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A Few Days on the Road in Baton Rouge & Lafayette

Eating our way through Louisiana with Atlanta Food & Wine
February 16, 2017
Story By: Mandy Kellogg Rye
Filed Under > Everyday

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We recently set out on a feast-filled road trip throughout Louisiana (twist our arms, right?!) in partnership with Atlanta Food & Wine Festival and Louisiana Travel.  During our three day excursion we spent time in New Orleans, Lafyette, and Baton Rouge and I’m sure you saw via Snapchat (username WAITINGONMARTHA) and Instagram that we just had a terrible, terrible time.  Ha! Our goal during these three days; eat our way through the cities making sure to stop in to all of the familiar faces of Food & Wine Festivals of the past and maybe stumble on a few new fresh faces and places of our own.

First stop Baton Rouge, home of the LSU Tigers and Louisiana’s largest seafood market, Tony’s Seafood.  We had heard from some locals and not-so locals that this was the place to stop if you wanted no-fuss, no-muss, just great seafood.  The minute we walked through the front door, we knew that there was a reason Tony’s has been around for so long.   Tony and his team knew what they were doing.  We arrived around lunch, so there were at least 15+ team members ready to help you pick out a plate, from what seemed like a never-ending menu.  Honestly, I just stared at it all for awhile before being completely “basic” and going with fried catfish and shrimp.  The rest of Team WOM was a little more adventurous, diving into crab fingers and gumbo, all with sides of hush puppies, cole slaw, french fries and plenty of tarter and hot sauce of course.  It was the perfect low-key lunch to nosh on after our short drive.  Just know that before you go, there are no tables, so either grab it as takeout, or be prepared to eat it in your car.

After filling ourself to the brim, we were thankful our hotel was waiting and ready with open arms.  If you are going to Baton Rouge, I highly suggest staying at the beautiful Watermark Hotel.  The epitome of modern glamour, the Watermark was a bank back in the day that has very recently been restored.  But so much of the stunning old pieces remain, with every corner begged to be ‘grammed.  The elevator, the vault, the mail box…it’s gorgeous!

Having checked into our hotel, we had a chance to reset before dinner at City Pork Brasserie & Bar, Executive Chef Ryan Andre’s award-winning full-scale restaurant has an elevated take on Louisiana cuisine, with a refreshingly approachable vibe.  We were all blown away by Chef Ryan’s Pork Debris Spring Rolls (BLOWN AWAY, MUST GET) as a starter, which included an asian slaw and peanut sauce that was out-of-this-world.  That was followed up by a restaurant week prix fix menu that included a spicy shrimp salad, waygu steak and frites, an Asian inspired porkbelly, and one of the best banana desserts I’ve ever had, that was, of course, Chef Ryan’s mother’s recipe.   All of our meals put us into a comfortable food coma, but it was the drinks that also were something to write home about.  Kat joked about the dangers of the City Pork Tea, which went down a little too easy; think Cathead honeysuckle vodka, simple syrup, lemon and sweet tea.  It tasted just like the sweet tea you dream about.  We closed the place down, laughing and chatting with Chef Ryan and team (even taking pictures in the kitchen with the whole crew).  The culture at this place was inspiring; a bell would occasionally ring as diners bought the kitchen a 6-pack of beer many times throughout the night (it’s listed on the menu), and we, of course, followed suit. 

The next day, we had Lafayette in our sights, and set off to see its charming streets and yummy hotspots for Day 3. Only a quick hour drive from Baton Rouge, Lafayette was a great addition to our Louisiana itinerary.  If you ask anyone for recs on the place, you’ll hear The French Press more often than not.  This French-Quarter style brunch spot was right up our alley; cool vibe and absolutely incredible food by Chef Justin Girouard.  We were in heaven with its Sweet Baby Breesus and Cajun Benedict.  Seriously….YUM.

Lafayette certainly charmed us with its easy walkable streets and cheery restaurant awnings.  It’s actually known as ‘America’s Happiest City’ thanks to a recent Harvard study, and we could see why Lafayette residents were so happy; they were living in a place that’s rich in history and local culture, has great food, and good tunes.  We all kept saying how we wish we had more time in this great town.  

For our final culinary stop, we popped into Pamplona, a gorgeous tapas bar that immediately transported us to Spain with its vintage bullfighting posters, Mediterranean tile entryway, and its dark, dramatic decor.  While Lafayette is known as being the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun & Creole Country, we heard great things about this little tapas bar and we were thrilled to get a taste of old-world Spain here in the South. Pamplona‘s team was incredibly gracious, welcoming us in for a late lunch, inviting us to try Chef Kris Allen’s favorite dishes. I know what you’re thinking by now, how are they still eating?!  I’d say the table’s favorite was definitely the Arugula & Manchego Salad which was irresistibly fresh and flavorful.  But of course, I won’t pretend that we didn’t devour the Garlic Shrimp, Andalucian Lamb Sliders, Ceviche, Catalan Spinach, Morcilla-Quail Eggs and more because that’s what you do when you go eat tapas! 

The road trip was definitely a whirlwind, but one that we were so fortunate to enjoy.  A big thank you to Atlanta Food & Wine Festival and Louisiana Travel for showing us the way around Louisiana to find such culinary delights and memorable moments with these talented chefs.  Hearing their stories and visiting them in their restaurants and seeing them in action was such a treat…let’s just say that we have a lot of faces (read: new friends) to look for at this year’s Atlanta Food & Wine Festival. Check out the gallery below to find more captures from our great time in Baton Rouge and Lafayette.  Stay tuned for our recap of our day in New Orleans!  Truly, MKR

P.S. Next time we go?  We’re definitely making time for Avery Island to explore and visit where one of my favorite sauces, Tabasco is made.  The island is one big, huge salt dome (one of five in LA, sitting juuuust above sea level), and is about 140 miles west of NOLA.  I’d say it would make an easy day-time trip if you’re a hot-sauce lover like I am.  What else would you add to the list?! xo

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Photography, Haley Sheffield for Waiting on Martha | This post is in collaboration with Atlanta Food & Wine Festival, Louisiana Travel and Lexus.  All opinions are 100% our own. 

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Dining Al Fresco + Homemade Tortilla Chips & Salsa Con Queso

August 11, 2014
Story By: Mandy Kellogg Rye
Filed Under > Everyday Dinner

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Dining Al Fresco, Waiting On Martha     *These candelabras are show stopping & perfect for any occasion

Homemade Tortilla Chips, Waiting On MarthaDining Al Fresco, Waiting On Martha     *A mix of vases in different heights, textures, & patterns gives our table an eclectic vibe

Red Sangria Recipe, Waiting On Martha     *Sangria is the perfect cocktail for large groups & summer nights (recipe coming Friday)

Summertime Salsas, Waiting On Martha     *Ditch traditional salsas for whats is in season like our peach, mango & heirloom tomato

Dining Al Fresco, Waiting On MarthaOutdoor Entertaining, Waiting On Martha     *Don’t be afraid of color, the red provides the “pop” this table needed

Spicy Watermelon Salad, Waiting On MarthaBlue & White, Waiting On Martha     *A vase anything that holds water including an actual water pitcher

Salsa Con Queso, Waiting On Martha     *Take queso to the next level with jalepeno, green onion, cilantro, & radish garnish

Dining Al Fresco, Waiting On MarthaHomemade Tortilla Chips & Refried Beans     *Homemade tortilla chips are worth the extra work I promise!

Dining Al Fresco, Waiting On MarthaOutdoor Dinner Party, Waiting On Martha

There’s nothing I enjoy more than summer nights dining al fresco with my nearest and dearest. So when Pacific Foods asked if I’d like to team up for a little easy entertaining I gathered friends and set the table with a Mexican inspired meal.  

Homemade chips, queso, spicy watermelon salad and a trio of  salsas highlighting summer’s freshest flavors (peach, mango, heirloom tomato) set the stage for a build your own taco bar.  A build your own taco and/or nacho bar is not only the definition of easy entertaining, but it’s always a crowd pleaser.  Simply grill a protein or two, set out all of your fresh favorites (tortillas, beans, cheese, guacamole, salasa, queso, tomatoes, onions, jalepenos, etc.), and let your guests create their favorite combinations.  And because Pacific Foods has great organic options such as refried black beans and queso all I needed to do was add a few extra flavors before serving.

I’m sharing my salsa con queso and homemade tortilla chips recipe below, (trust me take the time and make your own homemade tortilla chips I promise it will be worth it), and later this week I’ll show you how to create the perfect red sangria and spicy watermelon salad.  Everything you need for easy summer entertaining because after the winter we all had I’m trying to squeeze every ounce out of summer I can!  Cheers!  truly, MKR

Table & Chairs, Ballard Designs c/o  ||  Red Chairs, Society Social  ||  Garden Stool, One Kings Lane  ||  Candelabras, Dunes & Duchess  ||  Striped Tapers, Waiting On Martha  ||  Drink Dispenser, old similar HERE  ||  Blue Place Settings, One Kings Lane (sold out)  ||  White Place Settings, kate spade new york c/o   ||  Blue & White Bowls, Waiting On Martha (email for availability)  ||  Rope Vase, Waiting On Martha  ||  Faceted Vase, Waiting On Martha  ||  Milk Bottle Vases, Waiting On Martha  ||  Tall Faceted Vase, kate spade new york c/o  ||  Blue & White Vase (collected, similar HERE)  ||  Hand Towels used as Napkins, Waiting On Martha  ||  Rope Bowl, Waiting On Martha (sold out Gold still available)  ||  Blue & White Stripe Napkins, Sur La Table  ||  Rocks Glasses, Dwell Studio  ||  Dress, Persifor  ||  Nail Polish, Nars  

Photography, Rustic White  ||  This post was sponsored by Pacific Foods, a brand I love and adore.  Opinions and recipes are 100% my own.

Homemade Tortilla Chips
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Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
15 min
Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
15 min
Ingredients
  1. 12 Corn Tortillas
  2. 4-6 Cups Sunflower or any preferred oil for frying
  3. Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. In a cast iron or heavy bottom pot, heat oil on high for 5 minutes or until oil reaches 350 degrees.
  2. Cut tortilla shells in half and then half again so you have 4 equal triangles per tortilla.
  3. Once oil is hot place 8-10 triangles in at a time and fry for 2-3 minutes or until tortillas begin to turn golden brown.
  4. Using a skimmer or fry basket remove chips and place on a baking sheet covered in paper towels, salt.
  5. Repeat until all tortillas are cooked.
Welcome by Waiting on Martha https://waitingonmartha.com/
Spicy Salsa Con Queso Dip
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Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
5 min
Total Time
10 min
Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
5 min
Total Time
10 min
Ingredients
  1. Pacific Foods Salsa Con Queso
  2. 1/2 cub shredded or cubed White Cheese
  3. 1 Jalepeno Diced
  4. 1/2 Red Pepper Diced.
  5. 2 Diced Radishes
  6. 2 Green Onions Diced
  7. Cilantro For Garnish
Instructions
  1. In a small pot over medium high heat add the Pacific Foods Salsa Con Queso, white cheese, red pepper, and jalepeno. Mix until warm and fully melted.
  2. Remove from heat and pour into a serving bowl and garnish with radishes, green onions and cilantro. Serve warm with our homemade tortilla chips.
Welcome by Waiting on Martha https://waitingonmartha.com/

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An Easy End Of Summer Brunch with Shutterfly

Celebrating Summer's Bounty & A Recipe for Cheesy Drop Biscuits
August 25, 2017
Story By: Mandy Kellogg Rye
Filed Under > "Hostess with the Mostest"

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Shutterfly entertaining essentials, Waiting on Martha End of summer entertaining with Shutterfly, Waiting on MarthaSummer entertaining with Shutterfly, Waiting on Martha End of summer entertaining with Shutterfly, Waiting on Martha Summer tablescape on Waiting on Martha Personalized wine glasses from Shutterfly, Waiting on MarthaSummer tablescape inspiration on Waiting on MarthaPersonalized gifts from Shutterfly

As summer draws to a close and the trail of house guests slows down a bit, I knew I wanted to give a little nod to summer’s bounty with an entertaining brunch spread that was just as easy and achievable as it was beautiful. 

A welcoming tablescape that celebrates the everyday is something I like to think I’ve perfected over the years.  Sure, I know how to set a formal table for a special event, but I relish the chance to dine with friends and family on any given day.  

I know many of you get overwhelmed by the thought of putting together a tablescape, whipping up all of the food, and being a gracious host all at the same time.  But I promise you it’s easier than you think.  Most of us just tend to overcomplicate it.  It really comes down to a three simple steps you can replicate time and time again: seasonally sourced easy recipes, a table full of personalized details to be used over and over again, and simple fresh blooms. 

For the food, always keep it in season.  Choose recipes that can be prepped the night before.  For this brunch, I focused on vibrant citrus notes and herbs from the garden.  I served homemade cheesy drop biscuits with fresh chives that were truly to-die-for,  as well as an heirloom tomato, peach, pea and summer corn salad.  Drooling yet?  Scroll down for the cheesy drop biscuit recipe.  And don’t worry; the latter recipe is coming Monday.  

When it came to the table, I created a warm, welcoming effect through added depth and layers; think chargers, linen napkins, cutting boards and varying serving pieces.  I added a personalized touch with custom stemless wine glasses, a monogrammed glass jar as the vase for the flowers, and even sent guests home with their own potted herb in personalized flower pots. All of these pieces are what I call “forever pieces.”  Classic monogrammed glassware and accessories, wooden chargers, and gold stemware are all items that can be used during every brunch, lunch or dinner that you host.  By simply switching out the appetizer plates and linens, you’ll make the table feel new and fresh every time.  For example, I added these personalized lemon tea towels that will hang from my oven door once the guests have said goodbye.  An easy, inexpensive way to stick with the theme of brunch.

Lastly: fresh blooms.  While flowers are always a must, I know many of you stress over your ability to put together an arrangement worthy of being the focal point of the table.  My advice: KIS.  Keep It Simple.  Stick to one type of bloom, preferably no more than two colors, and add in additional greenery if needed, and place your arrangement in an interesting vessel.  I chose tulips because they’re usually the easiest to find at a reasonable price.  When it comes to tulips, I like to cut them just before guest arrive because I actually prefer when they bend over rather than stand at attention.  As far as the vessel goes, I love using anything other than an actual vase.  Most often I use pitchers, planters, or jars like the monogrammed one I used here.

Speaking of monogrammed items…can you believe they’re all from from Shutterfly!  What?!  If you’re like me, you’ve always thought of Shutterfly for all things photos.  They’ve been my go-to for printed photos and holiday cards for years.  So you can believe my surprise and delight when I recently discovered the ever-growing collection of entertaining and home decor pieces, all incredibly versatile and customizable—which, of course, makes them all perfect for gifting!  I’m talking all kinds of glassware, cutting boards, coasters, plates, serving trays, decanters, glass jars…even outdoor pillows!

Like all of my previous experiences with Shutterfly, ordering these personalized gifts was easy-breezy.  I seriously could not believe how fast everything shipped.  I’ve been buying monogrammed pieces for years and I know to expect slower shipments.  But that wasn’t the case here.  The order arrived in less than a week, with each glass item in the most gorgeous box.  The details were second-to-none too; the quality of the engraving and the lettering was anything but generic.  

I always think a tablescape, even a simple brunch, should be attainable.  And I’m a believer that a surefire way to get there is by adding meaningful touches to the table. I’m absolutely thrilled with the new pieces I’ve added to mine. Stay tuned for the recipe for the heirloom tomato, peach, pea and summer corn salad coming on Monday!  I promise you’ll be a fan.  Truly, MKR

 

Cheesy Herb Drop Biscuits
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Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
30 min
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
30 min
Ingredients
  1. 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  3. 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  4. 5 tablespoons butter
  5. 1 cup Whole milk
  6. Parsley, Rosemary & Thyme Chopped
  7. 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
  8. 1/4 cup butter, melted
  9. 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees
  2. In a large bowl mix together flour, salt and baking powder.
  3. Cut in butter and mix with your hands until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Make a well in the center of flour mixture, add the milk, cheddar cheese, and chopped herbs; stir to combine.
  5. Drop batter by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet with a silpat mat or parchment paper.
  6. Bake in preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until lightly browned.
  7. While biscuits are baking mix melted butter and minced garlic. Brush garlic butter over hot baked biscuits.
Welcome by Waiting on Martha https://waitingonmartha.com/

 

Photography, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha | This post is in collaboration with Shutterfly, a brand we love and adore.  All opinions are 100% our own. 

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