restaurant BT
Organic, Shaken and Stirred. Pick up your autographed copy of Organic, Shaken and Stirred: Hip Highballs, Modern Martinis, and Other Totally Green Cocktails, along with two tickets for drinks detailed in the book. $30, 5:30-7:30 p.m., 1633 W. Snow Ave., Tampa (813-258-1916)

Many more events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

It’s finally Fall which means it’s the start of the growing  season, and you know what that means- Sweetwater Organic Community Farm is back open for business! They’re going to kick off the season with their 7th Annual Planters Ball on Saturday, October 17, which is open to the entire Tampa Bay community.

The Planter’s Ball is a potluck dinner and fundraiser to kick off the official start of Sweetwater’s growing season. Enjoy a pleasant evening outdoors with great food, entertainment by the Urban Gypsies, and dining and dancing under the stars. Bring your family, a covered dish to share, and enjoy a farm-fresh, organic salad and bread provided by Sweetwater.
Read the rest of this entry »

See "Sideways" for movie night at WineMall

(Want to follow all of CL’s Food, Drink and Restaurant news? Bookmark the food section of the blog, add the CL Food RSS feed to your reader of choice, follow @BrianRies on Twitter, or check out the Food Section page multiple times daily.)

Wednesday, October 7: Cafe Dufrain
Wine Down Wednesday. Most of us need a little pick-me-up by mid-week, and this free wine tasting is just what the doctor ordered. Free. 6-7:30 p.m., 707 Harbour Post Dr., Tampa (813-275-9701)

Wednesday, October 7: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping in for SideBern’s gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is stuffed peppers with merguez sausage, caramelized onion and parmesan cheese . $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Wednesday, October 7: Rigatoni Tuscan Oven
Wild Tuscan Wednesdays. Indulge in decadent seafood at dirt-cheap prices on high-end items like all-you-can-eat Alaskan snow crab and oysters, along with beer and pasta specials. $7-$22. 5-10 p.m., 3437 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (813-879-7000)

Thursday, October 8: WineMall
Movie Night. Sample a selection of wines (but no Merlot!) while drinking in a screening of Sideways, starring Paul Giamatti and Thomas Haden Church (pictured),  Sandra Oh and Virginia Madsen. Free. 6:30-9 p.m., 11246 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa (813-855-7711)

Thursday, October 8: West Palm Wines / Beaune’s Wine Bar
Manincor Wine Dinner. Cultivated with a combination of Italian and German influences, a collection of wines from Northern Italy’s Manincor region (including Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Cabernet, Merlot and more) are paired with traditional cuisine like duck with porcini mushrooms on endive; tirolese canederli, a Trentino soup made with speck dumplings in broth; roast pork with blueberry sauce and polenta; and cheese and chocolate trays. $50 in advance. 6:30 p.m., N. 22nd St., Tampa (813-241-8587)

Thursday, October 8: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
The Shoestring Gourmet. Learn creative cooking methods for making gourmet worthy, family-pleasing dinners that won’t drain the piggy bank of its last penny. The menu includes: grilled bruschetta with rosemary, white bean purée and heirloom tomatoes; chicken roasted with 40 cloves of garlic; pecan crusted skirt steak; baby yukon potato salad with shallots, chives, bacon and lemon vinaigrette; and bittersweet chocolate tart with salted caramelized pistachios. $35, 6:30 p.m., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

Many more events after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

The Florida Aquarium’s  ‘Brews by the Bay’ event made quite a splash Saturday night. Creative Loafing was the media sponsor of the festivities, which started at 8 p.m. with a line that wrapped around the building (tickets having sold out before the event even started), full of partygoers who were eager to sample the many brews offered and the appetizing food from local restaurants.

The party went on throughout the aquarium, with Four Star Riot playing downstairs, a DJ outside on the deck, and an acoustic musician playing inside the Coral Reef Gallery room, as well as scuba divers who interacted with the onlookers by writing messages on Etch-a-Sketch boards and performing acrobatics. Visitors were greeted by two live mermaids who offered photo opportunities (although it looked like most people were more interested in getting inside and downing their first beer). Guests had the chance to roam around the building to find all the food and drink spots while admiring the aquatic scenery.
Read the rest of this entry »

(Check here for more on the food and wine pairings at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.)

Last weekend I was fortunate enough to indulge in Disney’s International Food & Wine Festival at EPCOT Center. This marks the 14th year of an event that promises the chance to eat and drink your way around the world without ever having to break out your passport.

After attending this event for the past few years, I was pleasantly surprised to see that a majority of the regional menus had changed (after being exactly the same for the past few go-arounds) and that they’d added a few new cuisines, now up to 25 different international marketplaces. There were also more culinary classes and wine tastings to attend this year, many involving well-known food and wine celebrities like Iron Chef Cat Cora (who has a new restaurant, Kouzzina, that just opened at Disney’s Boardwalk), Andrew Zimmern (host of Bizarre Foods on the Travel Channel), the Deen Brothers (yes, Paula’s boys) and lying TV chef Robert Irvine.
Read the rest of this entry »

Tuesday, September 29: Datz Deli
From Tree to Bottle: The Flavors of Olive Oil. It’s not just for frying — olive oil has a flavor all its own, and this course covers the essentials. What elements should be present for dipping? baking? sauteing? Chefs on the Loose guide the class through an oil tasting, followed by a menu of dishes inspired by the golden stuff, like a tomato ciabatta stack with arugula, mozarella and spicy olive oil; goat cheese laced with floral olive oil; red snapper tepanade with potatoes mashed with olive oil and lavender; flank steak marinated with olive oil, balsamic syrup and garlic aioli; and olive oil cake with strawberry, olive oil gelato. $55. 6:30 p.m., 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000)

Tuesday, September 29: blu figs
Beer Gourmand Dinner. Tis the season to drink hearty (it’s Oktoberfest, after all), and this tasting allows you to do just that. Executive Chef Alex Knezevic shares the secrets behind tonight’s pairings, which begins with brie on baguette with peppered honey and citrus caviar paired with Amadeus Biere Blanc; followed by grilled triple tail sea bass with salsa verde and mustard gnocchi paired with Drop Top Amber Ale; seared tenderloin filet with carrots, roi trompette champignons arugula pistou, and blue cheese bubbles paired with Fire Rock Pale Ale; and chocolate souffle and raspberry sorbet paired with Black Wattle Seed Ale. $60. 7 p.m., 15463 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Northdale (813-963-3447)

Tuesday, September 29: The NoHo Bistro
Tapas and Tastings. This benefit for the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital includes a deliciously decadent array of cuisine, accompanied by a variety of wine and beer selections. $25. 6-9 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

Wednesday, September 30: A Taste for Wine
Fall Festival Tasting. Start the new season off right — there’s no reason not to get a little toasty, even if it’s still pretty toasty outside. Tonight’s selections include: a German Riesling; an Oregon Pinot Noir from Henry Estate; a French Chardonnay; Heidsieck Monopole Rose Champagne; and 2004 Arrowood Cabernet. $15. 6:30 p.m., 241 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727-895-1623)

Wednesday, September 30: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping in for SideBern’s gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is spaghetti carbonara with pancetta, zucchini and soft egg. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463) Read the rest of this entry »

Just in case you missed the first run showing of Fresh in the Tampa Bay area, you now have two more chances to see this new film about what’s wrong with the mega-industrial food industry.

FRESH celebrates the farmers, thinkers and business people across America who are re-inventing our food system. Each has witnessed the rapid transformation of our agriculture into an industrial model, and confronted the consequences: food contamination, environmental pollution, depletion of natural resources, and morbid obesity. Forging healthier, sustainable alternatives, they offer a practical vision for a future of our food and our planet.
Read the rest of this entry »

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, when buxom lasses and dudes in lederhosen lift steins to praise the amber liquid that will sustain us through the cold, cold winter — Oktoberfest! But how will you be able to take advantage of the two simultaneous brew celebrations next weekend? No worries, you won’t have to.

Do you like the crisp and simple taste of American and international macro-brews, sampled in refined comfort while sharks and rays look on in jealous hunger? Head to the CL-sponsored Brews By the Bay: Oktoberfest 2009 at The Florida Aquarium. Along with the full repertoire of Anheuser-Busch, you’ll be able to sample beers from Magic Hat, Boddington’s, Stella Artois and many others, all while noshing food from restaurants like Datz Deli. Smoke, and more.  Next up, OktoBEERfest. Read the rest of this entry »

Toasted Pheasant Bistro (14445 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, 813-265-6700 or toastedpheasant.com) has always been generous when it comes to wine dinners, but this one reaches new lows. Or highs? The only caveat is that the wines are all from Virginia — Kluge Estate, to be exact — which may be either a positive or a negative, depending on your personal level of wine snobbery.

Full details and menu after the break: Read the rest of this entry »

Tuesday, September 22: The NoHo Bistro
Harvest Wine Dinner. Underdog Wines are paired with each of the meal’s five courses, which include crudites and red pepper aioli, seared scallops with cauliflower puree, a green salad with sweet potato crisps, a duet of veal or a vegetarian option of polenta and wild mushrooom torta, and cardamom-buttermilk pie. Call in advance for reseravtions.  $45. 6:30-9 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

Wednesday, September 23: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping in for SideBern’s gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is coq au vin  with carrots, mushrooms and potato puree. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Wednesday, September 23: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
Not Your Average Pasta. There’s nary a macaroni and cheese or marinara sauce in sight — instead, the menu includes: orzo salad with feta cheese and avocado; tagliatelle with fava beans, mascarpone and prosciutto; tortellini with grilled chicken in a dijon caper cream auce with sundried tomatoes and basil; and shrimp and casarecci carbonara. $40. 6 p.m., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

Thursday, September 24: Carrollwood Cultural Center
Teach and Taste Wine. Wine guide Charles Visalli leads this series of workshops on wine etiquette, how to sample wine when dining out, wine varietals, the art of pairing food with wine and more. This week’s focus is “discovering champagne and sparkling wine.” E-mail timeforwine@tampabay.rr.com to reserve a spot. $25, $20 for CCC members. 6-7:30 p.m., 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa (813-269-1310) Read the rest of this entry »

Wednesday, September 16: Whole Foods
Cheese Course Erik Woody leads this tasting of French cheeses. Contact sherell.white@wholefoods.com to register. Free. 6:30-7:30 p.m., 1548 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-874-9724)

Wednesday, September 16: The NoHo Bistro
A Palette for Your Palate. The bistro’s ingenious culinary team pairs five tapas tastings with a new wine each week. Today, enjoy a Pint Grigio palette. $15. 5-8 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

Wednesday, September 16: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping in for SideBern’s gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is shellfish risotto with fennel, arugula and mascarpone cheese. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Thursday, September 17: Mike Kwasin
Seeds of Hope Tasting. Owner of Fine Wine and Spirits Warehouse, Mike Kwasin, hosts this tasting of wines like Darioush, Artesa, Beringer, Nickel & Nickel, Opus One and more to benefit the Seeds of Hope foundation, which works to eradicate malnutrition in the Dominican Republic. Includes light hors d’oeuvres. $25 per person and $40 per couple. 3613 S. Beach Dr., Tampa (813-837-8941) Read the rest of this entry »

Wednesday, September 9: The NoHo Bistro
A Palette for Your Palate. The bistro’s ingenious culinary team pairs five tapas tastings with a new wine each week. Today, Zin masters rejoice: it’s the Zinfandel palette. $15. 5-8 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

Wednesday, September 9: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
Seafood on the Grill. It’s a tricky test of skill, but the chefs at Publix demonstrate how to create juicy, succulent grilled seafod selections. The menu includes: chipotle shrimp and pineapple kabobs; grilled-chilled seafood and white bean salad; grilled oysters with fennel butter; citrus swordfish with citrus salsa; and split grilled lobster tails with herb butter. $50. 6 p.m., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

Wednesday, September 9: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping in for SideBern’s gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is paprika linguine with littleneck clams, green olives and a roasted garlic broth. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Wednesday, September 9: Rigatoni Tuscan Oven
Wild Tuscan Wednesdays. Indulge in select pricing on high-end items like Alaskan snow crab and oysters, along with beer and pasta specials. $17-$22. 5-10 p.m., 3437 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (813-879-7000)

Thursday, September 10: Roy’s
Roy’s Wine Dinner. Five delectable courses are paired with complementary wines to bring out the best and brightest flavors in each. The Pacific Rim-inspired menu includes: sous vide black tiger prawn, jumbo lump crab and shiso gnocchi, filet mignon carpaccio, braised lamb osso buco and macadamia nut cake. $65. 6:30 p.m., 4342 W. Boyscout Blvd., Tampa (813-873-7697) Read the rest of this entry »

Tuesday, September 1: Blue Figs Gourmet Lounge
Whiskey Dinner. Four single-malt scotch whiskeys (Aberfeldy, Glenfarclas, Balvenie DoubleWood and Highland Park) accompany four courses at this horizontal tasting. Executive Chef David Burton’s bold menu is sure to stand up to the stiff drinks. It includes: smoked wild river salmon with horseradish creme fraiche, duck leg with black barley soup, lamb and arugula salad with chevre and grapefruit, and creme caramel with candied key lime. Call in advance to reserve one of the 16 available seats. $50 in advance; $60 at the door. 7 p.m., 15463 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-963-3447)

Tuesday, September 1: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
Hispanic Techniques. Learn to inject Latin flavor into your cooking in this four-part series of cooking classes. The course menu borrows from many Hispanic traditions, and includes: rellenos de papas; rice and beans with calabaza; salted codfish stewed in tomatoes and olives; coconut ice cream;  cucumber soup; hearts of palm salad; pupusas; Honduras torrijas (ladyfingers in syrup); empanada de pino (meat turnover); bistec a lo pobre (traditional beefsteak); pastel de choclo (corn and meat pie); turron de vino (wine meringue); ceviche de pescado; aji (Andean-style Cchile paste); lomo saltado (steak with red wine); aji de gallina (spicy chicken); papas a la arequipena. $200 for all four classes. 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Aug. 11-Sept. 1., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

Wednesday, September 2: World of Wines
Ed Hardy and Rutherglen Estates Wine Tasting. Robert’s Catering provides hors d’oeuvres to complement the wine selections. $5. 6-8 p.m., 3431 S. Westshore Blvd., Tampa (813-835-9463)

Wednesday, September 2: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping in for SideBern’s gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is Provencal short rib, seasoned with carrot, fennel and mustard sauce. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463) Read the rest of this entry »

Friday, August 28: Mazzarro’s Italian Market
Weekly Wine Tastings. This week’s selections include domestic wines like red and white Rhone-style blends and Viognier.  Free. 1-5 p.m., 2209 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727-321-2400)

Friday, August 28: Datz Deli
Friday Night Winedown. Sommelier Patti Kuhl leads a free tasting and workshop to help shake off those work week blues, while Rebekah Pulley brings her folky tunes to the stage. Free. 5-7 p.m., 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000)

Saturday, August 29: Mazzarro’s Italian Market
Enjoy a selection of wines from the Piedmont region, including Barbera and Moscato and Pinot Noir from California. Free. 1-5 p.m., 2209 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727-321-2400) Read the rest of this entry »

Monday, August 17: Restaurant BT
This cooking class on French-Vietnamese cuisine includes a menu of tuna tai chanh, grilled octopus salad, and lemongrass crusted red snapper, each paired with a complementary wine selection. $60. 6:30-8 p.m., 1633 W. Snow Ave., Tampa (813-258-1916)

Tuesday, August 18: The Lobster Pot
Dinner and Fine Wine Tasting. Chandon Wines (yeah, the Moet folks of rap video fame) host this lavish tasting that includes a menu of lobster ceviche, oysters, Jamaican jerk shrimp and scallops, pan seared sea bass, grilled lamb chops and key lime pie, each accompanied by specially selected varietals from the Chandon family of wines. $75. 6:30 p.m., 17814 Gulf Blvd., Redington Shores (727-291-8532)

Tuesday, August 18: Datz Deli
Salt of the Earth. Despite what some may say, Datz wants to teach you that “from fleur de sel to kosher, all salts are not created equal.” Learn how to use this humble ingredient to enhance the flavors of every bite you eat. Free. 6 p.m., 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000)

Tuesday, August 18: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
Hispanic Techniques. Learn to inject Latin flavor into your cooking in this four-part series of cooking classes. The course menu borrows from many Hispanic traditions, and includes: rellenos de papas; rice and beans with calabaza; salted codfish stewed in tomatoes and olives; coconut ice cream;  cucumber soup; hearts of palm salad; pupusas; Honduras torrijas (ladyfingers in syrup); empanada de pino (meat turnover); bistec a lo pobre (traditional beefsteak); pastel de choclo (corn and meat pie); turron de vino (wine meringue); ceviche de pescado; aji (Andean-style Cchile paste); lomo saltado (steak with red wine); aji de gallina (spicy chicken); papas a la arequipena. $200 for all four classes. 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Aug. 11-Sept. 1., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

Wednesday, August 19: The NoHo Bistro
Wine Wednesdays. Every week, enjoy a relaxing end to each “hump day” with this tapas and wine tasting. Each Wednesday has a new theme, so don’t miss out on any of these palate-pleasing pairings. This month’s focus is the wines of California, and this week’s theme is “Santa Barbera.” $15. 6-7 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

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Datz Deli: Salt of the Earth. Despite what some may say, Datz wants to teach you that “from fleur de sel to kosher, all salts are not created equal.” Learn how to use this humble ingredient to enhance the flavors of every bite you eat. Free. 6 p.m., 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000)

Z Grille: Offers 1/2 price bottles of wine every Monday, to go with its fantastic food, which you can enjoy on the cheap as well with this new happy hour food deal: Read the rest of this entry »

Tuesday, August 11: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
Hispanic Techniques. Learn to inject Latin flavor into your cooking in this four-part series of cooking classes. The course menu borrows from many Hispanic traditions, and includes: rellenos de papas; rice and beans with calabaza; salted codfish stewed in tomatoes and olives; coconut ice cream;  cucumber soup; hearts of palm salad; pupusas; Honduras torrijas (ladyfingers in syrup); empanada de pino (meat turnover); bistec a lo pobre (traditional beefsteak); pastel de choclo (corn and meat pie); turron de vino (wine meringue); ceviche de pescado; aji (Andean-style Cchile paste); lomo saltado (steak with red wine); aji de gallina (spicy chicken); papas a la arequipena. $200 for all four classes. 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Aug. 11-Sept. 1., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

Wednesday, August 12: The Lobster Pot
Z Fest. The Zodiac Club, a Salvador Dali Museum support group, hosts this evening of culinary delight and arty conversation, offering half price entrees like lobster bisque, oysters Rockefeller, lobster tail, filet mignon and more.  The Lobster Pot offers Zodiac Club members the same “surreal deal” through the end of August. RSVP to victor.g.santiago@me.com. 6:30 p.m., 17814 Gulf Blvd., Redington Shores (727-291-8532)

Wednesday, August 12: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping in for SideBern’s gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is duck confit cannelloni, with roasted hazelnuts, arugula and caramelized onion. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463) Read the rest of this entry »

Tuesday, August 4: Roy’s
Island Hop Celebration. The ultimate in Hawaiian-fusion presents a five course tour of the islands, paired with chef-selected Caymus Vineyards wines. $85. 6:30-9:30 p.m., 4342 West Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa (813-873-7697)

Wednesday, August 5: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping by for gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is shrimp saganaki with tomato, feta cheese, black olives and pepperoncini. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Wednesday, August 5: The NoHo Bistro
Wine Wednesdays. Every week, enjoy a relaxing end to each “hump day” with this tapas and wine tasting. Each Wednesday has a new theme, so don’t miss out on any of these palate-pleasing pairings. This month’s focus is the wines of California, and this week’s theme is “Sonoma Valley.” $15. 6-7 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

Wednesday, August 5: Rigatoni Tuscan Oven
Wild Tuscan Wednesdays. Every Wednesday for the duration of the summer, Rigatoni offers select pricing on high-end items like Alaskan snow crab and oysters, along with beer and pasta specials. $17-$22. 5-10 p.m., 3437 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (813-879-7000)

Thursday, August 6: Hyatt Regency Hotel
Gourmet Feastival. This 18th annual event benefits the Tampa Centre for Women, and includes a mouthwatering array of decadent cuisine. Participating restaurants include Bin 27, Datz Deli, Chez Bryce, Melting Pot and more food and wine purveyors than you can shake a stick at, along with live music and door prizes. $50 in advance, $60 at the door. 6-9 p.m., 211 N. Tampa St., Tampa (813-225-1234)

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[Note: Photos by Marina Williams. For more, go to Creative Loafing's Flickr page.]

I love going to Wazoo at the Lowry Park Zoo.

Living in Seminole Heights, it ws an easy walk to Saturday’s annual beer tasting so we skipped the argument about who is driving.  Going to an alcohol-themed event and staying sober is like being on a low-carb diet in Italy or going to a museum blindfolded.

This year the Zoo folks did try new tricks to improve upon the previous years.  Generally they do a fine job; some things are just out of their control.

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Tuesday, July 28: Put A Cork In It
Toasty Tuesday. Relax at this tasting of 10-15 different wines and appetizers while chatting with industry experts and dancing to live music. $15. 7-9 p.m., 28347 Paseo Dr., Tampa (407-654-2188)

Tuesday, July 28: Wings Gone Wild
Specialty Beer Tasting. Sample craft beers from the Cigar City Brewery, Dunedin Brewery and Yuengling. Among the tempting selections are Red Head Red Ale, Mad Piper’s IPA, Maduro, Jai Alai IPA and more. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. 6 p.m., 3114 W. Bay to Bay Blvd., Tampa (813-944-9792)

Tuesday, July 28: Datz Deli
Beer Club: Red, White and Brew. Seems like it’s been summer all year long, but we Floridians know that the dog days of summer are right around the corner. Be prepared by finding the perfect temperature-dousing brew at this beer class and tasting. Free. 6 p.m., 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000)

Wednesday, July 29: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping by for gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is eggplant parmesan, with farm eggplant, rustic tomato sauce and white truffle ricotta cheese. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

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Wednesday, July 22: The NoHo Bistro
Wine Wednesdays. Every week this summer, enjoy a relaxing end to each “hump day” with this tapas and wine tasting. Each Wednesday has a new theme, so don’t miss out on any of these palate-pleasing pairings. This week’s theme is “The Italian Way.” $15. 6-7 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

Wednesday, July 22: Parkshore Grill
Murphy Goode Wine Dinner. Chef Tyson presents an organic five-course menu using sustainable meats and fresh, local produce from Gateway Organic Farm, which receives proceeds from the event. $75. 6:30-8:30, 300 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727-896-9463)

Wednesday, July 22: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping by for gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one-stop wonder is a Tuscan take on the BLT, with pancetta, heirloom tomatoes, grilled romaine and rosemary mayonnaise. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Wednesday, July 22: Datz Deli
Rethink Pink. Get a glimpse into the often misunderstood flavor profile of Rose wines, the perfect, cooling pick-me-up for hot summers. Free. 6 p.m., 2616 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000)

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House of Beer, Dunedin’s newest beer bar reaches out to brew fanatics by hosting a Grand Opening shindig that lasts all weekend. Starting Friday, the event will feature special drink prices that continue through the weekend, a ribbon cutting ceremony with Dunedin mayor Dave Eggers Saturday at 6:30pm, followed by a mayoral guest bartending stint. All tips received by Mayor Eggers will be donated to local charities Dunedin Doggie Rescue and Raising Hope. Read the rest of this entry »

Tuesday, July 14: Safety Harbor Resort and Spa
Enjoy a seven-course French meal paired with professionally-selected wines in honor of Bastille Day. The menu includes Franco favorites like escargot, a Beurre Blanc salmon and shrimp skewer, ratatouille, a variety of artisanal cheeses and more. Proceeds benefit the Abilities foundation, which helps locals with disabilities to find work. $75. 6:30 p.m., 105 N. Bayshore Dr., Safety Harbor (727-726-1161)

Tuesday, July 14: Mazzaro’s Italian Market
Tenuta Arceno Winemaker Tasting. Lawrence Cronin, winemaker at the revered Tuscan winemaking estate, is on hand for this complimentary wine tasting and bottle signing featuring Arceno’s Chianti Classico, Primavoce, Arcanum I and Arcanum II. Free. 2209 22nd Ave. N. St. Petersburg (727-321-2400)

Wednesday, July 15: Bern’s Fine Wines and Spirits
Potluck Wednesday. Beat the mid-week dinner blahs by stopping by for gourmet take-away — and enjoy a complimentary mini-wine tasting while you wait. This week’s one pot wonder is shellfish bouillabaisse with green beans, tomato and saffron broth. $19.95. 5-8 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Wednesday, July 15: The NoHo Bistro
Wine Wednesdays. Every week this summer, enjoy a relaxing end to each “hump day” with this tapas and wine tasting. Each Wednesday has a new theme, so don’t miss out on any of these palate-pleasing pairings. This week’s theme is “A Rose is a Rosé.” $15. 6-7 p.m., 1714 N. Armenia Ave., Tampa (813-514-0691)

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Friday, July 10: Cappuccino’s Altro Posto Cafe
Wines with benefits: try Whites for great summer sipping, and Reds for a healthy heart. $10. 5-8 p.m., 733 Broadway St., Dunedin (727-738-8009)

Friday, July 10: Bern’s Fine Wine and Spirits
Crush Hour: Summer Whites. Enjoy eight refreshing white wines from around the world paired with artisanal cheeses. $25. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 1002 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-250-9463)

Friday, July 10: Wings Gone Wild
Wines From Down Under. Sample Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon from Australia, paired with complementary chocolate, cheese and fruit. $18.99 in advance, $23.99 at the door. 7 p.m., 3114 W. Bay to Bay Blvd., Tampa (813-944-9792)

Friday, July 10: Uncorked Fine Wines and Accessories
Summer Refreshers. Beat the heat with a cool selection of wines at this weekly tasting. Proceeds benefit the Viva Las Chicas Breast Cancer Three-Day Walk Team. $10. 6:30-8:30 p.m., 2706 4th Street N., St. Petersburg (727-892-9463) Read the rest of this entry »

I’ve written about competitive eating in the past, and I’ve even considered entering St. Pete’s home-grown version of the classic Nathan’s Coney Island hot dog eating contest (especially since the competition seems a little light). Now’s your chance to get in on the grotesque display of gurgitation, while supporting a good cause.

Dairy Inn’s (1201 9th Street N. St. Petersburg, 727-822-6971) contest begins at 11:30 a.m. this Saturday, July 4. Winners in each of the categories — Men, Women, and Children — will recieve $100 and have their names inscribed on Dairy Inn’s “Relish-Green Belt”. Entry is free, but it’s a benefit for St. Pete’s Pet Pals Shelter, so plan on forking over some charity dough before the meat sweats make it hard to reach into your wallet. And if it’s your first time, don’t expect to rock the dogs like Kobayashi or Joey Chestnut. No matter how impressive your gluttony is to your friends, this is a serious sport that requires intense training and a serious disregard for your well-being.

Tuesday, June 30: A Taste for Wine
Wine doesn’t have to bear a hefty price tag to please your palate. Sample a tasty selection of quality wines that only taste like a splurge. $10. 6 p.m., 241 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727-895-1623)

Wednesday, July 1: CL Wine Club Happy Hour at Datz Deli
BBQ Wines. Need wine for July 4th? We got you covered. Try six, tasty, specially selected wines by the glass for only $6 each. Paired with complementary appetizers. Free. 7-9 p.m., Datz Deli, 2616 S MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-7000). RSVP here!

Wednesday, July 1: Cafe Dufrain
Summer Series Wine Tasting. Try a new variety of wines every Wednesday. Free. 6-7:30 p.m., 707 Harbour Post Dr., Tampa (813-275-9701)

Wednesday, July 1: ABC Fine Wine and Spirits
Sample more than 50 wine selections accompanied by appetizers and an outdoor cigar sampler. $10. 5:30-7:30 p.m., 3535 4th St. N., St. Petersburg (727-894-4875)

Wednesday, July 1: Publix Apron’s Cooking School
Basic Knife Skills. A menu designed to teach you slicing, dicing, julienne, and chiffonade knife techniques. Includes: gazpacho; miso glazed carrots; szechuan ratatouille; tomato salsa; warm vichyssoise. $50. 6 p.m., 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa (813-926-4465)

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