ktmightve

I wanted to add a plug for Hearth, since I have time, and it was great.

I got the 6 course tasting menu loosely paired with wine (I wasn't sure I could handle 6 half pours with a long night ahead). I left it totally up to the waitress and chef as to what I ate and drank, because that's much more fun...

I won't describe every dish or pairing, because they were flawless. Even the bread, a multi grain and a sesame were deeply satisfying (and the waitress thoughtfully heated the butter just a touch). The only complaint is that the meat course (while beautifully cooked despite the thinnes) was a touch salty. The wine list was extensive, and I had 3 half glasses that were exceptional alone, and with the food. I ended with a 100% chocolate bite, and a calvados.

Also, the service all around was great. All were warm and friendly. The waitress was warm and engaging - I had to hug her at the end of the meal. A seriously enjoyable dinner by a lone diner.

I apologize if this post isn't in the right place, but I can't find anything specific about St. Augustine. I'll be there for work (without a car) this weekend, and wonder if anyone has suggestions for a nice dinner out.

Just fyi, was at the market this weekend, and we saw that Paul Brock, "The Sausage Man" had died that Wednesday from a heart attack.

Don't know if anyone on here was familiar with him. He sold exceptional meats, and seemed like a really nice guy. I feel terrible for his wife...

The market was packed due to the Alexandria Arts Festival yesterday and today. I couldn't resist getting these beautiful speckled beans (hulled in photo) from Spring Valley. I cooked them in a court boullion and think I'll mix them up with some corn, peppers and onions and make a succotash later.

Beautiful pic of beans! I shop at the Farmer's Market most Saturdays, but don't pay so much attention to the vendor's names, I just know where they are. Which one is Spring Valley? I'll want to keep an eye out for these in September...

It's nice to see some lower cost options--thanks for the posts! I've stopped buying chicken altogether lately.

So, my parents are coming into town this month, and my Mom wants to try baking a pie with lard like her mom used to do. I have no idea where to get lard, and know nothing about it--I've only read that store-bought lard is terrible? To use "suet"? Is this the case? At any rate, where do I get something like this? Sorry if this is obvious--I've just never looked for it.

I'm durwood's +1--definitely coming--thnx for the invite!