July 24th, 2006
We’ve nothing against brunettes, but blondes will always have a special place in our hearts since we’ve stumbled upon Blonde Sweeties by Sugar Daddys. This particular beauty is swirled with strawberry and a heavy helping of peanut butter. We suggest devouring it with a glass of champagne or milk, depending on your mood. Isn’t she pretty?
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July 24th, 2006
As we’ve mentioned before, we love olives, particularly in a strong drink. But fishing them out of a jar with a knife or similarly long-stemmed utensil leaves us frustrated—with a big juicy mess to clean up. They’re much more fun when served with the appropriate spoon. Hand carved in Europe, this 8-inch cherry wood olive serving spoon is an elegant little design fit for serving olives or marmellatas.
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July 21st, 2006
Dear readers, do you recall the darling Doc Spag plate that we introduced you to—the one that allows you to swirl your spaghetti with a fork in one hand? Well, we’ve found a salt and pepper shaker to complement it! Danish furniture designers Rud Thygesen and Johnny Sorensen are the masterminds behind this unique set of rasps. Simply press the hard plastic button at top with your thumb to deliver a pre-measured shake of salt or pepper.
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July 20th, 2006
We’ve got a Goldilocks complex about biscotti: we need one that’s just right. Otherwise, let’s face it, espresso is better sipped alone. Rest assured, these are the real thing. Formaggio was the first store stateside to import this Tuscan biscotti handmade by Francesco Pandolfini and family. Amazingly enough, their American cult following recognized them immediately (the first shipment sold out in days). Everything from the shaping of the delightful dough to the tying of the ribbon is done by hand. Simple ingredients include sugar, flour, eggs, pinenuts and almonds.
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July 20th, 2006
The 2006 spring/summer season has been officially declared the “worst-ever” for Hay Fever sufferers. If you’re one of the millions of people who find themselves sniffing, sneezing and wheezing from uncontrollable allergies, horseradish offers a short-lived (but guaranteed) cured for a stuffy nose. We present this posh Petrossian brand which complements meat like no other. It’s everything you’ve ever wanted in a horseradish: fresh, peppery, creamy and extra-strength in a 100g jar.
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July 19th, 2006
As newspaper headlines get more depressing, we find ourselves searching for something that will make our morning reading experience a bit more cheerful (recent events have been as dark as our super-strength roasted coffee). Eli Zabar’s pecan-studded Tea Ring does the trick temporarily. It conjures up the memory of grandma’s original recipe and, although it’s a coffee-inspired treat, it complements our favorite teas nicely. One precious slice is never enough.
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July 19th, 2006
You refuse to wrap yourself in any textile that’s less-than-beautiful. We know the feeling. But when it comes to apron shopping, our negative reactions rival that of our littlest nephews when they’re presented with a plate of broccoli: “Ewwwwwww.” You know what we’re talking about: most of the prints and materials that home chefs must select from are downright wretched. Cucina Coltura serves up exceptionally vibrant designs that aren’t embarrassing to be seen it. No two aprons in this collection are alike and each one is reversible. The fabrics come in a variety of selections including vintage, retro and modern.
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July 18th, 2006
Chocolate covered fruits are plenty tasty. But chocolate covered fungi? Now that’s a novel concept. These mushrooms are a whimsical treat but, of course, they’re not really mushrooms at all. A decadent caramel stem is covered in white chocolate then capped off with crunchy toffee coated in dark chocolate. There are eight pieces to a stunning gold box. You’ve got to trust us: these so-called shrooms are worth swooning for.
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July 18th, 2006
Clever dinnerware designer Rosanna went stamp-happy with this refined porcelain collection that’s ideal for entertaining a chic crowd. Next time you invite your fabulous friends over, simply pick your number and you’ll never misplace your plate or glass again. These make a fun, festive place setting. Plates, mugs, coasters and wine glasses are dishwasher and microwave safe (not that we condone the use of a microwave but sometimes you just can’t help yourself).
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July 17th, 2006
As you know, we love our multi-purpose kitchen items. This decorative olive oil decanter (which doubles as a bud spout) is a real beauty at 13-inches tall, with the ability to hold 750 ml of oil (or a lovely flower). Complete with stainless pour spout, it’s hand-painted and custom made for Bella Cucina. Best of all, it’s oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe so use it with unabashed disregard and watch it last longer than the Energizer Bunny.
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