This Week's Menu

---

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

Hello!! Good Morning!

It's ONLY TUESDAY.  I KNOW.

First of all, THANK YOU for all of your texts and notes over the last couple of weeks. My parents are recovering and it looks like we made it. Dad turned 80 yesterday and was able to taste the banana cream cheesecake I sent, and mom has hung up on me several times because "The View is on and I don't want to miss it."  What a relief, and how very lucky we are.  So for all you parents out there, the joke is on ME. No wonder you order food from me. It is an epic pain in the ass to coordinate meals for your household AND a teenager! Especially if you are as blessed as I am with a fantastic teenager who is also the Pickiest Eater in NYC. Like.. SERIOUSLY. I need to hire Anna to make OUR meals. Like, yesterday I spent the day meal prepping FOR THE WEEK out of desperation. Who am I?????

For all of you non parents out there, (like I used to be) carry on eating whatever you want, whenever you want. I seem to have lost that luxury and more importantly, the energy to do it! Between driving lessons and Civics discussions and worrying he will drop dead from malnutrition bc he hates vegetables and wishing he would take a run, I don't even know what I want to eat! AHAHHAHAHAHA.  I have included some celebrational elements in this menu in case, like us, you will be marking Inauguration Day with relief and celebration.

The caviar faucet is OPEN. This menu is largely like garanimals. Everything goes with something else on the menu, so you can mix and match. My crash course in parenting during home schooling has quickly taught me that is HELPFUL. 

NEW MENU SECTION! This and That appeared last week. Sometimes you need a snack while you're waiting for dinner to reheat. Or lunch. Or Happy Hour. Or 3 am. I don't judge. I created This and That for THAT. 

ONE LAST THING. I cannot fix income inequality or racism, (although I do my part) but I CAN help feed my hungry fellow citizens. The lines for food banks in this neighborhood are INSANELY LONG. Shamefully long. It is the same in your neighborhood, wherever you live. Please consider donating food to community fridges, or money to local community organizations who are feeding your neighbors.  And... however you spend this week, If you have a moment and the means, consider making a quick trip to your local produce market and buy a few things to stock your community fridge. They have popped up all over the city and are truly filling a need. People leave food if they can, and take it if they need, on their own time.

 Here is a map

Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.

ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN!

In Love and Garlic- Tamara! 

PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.

DELIVERIES

Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens 

Tuesday Jan 19
ORDER BY Saturday Jan 16 MIDNIGHT

DROP OFF MENU
Orange and Date Salad

Sometimes You Want Caviar and Guess What? You Should Have It. 

Domestic Wild Hackleback 

Domestic Wild Hackleback Caviar, Blini, Creme Fraiche

90/ 2 oz and accomp.

Domestic Wild Hackleback and Paddlefish 140/ 2oz of each, Blini, Creme Fraiche Domestic Wild Salmon

Domestic Wild Salmon Roe, Blini, Creme Fraiche

40/4.4 oz and accomp.

Shrimp Cocktail

11/15 shrimp, cocktail, lemon wedge

4 pieces/15 8 pieces/30

This and That

Vadouvan Coconut Popcorn *gf *vegan

THIS POPCORN IS SO GOOD. Lynn McNeely taught me to make it and all other popcorns can go straight to hell.

10/school lunch bag full

Kale Pesto *veg *gf

For all of your Pasta needs. Or just to eat with a spoon or toss fish, chix, pork or veg with. 10/half pint

AND...

Chicken Puttanesca *gf

Organic Chicken, Slow Roasted Puttanesca Sauce, Olives, Anchovies

Pretty much when I want to eat this, I assume you do too. So so flavorful

17 /pint 34/quart

Sliced Roast Beef w/ Mushroom Gravy 

Like a Sunday Afternoon in England or my dream house.

19/small 38/large

Chile Verde *gf *vegan

White Beans, Mild Hatch Green Chile, Tomatillos, Zucchini, Onions, Garlic

I can't fly home to see my family so damnit, I will bring the flavors of home to YOU. So deeply satisfying. Tons of flavor, low heat. 13/pint 26/quart

Roasted Winter Veg w/ Preserved Lemon *gf *vegan

Squash, Brussels, Carrots, Turnips, Jerusalem Artichokes, Radishes I don't like orange vegetables but I find this so delicious.

14/pint 28/quart

Date, Orange, Escarole Salad

*gf *vegan

Dates, Oranges, Escarole, Pistachios, Orange Blossom Vinaigrette

I don't know what it is about orange blossom water but it drives me INSANE with desire. This salad is savory, crunchy, salty and sweet. THE BEST.

15/ large salad feeds 2.

Lettuce packed separate from dates and oranges

Comfort Corner-AKA Eat Your Feelings. It's Fine. We See You

Housewife Taco Baked Potatoes *gf

Pat La Frieda Ground Beef, Taco Seasoning, Salsa, Shredded Cheese, Baked Potato

Umm Yes. You read this correctly. Because I actually made this for dinner and it was a BIG HIT. Now you can experience the magic in your own home.

10/potato

Kimchi Bacon (or no bacon) Fried Rice *gf (Vegan if no bacon)

Fried Rice, Peas and Carrots, Cabbage, Kimchi, Bacon

I could eat this day and night. Cold or hot. It hits allllll of the flavor spots.

14/pint 28/quart

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. 

Tell your friends!
All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

Good Morning! We made it to Thursday! Well done!

Happy New Year's Eve. Whatever that means. New Year New You? Same Me.

Dawn Wells died yesterday. I have no idea what she did for the second and third halves of her life, but for the first half she made me INSANELY happy in her role as Mary Ann on Gilligan's Island. I was a complusive reader during my childhood, but my absolute hands down favorite show was Gilligan's Island. I spent hours of after school time watching every episode- all of them more than once. I think the pull was the constant creative and hare brained escape plans, and the collective, "we irritate the fuck out of each other but we are in it together and there's a lotta love here so it works" theme.

One night my dad came home from the restaurant and woke me up to tell me he had saved a life in the dining room. ALAN HALE had been choking and pops gave him the Heimlich Maneuver. THE SKIPPER. It was a highlight.

To clarify- Mary Ann wasn't my idol- she was fine. I wanted to be GINGER. Like, I was dying to be Ginger. Imagine my surprise when I grew up to be Mrs Howell! But still. It felt cruelly ironic that Mary Ann died of Covid the same day my dad tested postive for Covid and my mom started showing symptoms. I think a better writer than I would have a great literary flourish. I am here to tell you that I am heartbroken that this is happening, angry that it is so rampant that he doesn't even know where he could have gotten it- he only goes to the store and he took the car to the mechanic, and afraid for the outcome.

If your parents are still alive, please feel free to use my tale of misery to scare them straight. This shouldn't still be happening to anyone let alone the elderly.

Today feels very wistful and weird. I can't believe 2020 is over. And I want to move ahead. And yet tomorrow feels already like Groundhog Day- the movie. I hope I am wrong.

I had planned on writing this breezy, off the cuff- "i know you are all on juice cleanses so I sort of tried to help you out with that on the menu" email, but... obviously got derailed. Even so. Anna and I call this menu...

CLEANSE WEEK.

You're welcome.

NEW MENU SECTION! This and That appeared last week. Sometimes you need a snack while you're waiting for dinner to reheat. Or lunch. Or Happy Hour. Or 3 am. I don't judge. I created This and That for THAT.

Everyone else has given us all of the hot takes on 2020 so I won't. Frankly, I don't want to look back and ruminate on this one, except to be grateful for what I have, which involves YOU. THANK YOU for reading these missives, and sending me emails, and ordering food from us, and the little gifts and words of encouragement. You have literally helped keep 3 of us afloat in the last 8 months and we are grateful.

Onward and upward to 2021 and all of the normalcy that it might bring. And reunions with our families and friends. We will keep feeding you as long as you want us to, and we thank you for that.

Murray Hill has taped his show in his APARTMENT and it will be streaming here. It is HILARIOUS.

And... however you spend this week, If you have a moment and the means, consider making a quick trip to your local produce market and buy a few things to stock your community fridge. They have popped up all over the city and are truly filling a need. People leave food if they can, and take it if they need, on their own time. Here is a map

Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.

ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN!

In Love and Garlic-
Tamara!

PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.

DELIVERIES

Manhattan and Brooklyn Tuesday Jan 5
Queens Wednesday January 6

ORDER BY

Saturday Jan 2 MIDNIGHT

DROP OFF MENU
Sometimes You Want Caviar and Guess What? You Should Have It.

Domestic Wild Hackleback
Domestic Wild Hackleback Caviar, Blini, Creme Fraiche
90/ 2 oz and accomp

Domestic Wild Hackleback and Paddlefish
140/ 2oz of each, Blini, Creme Fraiche

Domestic Wild Salmon  
Domestic Wild Salmon Roe, Blini, Creme Fraiche
40/4.4 oz and accomp

This and That
Green Tahini Spread/Dip
Tahini, Lemon, Garlic, Herbs
Bright green, nutty and perfect acidity. For vegetables or crackers. The perfect snack.
9/ half pint

Vadouvan Coconut Popcorn
THIS POPCORN IS SO GOOD. Lynn McNeely taught me to make it and all other popcorns can go straight to hell.
10/school lunch bag full

AND...
Vietnamese-ish Turkey and Pork

Meatloaf *gf
Organic Ground Turkey and Pork, Lime, Lemongrass, Herbs, Eggs, GF Breadcrumbs
This is so light and packs so much flavor!
17/small

Salmon w/Lemon Curry Butter *gf
This should hit all the spots.
18/ 7-8oz filet

Shaved Fennel, Grapefruit, Orange Salad *gf *vegan
My favorite winter salad. I wait all year to eat this. The Italians really know this salad is the perfect beginning or end to any and every meal
13/pint 26/quart

Bulghur #3 w/Roasted Tomato Confit, Kale *vegan
Bulghur, Kale, Garlic, Lemon, Tomatoes, Herbs
When I moved to Astoria I discovered that bulghur comes in numbers. #3 is my favorite-- the biggest grain. This is a combo tastes great/great for you salad/side.
12/pint 24/quart

Miso Sake Steamed Veg

and Squash *gf *vegan
Cabbage, Beans, Broccoli, Squash, Miso, Sake, Mirin, Soy
Everyone loves these bc they are so clean and flavorful, so let's keep making them!
13/pint 26/quart

Comfort Corner- Eat Your Feelings! It's OK!
Roasted Organic Chicken over Kasha
My friend Alyssa steered me towards this for Rosh Hashana a few years ago and I have never looked back. The Chicken drips into the kasha as it roasts. HEAVEN.
1/2 chix /18 Whole/36

Lemony, Herbalicious Potato Salad *gf
POTATO SALAD. It's not just for picnics anymore.
12/pint 24/quart

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. Tell your friends!

All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

Good Morning!  Are ya hungover? Was it a shock to discover that it was 27 degrees out this morning? I feel your pain!!  I know it's hard to believe but 2020 is almost over, and you will most certainly be eating some lunches and dinners and snacks this week. We could be providing you with those things!  Don't forget to order! Ordering closes at midnight tonight. Delivery schedule s back to normal (Tues/Wed) and we look forward to feeding you!

***** If you would like to give a friend a gift certificate towards food in the new year, we can do that! We can have it in your recipient's email TODAY.

Happy Thursday! We made it!  The UWS is emptied out according to Anna, I drove through parts of Queens I had NEVER BEEN TO including a neighborhood where the signs were all in Russian, and the line is 30 deep at my Butcher Big John's. It must be Christmas Eve!  Growing up we had few holiday traditions, except Oyster Stew courtesy of my dad for Christmas Eve, (which no one but he and his dad and his grandmother wanted to eat, ) Buckeyes and light dinner at our friend's Carol and David Pharo's home, and when I was old enough to stay up LATE, tamales at midnight across the street at Willie and Emma Tabanico's home. They had a bar (!!!) in their screened in porch, and spent the whole week making tamales and then held a party Christmas Eve that started at 6pm and ended at 6am Christmas morning.  Since this city is full of fantastic tamales, I don't feel the need to master them. And I am not so pastry inclined, so I leave the buckeyes to those who are. But I have been thinking a lot about that oyster stew, and my dad making it. It is the inspiratiofor this week's Oyster Pie- which, PS- when I told Anna I wanted to make the look on her face was priceless. And then she found a way that we could execute AND it would travel and reheat.

NEW MENU SECTION! This and That appeared last week. Sometimes you need a snack while you're waiting for dinner to reheat. Or lunch. Or Happy Hour. Or 3 am. I don't judge. I created This and That for THAT.  Everyone else has given us all of the hot takes on 2020 so I won't. Frankly, I don't want to look back and ruminate on this one, except to be grateful for what I have, which involves YOU. THANK YOU for reading these missives, and sending me emails, and ordering food from us, and the little gifts and words of encouragement. You have literally helped keep 3 of us afloat in the last 8 months and we are grateful.  Onward and upward to 2021 and all of the normalcy that it might bring. And reunions with our families and friends. We will keep feeding you as long as you want us to, and we thank you for that. Two holiday shows I will be streaming are very different but both brilliant. Francine Reed sang a holiday concert with her brother Michael Reed and a small Jazz ensemble you can stream here. Murray Hill has taped his show in his APARTMENT and it will be streaming here. It is HILARIOUS.  And... however you spend this week, If you have a moment and the means, consider making a quick trip to your local produce market and buy a few things to stock your community fridge. They have popped up all over the city and are truly filling a need. People leave food if they can, and take it if they need, on their own time. Here is a map  Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.  ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN! In Love and Garlic- Tamara!  PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birtday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.

DELIVERIES

Manhattan and Brooklyn Tuesday Dec 29 Queens Wednesday December 30

ORDER BY Saturday Dec 26 MIDNIGHT


DROP OFF MENU

Bacchanale

Domestic Wild Hackleback 

Domestic Wild Hackleback Caviar, Blini, Creme Fraiche

100/ 2 oz and accomp

Domestic Wild Salmon

Domestic Wild Salmon Roe, Blini, Creme Fraiche

50/4.4 oz and accomp

This and That

Radishes and Celery

w/Anchovy Butter *gf

You can eat this as a snack, or combine in a pan and roast on 400 for about 25 minutes and eat it as a side. I love it both ways.

10/pint

Spinach Artichoke Dip*gf

The code name for this at the Cheesecake Factory is "Spin Dip" I know bc I worked there in DC. We all still call it that. It's a tired old whore of a dish but it knows all your special spots.

14/pint

Caramelized Onion, Date and

Olive Tart *vegan

The dates are so gorgeous right now. They will be the star of this dish.

13/Half 26/Whole

AND... Coq Au Vin *gf

Local Chicken, Bacon, Celery, Carrots,

Red Wine, Mushrooms

This is one of the rare dishes that is at once special occasion and comforting.

16/2 Piece 32/4 piece

Oyster Pie Oysters, Leeks, Potatoes, Carrots, Celery, Cream, White Wine, Chives, Puff Pastry

Not the Oyster Stew Paul Reynolds makes, but still delicous.

18/pint Puff packed on the side

Grilled Lamb Loin Chops w/ Salsa Verde *gf Lamb Chops, Herbs, Lemon, Garlic, Olive Oil

Treat yo' self! The char of the grill and the green of the salsa verde make it.

16/chop

order as many as you want

Hoppin John *gf *vegan

Black Eyed Peas, Onions, Carrots, Celery,Garlic, Spices

What is New Year's Day Without Luck and Money, Southern Style?

12/pint 24/quart

Braised Greens *gf *vegan

The Money Part of Luck and Money

12/pint 24/quart

Comfort Corner- Eat Your Feelings! It's OK!
Winter Vegetable Tagine *gf *vegan

Winter Squash, Eggplant, Sweet Peppers, Cauliflower, Herbs. Moroccan Spices

I find this so satisfying. A big bowl over some rice or cous cous on a cold night. Plus, all your veg to combat the rest of it.

13/pint 26/quart

Turnip-Potato Gratin *gf *veg

Potates, Turnips, Cheese, Cream Does it get any better than this? Doubtful.

13/large square

Bittersweet Chocolate Pots De Creme *gf

Another Jenny Special

15/pint

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. Tell your friends! 

All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

I hope you're enjoying your snow day. Our tent in the backyard completely collapsed under the weight of the snow. Thanks, 2020!

This is your friendly reminder that you need to eat something next week, and you don't have to celebrate Christmas to eat this menu! We are adding an email list only Korean-ish Stew to the menu as well. Really warming on a cold winter's night.

DEADLINE IS SUNDAY FOR ORDERING THIS WEEK. Don't give us a heart attack by waiting until the last minute!

**AND! If you would like to give a friend a gift certificate towards food in the new year, we can do that! Just let us know.

We look forward to feeding you!
*****
It is THAT TIME- Time to think about What Will You Eat For Christmas When You Are Alone In Your Apartment And Wishing You Could Be With Your Family And Friends!!

Look, I know that was like a slap in the face, but someone had to say it, and that someone is me.

Last year at this time I was catering nonstop holiday parties, which I normally love, but my brother had died in October and I was deep in grief. I can honestly say that being in the middle of someone's Holiday Party when you are treading water is pretty surreal. My staff saved me- covering for me when I had to just walk out and breathe the cold air outside- feel the sting of winter on my face and in my lungs. When I think about that time now, yes, I of course I remember how incredibly difficult it was, but I also remember the JOY (and sometimes awkwardness!!) of holiday parties, and JEEBUS CHRIST do I miss that! Can I get a Hallelujah and an Ugly Sweater please?!?!?

I miss the passed hors d'oeuves and the flutes of sparkling wine and the punch and the cocktails and the amped up servers and the overserved guests and the hosts and hostesses wearing their sexy clothes and slightly nervous energy. I miss the stolen kisses near the bathroom and friends who clearly never get to see each other and the people who hang out on top of us in the kitchen who I have to keep firmly reminding to STOP TOUCHING THE FOOD BEFORE WE PLATE IT.

I promise you, I am READY for Holiday 2021. And no, you still cannot eat the ruffles out of the bag.

It is still hard to accept that I won't have a Porchetta and Standing Rib Roast for 14 this year. And neither will you. But you can still eat well, and watch Bridget Jones or Die Hard or both!

Below is Anna's and my menu with desserts from the one and only Jenny Kellerhals, and our new partner, Tipsy Wine Store in Clinton Hill. has paired 3 wines with our food!

The link to order wine is HERE.

We will offer Delivery on December 23

Pickup on the 24th from both Lockwood Astoria and Tipsy in Brooklyn.

So put on the Christmas Carols and let's get this show on the road!

One last: two holiday shows I will be streaming are very different but both brilliant. Francine Reed will be singing a concert from Phx, AZ on December 21 and

you can stream here.

Murray Hill has taped his show in his APARTMENT and it will be streaming here. I will be watching both while we decorate our tree.

And... however you spend this week, If you have a moment and the means, consider making a quick trip to your local produce market and buy a few things to stock your community fridge. They have popped up all over the city and are truly filling a need. People leave food if they can, and take it if they need, on their own time. Here is a map

Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.

ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN!

In Love and Garlic-
Tamara!

PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.

DELIVERIES
ALL DELIVERIES WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23

ORDER BY
SUNDAY, December 20 @ 5pm!!

DROP OFF MENU

Don't let The Grinch Steal Your Christmas!

Bacchanale

Domestic Wild Hackleback
Domestic Wild Hackleback Caviar, Blini, Creme Fraiche
100/ 2 oz and accomp

Domestic Wild Salmon  
Domestic Wild Salmon Roe, Blini, Creme Fraiche
50/4.4 oz and accomp

Shrimp Cocktail *gf
11/15 Shrimp, Cocktail, Lemon
15/4pc 30/8pc 

This and That

Spiced Mixed Nuts *gf *vegan
Mixed Nuts, Honey, Aleppo, Rosemary, Spices
 15/pint

Marinated Olives *gf *vegan
  12/pint

Watercress Dip  *gf *veg
Watercress, Scallions, Lemon, Cream Cheese, Sour Cream   
9/half pint

Classic Christmas Cheese Ball *gf *veg
Cheeses, Nuts, Special Sauce
18/ball

And...

White Bean, Butternut Squash Kimchi Stew w/ Ginger Scallion Sauce *gf *vegan
Cannelini Beans, Kimchi, Butternut Squash, Onions, Garlic, Ginger Scallions
So much greater than the sum of its parts. This will be the perfect lunch of simple dinner or both.
13/pint 26/quart

Sicilian Lifeguard Calamari
Calamari, Tomato, Caperberries, Raisins, Warm Spices, Israeli Cous Cous
The best thing I got from the most ridiculous chef in NYC. So so good. North Africa meets Southern Italy.
 16/ Pint 32/Quart

Grilled Radicchio w/Persimmons and Walnuts *gf *vegan
This is a special occasion salad. And WE ALL KNOW that the best salad is the one someone else made for you
14/ sm 28/lg

Red Wine Braised Duck Legs*gf
The ultimate confort food as far as I am concerned. slow cooked duck legs, with red wine, garlic, and herbs. There's a lotta love in this one.
19/leg

Not Classic Christmas Ham w/Bourbon and Pineapple *gf
Ham, Bourbon, OJ, Mustard, Molasses, Brown Sugar, Pineapple
This is Victoria's Holiday Party Ham, that Zora and I published as "Crack Ham" that I have now added pineapple to. Special note- if you make it in an electric oven using our first, unedited recipe, your oven door can blow open!
16/small 32/large

Smashed Rutabaga and Yukon Gold Potatoes w/scallions and butter *gf *veg
Karl calls these "Meeps" and it makes me think he is going to start a Muppet routine. I think it's a Canadian thing. Fork Smashed.
13/pint 26/quart

Green Beans w/ Roasted Shallots *gf *vegan
Light but loads of flavor. This dish is a favorite of ours year round. Room temp or hot it delivers
13/pint 26/quart

Jenny's Christmas Cookie Box
12 assorted cookies
22

Buche de Noel
spice cake w/milk and white chocolates, citrus and vanilla
18/half 36/whole

Butterscotch Pudding *gf
Classic Butterscotch Pudding
15/pint

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. Tell your friends!

All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

We have all made to THURSDAY, GREAT WORK!

Hello!!

I have to make this relatively quick because my nephew is using my computer for school today. Which is totally insane on so many levels but also seems normal?

I told Elizabeth that this parenting thing (after never doing it) is like jumping into a speeding vehicle.

Happy Hannukah to those of your celebrating. We have included a kugel for you in the menu, since I wasn't about to fry jelly doughnuts.

In between TV Camp days Anna and I are putting the final tweaks on the Xmas and New Years Menus, which I cannot even believe are here. We will release those tomorrow late or Saturday in a separate email and on Instagram so you can plan ahead. We know we will be offering a Lockwood Astoria pickup option as well as a Wine Store in Brooklyn Pickup option on the 24th, and deliveries will be the 23rd, and then again on the 30th and 31st.

This weekend we will get a Christmas tree from one of the corner sellers and decorate it. I don't know if you have noticed- I didn't realize it until yesterday- but there are far fewer tree sellers out. That's bc the majority of the NYC xmas tree market comes from MONTREAL. AND THE BORDER IS CLOSED.

I say this in caps bc I can't believe I didn't think of it sooner. For many of my teen and early college years I sold trees on street corners for my parents. (this explains a lot, doesn't it?) My dad was like, The King Of Christmas Trees in West Phx. He always saved the ugliest one for me. My favourite!!! When he would go to pay me at the end of a weekend I would say, "how much did i make?" and he would say, "How much is your rent?" And that would usually be the amount he gave me. It cracks me up that we could have made a ton of money if we had only realized the NYC market would be starved of trees this year! My father was disappointed in me to be sure. I consider it a fail too.

OK- on to the menu.

ALSO- Please Note all Deliveries will be WEDNESDAY this week due to food styling for Run The World, a new show for Starz.

And... however you spend this week, If you have a moment and the means, consider making a quick trip to your local produce market and buy a few things to stock your community fridge. They have popped up all over the city and are truly filling a need. People leave food if they can, and take it if they need, on their own time.

Here is a map 

Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.

ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN!

In Love and Garlic-

Tamara!

PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.

  
DELIVERIES
ALL DELIVERIES WEDNESDAY DEC 16

ORDER BY

Saturday, Dec 12 MIDNIGHT

DROP OFF MENU

Salisbury Steak *gf
Pat La Frieda Short Rib Blend Ground, Herbs, Onions, Mushroom Gravy
A certain TV show that we LOVE acted like they were going to hire us to make Salisbury Steaks this week and then they bailed. Their loss, your gain. We couldn't stop thinking about the old classic. I dedicate this one to Millicent.
18/for one 36/for two

Cod Cakes in Tomato Sauce
Cod, Herbs, Breadcrumbs, Marinara-ish Sauce w/ Warm Spices, Parsley, Mint
This is a riff off an Ottolenghi recipe. Deeply satisfying no matter what time of year.
17/pint 34/quart

Winter Veg Soup w/Good Runny Cheese

on the Side *veg *gf
Kabocha Squash, Rutabega, Turnip, Greens, Garlic, Onion, Lemon Herbs
Mona Talbott of Talbott and Arding made this soup one afternoon when we were cooking for a pretty major gallerist. It was this amazing, partially pureed, partially whole veg soup that the gallerist would eat later with a slice or 2 of a fancy runny cheese and a salad. I am obsessed with eating this for dinner on a cold night.
Pint and slice of cheese/18

Quart and double slice/36

Anna's Potato Kugel *gf *veg
Potatoes, Onions, Garlic, Egg
Anna specifically wants to make this in individual tins, so everyone gets the crispy part. One size only. Put on your Yarmulke, It's time for Hannukah!
13/big square

Roasted Rainbow Carrots w/Pomegranate and Honey *gf *vegan
Carrots, Pom, Pom Seeds, Honey
Straight Up delicious, with minimal interference. I made this in Cuba and the Cubans loved it.
13/small 26/large

Comfort Corner/AKA Eat Your Feelings, It's Fine *everything here freezes

Vinegar Braised Organic Whole Chicken Legs w/ Olives, Lemon and Rosemary *gf
Local Chix, olives, rosemary, lemon, garlic
Like the Umbrian Cacciatore. No Tomato. This is my Lady Wrestler dish- bold and soft at the same time.
17 /One Whole Leg 34/Two Whole Legs

Mashed Sweet Potatoes *gf *veg
Just simple, sweet and earthy. Goes with everything.
13/pint 26/quart

Grilled Broccoli w/ Sesame Vinaigrette *gf *vegan
Charred on the grill. Perfect room temp or hot.
13/small 26/large

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. Tell your friends!

All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

We have all made to THURSDAY, GREAT WORK!

Hello!

I hope you are somewhere warm on this bright and chilly morning. it appears our unseasonably warm days are behind us- from here on out it will be NY Cold.   The menu this week was really hard to write, which is unusual.

Usually I am obsessed with one or more dishes and it sort of flows from there. I think the eating turkey and stuffing for a week in a row and then the total palate reset may play a part, as well as the constant drumbeat of Covid numbers rising not only in the rest of the country but now right here in NYC leaves me feeling frustrated and angry and a little despondant. Like- WHY is this happening? It is the worst version of history repeating itself.

It also makes me realize I need to return to a more locked down version of my life, which I never really left but the gates have to close a little more. Which of course makes me wish I had done more out socially when I could have. It was just hard to know when it was happening that was the time to enjoy fleeting freedom.

At any rate, I cannot be all things to you, (though you KNOW I want to be) but I can feed you and that's enough. If at any point this week you want an hour of distraction from your life, and want to hear about how I think about you guys during my week, (and also my thoughts on hospitality, my career and getting fired) please listen to the very smart and funny Effin B Radio Podcast, hosted by Lindsay Collins. I am the guest on last week's episode. It was the most fun I have had in an hour in...forever.

Anna and I have The Christmas Menu Meeting tonight (after which we will watch our favorite Grey's Anatomy!!!- so what?? I'm basic!!) So you can look forward to the preview of that next week, I think.

ALSO- Please Note all Deliveries will be WEDNESDAY this week due to food styling for Run The World, a new show for Starz.

And... however you spend this week, If you have a moment and the means, consider making a quick trip to your local produce market and buy a few things to stock your community fridge. They have popped up all over the city and are truly filling a need. People leave food if they can, and take it if they need, on their own time.

Here is a map

Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.  ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN! In Love and Garlic- Tamara!  PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.

  
DELIVERIES

ALL DELIVERIES WEDNESDAY DEC 9
ORDER BY Saturday, Dec 5 MIDNIGHT

DROP OFF MENU

Roy Choi's Short Rib & Veg Braise *gf

Short Ribs, Tamari, Ginger, Carrots, Butternut, Potatoes

Chef Roy Choi's home cooking. I am changing up the veg a little, but it won't cut into the beefy, deeply flavored umami.

19/ pint 38/quart

Souvlaki Marinated Grilled Chicken Breasts and Thighs *gf

Boneless Chix, Lemon, Za'atar, OO, Garlic, Onion

Like the souvlaki cart except it's me and not that guy.

16/pint 32/quart
Add Pita +3 or +5
Add Pint Persian Cukes & Yogurt +7

Vegan (!!!) Slow Stewed Collards and Greens *gf *vegan

Smoked Paprika, Collards, Mustard Greens, Chard, Onions, Garlic, Vinegar

This is that recipe from Michael Twitty (The Cooking Gene) that I love so much. All of the flavor, none of the meat.

13/pint 26/quart

Cauliflower Lemongrass Soup w/Ginger Scallion Sauce *gf *vegan

Cauli, Lemongrass, Potatoes, Lime, Garlic, Ginger, Scallions, Sesame Oil

This sounds SO REFRESHING to me. I wish I was eating it now.

12/pint 24/quart

Lentil Salad w/ Mirepoix, Herbs, Sherry Vinaigrette *gf *vegan

Good lentils really make this salad. The last time we made it I ate it for 4 days in a row. Like your French Granny dropped by, but you don't have to clean the bathroom.

13/pint 26/quart

Cucumber Daikon Slaw *gf *vegan

Cukes, Daikon Radish, Cabbage, Rice Vinegar, Sugar, Lime

Clean and refreshing. The perfect foil for the short ribs, the chix, the soup, or even the enchiladas. Stealth mvp of this menu.

12/pint 24/quart

Comfort Corner/AKA Eat Your Feelings, It's Fine

*everything here freezes

Bean and Cheese Enchilada Pie w/Roasted Salsa *gf *veg

Black and Pinto Beans, Corn Tortillas, Corn, Queso, Charred Salsa

These have so much flavor!! I make this charred salsa I learned from The Homesick Texan and use it in the Queso in as well as a topping.

13/big square 26/Two big squares

Berkshire Pork Braised w/ Apples, Calvados, and Cider*gf

This is fall in a bowl. Tender really good pork slow braised in cider and Calvados, finished with NYS apples and herbs.

17/pint 34/quart

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. Tell your friends!
All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

We have all made to THURSDAY, GREAT WORK!

Hello and Happy Thanksgiving!

I won't belabor it, but this is weird. It is weird that I have a turkey in the oven but it will only be for me, Karl, Gaby and Caleb. (and leftovers) It is weird that I am not fielding a last minute call from a friend who needs a place at the table and we just move closer to each other and set another place.

But... I am grateful- truly- for what I have and grateful that I was able to feed those of you who wanted it and my neighbors and family and some friends.

And... however you spend today and this weekend, If you have a moment and the means, consider making a quick trip to your local produce market and buy a few things to stock your community fridge. They have popped up all over the city and are truly filling a need. People leave food if they can, and take it if they need, on their own time. Here is a map

And onward we march.

We made this menu for next week days ago but Anna and I were so deeply buried in fridge and oven logistics I am just now getting to put it out.

I don't know about you, but I always need a palate reset after The Great Stuffing Episode. This week is that reset.

Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.

ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN!

In Love and Garlic-
Tamara!

PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.

DELIVERIES

Manhattan/Brooklyn Tuesday Dec 1
Queens Wed Dec 2

ORDER BY
Saturday, Nov 28 Midnight

DROP OFF MENU
The Great Palate Reset

Slow Roasted Turkish Lamb *gf
Local Lamb, Lemon, Garlic, Oregano
If you're Greek you can call it Asia Minor. Pieces of Lamb Leg and Shoulder, so tender and delicious.
19/pint 38/quart

Roasted Sausages w/ Grapes and Cabbage *gf
Local Italian Sausages, Grapes, Garlic, Cabbage
Magical things happen when you roast these things together. Plus, Flora.
17/pint 34/quart

Fish Chowder, Rhode Island Style *gf
Cod, Flounder, Clams, Potatoes, Carrots, Celery, Bacon, *Can be done without bacon
This is the dairy free version. Just a delightful aromatic broth, some veg and the fish.
16/pint 32/quart

Tamari Ginger Steamed Veg *vegan *gf
Broccoli, Cabbage, Beans, Zucchini, Celery, Sake, Tamari, Ginger
Back by popular demand! This is just clean, simple, steamed veg. Perfect in its simplicity.
13/pint 26/quart

Roasted Delicata w/ Dried Apricots, Herbs, Saffron, Rice
Seasonal and Sort of Middle Eastern. Can be a whole meal or a side dish
1 boat/13 2 boats/26

–––––––––––––––––––––––––
Comfort Corner/AKA Eat Your Feelings, It's Fine *everything here freezes

Tater Tot Casserole *gf *veg
Tots, Broccoli, Cheddar
I mean. You ate the shit out of this the last time we put it on the menu.
You know you want it.
12/small 24/quart

Black Bean Soup w/ Salsa Verde*gf *vegan
Black Beans, garlic, onions, carrots, cumin, Green Salsa
Old school. black bean sop with a little salsa verde to zhuzh it up.
12/pint 24/quart

Fake Ass Dal *gf *vegan
Red Lentils, Curry, Tomatoes, Onions, Garlic, Cilantro
One of my favorite comfort foods. Add some lemon yogurt and you're set.
13/pint 26/quart

Spanakorzo *Veg
Orzo, Spinach, Dill and Feta
Orzo is essentially baby food pasta and I am HERE FOR THAT. a bunch of spinach, dill and a little feta baked in.
14/small 28/large

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. Tell your friends!

All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

We have all made to THURSDAY, GREAT WORK!

Hello!

WOW. Every week when I sit down to write this I am reminded that I thought the previous week was insane when I was writing that email to you. And I think, this is it, right? It will start getting more sane? And then there's a slow motion night of the long knives at the Pentagon from the Potus who LOST. What a time to be alive! (I stole that from my friend Mackenzi, who sometimes texts it to me and it reminds me of my late Great Grandma Joy but is also strangely appropriate for a 42 year old woman to say now. )   What a time to be alive, indeed. Speaking of being alive, this is a good week to amp up your hand washing and doorknob sanitizing, methinks. I am SO OVER all of this and I know you are too, but the numbers don't lie and the smallest details are the ones that will pull us through to the other side. We can DO IT!  I started this morning at 7am making a Beef Wellington, which is not hard but definitely INVOLVED, and by the time I was done (3 1/2 hours later) it looked and smelled so lovely that I REALLY wanted to eat it but alas, it was headed for its star turn on a tv show. I will alert you when it airs so we can all lust after it collectively. I hope those actors know how much love I put into it and they eat it!! I will tell you this- when you start the day like that you definitely feel like you deserve to be off by 1:30pm.   A couple of things: Thanksgiving menu is below and available for preorder. We will offer delivery tuesday and wed before Thanksgiving, and also tuesday pickup from Lockwood in Astoria. If you can't be with your people this is a good way to do it. We are offering pints of everything so you can still feast in style without the group.   AND- due to another teevee shoot, this upcoming week all deliveries will happen on WEDNESDAY. Thank you for your understanding.   Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.  ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN!In Love and Garlic- Tamara!  PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.  

DELIVERIES

WED Nov 18: ALL Y'ALL
ORDER BY Saturday Nov 14 Midnight

**********************************************************

DROP OFF MENU

Regular Drop Off Menu

Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits *gf

Shrimp, Fancy Grits, Cheese, Tomatoes, Garlic, Herbs

I did a podcast interview last night with an amazing woman named Lindsay from Charleston. Speaking to her made me all kinds of crazy that I can't go to Charleston. Imma bring Charleston to us.

19/pint 38/quart

Kiss (just!) My Grits - 12/pint

Portuguese Kale Stew *gf

Chorizo, Kale, Potatoes, Carrots, Garlic, Spices

I ADORE this meal in a bowl, although I will be honest; I have only eaten it in these United States and not when I was in Portugal. Still. It is deeply flavored, hearty and full of vegetables.

17/pint 34/quart

Vegetarian Tortilla Soup *gf *vegan

Beans, Tomatoes, Onion, Garlic, Paisilla, Zucchini, Lime

I am craving this right now- Mexican flavors but vegetarian. Tortilla strips on the side. You provide your own shredded cheese if you want it.

12/ pint 24/quart

Bok Choy w/ Sesame Honey

Soy Fried Tofu

*gf *vegan

Bok Choy, Tofu, Sesame Oil, Honey, Soy, Ginger

I have never made tofu any other way than this. I hate tofu and I love this. This is THe Helmsley Trust Tofu- that I made for them weekly before Covid. Bok choy will be steamed. Tofu on top.

14/pint 28/quart

Cider Braised Fennel *gf *vegan

Fennel, Cider, Hard Cider

Fennel is awsome in all forms but braising it really transforms it.

13/pint 26/quart

Comfort Corner

AKA Eat Your Feelings, It's Fine

*everything here freezes

Slow Cooked Pulled Pork *gf

Berkshire Pork, Garlic, Veg Stock, Herbs, Lime

Eat it off the fork, in a bowl, with the cornbread, in tacos, in lettuce wraps... your MVP for the week.

18/pint 36/quart

Cornbread *veg

Still my Ex Husband's recipe. Still delicious.

7 /Big Slice

Square Slab Pecan Pie

These Pecans are THIS YEAR'S CROP from Oklahoma courtesy of Ms Lisa Magnino, Sooner in Exile. This pie will get you over the line, I promise.

9/ Square

*************

THANKSGIVING MANIA

THANKGIVING MENU FOR PREORDER

Order Now until Nov 20.

Delivery Tues/Wed

Before Thanksgiving Snacks

Millicent's Buttermilk Biscuits,

Frozen Ready To Bake

6 for $10 12 for $20

Green Goddess Dip *gf *veg

Yogurt, Buttermilk, All the Herbs, Lemon

You bring your own crudites. Or drink it. I won't judge.

15/ pint

Bacon Wrapped Dates *gf

Devils on Horseback, whatever you call them, umami good.

10 dates/15 20 dates/30

Everything But The Turkey

Turkey Legs Confit* gf

Turkey Legs, Herbs, Garlic, Duck Fat

This is what it's about. I can't roast a million whole turkeys, but I can do this. Melt in your mouth good.

15/leg

Big Poppa Karl's Cranberry Sauce Especial *gf *vegan

I have to clear the kitchen when Big Poppa makes his fresh cranberry sauce. Everyone loves it.

13/pint 26/quart

Traditional Turkey Gravy

w/Lemon and Sage 

Order a lot. You know you love it.

12/pint 24/quart

Wild Mushroom Stuffing *veg

I dream of this stuffing all year. As many wild mushrooms as I can get my hands on, Leeks, Garlic, Herbs.

14/small 28/large

Anna's Chorizo and Rye Bread Stuffing

This is Anna's drea

m stuffing. I cannot wait to try it. Loads of flavor.

15/small 30/large

Mashed Potatoes of Your Dreams *gf *veg

Potatoes, Butter, Cream What more can I say?

12/pint 24/quart

Maple Chile Roasted Sweet Potatoes

w/ Pecans *gf *vegan

Sweet and a tiny bit spicy. Just like you. 13/Pint 26/Quart

Green Beans w/ Roasted Grapes

and Herb Butter *gf *veg

Roasting grapes really ups the game on these greenie beanies. Perfect to cut that stuffing.

13/small 26/large

Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts w/Lemon and Garlic *gf *vegan

I never liked brussels until I had them this way. Now you cannot stop me from eating them 

13/small 26/large

Braised Radishes and Celery *gf

Radishes, Celery, White Wine, Butter

So French, So delicious. These vegetables are transformed when braised.

14/small 28/large

PIES

37/each

Only 10 of each pie

Apple Cranberry Crumble Pie

Maple Whiskey Pecan Pie

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. 

Tell your friends!
All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies! 

We have all made to THURSDAY, GREAT WORK!

Hello!

ERMAGERD.  It is a gorgeous 67 degrees outside here, I do not understand WHO wants 4 more years of the complete and utter bullshit that has gone on for the last 3 and a half and WHO takes a gun to the elections office where votes are being counted?!?!?!?!?  If what is going on right now doesn't convince us all to put Civics class BACK into ever single school and curriculum, I don't think American Democracy survives.

Also - END THE ELECTORAL COLLEGE.

I spent Tuesday night here at the house acting like I was on the Titanic. Grilling oysters and huge prawns with anchovy butter and drinking chablis. We also had a Pinon casserole with plantains and ground beef courtesy of our friend Katie, who needed comfort food. Funny how our moods drive our food cravings, isn't it? Last night I had kimchi fried rice and broccoli for "dinner"- after drinking a bottle of wine. I hope to do better today, but.. no promises people! No promises.  The next time I write this we WILL have a new President, and we WILL be out of this holding pattern. Frankly, I cannot wait.  Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week. ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN! In Love and Garlic- Tamara!
PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.

DELIVERIES

TUESDAY Nov 10 : Manhattan/Brooklyn WED Nov 11: Queens!
ORDER BY Saturday Nov 7 Midnight
___________________________

DROP OFF MENU

Regular Drop Off Menu

Chicken Puttanesca*gf

Boneless Organic Chicken Breasts and Thighs, Tomato, Garlic,
Anchovies, Onions, Basil, Olives, Capers

When times get tough the Puttana comes in to save your ass. Bursting with flavor, and SO. MANY. ANCHOVIES AND GARLIC CLOVES. This is like when your mom slapped you and said, "Shut up. You're Fine."

17/pint 34/quart

Carbonnade Flamande Beef, Dark Ale, Onions, Garlic, Carrots, Celery, Herbs

The Belgian Beef and Beer Stew to give you LIFE. The dark beer really makes it. This one's for Bernadette, as suggested by Anna. 19/pint 38/quart

Autumn Vegetable Soup *gf *vegan

Carrot, Parsnip, Leek, Apple, Herbs

Apples are the MVP in these root veg soups, Long cooked, lots of flavor. This is your long slow kiss of a dish.

13/pint 26/quart

Tamari and Ginger Steamed Vegetables

 *gf *vegan ***You can Add Salmon to this !! Napa Cabbage, Long Beans, Green Beans, Broccoli

Vegetables steamed in this clean, delicate broth. Perfect for the reset after you spend days stress eating cake for breakfast. Or is that only me?

Veg and Broth 13/pint 26/Quart

Add 6 oz Salmon: 14

Roasted Cauliflower, Chickpea, Pomegranate Salad *gf *vegan

Cauliflower, Chickpeas, Celery, Herbs, Pomegranate Seeds

Ottolenghi inspired. Loads of crunch and flavor. Hot, cold or room temp

12/pint 24/quart

Red Wine Spiced Poached Pears

*gf *vegan

The pears are nearly PERFECT right now. 8/pear

Comfort Corner/AKA Eat Your Feelings, It's Fine

*everything here freezes

Baked Ziti *veg Ziti, Marinara, Basil, Ricotta, Mozzarella, Parmesan

The ghost of a million church basements haunts this dish. I can see and smell those basements as I type this!! I MISS THEM. Let this dish stand in for the family gathering we are all missing so much.

14/small 28/large
52/family size

Pasta e Fagioli *veg

Pastina, Beans, Tomatoes, Herbs, Veg, Parm

The Italian stew that says quietly, "we survived Berlusconi. You can do it too." 13/pint 26/quart

Celery Root & Potato Mash *gf *veg

Perfect base for the Puttanesca, The Carbonnade, even the miso veg and salmon. Or, just eat them with a spoon out of the fridge. I will never judge you.

11/pint 22/quart
__________________________

THANKSGIVING MANIA

THANKGIVING MENU FOR PREORDER

Order Now until Nov 20.

Delivery Tues/Wed Before Thanksgiving 

Snacks

Millicent's Buttermilk Biscuits,

Frozen Ready To Bake

6 for $10 12 for $20

Green Goddess Dip *gf *veg Yogurt, Buttermilk, All the Herbs, Lemon

You bring your own crudites. Or drink it. I won't judge.

15/ pint Bacon Wrapped Dates *gf

Devils on Horseback, whatever you call them, umami good.

10 dates/15
20 dates/30

Everything But The Turkey

Turkey Legs Confit* gf

Turkey Legs, Herbs, Garlic, Duck Fat

This is what it's about. I can't roast a million whole turkeys, but I can do this. Melt in your mouth good.

15/leg

Big Poppa Karl's Cranberry Sauce Especial *gf *vegan

I have to clear the kitchen when Big Poppa makes his fresh cranberry sauce. Everyone loves it.

13/pint 26/quart

Traditional Turkey Gravy

w/ Lemon and Sage

Order a lot. You know you love it.

12/pint 24/quart

Wild Mushroom Stuffing *veg

I dream of this stuffing all year. As many wild mushrooms as I can get my hands on, Leeks, Garlic, Herbs.

14/small 28/large

Anna's Chorizo and Rye Bread Stuffing

This is Anna's dream stuffing. I cannot wait to try it. Loads of flavor.

15/small 30/large

Mashed Potatoes of Your Dreams *gf *veg

Potatoes, Butter, Cream What more can I say?

12/pint 24/quart

Green Beans w/ Roasted Grapes

and Herb Butter *gf *veg

Roasting grapes really ups the game on these greenie beanies. Perfect to cut that stuffing.

13/small 26/large

Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts

w/ Lemon and Garlic *gf *vegan

I never liked brussels until I had them this way. Now you cannot stop me from eating them

13/small 26/large

Braised Radishes and Celery *gf

Radishes, Celery, White Wine, Butter

So French, So delicious. These vegetables are transformed when braised.

14/small 28/large

PIES

37/each

Only 10 of each pie

Apple Cranberry Crumble Pie

Maple Whiskey Pecan Pie

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER.

Tell your friends! 

All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

We have all made to THURSDAY, GREAT WORK!

Hello!

Oh Lord! I am writing this Wednesday night, bc at early dawn tomorrow Anna and I will be hurtling towards some location and doing another teevee food scene. Which I am grateful for, but comes so early in the morning!

THIS WEEK IS ONE DAY OF DELIVERY ONLY.

 Every day since last week's email has felt like a YEAR! In the olden days, (olde times?) I created a thing called Election Day Cafe- wherein I turned wherever I was living into an open all day cafe where friends and strangers could stop in and have a snack or a meal after they voted. The first year (2004) I was melting lard in a cast iron skillet to make chicken fried steak and eggs at 6am. As I stared at the lard melting around the skillet I sleepily wondered what in the ever living fuck was wrong with me that I thought this was a good idea????  That was back when you pulled the big lever for the NYC voting machines. You went into this 1950's booth, with a vinyl curtain that smelled like the storage rooms of a thousand years, and flipped these little tabs back and forth until they lined up your candidates, and some (usually old woman) poll worker outside of the machine lined up your paper ballot to get punched, and you PULLED THE LEVER. It was so exhilerating!!!! In 2004 I threw the curtain open and sang, "AMERICA- Fuck Yeah!" in homage to South Park Team America- World Police. I don't know how many of my fellow voters got it and how many thought I was some sort of rabid white woman. I went back home and ate grilled cheese and roasted tomato bisque made by my cooking partner Zora O'Neill, at our first Election Day Cafe. That year the dinner ended mid Grilled Quail and Oysters- I don't even think anyone cut into the Lane Cake (I was in a Southern Layer Cakes Obsession Phase). Bush was called as the winner and we were deflated. Everyone left and I had a 2 day mess to clean up.  In 2008 We had Election Day Cafe for the primaries AND the general. It was a THING. We had sold the cookbook and were writing it and so many friends and strangers were fed- some one meal, some all 3- (I'm looking at YOU, Golden!!). It felt amazing. We drank champagne on election night and inauguration day.
2012 Was more of the same.
Cut to 2016. I haven't been able to look at a Fudgy the Whale Carvel Cake since that night.
And now. And now.  And NOW- we cannot gather. I cannot invite you into my home and make chicken friend steak or eggs or pancakes or whatever for whomever was willing to get their asses here at 7am. And I swear to Christ that I, who love sleep, would jump willingly out of bed at Zero Dark Thirty to make you whatever short order breakfast you desired if I could only have you in my home to feed you.  But I cannot. So this year, I will ask my husband to project the election coverage on the movie screen in our backyard, because even though we won't have people here it will feel less alone. And I will probably sit out there at various parts of the day, hopefully watching Joe Biden and Kamala Harris and Jaime Harrison and Mark Kelly and a bunch of other democrat senators get elected. Because I NEED. THAT.  And I will miss you terribly. But I know that next time, we will believe in science again and I will be able to feed you. And I might even make a smiley face on your pancake.  VOTE.  Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.  ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN! In Love and Garlic- Tamara!  PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.  
DELIVERIES:

MONDAY Nov 2: MANHATTAN/BK/QNS

ONE DAY ONLY
ORDER BY: SATURDAY Oct 31 - Midnight

___________________________

DROP OFF MENU

Regular Drop Off Menu

Old Fashioned Chicken Soup *gf

with or without noodles

Sometimes you just need it. Ain't no thang. With or without noodles. I will spend Sunday making it.

14/pint 28/quart

Vietnamese-ish Turkey Meatloaf *gf

Ground Turkey, Ginger, Garlic, Scallions, Lime GF breadcrumbs

This just sounds like the right palate cleanser, doesn't it? Bright, light. But still meatloaf. Sm/18

Brisket w/ Red Wine and Plums *gf

Oh baby. Brisket will cure what ails you. Brisket has been THERE for the Chosen People for thousands of years so it can sure as fuck be there for you for the election and /or the aftermath.

19/small 38/large

Coconut Curry Chickpeas, Squash and Spinach *gf *vegan

Coconut, chickpeas, squash, baby spinach

I saw a version of this in the NYT and I knew I could make it better. It sounds so comforting and delicious an aromatic!

14/pint 28/quart

Kimchi Bacon Fried Rice *gf

Cabbage, kimchi, bacon, other veg

Ummm YES. YES. YES. YES. Imma make it for myself. I hope you want some too.

13/pint 26/quart

Comfort Corner/AKA Eat Your Feelings, It's Fine *everything here freezes

Potato, Caramelized Onion, Chard Gratin

gf *veg

Heavy cream. Cheese. Potatoes. Chard. Like a warm binky in a bowl.

15/small 30/large

Ratatouille *gf *vegan

Eggplant, Onion, Zucchini, Tomato, Sweet Peppers, Herbs

Like the summer sun setting over the Riviera. Get some.

 13/pint 26/quart

THANKSGIVING MANIA !

THANKSGIVING MENU FOR PREORDER Order Now until Nov 20.

Delivery Tues/Wed Before Thanksgiving

Snacks

Millicent's Buttermilk Biscuits,

Frozen Ready To Bake

6 for $10

12 for $20

Green Goddess Dip *gf *veg

Yogurt, Buttermilk, All the Herbs, Lemon

You bring your own crudites. Or drink it. I won't judge.

15/ pint

Bacon Wrapped Dates *gf

Devils on Horseback, whatever you call them, umami good.

10 dates/15

20 dates/30

Everything But The Turkey 

Turkey Legs Confit* gf

Turkey Legs, Herbs, Garlic, Duck Fat

This is what it's about. I can't roast a million whole turkeys, but I can do this. Melt in your mouth good.

15/leg

Big Poppa Karl's Cranberry Sauce Especial *gf *vegan

I have to clear the kitchen when Big Poppa makes his fresh cranberry sauce. Everyone loves it.

13/pint 26/quart

Traditional Turkey Gravy w/ Lemon and Sage

Order a lot. You know you love it.

12/pint 24/quart

Wild Mushroom Stuffing *veg

I dream of this stuffing all year. As many wild mushrooms as I can get my hands on, Leeks, Garlic, Herbs.

14/small 28/large

A

nna's Chorizo and Rye Bread Stuffing

This is Anna's dream stuffing. I cannot wait to try it. Loads of flavor.

15/small 30/large

Mashed Potatoes of Your Dreams *gf *veg

Potatoes, Butter, Cream What more can I say?

12/pint 24/quart

Green Beans w/ Roasted Grapes and Herb Butter *gf *veg

Roasting grapes really ups the game on these greenie beanies. Perfect to cut that stuffing.

13/small 26/large

Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts w/ Lemon and Garlic *gf *vegan

I never liked brussels until I had them this way. Now you cannot stop me from eating them

13/small 26/large

Braised Radishes and Celery *gf Radishes, Celery, White Wine, Butter

So French, So delicious. These vegetables are transformed when braised.

14/small 28/large

PIES

37/each

Only 10 of each pie

Apple Cranberry Crumble Pie

Maple Whiskey Pecan Pie

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. 

Tell your friends!

All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

We have all made to THURSDAY, GREAT WORK!
Welcome Back!

I don't know how you have spent your week (but I LOVE hearing about it!!) but I have survived grilling hot dogs on my balcony at 6am 2 mornings ago, and then taking on another last minute food styling scene that involved crying bc my sweet potatoes were cooking down too much. Work during covid times can be ridiculous in many different ways.  I will keep it brief this week because in addition to next week's menu, today I am including the THANKGIVING MENU. People are funny about Thanksgiving; they either declare Turkey the poultry version of chewy cotton, or love everything about this insanely white food holiday (me me me me!!!!!). I love few things more than dousing an entire plate of turkey, potatoes and stuffing with GRAVY. And Lord knows I can only really do that one weekend a year. So now, if you order from me, we can do it TOGETHER.  I will be early voting this weekend. When are YOU voting? 

VOTE. VOTE. VOTE.

Make sure you are registered.
Make sure your info is correct.

Request your ballot if you haven't already and you have any doubt that your polling place will be safe for you to VOTE in person.
Stay safe! Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.  ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN!In Love and Garlic- Tamara!  PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.  

Tuesday Oct 27: MANHATTAN/BROOKLYN Wednesday Oct 28: ASTORIA /QUEENS  
Order By: Saturday Oct 24 Midnight

DROP OFF MENU
Regular Drop Off Menu

Chicken Enchilada Pie *gf Local Chicken, Cheese, Onions, Spinach, Enchilada Sauce, Corn Tortillas

They're BAAAAACK. Enchilada Pie.

I want to eat it every day.
I am throwing in some spinach to break it up a little.

16/square

Grilled Veal Chops w/ Salsa Verde *gf

Local Veal Chop, Herbs, Lemon, Garlic, Olive Oil

These Chops are SO JUICY.

Salsa Verde is the perfect bright note for the char of the grilled chop

 19/Chop

Roasted Delicata, Red Onion, Walnuts w/ Pomegranate Vinaigrette *gf *vegan

Delicata, Red Onion, Herbs, Pomegranate Vin.

This is a riff on an Ottolenghi dish. Great as a side or a meal.

13/pint 26/quart

Lemony Lentil Vegetable Soup *gf *vegan Lentils, Zucchini, Kale, Carrots, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Herbs

Lentils are such an MVP of cooking all year round. This is a lighter version of lentil soup.
The lemon really brings it.

13/pint 26/quart

Beans and Greens *gf *vegan Gigantes, Other Heirloom Beans, Kale, Chard, Mustard Greens

My friend Molly LOVES this dish. It is a meal. It is a side perfect for say....the Veal Chop. I slow cook really good beans (it makes a difference!) and then I wilt in greens and stew it awhile longer. I am telling you. This is a desert island dish.

14/pint 28/quart

Roasted Root Vegetables *gf *vegan Carrots, Turnips, Brussels Sprouts, Celeraic, Sweet Potatoes, Lemon, Herbs

Simple, Delicious

14/pint 28/quart

Comfort Corner/AKA Eat Your Feelings, It's Fine *everything here freezes

Baked Pasta w/ Cauliflower, Kalamata, Garlic, Capers, Anchovy 

Homage to Sara Jenkins! Sara is no longer cooking in NYC and that makes me VERY SAD. But this is a pasta of hers that I LOVE and I ordered whenever I could at Porsena. 13/small 26/large

Shepherd's Pie w/ Sweet Potatoes *gf Ground Beef and Lamb, Carrots, Peas, Onions, Garlic, Parsnips, Mashed Sweets

Not authentic but fall in a bowl. Or a casserole dish.

17/small 34/large

Tomato Bisque *gf *veg

Anna has been pushing me to put this on the menu for WEEKS. Her fall comfort food. Savory and delicious. Keep it in your freezer for that upcoming rainy day. And you KNOW they are coming.

15/pint

*** THANKSGIVING MANIA ***

Order Now until Nov 20 

Snacks

Millicent's Buttermilk Biscuits, Frozen Ready To Bake

6 for $10 12 for $20

Green Goddess Dip *gf *veg Yogurt, Buttermilk, All the Herbs, Lemon

You bring your own crudites. Or drink it. I won't judge.

15/pint

Bacon Wrapped Dates *gf

Devils on Horseback, whatever you call them, umami good.

10 dates/15
20 dates/30

Everything But The Turkey

Turkey Legs Confit* gf

Turkey Legs, Herbs, Garlic, Duck Fat

This is what it's about. I can't roast a million whole turkeys, but I can do this.
Melt in your mouth good.

15/leg

Big Poppa Karl's Cranberry

Sauce Especial *gf *vegan

I have to clear the kitchen when Big Poppa makes his fresh cranberry sauce. Everyone loves it.

13/pint 26/quart

Traditional Turkey Gravy w/ Lemon and Sage

Order a lot. You know you love it.

12/pint 24/quart

Wild Mushroom Stuffing *veg

I dream of this stuffing all year. As many wild mushrooms as I can get my hands on, Leeks, Garlic, Herbs.

14/small 28/large

Anna's Chorizo and Rye Bread Stuffing

This is Anna's dream stuffing. I cannot wait to try it. Loads of flavor.

15/small 30/large

Mashed Potatoes of Your Dreams *gf *veg

Potatoes, Butter, Cream What more can I say?

12/pint 24/quart

Green Beans w/ Roasted Grapes and Herb Butter *gf *veg

Roasting grapes really ups the game on these greenie beanies. Perfect to cut that stuffing.

13/small 26/large

Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts w/ Lemon and Garlic *gf *vegan

I never liked brussels until I had them this way. Now you cannot stop me from eating them

13/small 26/large

Braised Radishes and Celery *gf Radishes, Celery, White Wine, Butter

So French, So delicious. These vegetables are transformed when braised.

14/small 28/large

PIES

37/each
Only 10 of each pie

Apple Cranberry Crumble Pie

Maple Whiskey Pecan Pie

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER. Tell your friends!

All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.

Hello Hungry Kiddies!

We have all made to THURSDAY, GREAT WORK!

Welcome Back!

Ermagerd. I was up and to Locust Valley Long Island and BACK this  morning by 8:15am. for a teevee show food styling drop off. As much as  it hurt to get out of bed at 5:15am to pack up all of our hard work and  load it into the car, I did admit to Anna that it was really lovely out  at that hour. And the big bonus was that we got to drive RIGHT NEXT TO  THIS GORGEOUS, QUIET, EMPTY BEACH at the drop off point. It was a great  way to start the day.     Today was the 2nd show I worked on this week- yesterday we were  doing some food from 1994 on another show. It was pretty exhilarating to  be able to work again, even in a limited fashion. To stretch that "what  were they eating in this season in this restaurant in that year? What  would these specific people eat? How can we recreate that? It is also  deeply satisfying to revisit another time period on the plate, and  remember who I was at that time- I was TOTALLY EATING THIS FOOD!!! I  will keep you posted when these shows air so you can take a look.  Oftentimes it goes by really fast, but every once in awhile the camera  lingers and it's really fun to see.     I have had a tough time this week with the enormity of what the  next weeks will bring- and not just for the next 4 years. These judicial  hearings are (for me) profoundly depressing. One of the things I have  really loved over the last few years is trying to transfer my interest  in/respect for/excitement about politics, history and government to my  nephew. It is hard to find the words to discuss it with any enthusiasm  right now- I hope that changes as we move through this moment, bc one  thing is for sure: just like a dinner at a fancy restaurant, this moment  WILL be over at some point and we WILL move on to whatever is next.     Speaking of the nephew! He turns 16 (!!!!!) next Tuesday, the 20th. I can hardly believe it.     And one thing that is absolutely floating around in our immediate  future is THANKSGIVING. Now I have ZERO idea of what it will look like  this year even in our own home (we have a patio heater, but will it be  safe to have Karl's family over to the backyard? Is it even feasible to  eat outside?) but I DO KNOW there will be Thanksgiving food, because I  LIVE for the White Food Olympics every year. It is the one day )or one  weekend) a year that i smother everything with gravy. Like 3 times a  day. To that end, we WILL be making and offering Thanksgiving food ala  carte that week, so don't call Citarella- call me!     On to the menu, which you should know that I decided to change  since Anna and I agreed on it about an hour ago. I hope she likes it!     VOTE. VOTE. VOTE. Make sure you are registered. Make sure your info is correct. Request  your ballot if you haven't already and you have any doubt that your  polling place will be safe for you to VOTE in person.     Stay safe!     Whatever you do, wherever you do it, whomever you do it with, have a wonderful week.

ORDER EARLY AND ORDER OFTEN!

In Love and Garlic-  Tamara!

PS! A few of you have inquired about my private chef rate . If you  have a special dinner/anniversary/birthday meal you would like me to  create a menu for, cook, and deliver, let's talk.

DELIVERIES

Tuesday Oct 20: MANHATTAN/BROOKLYN   Wednesday Oct 21: ASTORIA /QUEENS

ORDER BY Saturday Oct 17 Midnight

DROP OFF MENU
Regular Drop Off Menu

Roast Turkey Breast w/ Marsala Sauce, Boiled Little Potatoes *gf

Turkey Breast, Mushrooms, Marsala Sauce, Boiled Little Potatoes

Repeating from September, as a Thanksgiving Warm Up. Plus, we all loved it.  18/pint (2 thick slices)
36/ rectangular container (4 thick slices)

Roasted Leg of Lamb w/ Herbs and Pomegranate Molasses *gf

Lamb, Garlic, Lemon, Herbs, Pom Molasses This was my very first recipe that I created and wrote on my own. Like a first love, I deeply enjoy revisiting it.

19/slice
order as many as you like

Tahini Glazed Carrots w/Dates *vegan *gf Local Carrots, Tahini, Cumin, Dates

This is a riff on Adeena Sussman's recipe. She lives in Israel and creates the most marvelous  recipes and dishes. I don't like carrots but this looks gorgeous.

13/small

26/large

Potato Spinach Chermoula "pie" *vegan *gf Potato, Spinach, Greens, Chermoula, Onions We did this a few weeks ago as an actual pie, but I don't think it needs the crust. Like a gratin, layered, but no dairy.

12/square

Bulghur with Zucchini, Lemon and Mint *vegan

Like Tabbouleh- sort of. Refreshing and satisfying and will go with anything else on this menu.

12/pint

24/quart

Comfort Corner/AKA Eat Your Feelings, It's Fine

(*everything here freezes)

Pizza Squash *gf

Spaghetti Squash, Italian Sausage, Marinara, Mozzarella

I don't even know what  to say about this other than It is an Anna Special, she LOVES to make  it, I LOVE the name and idea of it, and I will be eating some.

14/small

28/large

Curried Squash Soup

Pureed Squash soup with a  touch of Vadouvan and lemon. Along with your pumpkin spiced latte and  bathroom candle, this really is the ultimate harbinger of fall.

13/ pint

26/quart

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO ORDER.

Tell your friends!

All produce is organic; all meats are hormone and antibiotic free and local whenever possible. Everything is handmade, by me.