Fort Worth Date Night: Just a Taste

by Michael Bloomberg
September 16, 2010

One of my favorite memories of my childhood was my grandmother. We called her "Nanny." A sweet, caring woman whom I also considered a dear friend. She taught me my love of cooking and simply being in the kitchen.

I can clearly recall spending countless hours sitting on the counter in our kitchen watching her bake. And, as soon as the electric mixer was done with its job, I knew my work would kick in. "Fine....I'll lick the bowl." It was usually something chocolatey.

One important lesson I learned from her was taking time to smell the roses. From an early, age, I would go to nice restaurants with Nanny. Unlike most meals eaten with family, these dinners lasted a while. Sometimes up to three hours. It always started off with a cocktail (or two), an appetizer, the entree and, of course, dessert and coffee. To this day, one of my favorite things in the world is to be with friends and partake in long dinners with wonderful food, great wine and tons of laughs.

My grandmother had a saying that often cracked up the rest of the family. If my parents were cooking at home or we were eating out and someone offered her some of their dish, she would simply say, "Oh, just a taste." Often, the "taste" ended up being multiple bites. Much like when offering your partner a "bite" of dessert when he or she didn't want their own and, the next thing you know, half of it is gone and you weren't the culprit.

Nanny would be all about this week's Date Night recommendation. Mainly because it would involve many tastes. This coming Saturday night, September 18, from 5pm - 8pm, you may want to head south on 35 for the 2010 Taste of Burleson. Tickets bought in advance are $15 and $20 at the door.

Since the Burleson H-E-B grocery store is about to open, they are proudly taking on the role of the title sponsor. With that, H-E-B will be heavily involved in this event. They'll have several tents, give out great food and prizes and are even providing some special guests. H-E-B's nutritionist and culinary specialist, Chef Rosie, will be on hand. Also, from H-E-B's Cooking Connection, Chef Justin will be in attendance.

Taste of Burleson is hosted by the Burleson Area Chamber of Commerce and will take place at the RE/MAX complex at Renfro Square, 133 S. Scott St. Organizers are shooting for 25 restaurants, wineries and vendors to participate. So, in honor of Nanny, I ask that if you decide to utilize this Date Night recommendation, you stop by each vendor and just "have a taste."

For complete details on the 2010 Taste of Burleson, please call 817.295.6121 or visit www.burlesonareachamber.com