Bite into 2012: Feasting for your future fortune

Ringing it in Many of us like to welcome the New Year after a special meal on the town, but how do the people cooking our meals like to celebrate? Unsurprisingly, either quietly or the next day. After the mad buildup to the holidays or a long night in the kitchen, chefs are happy but […]

Push things forward

  We’re on the verge of 2012, and whether the New Year is the dawn of a new era or just another click of the big wheel of fortune as it spins into eternity, it’s a good time to talk about new beginnings. This year, instead of a tired year-in-review, we decided to give you […]

Season's eatings

Season’s eatings You’ll be cooking up a storm over the holidays—enjoy a well-deserved meal out while you can. These restaurants are putting a pinch of jolly and a dash of merry into their savory, sweet, and spirited offerings this month.—Meredith Barnes (Photos by Andrea Hubbell) The Silver Thatch Inn does Christmas English cottage-style with prime […]

The other social network

 In tough economic times, nonprofits get pinched. As the demand for their services rises, their budgets face pressure from lower rates of charitable giving, cuts in government funding, and, as the recession extends, an over-reliance on their most loyal donors. “Our focus has been on building fundraising skills and encouraging members to use the recession […]

A trio of local chefs cook up a wish list for the holiday

We asked three Charlottesville chefs what culinary books, goodies, and gadgets they hope to see under the tree this holiday. Here’s some gift-giving inspiration for the top chefs on your list.—Meredith Barnes, Tami Keaveny, and Megan Headley (Photo by Cramer Photo) Christian Kelly Executive chef of Maya on goodies: 1. Lard from super-fatty Ossabaw hogs […]

Your guide to holiday party planning on three different budgets

The high rollers Place your fête in these caterers’ hands and a holly jolly time will be had by all.—Megan Headley The "Local" platter from Feast! wets your guests’ whistles with everything from cheese to chocolate. (Photo by Andrea Hubbell) Beggar’s Banquet in Orange County offers customized menus and can do it up big or […]

Small Bites: This week's restaurant news

Fun for the whole fam damily Kids and beer don’t usually mix, but when Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is playing at Blue Mountain Brewery, it does just fine. Every Tuesday is Brew & View night at BMB and December 6 from 6-9pm is kids’ night. Movie tickets are $7 (100 percent of proceeds benefit […]