Posts for December 24th 2007

Shopping

2007's Favorite Grocery Store Is...

As part of our Best of 2007 roundups, we asked you what your favorite grocery store was.

As part of our Best of 2007 roundups, we asked you what your favorite grocery store was. I must say, it was sort of a mixed poll, each region of the country has fantastic local markets — personally I love Nugget markets based out of Woodland, CA — so it was hard to say which place is best. I definitely have to give a nod to the local independent markets and the local farmer's markets — especially considering the word locavore was Oxford American Dictionary's word of the year — however you guys voted for Trader Joe's. This specialty market isn't in all parts of the country, but the folks that shop there are dedicated to their great line of unique products. Do you guys shop there? Do you believe it should be voted the best?

gifts

YumSugar Gift Guide: Eleventh-Hour Ideas

If you've forgotten a few folks on your list, don't fear there's still time.

If you've forgotten a few folks on your list, don't fear there's still time. You can always rely on gift cards, but there are still a few things that might be a little more suitable. The whatever-of-the-month club is always a great idea. From bacon to wine, it seems like there's a club for every kind of food out there. My personal favorite is the new Pie-Tini of the Month Club from the folks at The Grateful Palate. Each month members will receive a handmade pie, along with an original cocktail recipe inspired by the pie, and an exclusive Rossini Pie Server (a pie server with a cocktail strainer on the other end). It's so kitsch it's fantastic. However you'll have to act fast, the club is limited to 75 members only.

If pies and cocktails aren't their thing, there are plenty of other last minute options. Wrap a copy of their favorite food magazine and present them with a subscription. Or opt for something that will arrive in their email inbox. For more ideas, scroll through below.

recipes

Cookies For Mr. Claus

Santa Claus is coming to town tonight and you know what that means: he needs cookies!


Santa Claus is coming to town tonight and you know what that means: he needs cookies! The ritual of baking cookies and leaving them on a plate for jolly old St. Nick is one of my favorite Christmas traditions. If you are eager to bake a last minute batch of cookies — for Santa or your family — I suggest making these peanut butter blossom cookies. They're cute as a button and will fill your house with the delicious aroma. Take a look at the recipe, just read more