There are a wide variety of sparkling wines made throughout the world. Lets first establish the idea of champagne vs. sparkling wine. Sparkling wine can only be called champagne if it comes from the region of Champagne, which is just outside of Paris. … read more

Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a block party or movie night, you can sweeten summer fun and celebrations with an iconic treat. August 10, National S’mores Day, is a great reminder to make the most of summer. This year, consider going beyond the … read more

Every Thursday afternoon, more than 40 farmers and food producers gather at Skansie Brothers Park on Gig Harbor’s picturesque waterfront in order to supply eager shoppers with organic and sustainably produced local fare. Organized as a collaborative effort between the city of Gig … read more

Are your ready for a fight? Gig Harbor’s NetShed No. 9 has found a wildly successful formula with its organically grown Chef Fight Night (think “Top Chef” or “Chopped”), all while finding a way to utilize its beautiful waterfront facility in the evening … read more

To master the art of grilling, it’s best to start with a piece of high-quality meat. While some supermarkets have been responding to the consumers’ demand for transparency, it’s still a good idea to find a great local butcher shop and get to … read more

If you walk past the Occasions Coffee and Crepes “hole-in-the-wall” spot in Gig Harbor too fast, your first impression is likely to be that of a coffee/gift shop. Walk a little slower, and you many notice the menu by the door — and … read more

Cleanup is probably the least enjoyable part of entertaining guests — as are elaborate recipes that keep you in the kitchen all day. “Sheet Pan Suppers,” released this past December by Workman Publishing, promises to take care of those problems. Named an essential … read more

Perk up your next picnic with these deliciously different sandwiches and salads that are super easy to prepare and can be made ahead. Condiments like Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Pickled Beets make the difference between a good sandwich and a great sandwich. The sweet-tangy … read more

Plant Sales and Garden Tours Hopefully you’ve been getting in shape and building up stamina during the last few months, because May and June in the gardening world are packed with opportunities, activities and lots of time out in the garden. Be sure … read more