By Donna Cornelius Russell Hooks has learned it’s wise to pace himself during Birmingham Restaurant Week. He and his wife, Amber, are the founders of Happenin’s in the ’Ham, which uses multiple media platforms to spread news about Birmingham events and activities. They’re also two of the official BRW bloggers. That means from Aug. 11-20, when the annual culinary affair is in … [Read more...]
Oil in the Family: Cissy LeMoine Goes Back to Her Roots to Make Infused Olive Oils
By Donna Cornelius Most people heading for the beach take along sunscreen, beach towels and swimsuits. Cissy LeMoine and her mother, Phyl Smith, used to pack something extra: empty olive oil bottles. “We clanked when we walked,” said LeMoine, laughing. The reason the two Vestavia Hills women toted the bottles to Destin, Florida, was also the incentive for LeMoine’s new … [Read more...]
Comfort Food Festival: New Event Focuses on a Favorite Dish – Mac and Cheese
By Donna Cornelius Birmingham is home to food festivals that celebrate chili, gumbo and barbecue plus cultural creations with Italian, Greek, Lebanese and Cajun flavors. But one of the most popular dishes in the country has been left off the menu – until now. On Aug. 6, Community Grief Support will host its first Magic City Mac N’ Cheese Festival. Restaurants, food trucks and … [Read more...]
Something Old, Something New: Pursell Farms’ Wedding Venue Blends Past and Present
By Donna Cornelius Destination weddings are popular, but they’re not always practical. Airfare and lodging can be ruinously expensive, particularly for those with large families. And it’s not always convenient for friends to schedule their vacations around a wedding date. Pursell Farms in Sylacauga is within easy driving distance of Birmingham but has the feel of an … [Read more...]
Tasty Test: Iron City Chef Competition Is Set for July 22
Four Birmingham chefs will test their cooking chops at this year’s Iron City Chef competition, set for Sat., July 22. The annual event, hosted by the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club, combines elements from two popular Food Network shows, “Iron Chef America” and “Chopped.” The four participating chefs create signature dishes, and guests vote on their top choices. The top two chefs … [Read more...]