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You Say Tomato, I Say Libido
The aphrodisiac characteristics of foods have long been a debate among scientists and foodies. The 10th anniversary re-issue of “InterCourses: An Aphrodisiac Cookbook” should certainly generate new discussion — and provide tactile foodies with inspiration.
The Mansion on Forsyth Park hosted the book’s co-author, Martha Hopkins, in a two-day program for food journalists. 700 Cooking School Chef Darin Sehnert, who introduced writers to important elements of Lowcountry cooking, joined her.
If you have not seen the book, it’s at first a stunning collection of beautiful photography that marries food subjects with human models. The images are certainly erotic — especially to hardcore foodies — but are tasteful enough for all ages. Exhausting research and set-up was required for the images, which are used to define sections of the cookbook.
Sales of the first book are nearly 250,000 worldwide, which is certainly a testament to its interest. For a sneak peek, check online at www.intercourses.com.
Smoke Signals Rise On MLK
Opening night at Blowin’ Smoke BBQ was an overwhelming launch for Brian Huskey, owner of B. Matthew’s Eatery, and Chef Jeffrey Crumpton. The crush of people may have slowed down the kitchen, but the wait was worth it.
By now, the shakedown should be complete and service should be running as smoothly as it does at Huskey’s other popular Savannah restaurant.
While the menu calls heavily on tradition — with pulled pork, smoked beef brisket, baby back ribs and chicken —Chef Jeffrey has taken some delicious liberties with other traditions including his smoked alligator Brunswick stew — a dish that I anticipate will become a signature offering of this new venture.
It’s an inventive menu that also includes smoked salmon patties, fried catfish and grilled veggies as an entrée. The former 514 West location still features its cozy backroom bar, and Huskey is outfitting the patio space with new tables with seating for more than 50 and a venue for live music.
814 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., 231-2385
Where's The Beef?
Nearly a year ago, we were poised to sample two new steakhouses in the first half of 2008.
National chain Ruth’s Chris announced its intentions to open at the corner of Bay and Whitaker streets; Pino Venetico planned to have his Bull Street Chophouse, atop Il Pasticcio, open by fall.
Slow-vannah strikes again! Construction and permitting have delayed both projects. It does appear that Bull Street Chophouse may be open within weeks of this writing (early May), but Ruth’s Chris has been pushed out to June — or later.
Speaking of Slow-vannah
That’s the name given a new hoppy, low-alcohol pale ale from the minds of Brewmeister John Pinkerton and his talented assistant, Chris Lady, at Moon River Brewing Company.
While Savannahfest remains the microbrewery’s flagship, it’s apparent that Slow-vannah and its session beer characteristics could propel it into become a leading, year-round offering.
Stay tuned for late February 2009 — that’s when Pinkerton will uncask an Imperial Porter that is currently aging in wooden barrels at Moon River. www.moonriverbrewing.com
Goodbye Becomes See You Later
We mourned the passing of Georges’ of Tybee in the last issue; the popular island restaurant closed Dec. 31.
Now, co-owner George Spriggs, of North Beach Grill fame, has re-opened The New Georges’ of Tybee. New paint, new atmosphere, new menu. Details were sketchy at deadline, but a quiet opening on Feb. 29 generated quite the buzz. 786-9730
Food Scene is compiled by Tim Rutherford, who also writes about restaurants for Savannah Magazine. He operates a Web site, www.savannahfoodie.com, which features local and regional dining reviews and breaking food news. You can e-mail Tim at savannahfoodie@comcast.net.
June