Do big life changes ever make you think about the past? My parents recently sold the house that my brother and I grew up in and while the decision and the move definitely make sense and needed to
happen, I can’t help but sit here and remember what it was like to grow up in the farmhouse on the lake in Holmes. Not surprisingly, as I think it’s common for many favorite memories to revolve around food or a specific meal, I am constantly brought back to the kitchen. Continue Reading
Product Feature: Barr Hill Gin
As I’m sitting here, on a Monday, wishing the weekend had just one extra day or so, I am already

thinking about happy hour. It’s super hot here and a refreshing gin and tonic sounds just perfect right now. But here’s the thing, my experience behind the bar at M&D (as many years ago as that
may be now), made me a total cocktail snob. I don’t want just ANY gin and tonic. I’m picky about my gin and I’m picky about my tonic. Tonic is a topic for another today but TODAY, I want to talk to you about my favorite gin – Barr Hill. Several years ago, I had the opportunity to interview Todd Hardie, the man behind the gin. His story was so unique and interesting. Today, I want to share with you all that same story but in his own words. Continue Reading
Fourth of July One Stop Shop
As far as summer BBQs go, there are none quite like those that are thrown to celebrate the Fourth of July. Red, white, and blue, themed decorations, tons of grilled food and sweet treats, and
fireworks – I just love it all. But I also know that while it’s fun (at least for me) to spend time preparing and cooking food for your family and friends, it isn’t always realistic. Especially in the summer heat.
That being said, why not enlist the M&D Bakery to help you out? I know that the deli case will be completely stocked with cold salads and entree options. Plus, I may be biased but, our guacamole is the best there is and we will definitely be stocked up for your BBQ needs. However, IF you find yourself too busy to swing by in the next day or so, I will also let you in on a little secret.
This recipe is the most sought after recipe in all the land (according to my email inbox).
M&D Guac:
- 3 ripe Hass avocados
- 1 medium sized onion – chopped fine
- ½ small can of pickled jalapenos – chopped and with juice
- 2 small bunches fresh cilantro – chopped
- Juice from 1 fresh lemon
- Salt to taste
Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Remove the skin and rough chop into a bowl before adding in the onion, pickled jalapenos (plus some juice), cilantro, and lemon juice. Mix gently and taste. Add salt as needed and serve right away. If you’re not serving it immediately (good luck with that), store in an airtight container. This is SUPER FRESH so it will brown quickly if not stored properly.
Have a very happy holiday!
Four Summer Food Trends to Look for This Season
Think back to the foods of last summer … what do you see? I see egg free cookie dough treats,
“Frose” (frozen rose) and rolled ice cream. I also see over the top smoothie bowls, matcha lattes and rainbow colored bagels. All of these are still at large, at least here in Saint Pete, but this summer, food researchers are predicting some new menu items to spread like wild fire too.