bite of wisdom - central texas - may/june 2012

www.biteofwisdom.com 1 May/June 2012

Central Texas Edition

A showcase of the tastiest restaurants

Coupon Section Inside!Also available at

www.biteofwisdom.com.

May/June2012

@biteofwisdomBite of Wisdomwww.biteofwisdom.com

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eren’t the Bluebonnets just beautiful this year!We took a day trip and traveled the BluebonnetTrail in Brenham and got into lots of trouble alongthe way! We visited the first site of BaylorUniversity in Independence, toured Washingtonon the Brazos, had lunch at Bever’s Kitchen inChapel Hill, had a glass of wine at Messina HofWinery and Resort in Bryan and on the way home,tumbled into Cocoamoda in Calvert. Whew! It wasa whirlwind tour for sure. But what fun we had!

At Messina Hof Vineyards and Resort, we chattedwith the owner and winemaker and toured theproperty which is just gorgeous. I wasn’t aware ofthe Vintage Restaurant at the Vineyard so it willdefinitely be one to add to my “review” list. AtCocomoda, we met owner, Chef Ken andsampled some premium chocolate. He gave us apersonal tour of the facility where the chocolate ismade. Ken designs beautiful chocolate sculptureswhich he donates to various charities for auctionitems. Now this is giving back! Going on a day tripis such fun. This month, we showcase Clifton,Texas so you can do just that. I was surprisedwhat this quaint little town has to offer. Read ourarticle and I’ll bet you will find yourself taking theshort drive west to experience this historic town.

I was happy to know thatWaco’s only boutiquehotel, Hotel Indigo is nowopen. We grabbed acouple of friends andexperienced a beautifulhotel and an awesomerestaurant. Check out thephotos we took. They sureknow how to presentfood! Our appetizer anddinner choices were not only tasty; they werepretty to look at as well! And speaking of new,Lorena has a vineyard all its own. This is not newto owners, Patti and Rick Wendt. They have beenworking on their vineyards for 10 years! Weattended the grand opening recently and thevineyards were so breathtaking. The tasting roomis now open so I hope you will take the short driveto Lorena to taste Rick’s wine creations.

I did a little twist on my reviews this month andincluded a music venue. Schoepf’s Old Time PitBBQ has begun their summer concert series andwhat a great spot they have to do this! They builta stage and dance floor and their venue offer lotsof seating at picnic tables so Texans of all agescan enjoy Texas barbecue and Texas music. Isure have been busy this month to bring ourreaders lots of places to enjoy. We had a lot of funexploring so I hope you have lots of funexperiencing all of the wonderful places CentralTexas has to offer! As always, check out ourwebsite at www.biteofwisdom.com for even moreplaces to eat, drink and be merry! Enjoy!

Visit us at: www.biteofwisdom.com Ellen

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lifton is one of those little towns that draw you inthe minute you arrive. It is surrounded by thosemajestic hills that give a calming backdrop to MainStreet. Clifton is known as the Norwegian Capital ofTexas which tells me why there is so much historyhere. But I am a “foodie” of sorts with a magazinethat emphasizes such topics. I was surprised toknow of how many eating establishments are here,some of which are housed in historic structures.Main Street has the usual Dairy Queen and Subwaybut off the beaten path is where you will find thelittle treasures.

A pharmacy transformed intoa darling breakfast and lunch diner. On a recentvisit, Deb, the owner, treated me to her homemadetomato soup and told me a little about her place.Historic features abound here such as the sodafountain, Italian marble, bar stools and stainedglass bar back. All the food is made fresh daily andI can tell you from experience, it is mighty tasty.

Theresa, the owner and chef is alsoan artist that explains all the whimsical artwork onthe walls and the hand painted zebra rug on thefloor. I found the food creations so fresh andunique. Bring your favorite bottle of wine and enjoydinner on Friday or Saturday nights. Theresa’sculinary artwork can be seen on the website,www.gourmetgrill.com.

When Ifound this bakery, I was surprised to find I knew the

owner, Duane Sulak. He had a case full of kolachesand fresh meats ready for sandwich making. Hebuilt a fabulous Ruben sandwich for me andwrapped up some Turkey Jerky to go. Delicious!Going hunting? Drop off your “prize” and Duanewill take care of the rest.

If you are looking for the typical“small town diner” then Johnny’s Place is yourdestination. They offer a daily buffet full of yoursouthern favorites, an Italian buffet on Tuesdaynights and a fabulous breakfast buffet on Saturdayand Sunday mornings. I hear the Twister is a mustto order.

They serve up great Chinese food andyou must try their egg rolls! The décor will take youall the way to China and for a while you won’t feelas if you are in Texas at all!

Daytripper: Destination Clifton

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: If you are in the mood for greatMexican food, this is the place. I visited with Luis,the owner and he told me they have been there forover 30 years! Visit Luis and his staff and tasteauthentic Mexican cuisine from someone whoknows all about it!

Yes, there is barbeque inClifton and everyone in the area knows where to go.Bunkhouse Barbeque is known for their largeportions and fried green tomatoes but it’s thebarbeque itself that brings people in from all over.You will find typical barbeque fare along with arustic atmosphere and friendly faces.

For the burger and pizzabuffs, there is Jim’s Pizza and Burgers on the westside of Main Street. This place is small but they putout a mean burger which was voted “The BestBurger in Bosque County”. The pizza is also awardwinning so I strongly suggest visiting this little gemof a place. But the doors are closed on theweekends, since Jim is out on his “bike” ridingamongst the hills of Bosque County.

It was originally constructed in 1922as a Sinclair Gas service station. The bar was theoriginal parts counter. But the nuts and bolts gaveway to a beautifully transformed dining room withelegantly set tables with fresh flowers and softlighting that greets you when you enter the oldstation. The menu touts Angus Prime Steaks andfresh seafood. The wine selection has a variety ofreds and whites including two of our Central Texasown, Red Caboose and Valley Mills Vineyard. VisitMitchell’s Grill website at www.mitchellsgrill.com tosee the complete menu and wine list.

Clifton is home to this finewinery and vineyard. The tasting room reminds meof the Hill Country near my beloved San Antonio.Better yet, travel to Meridian where you can viewthe majestic hills full of grapevines. Both tastingrooms greet you with a comforting, friendlyatmosphere and award-winning wine. RedCaboose boasts they are a “green” vineyard and isthe only winery in Texas to cool, refrigerate andchill with geothermal. Many events are held at bothlocations so be sure to check their website,www.redcaboosewinery.com for details.

Kolaches

Buchtas

Breads

Pastries

Pies

Jerky

Sausage

Catering

Fresh Meats

Sandwiches

Smoked Meats

Deer/Wild Game Processing

Sulak’sCzech Bakery & Meat Market

710 N. Ave. GClifton, TX

(254) 675-2825Duane Sulak, owner

www.sulaksbakery.com

WeddingsBirthdays

Tuxedo RentalsAnniversaries

TropicalsGift Baskets

Silks

215 N. Ave. D, Clifton254-675-3444 • 866-675-3444

www.blossomshopetc.comParty rental space available soon!

Your “All-Occasion”Florist and Gift Shop…

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Not only did I find great dining in Clifton, I found anumber of businesses unique to the city.

: This is Clifton’s only historic Bedand Breakfast built over 100 years ago. In 2001,the empty building was renovated to reveal acharming bed and breakfast where guests can stepback in time. Visit their website atwww.screendoorinn.com and see the wonderfulaccommodations Screen Door Inn has to offer.

: Adjacent to the B&B, you can catchthe latest movie at the historic Cliftex Theater. Thetheater is the oldest, continuously operating movietheater in Texas and has been showing movies indowntown Clifton since 1916. Their website givesyou all the upcoming movies and times atwww.cliftextheater.com.

This is where Bosque Countycitizens go for their entire flower and plant needs.The Shop recently relocated into the old VFWbuilding downtown so you can guess that thisflower shop has lots of character. Actually, theowner is in the process of renovating the old VFW

by painting walls and adding fixtures to better suitthe business. She is also working on an outsidevenue for all types of gatherings. Check out theirwebsite at www.blossomshoppeetc.com for moreinformation.

A non-profit cultural art center.Originally the Clifton Lutheran College erected in1923, a fire destroyed all but the AdministrationBuilding which now houses the Art Center. TheCenter offers a variety of Workshops and Classesand also has accommodations for your specialactivity. Members of the Bosque Art Center haveformed many groups such as the Garden Club,Book Club and my favorite, Culinary Club. There isalways something going on at the Bosque ArtsCenter so be sure to check their website,www.bosqueartscenter.org for details.

: In the mood for a littleantiquing? This is not your same old antique store.There are room settings of furniture, glassware andart which make it easy for the shopper to find justwhat they are looking for. This is one not to bemissed.

Italian BuffetTuesday Night5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Breakfast BuffetSaturday & Sunday

7 a.m. - 11 a.m.

New menu with over 30 new items… 10 new seafood items!

HoursMon - Sat

6 a.m. - 9 p.m.Sunday

6 a.m. - 2 p.m.

254-675-2001502 S. Ave. G, Clifton, Texas

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: This quilting shop is on your leftas you tumble into town. The home turned quiltshop is so inviting the minute you pull into thesmall parking area. It is a typical country bungalowwith fresh flowers on the front stoop. If I were aquilter, I’d be here every day. For you who are, theshop holds quilting classes and carries a widevariety of fabric, notions, and patterns. They arepet friendly too! Their website is just as darling asthe shop so check it out atwww.quiltingcousins.net.

As you can see, the small unassuming town ofClifton has so much to offer locals and out-of-towners alike. I find myself returning often to soakup all of the history and culture this town embraces.So take a step back in time and stay at a historicBed and Breakfast, view beautiful artwork, goantiquing, eat lots of good local food and take in amovie at a charming old movie house to round outthe day. The best part of this tripback in time is, for just a while,you can forget about the hustleand bustle of your everyday life.

Jim’s

Voted"BEST PIZZA, BURGERS AND FRIES IN BOSQUE COUNTY"!!!!

Monday - Friday11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Closed Saturday & Sunday

615 N. Avenue GClifton, Texas254-675-4000

Call In - Use our drive thru

www.cliftontexas.org 800-344-3720

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Waco is now home to the first boutique hotel in thearea called Hotel Indigo. Tucked among thebusiness district downtown, Hotel Indigo is a one-of-a-kind showplace! Upon entering the hotel, youwill notice the massive multi-colored chandelierhanging from above. The contemporary décor iscarried throughout the lobby and into therestaurant. This is where I recently dined withfriends in tow. Brazos Bar and Bistro is a stylishrestaurant with a sleek bar where patrons can hangout after work or linger over dinner and drinks.Earlier in the month I was able to meet the ownerand manager as they were having lunch and wasable to view the chef’s culinary talent. So when I

came later for dinner, Iwas so excited to seewhat other culinarytalents awaited me.

Let’s start with theappetizers. I loved theunique items that arenot seen elsewhere. Wechose the Salsa Triowhich was presented ina tall vessel of sorts. Itwas filled with garlicsalted tortilla chipsaccompanied by three types of salsas and all werejust delicious. My friend had the Stuffed Avocadowhich was filled with diced chicken and pico degallo and could be a meal in itself. One appetizer Ispotted coming out of the kitchen time and timeagain was the Brazos Bleu’s. These are slicedpotatoes tossed in blue cheese ranch, bacon andbleu cheese crumbles served up in a martini glass.This will have to be my choice on my next visit!

Salad choices called “Going Green” consists ofWarm Spinach Salad and a Bleu Cheese Steaksalad which are filled with field greens, roastedvegetables, blue cheese dressing with chipotlestrip steak layered on top.

Part of the dinner menu is called “No Need For aKnife or Fork” which as the name indicates aresandwiches, burgers and pizza. We chose theShrimp Margarita Pizza which was topped withgarlic shrimp, beefsteak tomatoes and quesofresco. Our dinner companions chose the Bistro


Chicken Pizza. And I must say that both wereabsolutely delicious. I eyed my neighbor’s dinnerwhich was from “The Main Event” section of themenu. The Filet of Strip is the Brazos Bar & Bistro’sexclusive cut which rests on a tomatillo merlot winereduction and served with Brazos Valley Havartimashed potatoes. The steak was a very large cut ofbeef and looked mouthwatering!

After eating all of that delicious food, we justcouldn’t think of dessert but I hear the PistachioCrème Brulee melts in your mouth and I will be sureto leave room for it on my next visit.

If you are the type for exotic cocktails, Brazos Barand Bistro knows how to mix things up. Try theMe-Raj Mango Mojito or the Kiss of Jasmine. But itis the C-4 Hatten that steals the show! This is made

from Waco’s own, Balcones Baby Blue CornWhiskey and sweet vermouth. Sip on one of theselibations after a trying day at the office.

Randy Monelongo, the Bistro’s Food and BeverageManager likes to support the local neighborhood incontent and in name. Many selections on the menuare named after our grand Brazos River. Several ofthese include locally inspired ingredients. TheBrazos Beef Ribs and the Brazos Bistro Burger aremade with Cherry Dr. Pepper and sandwiches aremade with locally baked bread. Queso Fresco,green chilies and fresh made salsas are ingredientsused in many dishes we Texans love to see on amenu.

Brazos Bar and Bistro has such unusual items onthe menu that I will have to return to savor more ofwhat this restaurant has to offer. Try this new bistrofor something completely different!


GrapefruitThe grapefruit was once described in the late 18th century as the “forbidden fruit”. InAmerica, the tree was originally grown as a novelty and very few recognized it’s fruit. Earlysettlers to Florida recognized an increasing demand for the fruit during the late 19th centurywhich mainly came from markets in New York and Philadelphia between 1880 and 1885.The grapefruit became the most important crop of the Texas Rio Grande Valley during the1960’s. Today, grapefruit production in Florida exceeds that of Texas due to more recentsevere weather conditions that have impacted the South Texas crops. Other countries thathave since entered grapefruit production include Mexico, Argentina and areas of SouthAmerica.

FondueA French word meaning ‘melted’ and is also the name given to the melted cheese dish thathas it’s roots from 19th century Switzerland. While the Swiss claim the original recipe,Americans, French and Italians have developed their own versions as meat and dessertdishes. Credit is given to the Americans for creating many of the dessert fondues,especially the chocolate fondue.

Cracker JackOriginally introduced by German immigrants to the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicagocomposing of popcorn, molasses and peanuts. In 1912, a toy was introduced into thepackage and in 1913, Crack Jack was the world’s largest selling treat. By the early 1970’s,Cracker Jack was found in more that 40 percent of American homes.

Diet SodaFirst appeared during the 1950’s, with Kirsh’s No-Cal being first introduced to America in1952 and promoted to diabetics and dieters. Nehi’s Diet-Rite soon appeared the followingyear. The emergence of many of today’s diet sodas occurred in the 1960’s but faced manyregulation challenges due to controversial health concerns.

Chicken NuggetsEven though the concept of frying battered chunks of chicken has been around for centuries,McDonald’s first introduced this popular item to the fast food industry in 1980. Originaldipping sauces included barbecue, honey, sweet and sour, and hot mustard.

Necco WafersIntroduced to America in 1847 by an English immigrant named Oliver Chase, who isgenerally considered as the inventor of the first American candy machine. The originalflavors consisted of chocolate, licorice, cinnamon, wintergreen, lemon, lime, orange andclove. During World War II, the majority of the wafers that were produced were shippedoverseas to American troops.

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Where Nostalgia Meets Food

afé 35 in Temple is one of those places to grabbreakfast, lunch or dinner and ‘sit a spell’ whileenjoying the nostalgic surroundings and watchingpeople come and go. From the black and whitecheckerboard floor to the booths that line the frontof the restaurant, this classic eatery truly says cafébut with a twist. From what I understand, thelocation has been many a restaurant and I think ithas finally settled down and put into the right hands.Why do I say this? I had lunch here not long agoand with the classic but updated decor and thetraditional yet unique menu, Café 35 can’t help buthang around for hungry patrons to experience foryears to come.

Fresh paint and pictures of an older Temple gracethe walls. Updated lighting gives this café a sort ofambiance that makes you feel right at home. Yetsitting at stout tables and chairs and sliding into abooth will take you back to the 1960’s. The

oversized bar is perfect for enjoying the special ofthe day, drinking an ice cold glass of sweet tea orjust chatting with the locals. There is a larger roomseparate from the main dining room that is perfectfor a group luncheon or meeting. An old fashionedpie and cake keeper sits in one corner filled withhome baked desserts.

The large billboard in front of the building states,“Chef Inspired Home Cooked Food”. I was intriguedby this quote as I looked over the menu trying to

decide what was for lunch. Since I tend to gravitatetoward Chicken Salad especially when it is madefresh daily, this was going to be an option. Café 35


also offers local favorites such as Grandma’sChicken and Dumplings and burgers made with ½lb of beef. For a lighter fare, salads such as theWarm Bacon Spinach Salad and the Shrimp CaesarSalad are available as well. But I see something Ihave not had in my many years of dining out, FriedAvocado “35”. I couldn’t pass up this “delicacy” so Iadded it to my lunch order of half Chicken Clubsandwich and a cup of Tomato Basil soup. Theavocado was sliced and deep fried in a buttermilkbatter and when dipped in the chipotle ranchdressing, I was in avocado heaven! Good thing Iordered only half of a sandwich for this delicacywas very rich!

The soup and sandwich were exceptional andsomething else new I encountered was the “35”fries which were so crispy and thin they looked likethe laces on my Converse tennis shoes. Thankfullythey didn’t taste like laces but were salty andyummy. I didn’t have room for the luscious cakesand pies that were on display but a couple sittingnearby was indulging in a piece of Coconut CreamPie. They had come in specifically for this on arecommendation and it lived up to their

expectations. This tells me a lot about the Café’sdesserts and I will be sure to indulge in a piece ofpie myself on my next visit.

I took a peak at the breakfast menu and saw thiswould be the perfect destination for a weekendbreakfast. They offer a southern breakfast of Steakand Eggs and Biscuits and Sausage Gravy. EggsBenedict and 3 Egg Omelets will tickle your tastebuds as well. Dinner is also served at the Café andtouts grilled items to include steak and seafood. Aninteresting item is Adam’s Ribs named after theowner’s son. (I see another visit coming!)

Café 35 is a place you can enjoy for any meal of theday and know you are getting quality food madewith quality ingredients just like back in the day. Orstop by for a cup of coffee and a piece of CoconutCream Pie and you might just find yourself chattingwith owner, Hal Martin who can tell you all aboutthis café and lots of history that comes with it.Either way, you won’t be disappointed and like me,you will want to come back for another visit!


Jazz Every Friday Night!

Lunch Specials

Meeting Room

725 Austin AvenueWaco, Texas

(254) 752-5200Legacy Cafe and Art Gallery

Coffee, tasty food, art, jazz and free wi-fi!Mon-Thu 10-10, Fri-Sat 10-11, Closed Sunday

Brazos Bar & Bistro

211 Clay AvenueWaco, Texas254-754-5511

10:30 am - 2 pm5 - 10 pm Sun - Thur5 - 11 pm Fri - Sat

LunchDinner Located in Waco’s

Beautiful New Boutique Hotel

Let’s meet atthe Indigo!

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(Black or Color)OR $10 OFF TONER CARTRIDGE REFILL* One Coupon Per Visit

Expires 9/30/2012Not Valid With Any Other Offer

5900 Bosque Blvd. (By Drug Emporium)Waco, Texas254-399-9736

Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

Expires 9/30/2012One Coupon Per VisitNot Valid With Any Other Offer

723 S. 6th StreetWaco, Texas254-235-8737

Tres Mexican Restaurant


725 Austin AvenueWaco, Texas254-752-5200

Legacy Cafe and Art Gallery



Mon-Fri 11-8, Closed Sat & Sun


925 W. McGregor DriveMcGregor, Texas

254-236-0045Open Daily 11am - 9pm

www.coachsbarbque.com


502 S. Avenue GClifton, Texas254-675-2001

CouponsAlso available at www.biteofwisdom.com.

Bite of Wisdom - Like Us!


215 N. Avenue DClifton, Texas254-675-3444

www.blossomshopetc.com



723 S. 6th StreetWaco, Texas254-235-8737

Tres Mexican Restaurant



Mon-Fri 11-8, Closed Sat & Sun


925 W. McGregor DriveMcGregor, Texas

254-236-0045Open Daily 11am - 9pm

www.coachsbarbque.com

CouponsAlso available at www.biteofwisdom.com.

Bite of Wisdom - Like Us!

(Black or Color)OR $10 OFF TONER CARTRIDGE REFILL* One Coupon Per Visit

Expires 9/30/2012Not Valid With Any Other Offer

5900 Bosque Blvd. (By Drug Emporium)Waco, Texas254-399-9736

Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm


725 Austin AvenueWaco, Texas254-752-5200

Legacy Cafe and Art Gallery


502 S. Avenue GClifton, Texas254-675-2001


215 N. Avenue DClifton, Texas254-675-3444

www.blossomshopetc.com



1226 WebsterWaco, Texas254-752-6286

Monday-Friday 8-5, Saturday 10-1





www.biteofwisdom.com


100 B New RoadWaco, Texas254-776-2600

Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-midnightU-Swirl Waco


Richland MallWaco, Texas254-776-7623

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1226 WebsterWaco, Texas254-752-6286

Monday-Friday 8-5, Saturday 10-1





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100 B New RoadWaco, Texas254-776-2600

Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-midnightU-Swirl Waco





Are all the coupons gone?You can always find them at

www.biteofwisdom.com.

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he word itself sounds unappealing. When yogurtfirst arrived on the scene, it was gloppy and notvery tasty. Then the yogurt companies beganadding all kinds of things hoping for a moreappealing product but it jeopardized the nutritionalvalue. Fast-forward 20 years, frozen yogurt hasbecome the fun treat to eat. The product as weknow it today is now a nutritionally sound and tastytreat we all can feel good about consuming.

Then came September 2011 when U-Swirl arrivedin Waco Texas and everything changed. Oh, I wasaware of other such yogurt shops but none likeU-Swirl. And to tell you the truth, I neverfrequented such places and was happy with thesmall containers of yogurt with fruit in the bottom.So upon my first a visit to this new establishment, Iwas enlightened. First, the shop was very large,bright and colorful. The décor was cheery andabove all very clean and tidy. As I walked over tothe yogurt dispensers, and grabbed a very largecup, I thought, “I could never eat this much yogurt!”As I walked toward the dispensers, theenlightening ensued. I had never seen so manyflavors and so many ways to combine them. Thiswas going to be fun!

As I “swirled” my way from flavor to flavor, my verylarge cup became very full! Never fear, my hubbywas here to help consume my newly found treat soI carried on my with yogurt adventure. As I cameupon a plethora of toppings it became clear therewere too many choices and not enough room!!!(My cup wasn’t so large after all.) I went easier on

the toppings and with that, my yogurt adventurehad come to an end. It was weighed, paid for andset in the front seat like a passenger as I drovetoward home to share this treasure, maybe, withmy husband.


I have never tasted anything so good! And as Ifound out, my husband thought so too and weended up “duking” it out over this silly cup ofyogurt! We have visited many times since and Inever tire of the cold, sweet taste of U-Swirl yogurt.

So what makes U-Swirl yogurt different from theothers? I spoke with owners Stacey and Jeff. Theytold me that U-Swirl is made with a milk-basedyogurt where others are made with a powder-basedyogurt. The milk-based yogurt insures you get allthe good stuff yogurt has to offer such as probioticsand calcium and it just plain tastes better! Anyonecan eat U-Swirl yogurt since there are many typesof yogurt such as dairy-free, no sugar added, andgluten free and most are fat-free. The sorbet isperfect for those who are lactose intolerant.

U-Swirl offers 18 flavors and 70 toppings, which isby far more offerings than other yogurt shops. Thetoppings consist of candy, chocolate, nuts and fruitcut fresh every day. They rotate over 100 differentflavors of yogurt in the course of a year to keepthings interesting. They also make their own flavorcreations and the company is constantlydeveloping new ones.

One thing for certain that Stacy and Jeff wantedwhen opening up their yogurt shop was to make ita family-friendly destination, not a “come and go”kind of establishment. This was accomplished bybuilding large seating areas and setting manysmaller tables throughout the shop. Church groupsoften gather here as do groups of all kinds. Theynow have karaoke night once a month. Birthday

parties are welcome here as well. For a $25deposit, the party comes complete with party favors,balloons, and Hawaiian leis. A fun promotion U-Swirl does each Wednesday is called “Guess theWeight”. Guess the exact weight of your yogurt cup,it is free! U-Swirl likes to give back to thecommunity by offering fundraising activities forschools, churches or other organizations for thosein need of something new and different to raisefunds.

I believe Stacy and Jeff accomplished what they setout to do. U-Swirl is a place for everyone to enjoy.It just might be the most perfect food served in themost perfect environment. Come on over to U-Swirl,grab a cup of yogurt and relax knowing you areeating a treat that is healthy for you and your family.


Hours of Operations:Mon. & Tues.: Closed

Weds. & Thurs.: 11-2 and 5-10Friday: 11-2 and 5-12Saturday: 11-1 a.m.

Sunday: 12-6

Everyone welcome!Family owned & operated

254-597-1100320 N. Third • Cranfills Gap, Texas

W 97.82700 N. 31.77500www.HornyToadBar.comOwen & Sandi Carlson

Include your business cardin our publication.

Call 254-722-9832 for details.

1226 Webster AvenueWaco, Texas 76706

254-752-6286

Monday - Friday 8-5Saturday 10-1

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So, you are going about your day racing against theclock to get everything done. You think of thatblissful moment when you walk through your frontdoor; hoping your spouse will cheerfully greet youwith a glass of white wine, fresh strawberries, a hotbubble bath, and a pair of fluffy slippers.

Instead, you walk through your front door; realitycrashing into you. The kids look like they havebathed in strawberries, your spouse tells you the tubdrain is stopped up and you will need to call theplumber, the dog is chewing on your slippers, andyou just remembered you do not own any wine!Suddenly, the unthinkable happens, your wholefamily is talking to you at once. You see their lipsmoving but you try to block out the words. However,it’s no use, you will have to face it sometime, thequestion rams through your ears like a speedingtrain coming to a halt, “What’s for dinner?”

The walls of your small kitchen begin to close inaround you, and now at the end of a hard workingday you are expected to cram yourself into the one

room in the house that you loathe and despise withevery fiber of your being! The thought of crawling onall fours before falling into a fetal position brieflycrosses your mind. Instead, you spend the next fewminutes in a feeble attempt to justify why youcannot cook tonight. Ultimately, you make the callto your local pizza delivery guy.

Feeling a sense of guilt over your long termrelationship with the pizza guys, you know you willneed to face your kitchen remodel one day butprocrastination has worked so well for you this far.Let’s face it, we all dream of having a big gloriouskitchen where we can stretch out to enjoyspectacular culinary freedom; however, no matterhow small, whether you are preparing homemadefettuccini or opening a bag of Ramen, the key to agreat kitchen is having access to everything within afew steps for a cooking experience that doesn’tcramp your style!

Here are some remodeling tips for small kitchens toassist in creating a more user friendly space:

by Jennifer Vickery with JoCo Builders


• Rejoice in your small kitchen! Smaller cozykitchens are step-saving however, tomaximize your space try to borrow a fewextra square feet from an adjoining room. Ifthat is not an option then, you can open upyour space by adding a window or enlargingan existing window, or installing a skylight.

• Make the most of your storage space byrunning cabinets all the way up to yourceiling. Opt for pull-out drawers in basecabinets rather than reach-in. If you're retro-fitting existing cabinets, have pull-out traysinstalled. Make use of your additional ceilingspace by adding pot racks or hooks forcookware. If you do not have a pantry theadditional cabinet space will come in handy.

• Including drawer inserts is another way tomaximize your space and keeps yourorganized too!

• Don’t get stranded on your island! Having anisland with casters gives you the freedom to

move around. If you just need to spread outmore, then consider a peninsula with hingeddrop down sections.

• Keeping colors light and simple throughoutyour kitchen gives yours kitchen a larger look.Still like those bold colors? Then let themshow in your dishes, towels, and fixtures. Awhite kitchen really pops when you addsplashes of red.

• Finally, if you have some room to spare, havea slim version of a snack bar installed with alonger overhang on the countertop so youcan neatly tuck away stools.

Hopefully these tips will help you reconcile with yourkitchen so you can enjoy many happy years together.Just tell the pizza guy you found another kitchen, he’llget over it.

Article is provided by Jennifer Vickery of JoCo Builders,Waco, Texas.


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t is not often that Iwrite reviews on amusic venue butthis looked like toomuch fun to passup. Luckily for myreaders, this is abarbecuerestaurant as well.So I’ll write aboutthe restaurant first

and move on to the entertainment. Schoepf’s OldTime Pit BBQ has been around for 18 years andwell known for great barbecue and now, greatmusic. All kinds of meat choices are available fromthe mesquite coal-filled pit which includes chicken,brisket, ribs and even quail. The sides are thetraditional choices of cole slaw, pinto beans andpotato salad. You must try the cobblers! I’ve notseen such a mired of fruit cobbler choices in one

place. Complete your meal with soda, iced tea orcold adult beverage.

Searching for a place to set your plate ofmouthwatering barbecue? The layout of therestaurant reminds me of a house where you have


several rooms to choose from. I love the backroom, especially since the large windows overlookSchoepf’s Backyard. This is where the musicentertains patrons while they savor the flavor of pitbarbecue.

Thursday night is when Schoepf’s holds theirSchoepf’s BBQ Texas Music Series starting in Apriland concluding in August. With performers suchas Stoney LaRue, Gary P. Nunn and Kyle Park,you can bet this place gets mighty packed. Thenight I was there, Jason Boland entertained thecrowd which included families, college studentsand giggling teenagers. I love this aspect of theevening since all can enjoy free music whilegobbling up scrumptious barbecue.

The tree covered backyard has large picnic tablesscattered throughout, a large bar for beveragesand a special area to purchase barbecue if youchoose not partake of indoor seating. The largestage is positioned so the entertainer can easily beseen from any location in the yard. A dance floorright below is perfect for dancing the Two-Step orto just get a closer look. Check Schoepf’s websitefor a list of concerts to come at

www.schoepfsbbq.com. You won’t want to missyour favorite country singer!In addition to tasty barbecue and free concerts,Schoepf’s also caters and opens up the backroomand backyard for parties, meetings or other specialevents you may have. Live out of town but can’tget enough of Schoepf’s barbecue? They will shipyour favorite’s right to your door.

And now you know why I chose to write about amusic venue such as Schoepf’s Old Time Pit BBQ.This is a destination where Texans of all ages cangather to enjoy Texas barbeque and Texas music.Now that’s my kind of a “Texas Two-Step”!


I Loveto Eat

Waco, TexasThe Waco Downtown Farmers Market is a yearround riverside market featuring the best localagricultural producers and artisan vendorswithin 150-miles of Waco. Open every Saturday9:00 AM - 1:00 PM.www.wacodowntownfarmersmarket.com

Belton, TexasDon't miss hometown fun and shopping everythird Saturday of the month at Belton MarketDays!www.downtownbelton.com

Troy, TexasThe Troy Farmers Market is held on the 4thSaturday of each month starting at 8:00 AM.Offering a variety of items from local farmers andvendors. Dedicated to supporting the localeconomy by offering a variety of items, such asfresh fruit and vegetables, meat and cheese,and arts and crafts.www.troyfarmersmarket.net

Schoepf's Barbecue, Belton, TexasHang out under the shade trees and listen tosome great music. Thursday evenings thisSpring/Summer. 7:00-10:00 PM.www.schoepfsbbq.com

Walburg Restaurant, Walburg, TexasEnjoy live music at the Walburg RestaurantBiergarten. Every Friday and Saturday thisSpring/Summer. Opens at 6:00 PM, music startsat 7:30 PM. May get crowded, so get there early.www.walburgrestaurant.com

4/7 - 5/28/2012 WeekendsWaxahachie, TexasView shows on 21 stages, visit hundreds ofshops, enjoy games and rides, and sample avariety of foods. Open Saturdays and Sundaysand Memorial Day 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 2511 F.M. 66.www.srfestival.com

5/4/2012, 6/1/2012, 7/4/2012Indian Spring Park, Waco, TexasEnjoy music, food and drinks on the banks ofthe Brazos River. Begins at 7 p.m. Indian SpringPark, 113 S. University Parks Drive.www.waco-texas.com/cms-brazos-nights

5/5/2012New Braunfels, TexasThe 9th Annual Wein & Saengerfest will be heldbeginning at noon in historic downtown NewBraunfels. Along with wine and beer tasting, thisevent offers a host of entertainment andactivities that include continuous live music, agrape stomp, art market, food seminars, aChef's Showdown, and activities for the kids -culminating with a street dance at Main Plaza!www.weinandsaengerfest.com

5/4 - 5/5/2012Brenham, TexasEnjoy one of the oldest German festivals inTexas. Colorful parades, spectacularperformances, “all you can eat” Blue Bell icecream with the Noon Lions Club, German food,live entertainment, quality arts/crafts & kid’sactivities at “hands-on” German Village! Freeadmission & shuttles.www.maifest.org

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5/3 - 5/6/2012Trinity Park, Fort Worth, TexasFeatures live entertainment, arts and crafts, foodand more.www.mayfest.org

5/5 - 5/6/2012Sixth Street, Austin, TexasFree, bi-annual arts and crafts festival held on 6thStreet featuring artisans from all over the UnitedStates who display and sell homemade art andcraft work. Festival goers can find paintings,sculpture, woodwork, candles, jewelry, cowboyhats, home decor, games, and other useful andwhimsical household items. Local musiciansprovide entertainment on three stages. The festivalis the largest art festival in Central Texas, attractingover 300,000 people per event.www.oldpecanstreetfestival.com

5/11 - 5/12/2012Salado, Texas1st Annual Salado Music Weekend.www.saladoevents.com

5/12/2012Irving, TexasIrving Convention Center.www.northtexasbeerfestival.com

5/12/2012Allen Parkway, Houston, Texas25th Annual Houston Art Car Parade Weekend,powered by the Orange Show Foundation. Over300,000 people line Allen Parkway to witness 250magnificent rolling works of art. The route opensto the public at 9:00 AM to give everyone a chanceto be up close and personal with the cars.Entertainment on the Free Press Summer Fest2012 Stage will start at 11am, and the parade rollsfrom 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM.www.orangeshow.org/art-car

5/12/2012Cranfills Gap, TexasHorny Toad's 3rd Annual Niki de Mayo benefitingNiki Covers the Cold - The Remains Band - $5.00Cover. Join us for a day of fun and help us re-stock for next year’s distributions!! Some items wecollect: new or used clean blankets, sleeping bags,coats, hoodies, backpacks, and re-useable bags.www.hornytoadbar.com

5/11 - 5/12/2012Eddy, TexasBarbecue cook-off, arts and crafts, food vendors,auction and more. Exit 318A on the I-35 serviceroad between Bruceville and Eddy.

5/18 - 5/19/2012Cameron, TexasCelebrates the blooming of the Dewberry with aClassic Car Show, arts and crafts, entertainmentand a youth fishing tournament. Saturday featuresa full day of arts and crafts, the Classic car show,children's activities, a Dewberry cobbler and cakebake-off and lots of food including deliciousdewberry cobbler and ice cream! Join us athistoric Wilson-Ledbetter Park.www.cameron-tx.com/d/10194761_85396.htm

5/19/2012Hico, TexasBackyard chefs from all over the Southwestcompete to see who cooks the best steak in Texas.This event has been featured by Food Network,Texas Monthly and Rachel Ray Magazine as thelargest steak cookoff in the Southwest. Also enjoylive entertainment, wine tastings and shopping.Downtown.www.texassteakcookoff.com

5/26 - 5/27/2012Cranfills Gap, TexasThe first Horny Toad Bar and Grill CASI Chili Cook-Off benefiting Niki Covers the Cold.www.hornytoadbar.com


5/19/2012Mount Vernon, TexasWine tastings from the Wineries that make up thePiney Woods Wine Trail in East Texas. Live music,food, and arts & crafts. Admission is $5 andtastings are $1 each. Come join the fun!www.pineywoodswinetrail.com

5/25/2012, 6/29/2012Red Caboose Winery, Meridian, TexasEvery last Friday of the month with live music.Bring your own food, first come first served. Nooutside alcohol. 7pm-10pm.www.redcaboosewinery.com

5/24 - 6/10/2012Kerrville, TexasInternational songwriter's festival features morethan 100 songwriters and their bands withconcerts, a songwriting competition, seminars andworkshops, arts and crafts, food and camping. 9miles south of Kerrville, 3876 Medina Highway.www.kerrville-music.com

6/6 - 6/9/2012Lockhart, TexasWestern celebration with carnival rides and games,horse shoes & washers, auction, live musicconcert & dances, arts/crafts & food vendors, all atCity Park . Saturday is a Grand Parade downtown.www.chisholmtrailroundup.com

6/9/2012Waco, Texas20th annual Cattle Baron's Ball June 9, 2012 atMCC Highlander Ranch.www.wacocattlebaronsball.org

6/14/2012, 7/12/2012Messina Hof Winery, Bryan, TexasIncludes lessons, tips, tricks, recipes, how to pairfood and wine, and more for beginners and moreseasoned cooks. Participants receive a tote bagfilled with goodies, a recipe book. Call (979) 778-9463 or toll free (800) 736-9463, ext. 234 for moreinformation.www.messinahof.com

6/21 - 6/24/2012Luling, TexasIncludes a parade, continuous live entertainment,world championshipseed-spitting contest, arts andcrafts, and a carnival. Downtown and WatermelonThump Pavilion, 305 W. Davis St., Luling, Texas.www.watermelonthump.com

6/16/2012, 6/23/2012San Gabriel Wine Trail, TexasGeorgetown Winery, Rising Star Vineyards, SaladoCreek Winery & The Dancing Bee Winery. Winerieswill be providing 3 wine tastings each, receive asouvenir glass, cheese themed food pairings (nota meal) and a gift certificate to one winery. June16th is Drive Yourself day, $30 per person or June23rd is Charter Bus day, $60 to ride the bus.Tickets must be purchased in advance.www.sangabrielwinetrail.com

7/13 - 7/15/2012Fair Park, Dallas, TexasThe largest outdoor food festival in Dallas includesrestaurant and retail booths, and music on threestages. Fair Park, 1121 First Ave.www.tasteofdallas.org


When I havetime to relax, I graba tasty treat and my

favorite magazine,Bite of Wisdom!

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bite of wisdom - central texas - may/june 2012

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