Tomorrow, Jan.17, is National Hot Buttered Rum day. To celebrate, I'm heading over to my friend H. Joseph Ehrmann's bar, Elixir, in San Francisco's Mission district. They're having a little party, and hot buttered rums are the highlight. If you don't live in SF, no worries: H has shared his recipe with us, so you can make it in the comforts of your cozy kitchen! While some variations call for a batter, this recipe is less traditional. It combines hot water with butter, whole cloves, and cinnamon sticks. The final concoction is extra-rich in spice with a creamy texture and soothing taste. According to H, it's best enjoyed "in a chilled room, around 40 degrees Fahrenheit."

Sounds like it would be the perfect cocktail after a day of skiing or traveling, so to get the recipe, read more

As the saying goes, it is better to give than to receive. But if you decide to give back to the community, Starbucks thinks you should receive something in return.

On the tail of Barack Obama's inauguration, the coffee king is launching its new "I'm in" promotion, in which customers get free coffee for giving back to the community. From Jan. 21-25, customers who fill out a pledge card in-store to volunteer five hours of time to a cause of their choice will receive a free tall brewed coffee.

The campaign's goal? To raise pledges of more than 1 million service hours. The company plans to track progress of its goal through a special campaign website. It's wonderful that a global company like Starbucks is encouraging people to get behind a cause and trying to connect with the community. On voting day, stores gave away free coffee to applaud those who'd voted, and less than two months ago, the coffee company announced that it would enter a multiyear partnership with AIDS charity Product (RED).

I'm happy to sign that pledge. What about you? Will you sign the pledge and enjoy a free cup of coffee?

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Over the past couple of weeks I grew to love Ariane on Top Chef, so when Padma asked her to "pack her knives and go," I was disappointed. The restaurant owner and mother got off to a rocky start in the first couple of episodes, but she hit her stride and took home several wins. I spoke with Ariane this morning and found out what she thought of the experience and what she's up to now, read more

Looking for a way to brighten up January's cold Winter evenings? How about spicy fish tacos with a tropical salsa?! The fish, in this case it's red snapper, is grilled instead of fried, making for a taco that is healthier and more fresh than its street food counterpart. The salsa is a mix of sweet mangoes, crunchy red onion, and hot serrano chiles. Serve with tortilla chips, guacamole, and cold beer for a meal perfect to enjoy while watching this weekend's NFL playoffs. To check out the scrumptious recipe, read more

Make patriotism chic at the inauguration kickoff party with sleek scarlets and deep blues. Silver accents are a lux and sophisticated final touch.

Set up the food on a long buffet table covered with a red table runner. Stack blue plates and "Yes We Did!" napkins nearby, so guests can help themselves to sandwiches and pizza at their leisure. Put the punch on another side of the room and arrange the champagne coups next to the bowl.

A bouquet of red tulips is an eye-catching focal point. For a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, light plenty of candles and throw festive pillows on the couch.

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