by Sharm | May 14, 2015 | Articles
SPIN! Neapolitan Pizza’s award-winning margherita pizza
Below is information from Spin Pizza’s press release concerning their 10 year anniversary and SPIN! bucks giveaway. Enter today!
Can you believe it’s been 10 years since SPIN! brought Neapolitan-style pizza to Kansas City when it opened its first location? We have lots of great memories of our time at SPIN! throughout the last decade and we bet you do too. Yours could win a great prize! Just share your favorite SPIN! memory in 10 words and you could be one of 10 people to win 10 SPIN! bucks, each worth $10 (that’s $100!). Then enjoy spending your SPIN! bucks at any of SPIN! Pizza’s eight area locations. To enter, just visit www.spinpizza.com/spin10 between now and May 31. You can enter as many times as you want but each memory needs to be different.
When locals opened the first SPIN! at 6541 W. 119th St. in Overland Park in 2005, it was one of the nation’s first Neapolitan-style pizza restaurants. Lots of time and effort had gone into working with James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Smith, who also was named 2014 national Chef Innovator of the Year, to develop SPIN!’s unique hand-tossed, stone-fired pizza.
Through the years, they kept working together to bring new dishes and new toppings to the menu. Rustic whole wheat and gluten-free crusts, Paninis, signature Italian deli sandwiches, and new dips served with Rosemary flatbread were added. Recently, SPIN! began offering shrimp on its pizza and three hot dishes – Calabrian Shrimp Formaggi, a Mondo Stuffed Meatball, and Roasted Eggplant Parmigiana — that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as a meal with a choice of soup or salad.
Already known for its affordable bottled wines priced well below traditional restaurant prices, SPIN! added homemade sangrias, craft beers, barrel wines at some locations, and new sizes of pours.
SPIN! also added new locations on both sides of the state line. Five are in Kansas at 6541 W. 119th St. in Overland Park, 8224 Mission Road in Prairie Village, 9474 Renner Blvd. in Lenexa, 14230 W. 119th St. in Olathe, and 6510 W. 135th St. in Overland Park, and three in Missouri at 4950 Main in Kansas City, downtown in Crown Center, and at 1808 N.W. Chipman Rd. in Lee’s Summit.
Two more SPIN!s are on their way in the Northland and on the University of Central Missouri campus in Warrensburg, which will bring SPIN! to 10 area locations in its 10th year.
SPIN! Neapolitan Pizza 10th anniversary candles on pizza and gelato
Through the years, SPIN! has been recognized with numerous national, regional and local awards. Ranked number one by Zagat among Kansas City area pizza restaurants, SPIN!® has been awarded “best pizza” by numerous local publications, and honored for the city’s best gluten-free menu. It was listed among the “Rest of the 101 Best Restaurants” in the nation by TheDailyMeal.com, one of the most heavily visited “foodie” websites in the country, its Margherita Pizza was crowned one of the nation’s best dishes of the year by a trade magazine, and its architecture won Best of Show at the Mid America Design Awards.
SPIN! Neapolitan Pizza is owned and operated by Kansas Citians Gail and Richard Lozoff, Edwin Brownell, and Michael Kramer.
For more information, please visit www.spinpizza.com
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by Sharm | May 8, 2015 | Articles
Sprouts Farmers Market
Baby food is growing up! According to Janet Little, nutritionist for Sprouts Farmers Market, the latest trends in baby foods include sophisticated flavors, more protein and fiber, a shift back to jars and organic ingredients .
With four locations in the metro you can find a range of baby food products at Sprouts – for up to 25% off from May 6th – May 13th— or if you have the time, you can try your hand at another baby food trend – making your own. Here are some DIY tips and recipes from Janet.
Homemade Baby Food
DIY Tips:
· Keep all tools and work spaces spotlessly clean, washing with hot, soapy water and rinsing in hot water or use a dishwasher if possible.
· Choose organic produce whenever possible.
· Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before peeling.
· Use a blender or food processor to speed preparation. Add formula, juice or cooking water to thin the food.
· Start with a thin, smooth, easy-to-swallow puree. As your baby grows and chewing and swallowing reflexes mature, the consistency can be thickened.
· Make larger batches so you can portion them out in ice cube trays to freeze. Then put them in plastic storage bags. Take cubes out, heat and serve.
· Avocados or bananas may be mashed and served in a variety of ways. They do not require cooking.
Sweet Potato
Ingredients
4 oz sweet potato, finely diced
1 cup water
Method
In a pot, bring the diced sweet potato and water to boil, for about 15 minutes or until it reaches the desired consistency that you like. It should break down quite a bit after the boiling. If not, you can use the back of the spoon to mash the sweet potato to the desired texture. To make a silky smooth sweet potato puree, you can blend it with a blender. Let cool and serve.
Purple Carrots
Ingredients:
1 bunch purple carrots – about 10 carrots
Small amount of water
Method
Peel and slice carrots. Place in a steaming basket over boiling water and steam for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Adding a little bit of water (do not use your cooking water), purée the carrots. Let cool and serve. If freezing, remove the frozen purée from the trays and place in a freezer bag and mark to be used within 3 months.
7 to 8 months
Start testing other fruits and vegetables and proteins such as lentils and meats in thicker purees. Still go one new ingredient at a time, but now mix a few together once you know your baby isn’t allergic.
Green Bean, Potato, and Kale Puree
Ingredients
1/4 pound green beans
1 large organic russet potato, peeled and sliced
4 large organic kale leaves, stems removed and coarsely chopped
1 cup organic chicken stock
3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Method
In a medium saucepan, combine beans, potato, kale, and stock and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat. Cook uncovered until potatoes are fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Transfer contents of saucepan to a blender and add Parmesan and olive oil. Puree until as smooth as you prefer. Serve warm.
Lentil and Apple Puree
Ingredients:
1/2 cups lentils
2 1/2 cups water
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small organic red delicious apple, cored and diced
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground coriander
pinch cinnamon
Method
Pour the water into a saucepan and add the lentils. Bring to the boil. Lower the heat and simmer the lentils until cooked – they should be tender and breaking down, about 25 to 35 minutes. While the lentils are cooking, heat the oil in a small frying pan and saute the diced apple and crushed garlic until tender, stir in all the spices and cook for a few more minutes. Cool briefly. Transfer the entire mixture to a blender and puree until smooth and serve.
Kansas City metro area locations:
Missouri:
8383 N. Booth Ave.
Kansas City, MO 64158
816-222-0202
6061 NW. 64th St.
Kansas City, MO 64151
816-303-6503
Kansas:
6821 W. 135th St.
Overland Park, KS 66223
913-643-4190
8550 Maurer Rd.
Lenexa, KS 66219
913-312-1586
by Sharm | May 8, 2015 | Articles
There are plenty of spots around the Kansas City metro offering Mother’s Day specials in 2015. Being a mom myself, I have compiled my top 10 favorite places in Kansas City where I would want to dine. Most places are going to require a reservation so be sure and call ahead.
1. Westside Local – This is my favorite restaurant in KC. The beer garden patio is absolutely fabulous for dining outside. Dishes use local and seasonal ingredients with some coming from the restaurants own on- site garden. Westside Local will be serving from the regular brunch menu as well additional specials just for mom. Reservations: 816-997-9089.
2. Room 39 – This is my second favorite restaurant in KC and they have two locations in the metro. The dishes are made up of local and seasonal ingredients which I love. The four course tasting menu for $45.00 is hard to beat. Mother’s Day Specials include a 3 courses meal for $30. Reservations: Kansas City location: 816-753-3939, Leawood: 913-648-7639.
3. Rye – Locally owned by Chefs Colby and Megan Garrelts, Rye is all about midwestern comfort food and use local farmers to supply ingredients for their dishes. Mother’s Day brunch will be served from 10:30 am-2:30 pm. Reservations are strongly recommended, the sooner the better. Call 913.642.5800.
4. Bluestem – This gem in Westport is another restaurant owned by Chefs Colby and Megan Garrelts and is the epitome of fine dining. Along with a Mother’s Day brunch offered 10:30 am 2:30 pm May 10th, Bluestem also offers an afternoon tea with lovely pastries and assorted tea sandwiches on Saturday, May 9th. There will be seatings at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. $25 per person, $12.50 for children 10 and under.
(Sales tax and gratuity are not included)
Reservations are required and space is limited so grab your spot early! Call 816.561.1101
5. Pig and Finch – This gastropub located in Park Place is known for fabulous food pairing. A brunch pre-set menu will offers the following items: Traditional Pub Breakfast, Crabmeat Omelette, Quiche, Shrimp & Grits, French Toast, Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Traditional Eggs Benedict, Veggie Eggs Benedict, and Fried Donut Holes. Mother’s Day brunch will run from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.
Reservations: 913-322-7444.
6. Sullivan’s Steakhouse – The Knockout Martini here is what makes this a favorite spot of mine. This pineapple infused vodka cocktail is dangerously smooth. Try is with brunch that will run from 10:30 am to 3 pm for Mothers Day or for dinner which starts serving at 3 pm. Reservations: 913-345.0800.
7. McCormick and Schmick’s – I am not a huge seafood fan but what I love at McCormick and Schmick’s the Chocolate Bag! It is truly a paper sack made out of pure chocolate filled with white chocolate mousse and fresh berries. Also for dinner ask for the fried chicken. It is a dish that used to be on the menu but is not anymore. I cannot guarantee it will work but on occasion you will get a chef that knows how to make it. Reservations: 816-531-6800.
8. Cafe Verona – This locally owned spot on the historic Independence Square has a beautiful courtyard patio perfect for dining outside. 11 am to 3 pm enjoy a special Mother day menu in addition to regular menu, plus really great sangria for mom. Reservations 816.833.0044.
9. Ophelia’s Restaurant and Inn – I can’t help but mention this other fine dining gem located on the historic Independence Square. It is close to where I grew up so there is a bit of nostalgia that comes with “The Square” as we used to call it. Ophelia’s is offering a Mother’s Day Brunch from 10:30 a.m to 4:00 p.m. Reservations: 816-461-4525.
10. Barrel 31 – Can you say free? Barrel 31 will celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 10 by offering all moms, grandmas and motherly figures a complimentary brunch entrée from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. In addition, mimosas will be $3 each, as they always are during Barrel 31’s weekend brunch. The Barrel 31 brunch menu now features two new additions created by Executive Chef Eric Carter, the Espresso-Glazed Sticky Bun and the Breakfast Poutine. Reservations: 816-569-3801.
by Sharm | May 7, 2015 | Articles
The Kansas City metro area is full of great shopping and dining areas but Park Place in Leawood, KS is the Place to be for shopping, dining and living!
Being the foodie that I am, Park Place is a favorite spot and I was thrilled to be invited to attend The Taste of Park Place which was a benefit fundraiser for the amazing Newhouse Shelter which helps victims of domestic violence in the greater Kansas City area.
Whether you are looking for a quick bite, something sweet, family friendly dining, a place to meet up with friends, or somewhere romantic Park Place has something for everyone.
I have compiled my list of favorites and what category it falls in for me.
Pick Me Up
I absolutely love T. Loft as it is my go to for a quick pick me up. Offering energizing juices, teas, protein balls and quick grab and go healthy snacks and salads.
For early mornings when only coffee will do, it is the Parisi Cafe featuring Kansas City’s own locally roasted Parisi coffee. For after dinner, it is a great spot to enjoy a specialty cocktail, cordial or dessert.
Romantic Dinner
For a date night look no further than 801 Chophouse featuring aged USDA prime beef, Iowa Duroc pork chops and Colorado lamb.
The fresh fish at 801 Fish, will satisfy any seafood lover. Both of them offer fine dining at its best
Specialty Cuisines
If it is Italian that you crave, Carma will hit the spot. This neighborhood bistro offers a selection of small plates and tapas perfect for sharing. Fresh bread is brought to each table along with dipping oil, which is my weakness! They also have a variety of fresh Italian entrees.
If it is Sushi you love RA Sushi will hit the spot. The energy in the space is contagious and there are a ton of great happy hour food and drink specials as well as late night dining. On occasion they offer Sushi making classes where you can learn to roll your own.
Meet Up and Cocktails
If meeting up with a group is on your agenda, look no further than Pig and Finch. This gastropub offers unique cocktails and an array of flavorful dishes which focus on the art of food paring.
Pig and Finch
To satisfy the beer lovers, check out Gordon Biersch where most locations feature an onsite brewery. The menu offers something for everyone including their addictive garlic fries!
Beer Taps at Gordon Biersch
Family Friendly
Burger Fi features delicious made to order burgers, urban fries and creamy custard.
Burger Fi
Ingredient True Eatery is another favorite of mine and is owned by a local Kansas City restaurant group. This is the perfect spot if you have a picky eater. In addition to regular menu items you can “make your own” where you pick the ingredients you want on your salad or burger or if your there for breakfast, your omelet.
Pickelman’s Gourmet Cafe offers fresh sandwiches, soups, salads and pizzas. They also deliver.
California Pizza Kitchen known for their spectacular pizza combinations as well as delicious soups, salads and entrees has an award winning kids menu so everyone will leave satisfied
Something Sweet
Cupcake Ala Mode this locally owned cupcake shop offers freshly made cupcakes in a variety of flavors that are almost to pretty to eat!
Cupcake Ala Mode
Paciugo Gelato makes their authentic Italian gelato in house daily and has 70% less fat than ice cream so no need to feel guilty indulging in this sweet treat!
In addition to all of the great dining options, Park Place offers plenty of retail shopping, events and activities as well as residences that offer lofts, apartments and townhouses.
For further information on Park Place visit the Park Place website.
If you or someone you know is in a domestic violence situation please contact Newhouse Shelter for help. You can also contact them if you wish to donate items needed for the shelter or volunteer.
If you have a great food find or something else you think KC is missing, email me.
by Sharm | Mar 26, 2015 | Articles
Park Place is full of amazing restaurants and the “Taste of Park Place” gives you a chance to try them all!
Below is information from the official press release about the “Taste of Park Place and information on how you can enjoy this fabulous day while supporting Newhouse Shelter.
The Newhouse Domestic Violence Shelter Celebrates
Annual “Taste of Park Place”
Park Place Restaurants Come Together to Provide Food, Wine and Hand-Crafted Beer Tastings in Support of the Fight Against Domestic Violence
The second annual “Taste of Park Place” event is on Saturday, April 25th. Located at 117th and Nall Avenue in Leawood, the event at Park Place will offer something for everyone — whether you enjoy food, wine, hand-crafted beer or just want to help support Newhouse’s mission to break the cycle in domestic violence.
The “Dine Around” event allows guests to visit 13 delectable restaurants and food specialty stores throughout Park Place and enjoy light tastings from a diversity of global cuisine. Participating restaurants include 801 Chophouse, 801 Fish, BurgerFi, Carma, Cupcake a la Mode, Gordon Biersch, Parisi Café, Pig & Fish, RA Sushi and more. Each guest will receive a $5 Park Place Gift Card and VIP offers at select retailers.
Before or after the Dine-Around, guests can also participate in a fun and educational session of “Wine and Hand-Crafted Beer Tastings” located at Carma. Kansas City wine and hand-crafted beer connoisseurs will provide attendees with various tastings along with helpful food pairing guidance and valuable tips on selecting the perfect libation for any occasion. Carma will provide light appetizers expertly paired with each tasting. Guests must be 21 or older to attend this event.
Also during the festivities, guests will have the opportunity to bid on a beautiful “Taste of Park Place” painting created by Kansas City artist Mike Savage.
What: Taste of Park Place
When: Saturday, April 25, 2015
Where: Park Place of Leawood, KS
Why: A benefit for Newhouse Women’s Shelter Time: Dine-Around: 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Wine and Hand-Crafted Beer Tastings: 1st Session: 1:00-2:00 p.m. 2nd Session: 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Cost: Dine Around: $20 in advance/$25 at event per person Wine & Hand-Crafted Beer Tastings: $50 per person Combination “Taste of Park Place” Ticket: $65 per person
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.newhouseshelter.org/events/the- taste-of-park-place. Tickets to this event sold out last year so guests are encouraged to reserve online tickets early.
Newhouse is a domestic violence shelter providing comprehensive services to women who have experienced domestic violence. Newhouse’s mission is to break the cycle of domestic violence by providing the tools which allow women to make positive choices and lead self-sufficient lives. One out of four women experience domestic violence and 365 days a year, Newhouse provides women a safe, healing environment, which includes physical, spiritual, psychological, and emotional support. For further information or to make a donation, please visit http://www.newhouseshelter.org.
About Park Place
Park Place is the only mixed-use community in Johnson County, embracing the complete lifestyle from playing to working and every activity in between. Park Place features local, regional and national specialty shops, world class restaurants, luxurious services and renowned office tenants in an environment of tree-lined streets and community areas, truly making it Leawood’s downtown, as named by Mayor Peggy Dunn. Park Place boasts Johnson County’s only outdoor ice skating rink, The Ice. It is the development’s focal point and serves as a community green space during warmer months. Park Place will soon be home to AMC World Headquarters. For more information, visit www.ParkPlaceLeawood.com
by Sharm | Mar 26, 2015 | Articles
I recently had the chance to try out the Garmin vivofit fitness tracker courtesy of Verizon Wireless. It is now time to send it back but before I do, I wanted to share some of my favorite features of the device.
I already own the UP fitness band by Jawbone, so it was interesting comparing the two.
Both are wristband type devices that track activity, steps and sleep. Food can be tracked in the UP Band app and both can track food in various compatible apps. I use My Fitness Pal. There is also community/team features that allow you to connect with others on both devices.
You can read more about the features of the UP band here.
Below are the additional features of the Garmin vivofit that I really liked, not offered on the UP.
1. The wrist band has a digital display so you can see the number of steps you have taken or watch the steps countdown from the suggested goal already displayed.
2. The display also shows calories burned, miles walked, date and time.
3. The wristband doubles as a watch.
4. When connected to a compatible heart rate chest strap monitor (sold separately), the device can display heart rate.
5. The device can sync via Bluetooth through the app on your mobile device, or sync to a laptop via the USB ANT Stick included.
6. The device uses a battery with one year life guarantee so there is no charging involved.
7. By wearing the band consistently the device learns your current activity level, then assigns an attainable daily goal.
When comparing both bands, I noticed that the Garmin vivofitit registered slightly higher steps. Had I tried the vivofit before I had the UP Band, I might have chosen the Garmin since it has quite a few additional features.
UP Band registered steps
Garmin vivofit registered steps
For more information on the Garmin vivofit visit the Verizon Wireless or Garmin websites.
