Good Taste with Tanji - Wine, food and fun with Tanji Patton.

Weekly Gems

Texas Treasure Sure to Please

Josephine St. - facade

When was the last time you visited a true Texas Roadhouse right in the center of town? There’s a little gem on the side of the road (and on the way to the rodeo) that locals have known about for years and visitors to San Antonio are always glad to find—Josephine Street Café.

Josephine St. - facade

Texas Treasure Sure to Please

When was the last time you visited a true Texas Roadhouse right in the center of town? There’s a little gem on the side of the road (and on the way to the rodeo) that locals have known about for years and visitors to San Antonio are always glad to find—Josephine Street Café.

H-E-B Spicy Tuna

My heart beats for this tuna!

Add a bit of spice to your romance with a heart-shaped, Spicy Tuna Veracruz from Cooking Connections. This is definitely a dish to dress up and have fun with! These filets are cooked with grapeseed oil, which includes the health benefits of olive oil but with a higher smoking point.

Zinc Wine Bar's Paella

Flirt with this fiery paella!

Nothing feels more romantic than an intimate dinner for two on the River Walk for Valentine’s Day. The fabulous Zinc Bistro & Wine Bar is single-handedly helping you to spice things up with this devilish dish: a Paella Valenciana for Two!

Araya chocolate

Say ‘I love you’ with chocolate from Araya

Little, individuals pieces of art – that’s truly what these adorable artisan chocolates from Araya are! High grade, primo blends from Venezuela that taste just as impressive as they look. I was lucky enough to try a few…the Pink Salt, which is a strong dark chocolate ganache with a touch of pink salt from the Himalayan Mountains!

Olivette's panna cotta

I’m Passionate About This Panna Cotta!

Feel the passion this Valentine’s Day at Olivette at The Houstonian with their Passion Fruit Panna Cotta. I don’t often eat dessert unless it’s chocolate, but I have to say this one gives chocolate a run for its money! The zesty, exotic flavor blew me away. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare….

Rodeo wines at the Wine Garden at the Little Red Barn

A good ole fashioned roundup at the Wine Garden

Meet at the Wine Garden! That’s the place to try some award winning wines before or after a rodeo performance. You’ll find it right near the Coliseum entrance. Not only can you taste wines for free, but you can buy a bottle of what you like.

It’s the second year in a row for the Wine Garden, an annual 7000 square foot ‘nook,’ to spring up at this cowboy conference and greet patrons with a selection of over 50 award-winning wines including …

Heart & Soul sparkling wine

A red wine love affair

Plan something special for romance month with these sexy selections from H-E-B. Two lush, big reds and a sweet bubbly found the keys to my heart! First, this Chelsea Goldschmidt merlot from Alexander Valley…flavors of blackberry and black cherry intimately intertwine and for a fantastic value at under $17!

Stir fried shrimp

Shrimp Stir Fry & Brie On The Fly!

It’s far from fast food, but talk about speedy service for your stomach! I recently stopped by the brand new Cooking Connections location inside H-E-B’s Montrose Market for a visit with Chef Sean Robertson.

Burger

Follow the fork to gourmet food

If you’ve come to the Fork in the Road, then you’ve come to the right place! It’s a real party at H-E-B’s Montrose Market location and their terrific gourmet food truck. Chef Sheryl whipped up some curbside delicacies for me, including a prime burger made with chunks of blue cheese, fresh parsley and her signature secret seasoning.

Meat salad

The Diet that Works for Me

This diet worked for me once, so I’m doing it again to start the new year! It’s a no-brainer diet, and that’s what I love about it. They do all the work for you–prepare the food, choose the meals (you can have input) and monitor your progress.

Simple Life wine label

Light & lovely winter wines

Love the cold weather to start the New Year (at least it’s cold to us). Nothing beats a great glass of wine in front of a roaring fire! H-E-B has you covered with these vinos that are perfect for sipping and soaking it all in! Up first is

Houstonian holiday interior

The Houstonian is your holiday headquarters

The real spirit of the holidays comes alive each year (the day after Thanksgiving to be exact!) at The Houstonian Hotel in scenic Uptown. Lavish decorations grace what seems like every square inch of this luxurious property, making it the ultimate destination for shoppers and admirers alike to revel in the joyous mood.

Delicious bruschetta

Delicious bruschetta

I know the holidays can be stressful, but it’s also the time of year when you should be having the most fun. Instead of slaving for hours in the kitchen to prepare something thorough and satisfying for guests, why not spare say…15 minutes?

Susan Reed's dulce de leche

Susan Reed’s homemade dulce de leche

Judge’s Orders — Rally up the troops and make this an activity that the entire family can get in on! You’ve got to use your hands and dig in when assembling the honorable Susan Reed’s positively divine Dulce de Leche (or “sweet milk”). Pick up a can of Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk and prepare for total caramelization!

nov11_paesanos_fall-foods.preview

Wonderful Winter picks from Paesanos

Paesanos 1604 in San Antonio has long set a standard of excellence for gourmet dining in the Alamo City. And speaking of standards, Chef Clark McDaniel – THE Chef Clark of Clark’s Seasoning found in local retailers – was on hand for the roll-out of Paesanos new ‘cool weather’ food lineup!

nov11_masraffs_bordeaux-wines.preview

The Beauty of Bordeaux Pairings

It’s no wonder the world’s most knowledgeable wine connoisseurs are captivated by Bordeaux. Sure, to command the sometimes outrageous prices there’s some hype. With wine there always is, but Bordeaux wines are the standard and have been for centuries, especially when it comes to pairing with food.

nov11_cappys.preview

Healthy Bean Burger…Really?!

This place really puts a smile on my face. Cappy’s Restaurant is a landmark in Alamo Heights and it’s the ONLY place where you can find my all-time favorite bean burger – one that’s made with Akaushi beef from HeartBrand. What a world of difference in both taste and health Heartbrand Akaushi is…did you know Akaushi cattle are actually a national treasure in Japan?! And get this: Texas is the only place in the world outside of Japan that hosts this incredible breed of cattle.

oct11_grapevine-txwinebar.preview

‘Taste it’ through the Grapevine

Historic Gruene, TX truly embodies the small-town Texan spirit: scenic views, incredible food and live music 7 nights a week! And don’t think that the Grapevine Texas Wine Bar is out to prove anything different…

oct11_masraffs_risotto.preview

A crowning hot & cold contrast

There are some restaurants that just make you go “WOW!” each and every time you’re there. From its spacious interior to its pristine patio and soothing wall of water, Masraff’s on the Boulevard is definitely that place. Not to mention, of course, their classical cuisine.

oct11_heb_wine.preview

Cool Oktober wines

My sommelier Ralph has some cool weather wine picks to curl up with this autumn season! The Urban Riesling has a stone front and places tons of emphasis on the apricot and peach flavors- a perfect selection with spicy pork, even Thai food.

oct11_heb_cm_pasta-sauces.preview

Homemade pasta sauces are a cinch!

“Everything you see I owe to pasta” so said Italian screen siren Sophia Loren. At least her love of pasta showed up in the right places. Pasta truly is one of life’s great culinary pleasures, and it’s even better when it’s homemade…including the sauce!

oct11_aldacos_drinks-dessert.preview

You deserve Aldaco’s desserts

La maestra, Blanca Aldaco is a true culinary innovator. Her desserts are simply to die for! Did you know that it was Blanca herself that brought the recipe for traditional tres leches cake to San Antonio?? How cool is that!

oct11_boudros_riverboat.preview

Boudro’s barges in!

Boudro’s is an incredibly popoular dining destination for tourists and locals alike- and for good reason! The Riverwalk in downtown San Antonio has a crisp and vibrant atmosphere this time of year, and Boudro’s distinctive menu of Texas and southwestern specialties is just the icing on the cake…especially when it comes to breaking bread aboard one of its private river barges!

sep11_homewerks_pastatools.preview

HomeWerks serves you with ease

Homewerks is full-proof when it comes to having your back for culinary creations. They have some amazing, fun items that make pasta cooking so convenient. There are simple tools like the Viking Professional that help to regulate the different sizes and widths of your noodles…

sep11_lasfinezas_jewelery.preview

Play dress up with Las Finezas’ jewelry

Whether it’s fancying up your home, or adding a bit of pizzazz to your own outfit, Las Finezas in the Texas Hill Country definitely has the bling for you to do just that! There are some wonderfully ornate pieces of artesian jewelry here, many of which are unique lines you can only find in this burgeoning Boerne boutique.

sep11_heb_cm_makingpasta.preview

Soft, silky & sexy pasta perfection

Central Market culinary maestra Mary Martini is on a mission – a very tasteful one I might add! Mary’s passion is pasta—homemade pasta—and she’s bound and determined to teach us how to create our own delicious dishes complete with freshly made sauces.

sep11_heb_tailgate.preview

A true Texan tailgates

In the spirit of friendly competition, these guys and gals cook it out! It seems like any game you attend, college or professional, tailgating is as much a part of fan culture as face paint or wearing team colors. And they mean business!

HEB Tailgate Spuds_Jalapeno Poppers

Score with these tailgating finger foods

It’s official: Football season is here! My dear friend, Rosie Benner of HEB, is sharing some fun recipes to usher in the occasion. You should definitely call a timeout to try the stuffed jalapeño poppers– packed with fried onions, Oaxaca cheese and, of course, plenty of fajita meat, they’re as positively fresh as they are crunchy!

Steinheimer's Lounge - Band

The Mood is live at Steinheimer’s Lounge

Come in, kick back and join the club. The décor at the newly remodeled Steinheimer’s Lounge at the Westin La Cantera is positively stunning! Open from 5PM until 2AM, the spacious property offers both indoor and outdoor seating as well as some classy live music like Johnny P and The Wiseguys.

The 25th Annual Gruene Music & Wine Fest

25 Years and Counting for the Gruene Music & Wine Fest!

This is truly history in the making for the historic Gruene, Texas. October 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of the annual Gruene Music & Wine Fest held right in our own backyard! Located just off the banks of the Guadalupe River, this rockin’ four-day celebration is a fantastic opportunity for you and your family to come and enjoy the sights and sounds of small town Texas culture, up close and personal.

Are you feeling saucy?

Are you feeling saucy?!

So many sauces… so little time! And let’s face it, time is what it’s all about with our busy lives. Discovering HEB’s Cooking Connection was a God send to our busy schedules. They have some incredible sauces made with natural ingredients…no heavy preservatives and additives. You can literally whip up an incredible dish in no time. I asked Chef Elizabeth Hallier to demonstrate a few of her favorite ‘go to’ Cooking Connection sauces…the ones she keeps in her kitchen at home.

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse - steak

Pappas Bros. take healthy steaks To ‘Heart’

Akaushi prime beef by HeartBrand Beef is being called “life changing” for a reason. The highly marbled cuts have a delicious, rich buttery taste due to the amount of oleic acid present in them. And there are heart benefits to Akaushi as well!

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Yahoo! It’s Masraff’s Ono Wahoo

Known for its intimate dining atmosphere, Masraff’s on the boulevard is never one to disappoint! Resident Chef Dominic previews the ‘it’ item of the moment on their menu, the Ono Wahoo.

Masraff's Salmon

Masraff’s wild king salmon

Known for its beautiful patio with the relaxing waterfall and its sleek indoor decor (complete with floating fireplace!), Masraff’s on the boulevard always has something enticing. I was an instant fan with their garlic-seared calamari and their pristine white, delicious crab cake.

Boudro's duck quesadilla is smokin'

Boudro’s duck quesadilla is smokin’!

It’s not too often that one of the most popular tourist restaurants on the River Walk is also one of the most popular restaurants with locals too. Yes, Boudro’s just keeps on delivering! You have got to try their famous tables side guacamole, their Prickly Pear Margarita and the Texas Martini (jalapeño stuffed olives anyone?), but add another item to that list.

Keep cool with a nice brew this summer

Keep cool with a nice brew this summer

As you know, I love a good glass of wine. But in the summer, sometimes an iced-cold beer is best. Matt Wheeler, the Sommelier at the H-E-B Bunker Hill, has some suggestions on finding a beer to beat the heat. Alamo Golden Ale is a smooth beer.

Strike gold at Steinheimer's Lounge

Strike gold at Steinheimer’s Lounge

What a way to enjoy the Texas Hill Country! The fabulous Westin La Cantera recently renovated the resort’s signature bar Steinheimer’s Lounge. And the re-do is worth its weight in gold! There is a very romantic story about the bar’s namesake, Karl Steinheimer. He started out as a pirate. Then, became a miner and he struck gold in Mexico.

Honey lavender peach crisp

Honey lavender peach crisp

How Hill Country can you get? With this dish, you will feel like you are in the heart of the rolling hills. Peaches, lavender and a crispy crust…delicious! Talented Chef Ross Burtwell from Cabernet Grill in Fredericksburg uses as many local ingredients as possible…

BBQ Spread

Finding the Best BBQ in Texas

How do you like your brisket? Lean and smoky or tender and juicy? Either way, you know you can find it in Texas. I got to join some friends of mine on their “Texas BBQ Road Trip” recently. It was a 12 hour road trip that began north of Austin and ended in between Houston and San Antonio.

May '11 - Masraff's - Ahi tuna

Masraff’s ahi tuna tempura

If the stunning outdoor patio fountain at Masraff’s new location on Post Oak Boulevard doesn’t get your attention, the incredible food and ambiance inside will.

May '11 - Paesanos - Crab Cakes

Paesanos 1604’s fresh & light crab cakes for summer

Nothing says summer like fresh seafood served on a breathtaking patio. Chef Clark McDaniel of Paesanos 1604 has a variation on traditional crabcakes that you are going to love. Very light and tasty, these are steamed, not fried. And, there are no bread crumbs, so this dish has very few carbs.

May '11 - Silvia's Enchilada Kitchen - Enchiladas

Best Enchiladas?

A big thank you to our viewers who insisted we try Sylvia’s Enchilada Kitchen, a restaurant that serves eighteen different kinds of enchiladas! My first thought was there’s no way this could be good. After my first taste I was convinced—this is awesome!

May '11 - H-E-B - Cooking Connections - Steak

Amazing, year-round grilled steak

Whether it’s hot or cold outside, as Texans, it is pre-ordained that we spend lots of time at the grill! This is an amazing, year-round steak. The key is that it is dry-aged. Over time, the flavor builds to a delicious grade. You can’t find this at every supermarket.

H-E-B Chicken & Cake for Mom

For Mom: Lemon-Honey Chicken, Hugs and Kisses Cake!

Happy Mother’s Day to all you Moms out there! It’s a day designed just for you. Here’s a hint for the husbands and kids: make these dishes for Mom, and you’ll be a hero! Rosie Benner develops ALL the recipes that you find at H-E-B, and they’re fabulous. This grilled Honey Lemon Cilantro Chicken is slow-cooked, juicy and delicious.

Darren McGrady Burnt Creme

Royal chef’s delicious ‘burnt cream’

Royal Chef Darren McGrady not only worked for the queen for years but also for Princess Di and yes, Princes William and Harry. Watch as he creates a palace favorite—crème brulee or as the royals like to say ‘burnt cream’. Truly a dessert fit for a queen!

Also…details on how you could tour London, Windsor Castle and Paris with the Royal Chef.

Westin La Cantera

Brunch with a Breathtaking View!

Treat yourself to Sunday Brunch at Francesca’s at the beautiful Westin La Cantera! Brunch at Francesca’s is all new. ..and it’s all good. Also, it’s incredibly reasonable…Entré prices start as low as $11. The Chocolate Almond French Toast is delicious and so is the Lobster Salad.

The Fig Tree - Soft Shelled Crab

Serious seafood on the River Walk

Soft Shell Crab is now in season…and one of the best places to sample some is at the Fig Tree on the River Walk. This gem has THE most romantic patio in the city! And the new tasting menu is a great way to experience some fabulous food and wine, at an inexpensive price.

April '11 - Heartbrand - Grilling

How to cook the best steak money can buy

Once you’ve tried an Akaushi steak, there’s no going back to prime. These steaks are delicious. The Akaushi breed is a prized commodity in Japan…literally a national treasure. The entire breed is owned by the Japanese government. One herd exists outside of Japan, and it’s right here in Texas.

apr11_homestead_heritage

Best Oatmeal & Grits I’ve Tasted

In my ongoing adventure of exploring wonderful food and new wines, I see a common thread in Texas. More and more restaurants are sourcing locally produced products…often organic. The result is usually better tasting food.

There’s an interesting religious farming community just outside of Waco that’s becoming known for its artisan cheeses and grains. A number of your best restaurants in Houston, San Antonio and Dallas serve their products.

apr11_aldacos_watermelon-margarita

Just say yes!

This has to be the best way to enjoy watermelon—on ice with a little tequila! This margarita is the most recent creation by the Margarita Maven Blanca Aldaco at Aldaco’s Stone Oak. It is delightfully refreshing and perfect for any Fiesta! Blanca shows you how easy it is to make.

March 11 - Bastianich - Eataly - Tanji & Lidia

My Taste of Eataly with Lidia Bastianich – Bravissimo!

Three of New York’s best Italian culinary stars are the genius behind the city’s new giant Italian marketplace called Eataly. Lidia Bastianich, Joe Bastianich and Mario Batali, who all have fabulous resturants in NYC, are now showcasing the best of Italy in this entertaining emporium modeled after their partner Oscar Farinetti’s emporium in Turin, Italy.

HeartBrand BBQ

The BEST Steaks Come from Here

You’ve heard of Kobe or Waygu and seen the steaks in top restaurants, but do you know about Akaushi?

The Akaushi breed is a prized commodity in Japan…literally a national treasure.

HEB SA Cook Connections Salmon

All Texas – All Goodtaste!

Sure things are bigger and better in Texas, and local produce and products from Texas often taste better too because they’re fresh! Chef Elizabeth with HEB’s Cooking Connections whips up a super simple meal with some delicious sides. The Oaxacan Creamed Corn is phenomenal!

Feb '11 - Cooking Connections - Houston - Watermelon Chicken

Watermelon Chicken a Treat at Tex Fest

When I heard what this dish was called, I was intrigued. A watermelon glaze on chicken…what in the world is that? Wow, it’s delicious! Sweet combines with savory, and the result is an explosion of flavors. This easy to prepare dish is from HEB’s Cooking Connections and features products ALL sourced from Texas. It’s just one of the wonderful recipes that will be featured at HEB’s Tex Fest which goes on the first couple of weeks of March.

Gem 137 - Royal Chef Darren Mcgrady Prince William

Royals’ Wedding Feast

Romance is in the air and all over the airwaves now that Prince William and ‘Kate’ are engaged. If you were planning perhaps the most celebrated wedding of the decade, what would you serve? I asked Royal Chef Darren McGrady what he would serve at the Royal Wedding.

Gem 136 - Choicolate

Heart for Chocolate

Bliss in a box! A friend gave me a box of these delightful ‘Choicolates’ for Christmas, and I finished all two dozen of them… by myself! They are beautiful, delicate works of art not only in appearance but also in taste.

Gem 134 H-E-B - Cooking Connections - Eggs

Eggs for lovers…really?

Really! This elegant frittata is the perfect dish to impress someone special. It whips up in no time and makes for a perfect cozy breakfast in bed or a romantic brunch for your Valentine.

Gem 132 - Boudro's Duck Gumbo

Secrets to a Hearty Soup

The richest, most flavorful soups often start with a roux—a simple mixture of flour and butter that thicken the soup. Sounds easy enough, but if you screw up your roux, you’re probably not going to like the way your soup turns out.

Gem 130 - Zinc Wine Bar - Eggnog

Eggnog Warning – It’s Addictive

Forget your diet till January – this eggnog from Zinc Bistro and Wine Bar is delicious! Bet you can’t drink just one! Serve this at your holiday table and you won’t even need a dessert.

Gem 122 - Halloween - Adults only this Halloween

Adults Only This Halloween

No more candy corn or popcorn balls – this Halloween I want to enjoy a treat with a little less sugar but still a lot of style, so I found a San Antonio chocolatier who can make just about anything you want out of chocolate. Apples are in peak form right now, so why not a yummy dark chocolate covered apple dripping with toasted nuts?

Gem 119 - Pearl Brewery - La Gloria

Pearl Farmers’ Market – Make a Meal Out of It!

Fresh produce, locally raised beef, local cheeses, homemade breads, yummy chocolates…you name it, Pearl Farmers’ Market in San Antonio has all that and more. Chef Johnny Hernandez, owner of the newest restaurant at Pearl called La Gloria, shows you how to shop and find the coolest foods at the market.

Gem 118 - Chef Weissman's Tuna Chip-n-Dip

Chef Weissman’s Tuna Chip-n-Dip

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Chef Andrew Weissman is known around the world in culinary circles. His Le Reve restaurant routinely was listed as one of the top ten restaurants in the USA. Lucky for us Chef Weissman loves San Antonio and has opened two new restaurants since closing Le Rêve…both are located at the fabulous historic Pearl. [...]

Gem 117 - Local chef updates savory empanadas - delicioso!

Local Chef Updates Savory Empanadas – Delicioso!

A treasure trove of antique recipes is tucked away into the stacks at the University of Texas San Antonio Library’s Special Collections. Thumbing through the books is fascinating even if you aren’t fluent in Spanish. It’s obvious by the sketches and ingredients that ‘food’ translated in any language means ‘love’.

Gem 116 - Juicy shrimp, lima beans & chorizo at The Fig Tree

Juicy Shrimp, Lima Beans & Chorizo at The Fig Tree

The Fig Tree is such a romantic restaurant whether you sit on the beautiful tree-shaded River Walk patio or inside the century old, beautifully decorated dining room. But that’s not all inspires passion at the Fig Tree – the creative French cuisine – as the French would say c’est si bon!

My First (hopefully not last) Pachamanca

It’s harvest time at Texas wineries, and one Hill Country vineyard celebrated with a tradition that dates back to the Incas. At the La Cruz del Comal winery just west of New Braunfels, the harvesting of the grapes started at sunrise.

Perfect hill country getaway

Perfect Hill Country Getaway

I found the most charming, unique bed and breakfast in Fredericksburg called the Cotton Gin Village. It features seven cabins decked out in Texas style with all the modern amenities you’d ever need like satellite TV, working kitchens and Jacuzzi tubs.

Make Time for Tea Time

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Traditional British tea, delicious sandwiches and mouthwatering brownies at only one place. Afternoon tea has long been a British tradition. Now, you can enjoy this delightful ritual right here in San Antonio at the Lion & Rose restaurant and pub in Sonterra.
Fresh [...]

Gott's Roadside - Best burgers in Napa

Gott’s Roadside – Best burgers in Napa

What’s the best hamburger you’ve ever had? In our neck of the woods I have two favorites – the ‘crack’ burger at Zinc on the Riverwalk, as locals call it because it’s so deliciously addictive, and the blue cheese burger out at the Alamo Springs Café near Comfort.

Biga’s Famous Sticky Toffee Pudding

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Can you believe it? Chef Bruce Auden gave me his recipe for Biga’s delicious Sticky Toffee Pudding…I hear this scrumptious dessert was inspired by Bruce’s mother.
Biga’s pastry chef shows you how to make this delightful pudding…eat one now and save one for later! [...]

Westin La Cantera - Mojito Madness

Mojito Madness at Westin La Cantera!

Nothing cools you down like an ice cold Mojito – the flavors of fresh lime juice, mint and rum are incredibly refreshing. The key to making the perfect Mojito is to use fresh ingredients and to avoid a couple of very common mistakes-don’t tear the mint leaves for starters!

Backyard Pizza Bash

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Talk about a party your friends and neighbors will never forget! A backyard pizza party where everyone is a chef. It’s a lot of fun and so easy to do. Each guest creates their own masterpiece. Have a contest to see whose [...]

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Watch a Master Chef in Action at Pearl

This beautiful truffled egg and asparagus salad is the creation of world renowned chef Andrew Weissman who continues to delight crowds at his new Il Sogno restaurant at the historic Pearl Brewery. Il Sogno means ‘the dream’ – and after you taste this salad, you’ll dream about it for days to come.

A New Way to Enjoy Fredericksburg Peaches

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The ripe, sweet and juicy peaches of Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country are legendary. When they arrive each summer unscathed by late frosts or spring hails, we breathe a sigh of relief. It’s a FABULOUS year for peaches, and [...]

EXTREME Steaks for Fourth of July

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How about a steak that’s gigantic enough to feed four? Or, a bone-in rib-eye that weighs 5 pounds?
If you’re planning a big celebration for the holiday, why not fire up the grill and enjoy a juicy, tender, GIANT steak from Bolner’s! [...]

Fun Father’s Day Find

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A huge selection of beers and pub food that’ll warm your heart – that’s what you’ll find at the Lion & Rose. Plus, check out their Father’s Day special and World Cup viewing… Scotch eggs anyone! Local beer expert and author [...]

Delicious ‘Pizza’ from the South of France

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To get a true Taste of Provence, there’s no better place in San Antonio than the charming Fig Tree restaurant on the River Walk. This has to be the MOST romantic restaurant in San Antonio. The food is fabulous! Each summer [...]

Apricot Nectar Chicken Salad

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Colorful fruit cups and a yummy Apricot Nectar Chicken Salad are just a couple of the fun summer food ideas from HEB’s Cooking Connections. These dishes are perfect for our hot summer days, and they’re so easy to make. Chef Kristy [...]

may10_paesanos_lamb

Shrimp Paesano and More

I want to introduce you to the Paesano’s at 1604. Sure, you can get the famous ‘Shrimp Paesano’ there, but you can also get some very special dishes that aren’t on the menu at the other Paesanos.

Gem 94 Aldaco's Margaritas

Zesty Margaritas on the Patio

It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy a view like no other – the patio at Aldaco’s Stone Oak. Sip Blanca’s award winning Zesty margarita, kick back and watch the clouds sail by.

gem93_fiesta-1

Tamales Galore!

The fabulous event chock full of food and fun is on. As your Official Fiesta Foodie, I have the ‘tough’ job of sampling a lot of the food, and so far, so fabulous!

A FUN Festival to Learn About Olive Oil

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The fabulous Olives Olé is back! Saturday make plans to head out to Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard and enjoy incredible food, wine and all kinds of different olive oils—even TEXAS olive oils.
This is a wonderful event put on by the prestigious Les Dames d’Escoffier – the [...]

Celebrate St Paddy’s at Lion & Rose English Pub

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Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the true Irish style – explore some fascinating beers and enjoy some hearty Irish food. In England the pub is a family gathering place known for good food and good beer. Lion & Rose has both! Local beer expert and [...]

Cooking with Princess Di's Royal Chef

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Princess Diana was quite a lady…mysterious at times, mischievous but down to earth and lots of fun. That’s what I hear from her former personal royal chef. I had the enormous pleasure of cooking with him recently and hearing more fun stories about the delightful princess.
Her [...]

San Francisco Crab Cakes You’ll Love

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One of the most beautiful cities in the world never lets me down. Where else can you spend a long weekend and get incredible food, amazing site seeing, breathtaking views and a quick jaunt to the wine country. This crab cake recipe is delicious and [...]

Best Way to Spend Saturdays

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Fresh home-baked breads, plump vegetables just picked from the garden and lots of homemade jellies and jams are a few of the wonderful things you’ll find at the Pearl Farmers’ Market. The fun starts at 9 a.m. and ends at 1 p.m., but I suggest you [...]

Roses & Romance

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I have something special for you this week. One of the MOST romantic books, Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel inspired what you’re about to see. Chef Melissa Guerra, who has the fabulous store at Pearl, spent an evening in my kitchen preparing a beautiful [...]

Valentines or Not – Some Like it Hot

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I love February!! It’s the one month out of the year that it’s perfectly legal to think about, dream about and fantasize about chocolate. You’ll love this fun dessert from Brannon’s Café…plus…
One stop shopping for making your Valentine’s plans! Check out the link below called ‘Table [...]

Grandmoms Have the Best Recipes

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And, I’ve got a good one here today. I loved spending meals with my grandmom. She was such a good cook…it was what you call true ‘quality’ time. I’ve got a recipe today from a friend of mine’s Greek grandmother… a Mediterranean pasta dish that [...]

Sizzling romance on the River Walk at The Fig Tree

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Two of the most romantic meals I’ve had in San Antonio were at same restaurant – The charming Fig Tree on the River Walk.
I’m embarrassed to say that after living here for more than 20 years, I’d never dined at the legendary Fig Tree until this summer. [...]

Let’s Heat Things Up!

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When it’s cold outside, Texas ranchers know how to heat things up, and now, some of their longtime secrets are out. Bolner’s, a family owned and operated business for four generations, is letting us in on a few of the ranchers’ special recipes. I took one [...]

Lightening Up for 2010?

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I start every new year with a new mission – to improve my diet. One easy way to is to add more fresh fish into the mix. Today a real treat! Chef Scott Cohen at the Watermark Grill shows you how to prepare three different types of [...]

Friendly Eggnog Warning

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Warning! Once you make your own eggnog, you’ll never buy it at the store again. This recipe from Zinc Bistro and Wine bar is incredible. You can make it with ‘spirits’ or without – it’s delicious both ways.
Enjoy and Happy New Year!!

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas Everyone.

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Welcome to Good Taste…I’m Tanji Patton. Whether you’re planning a huge holiday meal or looking for a side or dessert to bring to a party, check out our incredible recipes in my recipe section.
Today, a true San Antonio gem, Mary Martini who runs the Central Market cooking [...]

Eggnog Tiramisu

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Ever tried ‘eggnog’ tiramisu? Mary Martini from Central Market’s Cooking School shares her recipe, and I’ll bet it’s one you’ll share with your friends too. It’s delicious and very easy to make.

My Big Fat Greek Dessert that I Love!

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Okay…it’s the holidays. We’re entitled to a little dessert or a sinfully yummy snack, and I’ve got all kinds of great recipes on the sight this month. Before you click away, be sure and check out my recipe section.
Speaking of yummy desserts…this is something you and [...]

Fast, French & Fabulous!

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With all of our busy schedules, quick and easy meals that taste good are true gems. I’ve discovered two super simple dishes that you’ll want to whip up. What’s more, if you’re entertaining this season, you’ll love them even more and so will your guests!
How about [...]

PBS TV personality Lidia Bastianich cooks in my kitchen!

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I‘ve interviewed tons of TV personalities over the years – some impressed me, others disappointed me. Lidia Bastianich is an impeccable pro! The warm, enthusiastic, passionate ’Lidia’ you see on PBS is the exact person who came to my house to shoot a cooking segment. I [...]

Turkey Tips from the Experts

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A moist turkey with tons of flavor, more than likely, has been brined. It’s a wonderful way to get that bird moist all the way to the bone and to insure that all the meat is full of flavor. Executive Chef John Armstrong, IV (there [...]

Cooking Connections with No Stress!

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Don’t stress the week before Thanksgiving. Good taste is super simple with this tasty dish from Chef Kristy at HEB’s Cooking Connections.
All you need are a few fresh veggies, cubed beef or chicken and a simple little jar of magic. All natural ingredients, all good and [...]

Watermark Grill, a wonderful new seafood restaurant

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Just in time for the holidays there’s a new restaurant in town, and it’s one you don’t wanna miss…especially if you love fresh seafood. Think fresh fish, delicious oysters and then think about the biggest, best king crab you’ve ever had. Now you can get them all [...]

New Restaurant Scores High

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New restaurant Barbaresco’s continues to rake in the rave reviews. Today, Chef Erik Abrams prepares their incredible Branzino…a Mediterranean variety of seabass that will have you wishing you were in Tuscany. Grazie Erik!!
Wine recommendation
Pair with a Pinot Grigio, Albarino or Greco di Tufo (delightful white [...]

Ever Seen the ‘Booby’ Glass?

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Okay, I’ve got a fun departure for you from the food scene…we’re talking only wine today…specifically fun gift ideas for the wine fan in your life.
Water 2 Wine at 281 & Thousand Oaks is a fun place to meet friends, make wine and find the coolest wine [...]

Sleepy Lobsters & Boston Clam Chowder

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If you love great food, wonderful wine and American history, you’ve got to go to Boston. WE recently visited and got the opportunity to prepare Boston Clam Chowder with a wonderful chef at one of Boston’s fine restaurants.…first though, he insisted I watch as he put a [...]

Morton's $5 Bar Bites – WOW!

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I have the most incredible selection of food to show you – amazing appetizers that cost only $5 – they’re called Bar Bites. The Power Hour at Morton’s the Steakhouse has to be one of the VERY best deals in town right now. Plus, it happens [...]

The Neighborhood Restaurant I’ve Enjoyed for YEARS

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Hard to believe but it’s been more than 10 years since I started eating at Milano’s. I love their patio dining, and I adore their Chicken Gorgonzola. My last visit I tried something different, and it was fabulous—the Tuscan Ribeye. There are so many [...]

Gem 62 - Greune Door - Salmon

The Gruene Door

There’s a delightful new restaurant in Gruene, Texas…actually just down the road from historic Gruene—The Gruene Door. The food is wonderful! And yes, they have a nice wine list too. Check out the beautiful glazed salmon they prepared for us.

Incredible video…Watch chocolate change

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This chocolate dessert blew me away. It’s delicious, AND it’s a beautiful work of art. This dessert actually transforms into something else right before your very eyes. It’s a show you’ll want to see and then taste!
We discovered it at Francesca’s at the [...]

A bit of Tuscany in San Antonio at Barbaresco's

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I absolutely love trying new restaurants, and now I have a new one for you to try! Barbaresco. Remember the location where Maggie’s was for years on San Pedro? Well, you won’t recognize it. Barbaresco’s is stunning! And, the food is delicious. [...]

Impress your friends with this dish from Boudro's

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One of the things I love about producing my website is learning cool things from the top chefs in San Antonio and beyond. Today, I want to take you to Boudro’s on the River Walk. Sure, they have the delicious, famous table-side guacamole, but they [...]

We’re going green today at Morton's

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Ever had the incredible chopped salad from Morton’s the Steakhouse? I get it every time we go. It’s actually a very easy salad to make and it’s perfect for the summer heat. Pair it with a cold Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc! Check it [...]

Cook Like Julia

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When I want to cook ‘French’ I grab Julia Child’s Mastering The Art of French Cooking cookbook. It movtivated me to spend more time in the kitchen as it did countless others. When I want to dine out ‘French’, I head to Brasserie Pavil. [...]

Treat yourself to something special

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There’s something very southern (as in the South of France) and gentile about Rosé wines. Their beautiful delicate coloring, floral bouquets and hints of fruit without a lot of sweetness are enticing.
The Fig Tree Restaurant on the Riverwalk, one of the city’s finest, has a [...]

July '09 - Morton's Crab Cakes

Colossal Crab Cakes

As hot as it is outside, how about some beautiful delicious crab cakes? Morton’s crab cakes are incredible, and they are so easy to make. I usually make enough to have leftovers the next day…what a treat.

Bacon, Blueberries & Bliss

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If you haven’t discovered Cooking Connections, you’re in for a treat. It’s a mecca of time saving, delicious products that will make dinnertime prep a snap. Chef Kristy demonstrates how to prepare a whole fish with a delicious fruity, savory sauce.

Great food up the road at Parkside

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Sometimes it’s fun to get out of town even if it’s just for a day. I found a really cool restaurant in Austin that specializes in oysters – offering up to 10 varieties every day – and ceviches. The trendy restaurant is called Parkside, [...]

Save money – make wine

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How about an Italian Barolo for under $20 or a California pinot noir for $15? Sounds like a deal, and it is! Make just about any wine you want at a place called Water2Wine on US 281 and Thousand Oaks. The wine we made [...]

All there is to know about grilling

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If you’re are grilling this 4th of July or anytime for that matter, I’ve found an incredible expert when it comes to firing up that grill. Joe Doria is the meat market manager at Bolner’s Meat Market, and I believe this man knows everything there [...]

Happy Birthday

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Hi everyone…welcome to Good Taste – Happy Birthday to all of us. This week we are celebrating our first year of Good Taste with Tanji – a big thank you to all of you for making this website such a huge success. Just since [...]

Cool Down & Check Out the View

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Hi everyone and welcome to Good Taste! I call her La Maestra – Blanca Aldaco is known for her incredible food at Aldaco’s Stone Oak and her award winning margaritas. I love to go to Aldaco’s, sit on her incredible patio with a view of [...]

Gristmill Tenderloin Salad

Delicious Summer Salad

What a great time of year to visit Gruene, TX just outside of New Braunfels on the Guadalupe River. Whether you’re hungry after a fun day on the river or if you’ve got a large group of people and want a great place to hang for a few hours, head to the Gristmill Restaurant.

Gem 45 - Bats & Burgers

Bats & Burgers

Many say it’s the best hamburger in Texas – and right next door a show your entire family will enjoy! Make plans to visit Alamo Springs Café and spend some time at the historic tunnel nearby – especially in the evening when the bats are heading out for the night!

Most Popular Chardonnay

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This is a great time to visit Sonoma spring is in full bloom. I just returned from Sonoma where I got a cooking lesson from the chef who develops incredible dishes to go with the most popular chardonnay – Kendall Jackson.

Go Texan Wines
Watch Go Texan [...]

Home Grown Vegetables, Herbs at The Lodge

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Tucked away in Castle Hills is a beautiful restaurant that sits on a couple of lush green acres. Look closely and you’ll see their sprawling vegetable gardens with heirloom tomatoes, squash and fresh herbs to name a few. The food is delicious. Watch owner Chef [...]

Save $$$, Make Mom Brunch

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Chef Kristy from HEB’s Cooking Connections has the perfect way to let mom know how much you love her. Make her brunch! Check out the great ideas for mom that are very easy to make. Your entire family can pitch in. It will [...]

Good Pasta and Good Wine

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It is so much fun to make your own wine. Plus, your friends will love your custom wine bottles when you create your own labels. Water2Wine at Thousand Oaks and US 281 is a fun wine bar with dozens of different wines you can [...]

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Jalapeno chips on the Riverwalk at Boudro’s

Happy Fiesta everyone!! I’ve found the most incredible new side dish at Boudro’s. Sure, they’re known for their tableside zesty guacamole and delicious food, but wait till you try the Jalepeno Chips! These things are incredible. Chef Nelson Gonzales shows you how, plus check out their juicy grilled Texas quail…

Honky Tonk Gospel in Gruene

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Once a month Texas oldest dancehall, Gruene Hall, puts on a show like no other. This popular two-stepping, toe-tapping hang-out is the place to be during the second Sunday of each month for the Gospel Brunch in Gruene. The Gristmill caters with plenty of home-cooked [...]

Easiest Dinner Idea & Free Dessert

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Silky, savory, delicious scallops wrapped in bacon. Scallops are a good buy right now at the grocery store, so take advantage of Morton’s delicious recipe. This is exactly how they prepare them in the steak house. You can make them yourself by following this easy [...]

How to Pair Olives, Wines & Cheeses

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Amazing cheeses, wines, olives and olive oil made right here in Texas – you’ll get a chance to try them all at a very special event Saturday, especially if you like delicious food, because this event is sponsored by Les Dames d’Escoffier. This will be something [...]

Free Wine & Beautiful Kitchens

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I am on a mission to learn more about Texas wines…join me this weekend! Did you know that according to the State Agriculture Department, Texas wineries are the second most visited in the country behind Napa and Sonoma!
This weekend there’s a fun event where you [...]

Let’s Go To Luckenbach

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I love this little laid back town. Nestled in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, it is true Texas gem. It’s a state of mind… a place where you can relax, enjoy live music and just be. Locals say you either “Get it or you don’t.”
When [...]

Save Money – Make Wine at Water2Wine

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How about an Italian Barolo for under $20 or a California pinot noir for $15? Sounds like a deal, and it is! Make just about any wine you want at a place called Water2Wine on US 281 and Thousand Oaks. Making your vino is [...]

Off the Menu Special from a Gem!

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An old favorite has a new location. Pacific Moon restaurant is now located at 281 and Brookhollow.
The menu has changed a bit, but regulars can always request Han’s specials from the old location that set her Asian style food apart from the competition.
My favorite “Han” [...]

Two Good Things That Are Good For You

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If you got chocolate, dark chocolate, for Valentine’s Day I’ve got some fun ideas for pairing it with some red wines not champagne. Champagne pairs nicely with white or milk chocolate, but stick to the reds when it comes to dark chocolate. More and [...]

Why You Should Eat Chocolate – Dark Chocolate

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Creamy, rich, dark chocolate truffles – a true indulgence!
But guess what, they’re also good for you… in moderation.
Chef Mary Martini with Central Market’s fabulous Cooking School shows you how easy they are to make and shares her recipe. Then, head over to “Tanjents” and read [...]

Easy to Make & Easy on Your Wallet

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This delicious dish is incredibly easy to make and tastes so good. The garlic, rosemary and tasty, tender pork and veggies all go together so well. Bianca Centofanti from Luciano’s in River Center Mall shows you how to make it.
Don’t forget
Also, don’t forget we’re [...]

5 Easy Steps to ‘Taste’ Wine

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The thing I love about wine is that the more you know, the more you want to know. Joe Baker, (one of the most gifted sommeliers I’ve ever met) who works at Seazars on N. New Braunfels, first peaked our interest in wine and there’s been [...]

Try Something New

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When was the last time you ordered crepes? They can be made to work with just about any diet you’re on. And if you’re not on a diet, wow, can they be good! Today the chef from Central Market’s Cooking School shows you how to [...]

Cooking Connections

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This time of year when the weather’s a bit colder, a nice hearty stew or soup hits the spot. You can spend hours in the kitchen or you can take the easy way out and let H-E-B’s cooking connections do all the work for you. My [...]

Great Start for 2009!

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I first met Diana Barrios when I was hosting the Living show some years back.
She was a frequent and very popular guest (she still appears with Shelly)! I even had the pleasure of having her beautiful mother Viola on as a guest. All of us [...]

Tanji’s Top Five Party Wines for Less than $13

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There are more good value wines than ever these days, but here are five I think you’ll like. If you want to ‘dig deeper’, click on Tanjents where you’ll find more recommendations from two expert sommelier friends of mine. Also, click on HEB [...]

A Gem in Boerne

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Hi everyone and welcome to Good Taste. I first discovered the Cypress Grille in Boerne while reading a new book called “The Texas Hill Country”. It’s a wonderful book full of great finds in our area. This is a beautiful time of [...]

Rather Sweet in Fredericksburg

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Hi everyone and welcome to Good Taste. Christmas shopping in Fredericksburg is so much fun. When I’m there I always make time for lunch at the Rather Sweet Bakery. The food is delicious, and today Rebecca Rather, the very talented chef, shares a great cookie [...]

Check Out Cooking Connections

Hi everyone and welcome to Good Taste. If you’re overworked, overwhelmed and out of time trying to get things done for your Thanksgiving Day meal, relax! The folks over at HEB’s Cooking Connections will do most of the work for you.

Beyond Napa There’s Mendocino

Fall is a beautiful time to explore California wine country. We recently spent some time in the Mendocino area – if you’ve already done Napa and Sonoma, head a bit north to Mendocino. The cooler climate produces some wonderful Pinot Noirs and Gerwerstraminer wines.

White Oak Wines

There’s a wine on the shelves at HEB and other places that you’ll want to look for. It’s called White Oak – no relation to the famous Silver Oak – but easy to remember.

Mondavi Crush

What a fun weekend! Rob and Lydia Mondavi recently invited me to their ‘Crush for Beauty’ event in Napa. It’s a big day because Rob harvests the cabernet grapes from his Osso vineyards for his wine, and Lydia uses everything but the grape juice for her 29 Cosmetics.

Hi Everyone and Welcome to Good Taste With Tanji

The Gruene Music and Wine Festival. Make plans on October 10-12 to attend the 22nd annual Gruene Music and Wine Festival in historic Gruene, Texas! Friday the fun gets started with a catered dinner in Gruene Hall followed by a performance by The Flatlanders!

Wine Styles

With the popularity of wine at an all time high, more and more places are specializing in wine. Wine Styles on Huebner at Bitters is a very fun wine boutique that has a special event for ladies once a month called “Women Gone Wine” It’s popular and it’s fun!

Coco’s Bistro & Lounge

Fun, feminine and fantastically French – I love Coco’s! What a nice new addition to our restaurant scene – fresh, innovative and fabulous! Creator, Philippe Place, has a winner.

Big Shrimp with Armenian Pesto

Hi everyone and welcome to Good Taste With Tanji. We’ve got a great cooking segment on the site this week with San Antonio Express News columnist Pat Mozersky. Pat is a member of Les Dames D’Escoffier, an international group of women who are experts in the culinary arts. The dish you’ll watch being prepared is fabulous—a delicious shrimp with a simple marinade. A Sauvignon Blanc would pair nicely!

Fall Creek Vineyards

I’ve got a fun road trip for you today. It’s one of Texas oldest wineries in the beautiful Hill Country near Lake Buchanan.

Check out Fall Creek Vineyards – It’s about 20 minutes north of Marble Falls. Ask to see their famous Louis Pasteur doors.

Wine Bars in San Antonio

Wine bars are becoming more and more popular. They’re a great place to sample a variety of different wines. If you’re a pinot noir fan, wine bars can offer you a chance to experiment and try several different pinots at the same time – a fun experience for your palate.

More to Mondavi Than Wine

The entire wine world was saddened this spring by the passing of Robert Mondavi. He was a visionary – a passionate, innovative entrepreneur who created the most famous winery in California.

Becker Vineyards

If you want a true Texas wine experience with about the friendliest people you’ll find anywhere, Becker Vineyards just east of Fredericksburg is the place you won’t want to miss.

Aldaco’s Creative Margaritas

Blanca Aldaco, of Aldaco’s fame, is known for her delicious food and creative margaritas. Now her new restaurant, out in Stone Oak, gives you another reason to head north – the incredible view.

Bats and Burgers

Many say it’s the best hamburger in Texas – and right next door a show your entire family will enjoy! Make plans to visit Alamo Springs Cafe and spend some time at the historic tunnel nearby – especially in the evening when the bats are heading out for the night!

Welcome to Good Taste with Tanji

If you’re interested in wine, fabulous food and amazing places all over the world that are famous for both, you’re in the right place. I’ve traveled the world as an Emmy award winning journalist and vacationing mom – good food, good wine and good times seem to go hand-in-hand.