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Ready, Set, Fall

By
Marc Piperno
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Collette is fashion forward and a design orientated stylist & wardrobe consultant.
A Bachelors in communications and 
marketing, years of experience in the garment district, she celebrates everyday with enthusiasm for fashion and beauty 
while helping other women achieve their personal best. Collettep24@yahoo.com
    Ladies, it’s officially time to put the beach bags away! The runways are brimming with something for every fashionista this fall. Whether you stay close to the classics, are a playful risk-taker, or suited professional, there are updates and must-have pieces that should be incorporated into your wardrobe this season. A fresh modern edge is the mindset for fall.
    While last year off shoulder tops had their moment, this year, it's all about the asymmetrical neckline. A slanted, one-shoulder top perfectly highlights the collarbone and shoulders without showing it all. This minor neckline tweak is all you need to elevate your look to fresh chic for fall. For those mighty risk takers, here's the perfect place to layer in cheetah. The  asymmetrical top is so on trend, but in a beloved animal print, heads will be turning. 
    This season, Cheetah will be spotted every-where, but be careful not to dress head to toe in this edgy trend – less is more here. Pair cheetah with your revered denim jeans or if you’re heading out on the town, kick it up a notch with pants or a pencil skirt. 
    Slip into another fall front runner: leather pants. Think about rocking a color like rich burgundy or warm brandy; hybridize hues to be on point with this look. Never ever worry my black beauties…you are always on trend. Black leather, coupled with cheetah or a bold colored top, is guaranteed to update your fall look. 
     A soft, buttery leather can also be utilized as suiting for an updated look in the  workplace. Try swapping out your black blazer with a form-fitted leather jacket. Or, to keep up the edge, aim to incoporate blazers with sharp shoulders or outside belting. A belt on the outside of a jacket is a sneaky way to show a smaller waist and illuminate your chic. Last but not least, don’t forget to work with patterns like heritage tweed or checks. 
    Wearing a matching two-piece suit has fallen out of favor the last two years. If you’re not ready to step out of your traditional suit, simply start by adding in texture like animal print or satin underneath your suit jacket. You will be the envy at the office–the look they’ll want to copy. 
    We can't dismiss the icing on the cake. Designers are loving capes this season. From couture runway to PTA meeting, a cape is arguably luxe and the silhouette compliments all body types – a win-win. With textures such as velvet, tweed and lush cashmere, a cape is the ultimate go-to for an updated look this fall. A chic woman who is not convinced by the cape and doesn't want to hang up her beloved trench or denim jacket–have no fear. Simply throw your prized denim, motto or trench jacket over your shoulders for a modernistic cape look. Mimick the cape without spending a dime. 
     Enjoy the bountiful colors this fall while embracing the lively new trends and twists to your existing wardrobe. Ladies, you’re in charge of your wardrobe and you’re your own stylist. Don’t hesitate to add your own unique flare this fall season!

 

Restaurant Review : Best Local Comfort Food

By
Marc Piperno
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Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident, 
currently working as a Marketing & Social Media Specialist. She has a B.S. in Journalism from St. John's University and is active within her community as a writer and mentor. Joanna can be reached by email at LISAVORYEATS@gmail.com. 
    The holidays are coming, and it’s quickly becoming the best time of the year. While I am partial to the fall season, I am sure that my summer-enthusiasts will equally enjoy the approaching comfort food, cozy sweater weather and multitude of autumn activities. November is the perfect time of year to celebrate the harvest season! My personal favorite includes recipe testing: soups, stews, casseroles and pasta dishes. When I’m not recipe testing, I also enjoy seeking out the best local comfort food on Long Island. 
     One of my favorite fall meals is pot roast. It’s comforting, decadent, and always satisfying. No one does pot roast better than Main Street Café in Northport. It’s served on special, with a side of red cabbage, and potato latke. If you’re walking around Northport, and you see this is being served up, scratch your dinner plans and head inside. Another favorite is the Shed Bowl, from The Shed in Huntington. Roasted chicken, wild rice, arugula, radish, sweet potatoes, sunflower seeds, mushrooms, goat cheese, spiced honey vinaigrette. It’s harvest in a bowl! If bowls aren’t your preference, opt for the Herb Roasted Half Chicken (Free range, garden veggies, gravy) – it’s seriously delicious. Switching gears, comfort food doesn’t have to mean holiday-themed entrees. Instead, to me, it means food that fills you up – literally and soulfully. A recent trip to Little Lucharitos did just that. A quaint, quirky Mexican restaurant & tequila bar in Riverhead serving up extraordinary tacos, salsa and burritos. The BBQ Duck taco (meat is sourced from a local farm) was my favorite – slow cooked, tangy BBQ sauce – absolutely delicious. Pro Tip: make sure to order the salsa – it’s out of this world!
     You can’t write about comfort food without including some Italian recommendations. As a proud Italian, and Long Island native, there are only a handful of places I consider to be excellent. My short list includes: Robke’s, Branchinelli’s, 39 Italian Eatery and Restaurant Joanina. All provide exceptional food, a cozy, authentic atmosphere and signature elements that individually mark them as champions. At Robke’s, I opt for the specials, but I always start with the spicy shrimp. At Branchinelli’s, I stick to the classic parmigiana, and always order their house salad. At 39 Italian Eatery, my friends and family prefer the Pappardelle Bolognese and/or Cacio Pepe. Plus, the gelato is out of this world! Lastly, Restaurant Joanina – Eggplant to start, pizza, escarole and beans, linguine and clams – this place       reminds me of my childhood, spent in my grandparent’s kitchen. Everything is incredibly delicious!
     Fall is the perfect time of the year to reflect on the things we’re grateful for, and for me, that’s good food. Whether I’m with family, friends or a loved one – we’re usually chatting and spending time together in a setting that offers delicious comfort food. After all, at the end of the day, ‘food is the ingredient that binds us together.’

 

The Appi Pleaser Platter

By
Marc Piperno
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Denise Gianatasio is a Northport Village resident, freelance writer and licensed agent at Signature Premier Properties in Northport. Please feel free to contact her for any advice you may need at dishinwithdenise@yahoo.com.
    There is no better way to entertain guests than serving up an abundant, Appi Pleaser Platter (Antipasto), before the main course. Whether it’s for the holidays or an informal cocktail gathering, this ornate dish is always a crowd pleaser. Allow your imagination to help you create an artfully arranged assortment of savory bites. Choose  from the many Italian delicacies easily found at your local specialty store or supermarket. The possibilities are endless…have fun with it.    
    Your presentation can include selections such as: fresh sliced or cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, crisp fennel, roasted (or grilled) red peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or any other vegetable you desire. Select and add a variety of briny tastes – a melody of olives, stuffed cherry peppers, pepperoncini, marinated artichokes, marinated mushrooms, and hearts of palm. The meat choices are endless; try imported hard Italian sausages (hot and sweet), salami, ham, mortadella, roast beef (thin-sliced) and prosciutto di parma. 
    Also, a must-have when creating the ultimate antipasto platter–cheese. Be sure to include chunks or slices of hard cheeses like: parmesan, locatelli, and provolone. Try to use soft cheeses too! Fresh mozzarella slices or balls, burrata or ricotta are great selections to have on a nice slice of crusty baguette. 
    I often like to serve this platter with a whole can of tuna or anchovies in the center; if you’re really daring, try sardines! There’s no making a mistake here. Last but not least, add fresh cannellini beans and fresh figs – believe me these finger foods, (sweet, salty, and sharp) will wake up the taste buds and engage all of the senses! 
    I like to use a real large platter so I have lots of room to create. Put some selections in small separate bowls and incorporate them onto the platter – an extended pleaser.  Oftentimes, to dress it up, I line the bottom of my serving platter with shredded lettuce. After you’ve created your platter, whether simple or elaborate, be sure you have incorporated an array of colors, flavors and textures. Then you are done!  
    Now, drizzle the platter with a good olive oil, fresh pepper and sea salt, and serve with crusty slices of bread. The real goal here is to excite the palate, not fill up the tummy. Let the platter be your canvas!  PLATTER UP and PLEASE! xoxo Denise

 

Autumn Harvest Salad & Apple Cider Sangria

By
Marc Piperno
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Tiffany Cohen has been cooking since she was 12 years old, and has a blog called Whatcha Cooking Good Looking, which showcases her love for food and creating great memories with family and friends. Contact her at whatchacookinggoodlooking@gmail.com.

    This Autumn Harvest Salad will give you all the fall feels.  It’s an awesome fall salad recipe with a little warmth mixed with all those great fall flavors. The oranges are juicy and go perfectly with the honey roasted nuts, cranberries, and Grana Padano in the salad. And that orange vinaigrette is just unreal with just a hint of cinnamon.
    This recipe is coming to you today with a little serving tip for the upcoming holidays…When I serve salad for parties and holidays, I ALWAYS serve them as an appetizer. Think about it for a second.  When you serve salad with dinner and there are other side dishes, what is the one thing you have leftover?  The salad.  So, when you serve salad as an appetizer people are more inclined to fully enjoy it–they will always take a nice big scoop. I noticed that when I serve salad as an appetizer, I never have any leftovers (especially with this AMAZING fall salad).  Give it a try and let me know what happens!

Ingredients

SALAD 
•    2 packages of Mediterranean blend salad or 1 package Mediterranean blend and 1 package of Mixed Greens or 2 heads of 
     romaine lettuce, chopped and 1 package of Mediterranean blend
•    2 large oranges, segmented (see my website     for a how to) over a bowl, juice and leftover orange reserved
•    1/4 cup thinly sliced red onions (cut into half moons, then in 3’s)
•    The seeds of 1/2 a pomegranate or 1/3 cup of dried cranberries
•    1 package (or to taste) of cinnamon glazed pecans or walnuts, chopped or 1/2 cup honey roasted mixed nuts , chopped
•    Grana Padano or Parmiggiano shaving

VINAIGRETTE 
•    The leftover juice from 2 oranges (if doubling recipe, use the juice of a 3rd orange)
•    1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
•    1 teaspoon of Mike’s Hot Honey or regular honey
•    A sprinkle of salt, pepper, cinnamon, and granulated garlic
•    3 tablespoons olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS
    Combine all of the salad ingredients, leaving a few pieces of each ingredient for decorating the top of the salad, and toss well.
    Combine all of the dressing ingredients excluding the olive oil.  Whisk well.  As you are whisking, add in the olive oil slowly.  Continue whisking.  Pour as much needed over the salad to coat the lettuce.  Toss well.  Serve the remaining dressing on the side.
    Decorate the top of the salad with the remaining salad ingredients and serve.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

    It’s Fall, Ya’ll…and I know you are surrounding yourself with all things fall. Fresh picked apples and pumpkins picked with your own hands, apple cider, pumpkin everything, apple cider donuts, and the list of all the goodness goes on and on.  I’m taking one of your favorites from this list and I’m spiking it…you know you want me to.
    Apple Cider Sangria is the ultimate fall cocktail.  The craziest thing of all is that you would never know that there was alcohol in this drink!  You have been warned.  All you need is 5 simple ingredients and you’ll be on your way to happy sipping.  Let’s do it.

Ingredients

•    6 cups good apple cider (don’t go store brand here…get the good stuff)
•    2 cups of your favorite Pinot Grigio (don’t buy the $5 bottle either…get something decent)
•    2 cups of Piehole Apple Pie Whiskey or Dr. McGillicuddgy’s Apple Whiskey (these are the only acceptable choices)
•    2 cinnamon sticks
•    2 apples, cut into small chunks

INSTRUCTIONS
    Combine all of the liquid into a pitcher.  Give everything a really good stir and taste test. If you think it’s too strong, add a bit more apple cider.  
    Add the cinnamon sticks and apple pieces.  Store in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best.
    To serve, add ice to a wine glass and fill the glass with the sangria.  Top with some of the cut apples.  I’ve also served this in mason jars with pretty burlap string tied around them.  Cheers and Happy Fall!!
    For more delicious recipes and cooking tips from Tiffany, head on over to www.whatchacookinggoodlooking.com.

 

Always Do Your Best: Self-Care Is Important

By
Marc Piperno
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Kathy Horowitz co-facilitates a monthly women’s writer’s group at the Life Center in Huntington. Her work has appeared in The Long Islander, Long Island Woman, Calyx, Blue Unicorn, and Seventh Quarry. Kathy offers freelance writing, editing, and proofreading services.
(kahorowitz@gmail.com) • www.kathyhorowitz.com.  
    It seems that autumn is the time when many people, myself included, slow down not just physically, but also mentally. Summer provides us with many outdoor activities, parties, and travel that we need to slow down in order to regroup, reflect, and re-energize. Add to that caring for a spouse, parent, or loved one and our batteries become depleted.
    In today’s faster paced and technology-overloaded world, we sometimes forget to take time for ourselves. We often neglect to acknowledge that we are doing our best, and what we have to offer at a particular moment is enough.  In Don Miguel Ruiz’ wisdom book, The Four Agreements, the fourth rings true.  He says,“… If you try too hard to do more than your best, you will spend more energy than is needed and in the end your best will not be enough.  When you overdo, you deplete your body and go against yourself, and it will take you longer to accomplish your goal.”
    So, to recharge as we shift into    autumn, here are some things you can do: 
     Take a long walk in the woods at a park or near your home. Notice the changing color of the leaves, the busyness of the squirrels, and the slight chill in the air. Be mindful of each step.
    Look through old photo/digital albums. As you look through them, remember an old friend or beloved relative and the memorable moments captured within the photo. Reminisce on the favorite places you’ve traveled to. Or, re-visit  a fond event you planned or attended. Give gratitude to those cherishable memories.
    Get lost in a favorite movie.  Sit back in a comfortable chair and set up the popcorn and candy.
    Write about your summer like when you were in school. What was the best part? Did you learn something new? Make a new friend, find a new neighborhood to explore?  Don’t leave out any details. Let the joy of the moment take over.
    Finally, be thankful for all the small things in your life.  For example, recently I was walking on the boardwalk at Sunken Meadow when I saw an elderly gentleman sitting in a wheelchair gazing out over the Long Island Sound.  He said hello and I asked him if he was enjoying the beautiful day. We both agreed, and in that moment not only did I make a connection with another human being, but realized how blessed I was to be able to walk at a steady pace. These small moments give way to larger ones.
    So please remember to take care of yourself.  Always do your best, but no more than you are able to handle.

 

Nostalgia & Traditions- Setting Your HOME for the HOLIDAYS

By
Marc Piperno
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Natalie Weinstein is President of Natalie Weinstein Design Associates, The Natalie Weinstein Home Decorating Club and Uniquely Natalie, a quality consignment boutique. 
For inquiries call: 631-862-6198.

 Nostalgia & Traditions- Setting Your HOME for the HOLIDAYS

    A few weeks ago, I attended a tea party run by the Mad Harlot Tea Society’s outrageous, Penelope Proper. It was held in the old Calderone Theatre, (the building that houses Uniquely Natalie) and it was truly a day of nostalgia. Women wore hats and dressed for tea, ready to be transported to a time when life was slower paced and the elegance of home and table were “de rigueur”. 
    The table was set with lovely damask table cloths, a variety of elegant china tea settings (with white stitched doilies placed underneath), sunflower centerpieces and a table strewn with fall leaves and caramels. This blast from the past clearly evoked memories of mothers and grandmothers who enjoyed the sights, smells, and sounds of home in a way many of us, with our hectic schedules, lack the time to emulate. 
    Perhaps we need to rethink that last statement. Or, consider the family of today and their future memories.  What will they recall as happy traditions of home? Is it worth our time and effort to continue them? 
    The holidays are fast approaching; although they’re the busiest and most hectic time, they’re the most family oriented time of the year.  The time when our best intentioned plans often go awry because there is so much to do.  
    My advice – stay focused and make a plan. Perhaps some of these suggestions will help… 
• Set the table early – today, if possible – use what you were saving for company, such as: your best china, silver and stemware, or the beautiful tablecloth that was Grandma’s. (The sooner you do, the less time in which your dining room table will be the drop off for non-dining room “stuff”.)
• Make sure all serving pieces are washed thoroughly and silver is polished (in advance). 
• Look at the rest of your dining room and see if it’s neat, orderly and user-friendly for entertaining. If serving buffet is your style, make sure there’s enough room for all the food and adornments on your table. Don’t be left to scrounge for more set-up space when company is walking in the door. 
• Do your decorations overwhelm your guests? Is there still room for comfortable seating or should you move things around in advance to accommodate everyone? 
• If you can’t deal with all the cooking yourself, suggest a potluck: where everyone brings a dish. It’s not really about the food, but about the good time everyone will have when they get together. (Just make sure everyone doesn’t bring the same dish.) 
• To ensure that guests don’t turn up too early, set the time for them to arrive and don’t leave it too open ended. 
• If guests are staying over, make sure their quarters are prepared and user friendly (empty drawers and closet space, clean towels, fresh bed linens). Do you want to decorate that area with holiday décor? 
• Is your coat closet empty? Are there extra hangers in it? 
• Do candle holders have candles? 
• For growing family gatherings, to relieve stress, hiring a caterer is always an option.  
• If you are cooking, did you plan and write out your entire menu with the time you will serve, so you know how the event will flow? 
• What about the kids? Have you planned anything special for them to keep them happy and occupied? 
• If gift giving is part of your celebration, be sure you’ve wrapped a few extra presents. (If additional guests turn up, no one will feel left out.) 
    Enjoy the holidays and best wishes 
from the Weinstein staff to you this 
holiday season! 

 

Calendar of Events

By
Marc Piperno
-
 

Great Beer Expo
November 2nd  • 12:30PM-4:00PM & 5:30PM-9:00PM
NYCB Live at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum – 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale
Note: Guests 21 +            
It’s fall, which means football games, crisp days and cool nights, but more importantly, LONG ISLAND’S BEST BEER FEST. Featuring samplings from over 100 of the finest quality beers: hometown favorites, national award winning brews and international stand-outs, you won’t want to miss it. If beer is not your thing, not to worry because they’ll have a large selection of wines and ciders too. So, for a pay-one-price general admission ticket ($45 per person), come enjoy endless samples and see why it’s Long Island’s longest-running and most highly-praised beer festival. 

The I Love Chocolate Fest
November 9th & 10th • 10:00AM-6:00PM
Walt Whitman Shops
Are you a chocolate lover? If so, then the 5th annual I Love Chocolate Festival will blow you away. Featuring over 50 exhibits, you’ll find chocolate covered everything: fudge, crepes, truffles, coffee, cake, ice cream…the list goes on. Besides delicious food, you can also enjoy local wine and spirits, live music and entertainment or you can shop the unique handmade crafts—chocolate candles, body lotions, soaps and more. They’ll even have a chocolate art exhibit and chocolate donut eating contest, plus interactive inflatable attractions for the kids. So, hurry up and get your tickets! Prices go up November 8th at 8PM.  lovechocolatefest.com

Fish & Sips
November 15th • 7:00PM-10:30PM
LI Aquarium (413 East Main Street, Riverhead)
Note: Guests 21+
Check-In at Sea Star
Looking for a memorable east end wine tasting event? This is the one to attend. For the 11th year in a row, the LI Aquarium celebrates the harvest with over 20 local wineries and craft beverage makers.  For just $54.95 per person, there will be tastings and purchase opportunities of delectable wines, craft beer, and other beverages accompanied by live music and delicious hors d’oeuvres. And, if you’re coming from afar, they’ll also have great hotel packages with the adjacent Hyatt Place. (Reservations required – call 631.208.9200, ext. 426 or book online at LongIslandAquarium.com)

Patchogue Village Christmas Boat Parade
November 24th • 6:00PM-8:00PM
Patchogue Riverfront
For the 26th year in a row, Patchogue will be hosting their annual river holiday boat parade. What’s better than watching dozens of decorated boats light up the water from your favorite riverfront establishments? If you’re looking for some of the best places to dine at while catching a glimpse of the parade: The Oar Steak & Seafood Grille, Off Key Tiki, Drift 82, Harbor Crab Co. and Island View Marina are it. Wether you choose a restaurant or public viewing location—Sandspit Park Beach & Marina or the Davis Park and Watch Hill Ferry Terminals, they’ll have live music and festivities at each.

Holiday Artisan Festival
November 30th • 9:00AM-4:00PM
Nassau Suffolk Town Square – 3394 Long Beach Road, Oceanside
Home to some of the best artists, creatives, designers and crafters in the area, this makes finding the perfect holiday gift easy. It’s a day filled with not only magical shopping, but, delicious food and fun for the entire family. And, if you’re in the mood for a good laugh, now you’ll have it while Long Island native comedian, Jaime Roberts, hosts the festivals entertainment production.

30th Annual Long Island Festival of Trees
November 29th, 30th & December 1st • 10:00AM-5:00PM
Cradle of Aviation Museum, Garden City
Children $10  –  Adults $15
Start the holiday season off right! Here, they’ll have one-of-a-kind designer-decorated trees and gingerbread houses for purchase or viewing. The day will include ongoing live entertainment, a Santa’s gift shop, vendor marketplace, indoor ice skating rink and Department 56 village. Bringing the kids?  Besides getting great photo ops with Santa, they get to decorate their own gingerbread cookie. Plus, all proceeds raised from the event will benefit the Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County and Cradle of Aviation Museum!

1880’s Thanksgiving at Old Bethpage Village Restoration
November 30th & December 1st • 10:00AM-4:00PM 
1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage
There’s no better way to celebrate the holiday then to step back in time and experience Thanksgiving in the 1880’s. The day will feature traditional cooking demonstrations, fiddle music, historic legends and more. They’ll have wood-burning stoves, beehive ovens and hearths fired up as they prepare foods and baked goods from 19th century recipes. Then, for added entertainment, there will be children’s storytelling and methods on traditional food preservation. 

 

3 Holiday Activities to Engage with Loved Ones

By
Marc Piperno
-
 

3 Holiday Activities to Engage with Loved Ones

    Any time can be the right time to enjoy memorable moments with family members, but the holidays present a special opportunity to have meaningful conversations and interactions with loved ones. 
    One of the best ways to spark creativity and generate memories is through activities that get the conversation started, whether it's remembering favorite moments from the past or simply sharing notes of appreciation. This holiday season, consider these activity ideas from the Funeral and Memorial Information Council, which created the "Have the Talk of a Lifetime" initiative to encourage families to facilitate conversations that become invaluable when the time comes to honor a loved one. 
    While these conversations can be difficult to engage in and even harder to begin, the natural bonding moments that stem from activities like these can help make the process easier. 
Gratitude Tree
    Start a new tradition by creating a gratitude tree, a simple decoration you can look forward to using each year as a reminder of what you and your family are thankful for. 
    To make a gratitude tree, collect twigs or branches, dry them out and cut them to the desired lengths. Put the branches in a vase or decorative container. Punch holes at the tops of fall-colored paper to be used as tags then instruct guests to write what they're grateful for on each tag.     
    Take turns reading the tags and tie them to the branches then keep the handwritten tags in a safe place until they can be read again each holiday season. Over the years, as the tree fills up, you'll have a lifetime of memories to share.
Time Capsule
    Making a holiday-inspired time capsule can help strengthen family bonds while preserving treasured memories and creating opportunities for future holidays when it's time to reopen the contents. 
    Use a sealed container or plastic bag to protect items from moisture and mold then place the container in a box that can be decorated and stored in a safe place with related holiday decorations. Mark on the container the date it was created for future reference, and pack it with items like family-favorite recipes; notes about significant events from that year like births, weddings, graduations and more; copies of newspapers detailing high-profile happenings; and pictures, drawings and notes from the year. 
    If you're patient enough to wait, try leaving the contents undisturbed at least five years to give the memories even more meaning when the time comes to relive those special moments. 
Memories Tablecloth
    To help keep important family footnotes front and center during future celebrations, a memorial tablecloth provides each person an opportunity to personalize a piece of popular decor. As you gather around the table for holiday meals, ask each family member to jot down a favorite memory or something he or she is thankful for along with a signature and date. 
    You can make it an annual event by using the same tablecloth each year and, before long, it will be filled with personal memories as a way to cherish relationships as time goes on. Just use an appropriately sized, inexpensive white canvas drop cloth. Place fabric markers in the center of the table before inviting guests to participate, and to help distinguish each year, try using different colored markers. 
    Find more ways to celebrate the holidays with your loved ones at talkofalifetime.org. (Family Features)
#14949 Source: Funeral and Memorial Information Council
 

 

LONDON Old Favorites & New Experiences

By
Marc Piperno
-

Claudia Fenner is a writer, photographer and travel enthusiast from Dix Hills. Have any travel questions you would like answered? Email her at travelingclaudia@gmail.com. 
Happy Travels!

This trip truly showed us that from our young we shall be taught. Cheerio and Happy Travels!

   We have been to London a few times in the past and always seem to revisit our old favorites. However, on a recent trip this past spring, we were accompanied by our 21 year old daughter, who opened our eyes with new sights to see and new experiences to enjoy.
     We chose the Hampton Inn by Hilton Waterloo Station, because a triple room wasn’t exponentially more than a double, which is hard to find in London.  Yes… it was a bit of a tight fit for three people, but it was in  a central location, included a full breakfast, and the hotel staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. 
          So a bit of the old…
    We bought a 2-day pass for the “Big Bus” Hop On Hop Off bus tour. (About $40 per person, and well worth it.) We used it as transportation around the city for two full days, and it included a Thames River cruise, that was fantastic.  There are a few companies that run similar buses; I highly recommend them as a place to begin your visit.
    We also made our usual trek to Harrods in Knightsbridge.  It’s a store that is unparalleled in size and full of interesting things no matter what your budget.
    “Broadway” shows in London are less than half the price of shows in Manhattan, so while you are visiting, it’s a great time to catch as many as possible.  The official TKTS booth, where you can purchase discounted same-day tickets, is located in Leicester Square.
       And now for the new… 
 On our daughter’s recommendation, we visited Sky Garden. Located near the Tower of London, Sky Garden is an indoor lush garden on the 35th floor of ‘The Walkie Talkie’ building at, 20 Fenchurch Street.  Opened in 2015, Sky Garden offers gorgeous free views of the London skyline. Be sure to make a reservation at skygarden.london, as it’s a very popular attraction.  
    Also new and recommended by our young tour guide/daughter, was Camden Market. Located (a 20-minute walk–more or less.) north of Euston Station, Camden Market offers something for everyone. Shopping, music, a hopping bar scene and a collection of food stalls that are as delicious as they are varied. Go to camdenmarket.com, for more information.    
    We missed our usual fish and chips, but we did fit in a few outstanding ethnic gems. Indian at Dishoom, Lebanese at Al Waha, French at Cote, Cuban at Cubana (near our hotel) and Ethiopian at the Lower Marsh Food Fair rounded out our meals.
    London has something for everyone. Be sure to take advantage of all the sights it has to offer. 

 

Calendar of Events

By
Marc Piperno
-
 

Looking to fill your weekends up? No matter what it is that excites you, there are so many things to do in celebration of fall and the upcoming holiday season. Whether it means planning a date night, or day of family fun, we’ve found some of the best events happening on Long Island throughout November into December. So, be sure to check them out!

Great Beer Expo
November 2nd 
12:30PM-4:00PM & 5:30PM-9:00PM
NYCB Live at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale            Note: Guests 21 +            
It’s fall, which means football games, crisp days and cool nights, but more 
importantly, LONG ISLAND’S BEST BEER FEST. Featuring samplings from over 100 of the finest quality beers: hometown favorites, national award winning brews and international stand-outs, you won’t want to miss it. If beer is not your thing, not to worry because they’ll have a large selection 
of wines and ciders too. So, for a pay-one-price general admission ticket 
($45 per person), come enjoy endless samples and see why it’s 
Long Island’s longest-running and most highly-praised beer festival. 

The I love Chocolate Fest
November 9th & 10th
Walt Whitman Shops
10:00AM-6:00PM
Are you a chocolate lover? If so, then the 5th annual I Love Chocolate Festival will blow you away. Featuring over 50 exhibits, you’ll find chocolate covered everything: fudge, crepes, truffles, coffee, cake, ice cream…the list goes on. Besides delicious food, you can also enjoy local wine and spirits, live music and entertainment or you can shop the unique handmade crafts—chocolate candles, body lotions, soaps and more. They’ll even have a chocolate art 
exhibit and chocolate donut eating contest, plus interactive inflatable 
attractions for the kids. So, hurry up and get your tickets! Prices go up 
November 8th at 8PM. lovechocolatefest.com

Fish & Sips
November 15th
7:00PM-10:30PM
LI Aquarium (413 East Main Street, Riverhead)
Note: Guests 21+
Check-In at Sea Star
Looking for a memorable east end wine tasting event? This is the one to 
attend. For the 11th year in a row, the LI Aquarium celebrates the harvest with over 20 local wineries and craft beverage makers.  For just $54.95 per person, there will be tastings and purchase opportunities of delectable wines, craft beer, and other beverages accompanied by live music and delicious 
hors d’oeuvres. And, if you’re coming from afar, they’ll also have great 
hotel packages with the adjacent Hyatt Place. (Reservations required – 
call 631.208.9200, ext. 426 or book online at LongIslandAquarium.com)

 

patchogue Village Christmas Boat Parade
November 24th
6:00PM-8:00PM
Patchogue Riverfront
For the 26th year in a row, Patchogue will be hosting their annual river holiday boat parade. What’s better than watching dozens of decorated boats light up the water from your favorite riverfront establishments? If you’re looking for some of the best places to dine at while catching a glimpse of the parade: The Oar Steak & Seafood Grille, Off Key Tiki, Drift 82, Harbor Crab Co. and Island View Marina are it. Wether you choose a restaurant or public viewing location—Sandspit Park Beach & Marina or the Davis Park and Watch Hill Ferry Terminals, they’ll have live music and festivities at each.

 

Holiday Artisan 
Festival                November 30th
9:00AM-4:00PM
Nassau Suffolk Town Square
3394 Long Beach Road, Oceanside
Home to some of the best artists, creatives, designers and crafters
in the area, this makes finding the perfect holiday gift easy. It’s a
day filled with not only magical shopping, but, delicious food
and fun for the entire family. And, if you’re in the mood for a good laugh, now you’ll have it while Long Island native comedian, Jaime Roberts, hosts the festivals entertainment production.

30th Annual Long Island 
Festival of Trees
November 29th, 30th & December 1st            10:00AM-5:00PM
Cradle of Aviation Museum, Garden City
Children $10 Adults $15
Start the holiday season off right! Here, they’ll have one-of-a-
kind designer-decorated trees and gingerbread houses for purchase or viewing. The day will include ongoing live entertainment, a Santa’s gift shop, vendor marketplace, indoor ice skating rink and Department 56 village. Bringing the kids?  Besides getting great photo ops with Santa, they get to decorate their own 
gingerbread cookie. Plus, all proceeds raised from the event will benefit the Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County and 
Cradle of Aviation Museum!

1880’s Thanksgiving at 
Old Bethpage Village 
Restoration
November 30th & December 1st     
10:00AM-4:00PM                1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage
There’s no better way to celebrate the holiday then to step back in time and experience Thanksgiving in the 1880’s. The day will 
feature traditional cooking demonstrations, fiddle music, historic legends and more. They’ll have wood-burning stoves, beehive ovens and hearths fired up as they prepare foods and baked goods from 19th century recipes. Then, for added entertainment, there will be children’s storytelling and methods on traditional food preservation. 

 

Restaurant Review : VINOCO Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant

By
Marc Piperno
-

Joanna Adduci is a Northport resident, 
currently working as a Marketing & Social Media Specialist. She has a B.S. in Journalism from St. John's University and is active within her community as a writer and mentor. Joanna can be reached by email at 
LISAVORYEATS@gmail.com. 
    One of my favorite things about traveling outside the United States is the ability to leisurely dine. Three to four-course meals served over a few hours, a carafe of wine, outdoor setting – you really can’t go wrong. I recently visited Vinoco Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant and was transported back to meals enjoyed abroad in Portugal, Italy, and Hungary. Quaint, cozy and comfortable – this establishment leaves the details of their dishes to the imagination. Their motto: “Rather than offering individual starters and main courses, Vinoco serves dishes that are designed for sharing amongst friends. These dishes are brought to the table steadily and continuously throughout the meal.” Steadily and continually dining is the European way, and it’s nothing short of pure joy.
    We began our culinary expedition with the empanadas: buffalo chicken, spinach & feta, and mac & cheese. Served untraditionally pre-sliced and sauced – these were especially delicious. (And a deal, at 3/$12!) Pro-tip: They have a blackboard with empanada specials of the day, so make sure to check with your server before ordering. Next, we sampled the Balinese Fried Chicken Rolls (crispy spring rolls, fried chicken, and bacon infused with spicy peanut, coconut, cilantro & chili sauce topped with mango salsa & fresh cilantro). Savory, spicy, crispy… I would definitely order these again. Next up, the Duo Fried Chicken Banh Mi (Asian Buns) – Korean BBQ fried chicken with pickled onion, mango salsa, bang bang aioli, and shoestring sweet potato. We also couldn’t resist the Polynesian Drama (Kalua Pork Banh Mi): braised pork infused with smoky brown sugar, pineapple salsa, and crispy bacon, topped with piña colada homemade coleslaw. I love Asian buns and these were particularly full of flavor.
    As the meal progressed, we moved onto the Mediterranean Tacos (falafel stuffed with goat cheese & feta, topped with yellow creamy chili sauce, and pickled onion, served over a corn tortilla), Deconstructed Prosciutto Dates And Fig Flat Bread (figs wrapped with prosciutto, topped with melted provolone and bacon croutons, served over creamy drunken alfredo sauce with toasted flatbread, finished with a drizzle of fig glaze) and Fried Chicken Sushi, which was particularly memorable.
    For dessert, they offer empanadas, and rotating specials such as bacon cheesecake. But, trust me here: order the fried oreos. They're ooey, gooey and glorious in their chocolatey, fried goodness. Next time, we'll take some for the road. (Yes, they're that good and a steal at $5!)
    Each dish at Vinoco offers a distinctive flavor profile and tells a story of its own. The menu changes routinely but stays true to its style and vision. If you are someone who enjoys a leisurely meal, and adventurous dining, you should definitely visit Vinoco at 147 Mineola Blvd., Mineola. Perfect for date night, girl’s night or a solo outing after work.  Also, be sure to check out their other location, Vinoco East at 223 Main Street in Farmingdale. 

 

Falling For Pie Season

By
Marc Piperno
-

Denise Gianatasio is a Northport Village resident, freelance writer and licensed agent at Signature Premier Properties in Northport. Please feel free to contact her for any advice you may need at dishinwithdenise@yahoo.com.

    With those warm days of summer behind us and the air becoming crisp and cooler, it’s the time to turn on our ovens and make some love the old fashioned way…Bake a pie! 
    Abundant now are apples and pumpkins, but I will be searching the farm stands and farmers market for the last of those delicious, juicy, golden red peaches before they are gone. Do not fret. The good news is that even when the local peach season is over, we can still find them being brought in from California, South Carolina, Washington and Georgia. 
    Peach pie is my favorite! I prefer to serve it warm–paired with a good vanilla and caramel ice cream. My Grandchildren take delight in eating this, as it is their favorite dessert. Simply easy to prepare, but certainly not humble! Flaky crust surrounds this juicy sweet fruit and the aroma is just sensational. One bite and the taste is sure to bring summer back to mind. So, savor the flavor!  xoxo…Dishin’ with Denise

12 large peaches (ripe but firm)
2 frozen prepared 9” deep dish pie crusts
1 glass deep dish pie plate
½ cup sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoons fresh lemon juice
¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into thin slices
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons water
Aluminum foil strips to cover outer edges of the pie (to prevent burning)

    Put frozen pie crusts on counter to semi-defrost (this will make the dough pliable and easier to mold into pie plate). 
    Boil a large pot of water and immerse peaches into water for 1 minute, then immediately place them into an ice water bath–to prevent further cooking. This method makes peeling off the fruit skin effortless. 
    Slice peaches and place into a bowl. Add sugars, flour, lemon juice, spices and butter, toss gently until mixed well. Now, add mixture to pie plate that has one crust molded to fit, then gently use the other crust to fit over the top. Poke fork holes here and there to allow heat to escape. 
    Beat egg yolk with water and then brush the top and edges of crust. Sprinkle additional sugar on pie and wrap outer edges only with foil. 
    Bake at 425° for 15 minutes. Then lower oven to 375° for 40 more minutes. 

 

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