{Local Eats} Jelly Filled, Glazed Or....Bacon? Jelly Modern Doughnuts

Maple Bacon & PB&J 

S'mores & Whoopie Pie

It seems that Grayson Sherman of The St. Germain, has found his softer side.  The talented chef behind Jelly Modern Doughnuts is mixing & matching some of the best flavor combinations and servin' 'em up doughnut style! Wow, some of these combos have me craving these savory nuts of dough at all times of the day. I've heard he will even be showcasing a burger doughnut. hmmm...interesting enough to try.  How delicious do the above combos sound?

All the ingredients are local, organic and most, made in house.  How can you pass up a chocolate cake doughnut with homemade marshmellows. MMM MMM MMM! 

They also have a great party/meeting room used for kids parties (they get to dip and top their own doughnuts) or business meetings.  Can't wait to get down to Jelly today!

Jelly modern doughnuts

100 1414 8st. SW
Calgary, AB
T2R 1J6

hours:

Monday to Friday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 9:00 am - 5:00pm

Contact:

phone: 403-453-2053
fax: 403-453-2044
delicious@jellymoderndoughnuts.com

{Lucky Eats} Calgary...Prepare for the WURST!

Calgary...Prepare for the Wurst...the BEST in Bavarian fare . Located on 4th Street in Mission in the old Wild Rose address you will find Wurst.  Set to open the 3rd week of May, right around the time you are taking 1/2 days to soak up the sun in a beer garden, Wurst boasts elite eats and unbeatable beer varieties.  

Chew on this:  Wurst's kitchen will features charcuterie, fresh fish, Alberta bone-in tenderloin, rotisserie half-chicken and a raw seafood bar brimming with oysters, Dungeness crab, Atlantic lobster and scallops.  A cut above pub food...wouldn't you say? Essen Sie auf! (eat up!)

Not your Run-of-the-Barley-Mill Beers: Gulp your brew out of 1/2 litre or full litre steins, or store your own stein in your very own locker for your next visit.  Not enough, Wurst will give ya a 2 litre boot full of booze...no kidding. there are also 2 different watterin' holes- the beergarten outside in the sun, or the communal seating style beer hall, both separate from restaurant dining.  Take your pick!

I will be there when they open to get a prime patio seat.  Hope to see ya there!

Get MORE of the WURST Info on their Facebook page or visit them online at WURST.CA

{Lucky Eats} Italian Street Eats on 17th: Cibo

I couldn't be more excited for the launch of CIBO (CHEE-BOH- meaning food in Italian) right in the middle of 17th Ave! 1. Because, I am a sucker for any kind of food truck/street meat/festival food there is and Cibo boasts authentic Italian Street Food, And 2. Because I have a sickening obsession with Bonterra Trattoria, owned by the same restaurateurs!  Not sure yet what to expect but, if it truly is Italian street food that they're grillin' and fryin' up...here's a possible preview.

1. Arancini(Ar-Ron-Chi-Nee)- Rice balls coated with breadcrumbs, said to have originated in Sicily in the 10th century. Arancini are usually filled with ragù (meat sauce), tomato sauce, mozzarella, and/or peas. Fried Saucy, cheesy rice? Yep...I'm in!

2. Piadinas- Probably the most popular kid in the street food class! Piadinias are pretty much wraps, but...The best of the beast kind.  the bread is made up of white flour, olive oil and sea salt. Sounds simply but, it's consistencyy and flavor are like a marriage of naan bread and greek pita. YUM! Piadinas are usually sold immediately after preparation and filled with a variety of cheeses, cold cuts and vegetables, but also with sweet fillings such as jam or Nutella. Sounds like a delicious little lunch on the go to me!

3. Zeppole(Zep-Oh-Lee)- Not sure I could list examples without naming something super-duper-sweet! I first tried Zeppole at a Little Italy street fair in Manhattan. De-Lish.  If I had to compare it to something else I would say it's a bit like a bigne in that is is a deep fried ball of dough, usually sprinkled with powdered sugar but, my favorite bite of these little doughnuts is the filling. In NYC I had on filled with honey butter that was TO DIE.  They are also often filled with cannoli cream, jelly or custard. They are so good, they might even trump the cupcake trend.

I guess for now, my street food tooth will have to be satisfied by the looooong list of stampede concoctions but, I will be first in line when Cibo opens it's doors!

{Lucky Liesure} Home Sweet Calgary Home... & Garden Show



3 Days Left! Visit the Calgary Home & Garden Show this weekend for great design ideas, home improvement help and amazing new products like Plasmaic Cook Wear. This innovative cook wear is super healthy allowing you to cook and steam without oil or water! Can't wait to check it out. Have something to say about a local Calgary business? Whether you have ripped their page clear out of the phone book and want to save the rest of us or, you can't stop shouting their praises from The Rockies, HomeStars is giving you 50% off your CH&G Show ticket if you write a review! What a deal! Give a little love, save a little dough.

Let me know if you write a review.  We might feature you on the blog!

{Lucky Sites} Ga Ga For Grocery Alerts.ca!

Steven from GroceryAlerts.ca contacted me today after viewing one of our posts and am I ever glad that he did! Steven and his Wife Lina, created this fantastic little site chalk full of Canadian coupons...good coupons.  They have got them divided into categories by region, and some by store.  They have the hook up on deals from Costco to Nicorette and also offer helpful product reviews! My favorite feature is the Coupon Tracker!  What a great idea.  Sometimes even when you know you are saving lots of cash, it's good to see just how much!  Thanks Steven, for passing on the savings!



Visit them on Facebook and on their Website

{Lucky Leisure} Do You Vino? Calgary Wine Fest 2011 Is Here!

Start your weekend off on a high note! Notes of oak and amber that is.  The Calgary Wine Fest is back at the BMO Centre and Calgarians couldn't be happier.  In fact, Friday & Saturday night is already sold out. BOO!  Last year you paid a fee of I believe $30 and in addition, had to buy sampling tickets.  This year, the event is all inclusive. SO MUCH BETTER! For $75 you can sample some of Alberta's most luxurious libations (last year we tried carbonated vodka) and Haute Cuisine.  Last year my friends and I had a blast!  This event would be great for date night, girls night out or on your own! Hurry and snatch those tickets. Hope to see you Thursday!

Date & Location

Location:	Stampede Park’s BMO Centre
Date:	Thursday, February 24, 2011, 7pm to 10pm
	Friday, February 25, 2011, 7pm to 10pm - SOLD OUT
	Saturday, February 26, 2011, 7pm to 10pm - SOLD OUT

Ticket Prices

Early Bird Ticket	$70 (available until January 14, 2011)
Regular Ticket	$75
Corporate/Group Rate	$65 (for groups of 10 or more, on Thursday only)

Winefest is an all-inclusive event. Tickets include wine sampling and a variety of delicious hors d'oeuvres. Upon arrival, you will also receive a complimentary Riedel wine glass! Please note that tickets are valid for one session only.

Find out more on the website: Calgary Wine Fest 2011

{Lucky Loot} We Are Canadian & This Is How We Roll!

If you live in Canada you probably already know this but...ROLL UP THE RIM TO WIN IS BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER! Tim's is celebrating 25 years of the Canadian giveaway game and that means more prizes and more chances to win! I am 0-for-2 today but, chances of winning are 6 to 1 so, I am hopeful that out of my 4 coffees tomorrow, at least one will be a free cup or, a Toyota Matrix!!!

{Local Hot Spots} The Scoop On Sorso

I've been wondering about this new little gem on 17th ever since Chameleon closed down. Thanks to www.sweetspot.ca I have an answer! I think you will all be pleasantly surprised! As it turns out SORSO is BUON GIORNO'S "Mediterranean sister"! Yes more warm saucy love just a couple of steps away! Have you tried out the med-menu? Let us know what you think!

FROM SWEETSPOT.CA:

Sorso serves its own Mediterranean-based menu, as well as Buon Giorno’s tried-and-true spread of Italian dishes.The catch? You have to decide between the two menus.Sorso’s list of dishes might be short, but the fare is addictive. We devoured the Feta-and-Spinach Stuffed Chicken ($23) and the Salmon Diabalo ($22), which comes grilled in a poppy-seed sauce.

Sorso Restaurant & Bar
827 17 Ave. S.W.
403-228-6516

Read more: http://www.sweetspot.ca/SweetLife/eat_and_drink/27600/mediterranean_meal_med/#ixzz1EjazCyc8

What's The Deal With All The Deal Sites?

Calling all yoga lovers, foodies, gym rats, auto body junkies....Let's make a deal! There are ways to REALLY maximize your savings in all aspects of life by using these sites but, HOW DO YOU MANAGE ALL THE E-MAILS? Well, there is a way.  Let me first start by saying I have purchased NUMEROUS deals off of these Calgary "one day" sites and have saved over 70% every time.  The trick is signing up for enough "deal sites" that you will ALWAYS find something that you would have otherwise paid full Price for the day the deal went on sale OR to purchase these things as gifts.  My husband bought me a FULL SPA DAY, I mean the works, for about $90 when full price was $320. Me-likey-this! So, If you sign up for the OVER 60 deal sites in Calgary, your inbox can start to get a bit unmanageable or, you awake at 4am to multiple Blackberry dings which isn't the most pleasant alarm. How do you deal? Well, after deal sites came deal-site-managers like Onespout which not only takes deals from over 50 sites but, allows you to customize your deals.  For instance, if you love to go to the spa every week, your profile would be more pamper-me-based!  If you love boot camp, your page will be all about fitness classes.  I think it is almost as good an idea as the one day deals! happy deal hunting!

dealfind

groupon
teambuy.ca
livingsocial
kijiji deals

{Lucky Eats} The Big Cheese Poutinerie....In Calgary...Yes Please!

 Wether you grew up in Montreal and had to move to the west kicking and screaming like my sis-in-law, or you're a Texas transplant like me, or you are a walking, living, breathing human who has tried it at least once, you can't resist the hot, steamy, crunchy, gooey loveliness of a nice Styrofoam bowl of poutine! And, if you are Calgarian who loves this indulgent savory teat, you know that it is hard to find a "real" poutine in Calgary! Well, it seems the wait is over! Very shortly, the small retail space between Melrose and the corner store will become "The Big Cheese Poutinerie! Can you say "perfect late night 17th eats"?  I mean what a location! I am definitely excited to check it out.  There is no website or blog about it yet so, stay tuned! Promise to be your taste tester and blog about it soon!

Traveling in QC?  Check out Restaurant Labelle! One of my family's faves!
384, Rue Principale, Lachute, QC J8H 1Y2 (450) 562-8230 ‎

{Lucky Loot} Wake Up & Smell The Free Coffee!

That's right Calgs! November 15th & November 28th, enjoy a nice steamy, smooth McDonald's regular coffee for free! There is no denying it. The snow is coming. That's the price we pay for living in Calgary.  Thankfully, McDonald's wants to lower that price by giving us hot, cozy caffeine for free! Don't miss out. And yes, I will send reminders the days of!

{Lucky Bakes} Ooey Gooey Peanut Butter Ganache Cupcakes

Um... there are few flavor combos in the world that I love more than chocolate and peanut butter and Marye Audet, for Baking Delights and Blisstree.com, has turned my favo-combo into a cupcake!!!!! Just thought I'd share.  I cannot wait to bake these.  This would be great for Christmas parties and a refreshing break from the traditional gingerbread, peppermint and eggnog flavors! Get the recipe here.

{Local Love} Let's Take A Stroll Down Dairy Lane!!!

Obsession of the season.....Dairy Lane! I wish I was on their patio, under a heat lamp, coffee in hand and curled up with one of their patio blankets!!! Doesn't that sound cozy?  Not only is this place so "Towny" and comfy, but the food is DELISH and the service is top notch. The hubs and I went for breakfast and devoured our food (not the most graceful when it comes to eating).  Anyway, I had the gluten free tostada and it was so fresh and fluffy.  The veggies tasted like they were just picked and chopped and the spices were perfect.  I am also obsessed with their Fratello Coffee!  It's so organic and based right here in Calgary.  Dairy Lane prides itself on using homegrown products and remaining local and it adds to the cafe's charm.  If you want to get out of the house and still have all the comforts of home make the short trip to West Hillhurst and cruise down to DairyLane.

*Local Likes* They are now open for Lunch & Dinner and serve beer and wine as well!

{Local Love} Coo Coo For Cruffs!

Who doesn't want to indulge every now and then?  I know I do, and I'm starting to get sick of "the cupcake craze".  Not that cupcakes aren't delicioso but, every now and then I like to mix in something new.....Enter: CRUFFS.  I had never seen a bakery COMPLETELY devoted to cream puffs until the other day and, man am I excited.  CRUFFS makes their light flaky cream puffs daily so you know they are fresh.  Also, I don't know about you, but, I am a sucker for customization and CRUFFS lets you mix and match your favorite fillings making your heavenly indulgence truly yours! What a great idea! With flavors like Vanilla Rum and Banana Hazelnut, you are sure to please everyone's sweet tooth. Can't wait to share these delicate little Cruffs with my girlfriends and the fam! The greatest thing is that Cruffs is centrally located in Mission (my hood) so, If you need to sweeten up your office, bring something new to a client or make a bad mood better...come get some Cruffs!!!



Cruffs is located at:
2312A – 4th Street SW
Calgary, Alberta

{Local Eats} Cure For The Cold: Steamy Shrimp Casserole



This has been a favorite of my families for years and with the snow coming and going and soon here to stay, I thought I'd share it with you to warm up your family!  What I love about this dish is that it is delicious, easy and lasts a long time!  When I mean easy, I mean almost all of the ingredients come from a can! almost everyone I know who tries this, makes it a staple on their family dinner menu.  I know people call it lots of things but, my husband asks for it as, "The Cajun Shrimp Dish" so,  That is what I call it.

The Cajun Shrimp Dish

1 1/2c. uncooked white rice

2 lbs. uncooked, peeled, deveined shrimp

2 small cans cream of chicken soup
1 large can of Rotel or Aylmer Red Pepper Tomatoes(CA)

1 small can onion soup (remove onions)
1/2 onion diced
1/2 bell pepper diced
1 stick or 1/2 c. margarine

1. Peel shrimp

2. Line a 9X13 glass baking dish with 1lb. of shrimp,1/2 of rice, and 1/2 of the butter(place in dollops)

3. In another bowl mix tomatoes, cream of chicken, onion soup, onion and bell pepper

4. Pour mixture over the 1st layer

5. Layer the remaining lb. of shrimp, rice and butter over the mixture.
6. Smash the top layer into the bottom to make sure all shrimp are covered.
7. Cover with foil and bake at 375 Fahrenheit for 30 min.

8. Stir. Replace foil covering and bake for another 30 minutes.

And Viola! I hope you enjoy!

{Local Love} Costumize Yourself At American Apparel

The great thing about AA costumes is that they consist of basics that can be used later as another costume, another layer in the winter or, a full outfit! Right now if you but a "full costume" receive 15% off your entire purchase!  You can also enter their costume contest for a chance to win a $500 (1st prize) or $100 (2nd & 3rd prizes) gift certificate to the American Apparel online store! 

I PERSONALLY bought part of my costume here today! I am going to be Katy Perry. In What outfit? The candy button dress and blue wig from the California Girls video.  I couldn't find a white tube dress anywhere in the middle of fall except for American Apparel! I'm tellin' ya....good basics!

I bought this little thing in white, to look like candy button paper:

I am going to attach Styrofoam balls to it to make it look like candy! Can't wait!!!!!

*Local Likes* When you purchase $100 of merchandise online, AA gives you a free item!

{Local Love} There's A New Armadillo In Town

 Coming from Texas,  I never expected to see an Armadillo up here in the great white north but, low and behold, there he was on 4th Street in Mission!  This place used to be Ouzo but has now transformed into Armadillo Watering Hole!  I cannot find a website but, went by this morning to snap a few pics.  I can't wait to have a new "TexiCanadian" place to bring back the southern charm of home.  Hope it's a hit. I can see many Stampeders trampling through the doors in July and...all year long!

Through-the window shot.  not the best but, you get the idea. They are set to open toward the end of this month.  I live right down the street from the Armadillo so a review will be coming soon!

{Local Love} More RAVES about Waves

Umm... Not only have I formed a Waves specific craving in the mornings but, I am now addicted to their customer service.  This morning my friend Andi and I went into waves and ordered 3 lattes.  They informed us that the debit/credit machine was down and of course, as always, we had no cash.  We asked where the closest ATM was and the girl at the counter said, "Oh no need, my boss said that if anyone comes in with no cash to give them their order for free."  We were floored! Talk about good business practice! 

If the cravings weren't enough, now we are even more inclined to keep coming back to Waves again and again. Both women at the counter apologized again for "the inconvenience"....If you can call it that.  Above is a very happy me with my free deliciousness.  I don't know how they do it but, the creaminess is TO DIE!

Thanks Waves, for another great morning!

{Don't Miss This} Waves Coffee House is turning 5 and to celebrate they are pouring up cups of free 10 oz. brewed coffee for all of their customers at their Hastings & Richards location. Stop by November 9 for your free creamy cup of goodness!

#205 - 400 5th Ave. SW

Calgary, AB T2P 0L6

403.930.1009

Open 6 AM - 5 PM Monday - Friday 



{Lucky In Love} Birds Of A Feather...Marry Together

Modern Wedding Designs by Amber Tyler

My childhood friend, Amber Tyler, is getting married and I could not be more excited for her! Not only is she beautiful and smart but, SUPER creative too.  Amber & Cole's Austin Wedding will be based around a bird cage theme and I am obsessed with the idea.  Above you will see one of her modern, yet whimsical designs.  I cannot wait to see more designs from Amber and....wedding pictures of course! I was so excited to see what this wedding might look like that I put together a little vintage birdcage inspiration board! Congrats Amber & Cole, and thanks for sharing!

Above photos:From top left- Style Me Pretty, Perfectbound, Brown Turtleneck Sweater, Ruffled, Wedding Wire and Rock My Wedding.

This Inspiration board comes from my other blog Posh Paper Prints!