Today you can take a walk in beautiful downtown Chapel Hill and Carrboro, and enjoy all sorts of food! The Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours take place every Saturday afternoon. You get to walk from restaurant to restaurant – walk off some of the calories – and sample the delectable food.

As you walk and taste, you get to talk to owners and chefs, and hear their stories and tap into their knowledge. Sort of like getting the back story on the food you’re eating and sampling. You might find out why particular cows are chosen for cheese – and then eat said cheese. Mmmm. Sample chocolates and coffee and wine and beer and delicious sandwiches while talking to the one who has lovingly created what you’re eating.

Your walking guide (who would make a great real estate agent!) will also fill you in about the history and architecture of our area – a lot of fascinating tidbits I’ll “bet you didn’t know.” It’s really a fantastic way to get another look into the fun place we call home.

Happy April!

Crazy Viv

PS There are also Durham and Raleigh Taste Carolina Walking Tours. For next Saturday, maybe?

Chapel Hill/ Carrboro Walking Tour
Saturdays 11:00-2:00
Weekdays 2:00-5:00
Meet in front of Open Eye Cafe, 101 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, at 10:45 or 1:45.
Wear comfortable shoes; this tour is between 1.5 and 2 miles of walking.

I love to get love to get gifts for people who are out of state – and out of the country – so they can get a taste of North Carolina. A Southern Season is the perfect place for that. They sell gourmet foods, kitchenware, tableware, bakery goods, cheeses, meats, coffee, tea, flowers – all with a decided North Carolina flavor. Their pecan (how do YOU pronounce pecan?) pralines are to die for.

One of the things that I love about A Southern Season is that it’s one of those places where they always treat you like somebody special. Actually, they make you feel like a queen. The staff are knowledgeable friendly, helpful, and know about the excellent selection of products.

When I first moved here from Austin, I remember going to A Southern Season and remarking that everyone there was older and well to do. Well, I’m older, but I’m not well to do, so I recommend you ask them when they’ll have their superb sales on. I adore the sales. Perfect for buying that special treat!

While you’re there, treat yourself to the lovely Weathervane Cafe. You never know what’s going to be on their menu, but chances are you’ll be able to get the ingredients for the recipe from right there in the store.

Happy April!

Crazy Viv

A Southern Season
University Mall
201 S. Estes Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27514

I’ve been in Chapel Hill since 1994 and since then I have seen the Mediterranean Deli’s business grow and the place expand. Jamil, the owner has put his heart and soul into this place, to say nothing of money. I’m so happy to see it flourish. This is not a quick in-and-out place because as they’ve gotten popular, they have gotten really busy.

The best pita bread I’ve ever had outside of Israel is the freshly made pita bread at the Med Deli. That may be because the bread machine was imported directly from Israel. Whatever the reason, sometimes I get such cravings for it that I need to hustle over to buy a supply to put in my freezer. It’s chewy, soft and thick. Of course with the pita, you had also better get some humus, muhamara, hearts of palm salad, Greek grape leaves (they are softer than the Lebanese and almost melt in your mouth) for quick sandwiches and snacks.

You can also try ordering the meat or vegetable fatayer, though be careful because they are huge. If you like dates, try Jamil’s because he gets them from Israel and they are far better than any from California. The olive oil is from a particular orchard in Lebanon. Its rich, intense flavor, is worth every penny.

Happy April!

Crazy Viv

PS Many times Med Deli has catered for me and the quantities are always generous with lots of leftovers. Tip: Take in your own plates and dishes (Kitchenworks in Chapel Hill has great ones, remember?!) for the food to be displayed.

Mediterranean Deli
410 W Franklin St
Chapel Hill, NC 27516

…Eating at Tres Amigos in Carrboro

I’ve lived in Texas, and I love and appreciate an authentic Mexican meal. So when I discovered Tres Amigos, I was thrilled! I really am a sucker for such food – and love that you can watch it being prepared in the open kitchen – from the famous Mexican hot dogs (rolled in bacon) to the handmade tortillas, which are a delight.

Sometimes the food cooked by Sarah Vignola herself, who owns the restaurant. She is always there, taking orders, explaining the menu, and sitting down to talk to customers like me.

So for today, head over for a quick bite to Tres Amigos Taqueria on 109 W. Main Street in Carrboro. Try the gorditas with barbacoa. Trust me, you’ll be back for more.

And it is up to us to go support our local independent eateries.

Happy April!

Crazy Viv

PS You know, I could easily eat here 3-4 times a week…so sad for my hips.