A message from Danene:
My culinary training began at age 3 while watching and helping one of the greatest cooks of our time-my Grandma Beedle! A few years later I enjoyed classes in 4-H where I mastered the art of setting a table and creating a gorgeous fruit plate; this is where I learned the all important secret that presentation is everything! I've always enjoyed entertaining and coordinating celebrations. My first career with Hallmark emphasized the importance of occasions and how even an ordinary day can be a special. Now as the Director of Marketing for the Missouri Wine and Grape Board, I enjoy the world of wine and share my experiences through twitter, facebook and blogs. I continue my quest to create the perfect bite!
Far East Dining, Close to Home with Casablanca Mediterranean Grill
When you step into Casablanca Mediterranean grill on the corner of 5th and Elm in downtown Columbia your senses immediately transport you to an authentic international experience. It was a rainy evening when friends and I snuggled into a comfy L-shaped booth in the middle of the restaurant. The décor was imported from Morocco and the music is lively and yet calming, it definitely adds to the experience.
The Sky’s the Limit with Sky Hi Bar & Grill
Sky Hi Bar and Grill, contemporary, delicious and a fun atmosphere with good service.
Don’t forget the “Grill” in Shiloh Bar and Grill!
“Where good friends meet for good times” may be Shiloh’s motto, by I say don’t forget the grill! Whatever time of day you stop in the historic establishment, the beverages are cold and the food is hot!
Dining with Danene Samples "Taste of Mid Missouri"
Danene sipped and sampled for MidMoDiningGuide.com at the Taste of Mid Missouri showcase. Her note to readers gives tasting highlights and some fun new dishes to look out for.
Savor Sundays at Sophia's
Sunday brunch is the perfect way to enjoy out of town guests, gather after church, or just get together with friends and family. Last weekend I gathered a few girlfriends for a delicious, leisurely dining experience at Sophia’s. Between 10am and 3pm, you can enjoy many of Sophia’s standard southern European inspired dishes as well as new brunch features! As ladies who brunch, we like to share so we each ordered something different and sampled a bit of each.
Delightful Journey to the Pear Tree Restaurant
Someone is always raving about The Pear Tree Restaurant in Bevier and now it was my turn to check it out, as I had never been before! One of the things I liked most was the planning of our adventure to Bevier, and I asked a friend to join me on the journey to this historic town. With all the hype, I knew it was going to be a special evening, but I had no idea how special. The entire experience was unique; from being seated by the owner Al, to the way the food is prepared and served.
Jazz Up Your Day With Jazz!
After a long day of meetings, conference calls and projects a colleague and I decided to grab a late dinner with a little spice so we headed to Jazz, Columbia’s Authentic French Quarter Cafe. Our server Erica suggested their signature drink the hurricane, and although it sounded tempting, we chose a tasty margarita.
Houlihan's is perfect for any occasion!
Houlihan’s has been one of my favorite chain restaurants for quite some time. Their menu is full of interesting dishes, specials and good ol’ Houli classic’s like the ‘Shrooms, French onion soup and Brentwood Chicken Sandwich. The Columbia restaurant has recently touted "under new management" so I ventured out to see what was new and different.
Snappers is a classic hang out for classic fun!
From the minute you step in the door you feel as if you've been there before. It’s a familiar bar with neon beer signs, fan photo’s stapled to the walls and that classic "dive" bar attitude.
Quiznos is "Mmmm Toasty!"
Quiznos slogan "Mmmm Toasty" is what I love about their sandwiches. To me a toasted sandwich is taking that extra step to melt the cheese and give the bread that little crunch! On my way to an impromptu picnic, I ran into the East Broadway Quiznos to pick up lunch.
