Tate Jacaruso

1 month ago | thelocalpalate.com | Tate Jacaruso

Everything about Bodega Bakes cookbook screams fun, and I found myself eagerly flipping through the colorful pages for something to re-create. There’s a slightly Wonka-esque feel, with whimsical recipes that don’t skimp on sprinkles or nostalgia. Author Paola Velez, Afro-Latina pastry chef, owner of Providencia bar in DC, and founder of Bakers Against Racism, was inspired by the bodegas of New York City.

2 months ago | thelocalpalate.com | Tate Jacaruso

Two spins on a pre-Prohibition era cocktail in LouisvilleDuring the 1910s in Detroit, Michigan, bartenders began pouring a gin cocktail with green chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice. Called the Last Word, the drink regained popularity across the country in the 2000s, with the exact origin of the name unknown. At Decade cocktail bar in Louisville, Kentucky, beverage director Kelsee Bryant whips up two riffs on this pre-Prohibition era classic. Bryant’s first take is the Supersonic.

2 months ago | thelocalpalate.com | Chris Coleman |Tate Jacaruso

Charlotte chef Chris Coleman fell in love with fresh cuisine on a trip to Costa Rica My wife and I went to Costa Rica a couple of years ago to celebrate her 40th birthday. The two of us and our kids, along with three other couples we’re close with, rented a house together right on the beach. Flying into the country, it was breathtakingly beautiful. As you look out the window, it’s jungle as far as you can see.

Feb 28, 2025 | thelocalpalate.com | Tate Jacaruso

A 24-hour train trip and why it was worth every minute At 9 a.m., passengers were boarding the Crescent in Atlanta. I stepped onto the train and minutes later, we were off, gathering speed on the way to New Orleans. There’s a direct flight between the two cities, or a 7-hour drive. But I’m a nervous flyer, and I liked the idea of slow travel: taking a train or bus, budgeting more time, supporting local shops and restaurants.

Feb 25, 2025 | thelocalpalate.com | Tate Jacaruso

Getaway Book a stay along the banks of the Trinity River By: Tate Jacaruso Hotel Otto, Fort Worth, Texas’ first microresort, was created by celebrity chef Tim Love with a mix of Italian and Texan charm. The hotel, located on the banks of the Trinity River, features eight 160-square-foot bungalows built into shipping containers that can accommodate up to two people. Each structure is equipped with a front patio, queen bed, full bath, TV, and rooftop patio.