Anyone who knows me well, knows that I am a big fan of artisanal chocolates. And since my blog is all about discovering culinary underdogs and foodie gems, The Chocolate Invitational proved to be a one-stop shop for just that. An on-going series of events focusing on chocolate awareness, Mikki Sage and Ashley Walsh (her father started Hawaiian Vintage Chocolate) founded the Invitational as an arena for chocolate vendors and the local creative community to share their products with eager chocolate aficionados. I had the opportunity to meet some truly great people who were proud and passionate about their work. I also got to try some truly fantastic treats, and not just chocolate! In addition to the chocolate vendors, in attendance were healthy snack food producers such asJust Pure Foods, tea from Bhakti Chai, flavored liqueurs from Art in the Ageand even a Moonshinevendor. A roving group of Lucille Ball impersonators, a stilt walker and a teepee set up for tea tastings and meditations all contributed to this very entertaining day.
The event took over the grounds of a beautiful Malibu ranchand transformed it into a fun vintage styled festival. It was a foodie’s paradise. The location was a calming change of pace from the usual city hustle and bustle and it was nice to step out of Los Angeles proper and spend a few relaxed hours unwinding with some good swing music, hot Chai tea and some really fantastic chocolates.
Some standout vendors were Coracao Confections which offered amazingly addictive gluten free, soy free, dairy free raw cacao truffles. Just Pure Foods, which makes delicious, healthy snack food alternatives like Spicy Jalapeño Tomato Chips, Chocolate Kale and Zucchini Chips and Amella Caramels who somehow managed to make caramels that are perfectly sweet and chewy without getting all stuck in my teeth!
To give you an idea of what the event was like, here’s a short video recap from my experience.
The events are held sporadically throughout the year at varying locations, be sure to follow them on Facebook to be looped in about the next delicious gathering.
For a list of sponsors and vendors, click their web page.
A few months ago I sampled some grub from Lidia’s Dominican Kitchen food truck for the Cooking Channel’s show Eat Street. The show takes audiences around the nation trying the best food trucks in each city. Here’s a clip of the Los Angeles episode which is now airing!
Note: Since this taping, the truck has been temporarily commissioned out of state. Check out their website for their latest return dates and info.
After writing up my thoughts on the food themed flick Dinner Rush, I decided wanted to follow it up with another post about food in movies. Being a filmmaker at heart, I get just as excited watching a good food film, as I do flipping through a cookbook or reading about a new restaurant in a review. With so many people close to my heart struggling with food related illnesses (obesity, diabetes, cancer), I wanted see which inspiring food films, Ted Talks and documentaries I could find that related to food and health. Through my researching, I found a ton of educational, beautiful and inspiring films. It’s quite interesting to see so many common themes regarding food and health. These films discuss food, art, spirituality and everything in between.
A thoughtful meditation on the art of perfection. Jiro Dreams of Sushi chronicles the life of an 85-year-old sushi master. His 10-seat, sushi-only subway station restaurant is the first of its kind to be awarded 3 Michelin stars.
An insightful examination of the profound claim that most, if not all, of the degenerative diseases that afflict humans can be controlled, or even reversed, by eating plant based, non-processed foods.
An incredibly detailed look inside the renowned Spanish restaurant, El Bulli. A film that’s both inspiring and beautiful to watch, Spanish chef Ferran Adrià (referred to as the Salvador Dali of the kitchen) allows the cameras to see inside his most intimate preparations for the following season’s innovative menu.
The now, super famous film in which documentarian Morgan Spurlock literally puts his life on the line to prove a point. He eats only McDonalds food every day for one month; you know what happens next…
Engaging insight of interviews conducted with leading nutritionists, naturopaths, scientists, M.D.’s and medical journalists who suggest scientifically verifiable solutions for overcoming illness naturally without the aid of prescription drugs.
Exposing the diet and weight-loss industry and the deceptive strategies designed to keep you eating the wrong things. Can you trust what you think you know about your food?
They say you are what you eat. Well, do you really know what you’re eating? This is the documentary film based off the controversial book that ripped the curtain off the American food industry. It’s the film that the food industry doesn’t want you to see. Watch with caution.
Anyone who knows me well knows that I am a chocoholic and a coffee lover. So, naturally I was ecstatic to find a product that combined two of my happy addictions. Choffy is just what it sounds like: chocolate-coffee. It’s chocolate that brews and mixes like coffee.
Since it is only currently available on their website, I asked the (relatively) new company for a sample so I could see just what they were all about. I was sent a bag of their Ivory Coast flavor and another little packet and to-go cup for an on-the-go brew.
Once you open the little black bag you’ll see what looks like a mixture of ground coffee beans and ground up chocolate pieces. However – there’s no coffee in it at all, it’s just cacáo beans! Mmmm, a good chocolate aroma…
The taste is bitter, not sweet and you’ll find it’s richer and more robust in flavor than hot chocolate but not as thick. When I first brewed it, I thought I made it wrong because there was a thin quality to it, more like a black tea rather than coffee. Also, as with any unsweetened cocoa, you’ll have to use some sweetener if you’re used to sweeter beverages. You can add flavored coffee creamer or sugar to your liking. I added some half and half and a teaspoon of organic sugar and it tasted great. There’s definitely a hint of bitterness and there’s a rich tangy chocolate flavor to it.
I chose to use my French Press to brew it – which is always tricky for me since I am terrible at measuring anything. I followed the directions on the packaging and used 2 tbsp. of Choffy for every 6 oz. of water. You virtually make it the same way as you would make a cup of coffee:
Measure the grounds (which were pre-measured in the bag already)
Add (almost) boiling water and pour over coffee grounds, stirring gently.
Let step for 5 minutes and stir again. (Let it sit a bit longer if you want a stronger flavor).
Press down the filter and pour.
Voilá! You are ready to enjoy your cup of Choffy.
Check out this little video that shows Choffy in action!
The Perks
Brewed in small batches, their website states that there are more antioxidants in an 8 oz cup of Choffy than in a serving of blueberries. Choffy uses 100% Premium organic cacáo beans and supplies you with longer lasting energy without the crash or negative side effects of caffeine. I am happily wired this morning as I drink my Choffy and write this post.
Its’ cacáo beans have all of the healthy qualities that dark chocolate has, without the caffeine. It contains Theobromine, which is a healthy stimulant and helps improve blood circulation.
Here are some interesting facts about Theobromine from wisegeek.com.
“Like caffeine, theobromine is a diuretic, and it also acts as a stimulant. In addition to causing the heart to beat more rapidly, theobromine also widens the blood vessels, reducing blood pressure. Unlike caffeine, theobromine does not act as extensively on the central nervous system, so it is unlikely to cause the shakes and tremors associated with excessive caffeine consumption. The compound is also a bronchiodilator, and it has been used in the treatment of asthma…”
At $15 per 12 oz bag, it’s a little pricey to drink everyday in lieu of my $6 bag of TJ’s coffee. However, it’s a perfect special treat, delicious to warm up on a cold winter day, and a perfect gift for chocolate lovers anywhere!
BYB TIP:
There’s no reason to waste perfectly good Choffy! Here’s a recipe for a body scrub you can use when with the leftover Choffy grounds.
Body Scrub
1/4 cup Choffy grounds
11/4 cup oatmeal
1/2 (about a small) mango
1 tbsp lemon juice
Run oatmeal through a blender or food processor until powdery. Then add the remaining ingredients and blend well.
One of the tastiest and (literally) HOTTEST organic drink companies that is getting a lot of buzz as of late is the relatively newish company, Prometheus Springs. They specialize in exclusively “spicy” elixirs that are sure to knock your socks off. Their website touts that they are the “first everyday non-alcoholic refreshment based on Capsaicin, offering a health conscious drink alternative.”
I discovered them when I was eating at a local deli, and was instantly intrigued by their Pomegranate Black Pepper Elixir. Sipping my fruit and spice infused drink “chilled for a refreshing kick,” as the bottle suggests, I was immediately blown away. I had never had anything like it before. I suddenly had the urge to call my dad to tell him about it… he LOVES spicy stuff.
My first experience with Prometheus Springs went a little something like this:
First sip: Oh. Wow. This is, different…
Second sip: I can subtly taste the fruit but…
Third sip: The back of my throat and my tongue are on fire!…
Fourth sip: And… I’m kinda loving it…
Fifth sip: Whew! Ok, Omg. I need a little break now…
30 seconds later…
Six sip: Ooh, now this would make a great cocktail!
I was hooked. And also compelled to learn more….
After reading a blurb on their website and learning about all the drinks benefits, I was like Snapple who? This is my new jam. I like that you can serve it up a variety of ways for different effects; ice cold (maximum spice), warm (soothing when you are sick), or mix to make other drinks or cook with it.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m a chronically cold blooded person. My nickname in college was The Ice Queen. As I was drinking this beverage, I could feel my body internally warming up. I also became naturally elated. A “natural high” of sorts… It was weird, neat and pretty awesome all at once.
The secret to the spice comes from a chili pepper extract called capsaicin. I was sent this blurb about it from the company…
“Capsaicin is extracted from Chili Peppers, a colorless natural antioxidant which is highly regarded as a natural medical alternative and a highly discussed source of natural medicine by many leading Physicians. Capsaicin is used to assist in the treatment of Headaches, Arthritis, Sinus relief and nerve soothers…”
The name of the company makes total sense when you learn the origins. It stems from the fearless Greek titan who, for the benefit of humanity, stole fire from the gods and gave it to mankind. Sweet, thanks Prometheus!
Now that I’ve piqued your interest, Prometheus Springs can be bought online and at various Whole Foods and independent natural foods stores nationally. They launched in 2009 with three flavors: Pomegranate Black Pepper (my favorite!), Lemon Ginger (great for colds!) and Lychee Wasabi (drinking wasabi!? Whoa!).
Then, in 2011, they added three new flavors: Mango Chili (fruity and hot), Citrus Cayenne (the spiciest yet!) and Spicy Pear (a milder burn) to add to their already spicy hot stable of drinks.
If you like a good kick to your beverage, do try them out.
Here’s a short video describing my drink experience…
Ah, Beverly Hills, known for its luxury, decadence and celebrity. It’s not often on the radar of most hipsters or foodies. Although rich with history and many gourmet eateries, Beverly Hills often comes off a bit pretentious or even an intimidating little microcosm of LA. It is where the elite and tourists go to see and be seen. One often drives through its spotless streets merely as a passage to another destination, but we rarely think to spot and linger. Don’t let the “Pretty Woman Stigma” prevent you from exploring the many unique and affordable adventures that this city has to offer.
This Valentine’s Day, one food tour company sets out to prove just that and more.
Now, I’ve written aboutand even previously made a video featuring Six Taste’s adventures before, but when I learned about their special limited Valentine’s Day Tour in Beverly Hills, I just had to see for myself what it was all about. You see, I’ve worked in the Beverly Hills area for over six years and although I’ve patronized the many businesses and eateries up and around the “Golden Triangle,” I was happy to find stops on this tour that I could discover for the first time. The guide veers away from the more familiar Rodeo Drive and mostly keeps to Cañon’s “Restaurant Row.”
The Valentine’s Day Tour is not only a great date idea, or perhaps a fun outing for a group of singles, but it’s also a darn good way to check out six different local Beverly Hills establishments and maybe learn something new along the way. You sample wines and house-made pasta at the Scarpetta as well as tour the inner workings of the huge kitchen that is Thomas Keller’s French-inspired, Bouchon.
As a foodie, I loved getting to see behind the scenes of their pristine kitchen. It was so worth it!
Delicious house-made pasta from Scarpetta.
You also visit The Cheese Store, which has been in business since 1967. It features over 600 varieties of rare, imported cheeses from all over the world. The owner, Norbert Wabnig is incredibly engaging and has a wealth of “cheesy” knowledge. Even I, being lactose intolerant, was able to enjoy various sheep and goat cheeses without consequence. Norbert informed the group of how it is much easier to digest than cow’s milk.
Yay for me!
The Venezuelan Coupa Café, which had been featured in the recent Muppet movie, offered us samplings of some authentic Venezuelan treats. The hand-made Tequeños and The Spicy Mayan Hot Chocolate simply blew my mind!
The chocolates from Madame Chocolat are a treat for any chocolate lover.
And finally, a restaurant that had been on my radar since they opened last October… the Korean inspired, Italian restaurant, Erbe Matte. This romantic little dinner spot had me going back the very next week to sample more dishes off their amazing menu!
If you are looking to experience something a little different with your sweetheart this Valentine’s day, you’ll definitely enjoy this tour. You will no doubt discover a part of your city that perhaps you never knew was there, plus being with a group of like-minded foodies is always a recipe for a good time!
Tour Dates are:
Feb. 11, 12, 18 and 19! Book now before it sells out!
About the author Amy T. Shuster is an actress, writer, singer and food enthusiast. Her blog is, backyardbite.com, which focuses on creating positive content to help generate awareness of local independent foodie “gems” in the Los Angeles area. Amy lives and dines in Los Angeles, CA. Read her story in the LA Weekly!
Last year as I discovered my foodie footing, I found some amazing places right in my backyard. Those who know me well know that besides a passion for food, I also love to sing… a lot.
I’m a big believer that good food should make you burst out in song!
Here is a list of just some of my favorite places in LA that I discovered last year…
(to the tune of “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music)
There are of course, MANY amazing restaurants I regrettably couldn’t fit in the length of the song… Who do you think I missed? Tell me who you think I should have included, and maybe your suggestion will get added to next year’s recap!
When I started the Backyard Bite early 2011, my goal was to introduce Los Angeles natives and visitors of the area to hidden neighborhood gems. Six Taste Tours, the newest and largest food tour company in Los Angeles does just that and more. They take Los Angeles locals and tourists on walking food tours that give a crash course on each neighborhood’s history, culture and food practices.
For around $55 to $65 bucks you get to literally eat your way through a part of the city and discover a few cuisines that you may have never tried before. Current tours include Santa Monica, Little Tokyo, New Chinatown, Thai Town, Hollywood (of course), and the Delicious Dumpling Tour in Arcadia. For the more serious foodies, you can step out of your comfort zone and take on one of their specialty tours, which feature spicy and bizarre foods. These special tours are not for the faint of heart (or stomach!).
I love that an LA resident can go on one of these tours and discover a place that they never knew was there. With so many ethnic pockets around the city, its easy to overlook many great restaurants. I wanted to go on one of these tours to see what the experience was like and see what I might learn. If you are reading this blog, I assume that you are a food lover. Check out this short teaser featuring tour guide, Michael Lin and decide for yourself, are you just a foodie? or a Food Adventurer?
The Delicious Dumpling tour started in the Baldwin shopping center in Arcadia early on a Saturday morning. Michael (@dumplingtour) had a sensei-like knowledge of Taiwanese culture and food. He taught us brief history about Arcadia, the city in which he grew up and then after brief introductions we wasted no time getting our grub on.
The line forming outside the Din Thai Fun Dumpling House at 10 am reassured my suspicion that these tour guides know their stuff! We sampled various dumplings, sausages and Boba teas, not to mention a gang of breads and sweets! After 4 1/2 hours of eating at local Arcadia restaurants and bakeries, we were happily stuffed. Definately a tour I’d recommend for anyone who loves food, meeting new friends and a bit of culture!
About the author
Amy T. Shuster is an actress, writer, host, and food enthusiast. Her blog is, backyardbite.com, which focuses on creating positive content to help generate awareness of local independent foodie “gems” in the Los Angeles area. Amy lives and dines in Los Angeles, California.
8075 W 3rd St · Los Angeles, CA 90048 · Neighborhood: Mid-City West/West Hollywood
One would imagine chef and owner, Bradford Kent has his work cut out for him. He is a chef, family man, businessman, food scientist, caterer and self proclaimed food nut. With such an extensive resumé, you might find yourself wondering if there is also superman cape underneath that apron he wears.
His restaurant, Olio Pizzeria & Caféhas undergone a lot of changes since its debut on the West Hollywood foodie scene just a year ago. Don’t let it’s small size fool you, having recently applied for a beer and liquor license and getting a mini-makeover, Olio forgoes it’s casual daytime look for a sleeker, more grown up vibe. This cute, popular lunch eatery is quickly establishing itself as one of LA’s great pizza places.
As a regular to this wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza joint since it’s debut back in October 2010, I have been noticing the accolades among pizza fans on Yelp increase in number. Still pretty much flying low and under the radar of most, Olio has become a local favorite and a place for foodies to come and share what they’ve discovered with other foodies.
I didn’t let my first time to Olio be the deal breaker, (they were so packed, they ran out of dough!) and I came back and have since tried multiple items on their ever-growing menu. From the Margherita Plus to the Hawaiian Pizza my favorites seem to fluctuate depending on my mood. I love their perfectly Wood Fired Shi-Shito Peppers and Prime NY Strip Steak Bites. Their Miso Salmon is a simple yet perfectly prepared filet that is both tender and crispy. Sometimes, I’ll just come in for that and an Intelligentsia brewed espresso.
About 98% of their menu goes into the wood fired oven, and yes, that includes the Chocolate Chip Cookies. Bradford tells me that he likes the fact that his “olive wood is a little dangerous.” It burns hotter and the heat and flavor that it imparts on the ingredients is simply AH-MAZING.
One wouldn’t think of Olio as a breakfast nook, but Olio also offers various delicious morning bites like their Bacon and Eggs Calzone or a Wood-Fired Fruit Danish. They are also actually one of few restaurants in the LA area to authentically make Bialys, a traditional Jewish bagel-like baked bread. Of that small few, Bradford is pretty much the only one that I know of to use the original baking techniques from Bialystok, Poland – making them in his wood fired oven.
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