By Anne RuisiFestivalgoers can rely on the Persian chicken, brisket, falafels, mandelbrot and other foods served at the Levite Jewish Community Center’s Jewish Food and Culture Fest on April 14 being kosher. The center has an expert who ensures that it is.“I am a rabbi. So, I know about kosher. And so, when the JCC needs help with kosher, I help,” said Rabbi Yossi … [Read more...]

By June MathewsEarlier this year, Rob McDaniel was named a semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef South award. But to his mind, the honor – and what it could become – is not his alone. It rightfully belongs, he said, to the entire team at Helen, a contemporary Southern grill in downtown Birmingham. “At the end of the day, … [Read more...]

By Anne RuisiWhen other kids were glued to Saturday morning cartoons, Chris Kennedy was watching Graham Kerr and Julia Child’s now-legendary cooking shows.And when his grandfather, who grew up on a farm, took him fishing, they’d trade the catch for fresh fruits and vegetables from area farmers, foods he’d help prep for the dishes his grandmother created. “I … [Read more...]

By Susan SwaglerShow some love to those you care about and to local women-owned businesses this Valentine’s Day with artisanal chocolate of all kinds. We spoke to three women, Kathy D’Agostino, above, Geri-Martha O’Hara, above right, and Susan Notter, right, all known for their bespoke sweets about what they’re offering right now.Elizabeth Moore ChocolatesPastry … [Read more...]

By Susan Swagler“All foods fit.” How’s that for a fresh start – nutritionwise – to the new year? Those words came independently from both Sophie Burge Dolan and Sonthe Burge. They are registered and licensed dietitian nutritionists who also happen to be related; Sophie is Sonthe’s daughter. Through their separate clinical practices, these two women have … [Read more...]