Foodies – it’s time we had a little chat because the déjà vu is killing me.

I grew up in an extremely affluent community in west Florida. Every kid had a BMW and their own credit card. I was one of the “poor kids from down the highway” that had the special privilege of being in the same building with the Buffys. Each day my wardrobe was critiqued by the masses. I’m sure it’s not a surprise to constant readers that I was a nonconformist. There was a lot of velvet and fishnet involved – think “Pretty in Black.” This serves me very well now that I’m a food writer. When I go into a restaurant, I am mostly ignored. Chubby Goth Girl doesn’t exactly scream “food critic.” But back then, everything from the coat to the combat boots was noticed, pointed out and derided. Well, Buffy is back – and she’s sitting next to me in every restaurant. (more…)

This is it, ladies and gentlemen… your official nudge from fate.
Valentine’s Day is coming.

It’s no surprise that February 14th is one of the busiest nights of the year for the restaurant industry. Don’t be caught by surprise! Make reservations TODAY at your favorite restaurant. Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, so it would be wise to consider one of the many great brunches on offer around town. Another good alternative to the V-Night crowd is Saturday night. Saturday is already notoriously busy, but keep it in mind if reservations are already full at your favorite place on Sunday. Besides, that leaves Valentine’s Night for you to make something special for your favorite date.

Many folks of the Valentining age are restaurant dependent. If you don’t have the confidence to crank out surf and turf with gougères and a chocolate soufflé yourself, consider a simpler solution that costs less than a night out and requires little preparation. Spread a lovely blanket out in your nicest room or in your yard if the night is mild. Collect favorite foods which require nothing more than a bit of prep. Think chilled seafood, cheeses, fruit and good wine. Pick up some fresh cupcakes from one of the many great places here in town. See? No cooking required. The one thing I don’t recommend is take out. I think it’s okay to pick up chilled dishes from your favorite restaurant, but anything meant to be served hot ALWAYS suffers in transport.

Valentine’s Day should be about the thought you put into your celebrations. It’s all about love and food is an excellent expression of love! Just think ahead and you’ll have a night to remember.

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If you know of any Valentine’s Day specials or events at Jacksonville restaurants, please let us know!

Azurea has recently had a lot of news to share! They’ve fired up seasonal winter menus created by executive chef Ted Peters. The menus place an emphasis on sustainable food, utilizing many foods that are sourced from within 50 miles of the restaurant. The Chef’s Table featuring the “Adventurous Palate Dinner” is still available this season as well. Full menus can be viewed by clicking here. (more…)

So, it’s Monday morning and you feel that familiar pang of regret. In the rush of weekend activities, you’ve missed the farmer’s market again. You’re looking for that fresh snap of sweet veggie goodness, but all you see at the supermarket is wilted cabbage and moldy strawberries. What to do?

Head on over to Sam’s Club! I’m a big fan of warehouse clubs if your family is large enough to make it worth your while. With my four kids, a club membership is absolutely vital. But, even if you aren’t a member, grab a friend who is or get a day pass because they have Ancient Sweets red peppers! (more…)

You can help our city’s food banks with just a click of your mouse. Just go to the Chunky Soup Match Up and vote for the Jacksonville Jaguars. If our city wins, Chunky Soup will donate 18,000 cans of food to one local food bank. Click today!

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Image: chunky.com

Restaurant: Up The Creek Grill
Deal: Thursday Guests Receive 10% Off Their Bill. All Specials Start At 4 pm.
When/Where: Thursdays; 9734 Crosshill Blvd, Jax, FL 32222, 904-908-4250

Publix and the American Red Cross have quickly established a program to help the relief effort in Haiti after this weeks devastating earthquake. Shoppers can add any additional amount they want to their bill to be donated to the relief efforts. Publix Super Markets Charities is also donating $100K to the American Red Cross to go towards the relief efforts.

According to the Jax Daily Record website, a new Publix supermarket is opening this Thursday at 2875 University Blvd. W. in University Square. It will replace the store at University Mall. Also, Salt Life in Jacksonville Beach has opened. It’s in the old Harry’s location on Third St. This same location will also house the recently moved One Hot Cookie store, formally of Neptune Beach next to the Loop.