• Food,  Oregon,  Portland Foodie

    A Taste of Russia at Kachka in Portland Oregon

    Today’s foodie lunch experience featured a taste of Russia at Kachka in SE Portland. When I previewed the menu I was little nervous due to the amount of herring and beet options. Despite being 1/2 Norwegian, I’m not a fan of herring. And beets…Well, beets taste like dirt. 😬 Everything I sampled had a wonderful combination of flavors and tasted so fresh. I always find it helpful to see photos, especially if it’s food I’m not familiar with, so here’s a look at what we ordered. What we Tried I ordered the CURED SALMON BUTERBROD (beet cured salmon, farmer’s cheese, pickles and radish sprouts on toasted rye.) Yum!! If you…

  • Jalapeño burger in John Day at 1188 Brewing Company.
    Food,  Oregon,  Travel

    Enjoy a Delicious Burger at 1188 Brewing Company in John Day, Oregon

    After a day of hiking and exploring the Painted Hills, nothing hits the spot like a good burger and that’s exactly what we found at 1188 Brewing Company in John Day, Oregon. We ordered the Bacon Jalapeño Cheese Burger to share and it was one of the best burgers I’ve had in a while. Our burger was juicy, bacon was crispy, lettuce was fresh and the bun was buttery toasted perfection. It came with a generous side salad that was also super fresh and delicious with jalapeño ranch dressing. What Cider Pairs well with a Jalapeño Burger? Great question I’m glad you asked! We sampled of a couple of their…

  • Coffee Shops,  Florida,  Food

    Quick Bites in St Augustine

    Our St Augustine itinerary was packed full, so rather than using valuable time sitting down for a big meal, we opted to try several popular stops for quick bites all around the downtown historic district. There were so many options, it was really hard to chose. We strolled up and down St George Street twice before we finally made up our minds! Luckily everything was an enjoyable 10 minute walk near the Colonial Quarter. 24 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine, FL 32084 There are five Australian themed Kookaurra locations in St Augustine, but the original location is extra great because it’s located right next to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine. It…

  • Jamaica Iced Tea Recipe
    Food,  Mexico,  Recipes

    Jamaica Iced Tea Recipe

    Jamaica is a hibiscus iced tea drink made from dried hibiscus flowers or “Flor de Jamaica.” Not to be confused with the Caribbean island, this drink is pronounced ha-MY-cah in Spanish. When steeped in boiling water the dark red petals makes a deliciously refreshing beverage with many health benefits. Hibiscus petals are high in vitamin C, contain diuretic properties, aid in digestion, but also can be used to stabilize high blood pressure and as an artery and kidney purifier. Jamaica is a popular drink in Mexico We tried this drink back in 2011, while on an art walk in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. One of the downtown boutiques was…

  • Sunflowers with a view of Mt Hood
    Food,  Garden,  Oregon,  Wine Tasting

    A Visit to The Grateful Vineyard in Hood River

    An early fall visit to The Grateful Vineyard yields fields of sunflowers with a stunning view of Mt Hood. The Grateful Vineyard has been open since 2019 and can be found on-site at Mt View Orchards in Hood River. Reservations at Grateful Vineyard fill up fast on the weekend. If you don’t mind a more casual dining experience, there are picnic tables set out so you can still enjoy your take-out with an amazing Mt Hood view. The staff was so friendly and explained all their seasonal offerings, including their delicious selection of hard ciders. Their cider menu includes peach, cranberry, blackberry and their house cider Golden Row Cider, made from…