50 Shades of Gourmet

Are you wanting to learn how to cook like an actual chef in a real restaurant’s professional kitchen?

Are you curious if there is any truth to the idea of Aphrodisiacs?

Does the idea of an evening learning how to use Five-Star Cuisine to “spice” up your relationship intrigue you?

50 SHADES OF GOURMET

Z’s Cafe
Friday, October 12, 2012
6:45pm - 7:00pm: Arrive
7:00pm - 10:00pm: Fine Dining Cooking Class with Aphrodisiacs
$119/couple

Have you ever thought, “What would happen if you crossed Christian Grey and Top Chef?”  So many people want to learn how to cook like the pros.  This Date Night was designed for that very thing…to teach you how to make an amazing meal in a way that can easily be duplicated at home…over and over…for years and years.  We thought we would throw in a few “aphrodisiacs” to make the evening more intriguing.

The Romance CEO and Janet & Carlo of Z’s Cafe are partnering for ONE NIGHT ONLY!  On Friday night, October 12, 2012, only 11 couples will partake in this never-before-offered Date Night.  Not only will you learn how to make many amazing dishes, you will also master the art of making pasta from scratch, learn the meaning of what ingredients are aphrodisiacs and how to incorporate them into your meals.

Z’s Café is one of the best (not-so) secrets in Fort Worth.  Located in the heart of the hospital district, Janet Capua and her son, Carlo, are two amazing chefs who run this quaint bistro.  The best part:  We will have the entire place to ourselves!  Janet and Carlo will lead us through a menu designed for royalty.

Here is what the evening will look like:

6:45 – 7:00pm:
Arrival

7:00 – 10:00pm:
COOKING CLASS TO “SPICE” UP YOUR RELATIONSHIP

Alcohol

When registering, each couple will get a choice of one bottle of red or white wine.  This will be waiting for you when arrive.  If you feel like one bottle will not suffice, please feel free to bring whatever you two prefer.

Food

This combination hands-on/demonstration cooking class will feature an extensive menu.  All of which will be prepared and devoured that night.  This first-class menu will also include everyday items most of us often eat or cook with that are actually aphrodisiacs.  We will teach you what they are and their benefits.  The tentative menu is as follows:

Appetizers:

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus w/ pita toast points

Margherita Pizzettes - tomato, basil, mozzarella

Salad:

Arugula, figs, goat cheese, vinaigrette 

Entree:

Janet’s Famous Chicken Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan ala Capua

Side:

Lavender pasta (from scratch), mozzarella, parmesan, olive oil, sea salt, lemon zest

Dessert:

To be determined

Location

Z’s Café

Hospital District Location

1116 Pennsylvania Avenue

Fort Worth, TX 76104

This event will only accommodate 11 couples.  Here are the easy steps in securing your spot.

1.  Send me a quick e-mail to mike@theromanceceo.com letting me know you want to sign up and include both of your names.  There will be no refunds.  However, transferring to another couple is absolutely fine.

2. Please include if you would prefer a bottle of WHITE or RED wine.

3. You'll then receive a PayPal invoice by e-mail.  Once you pay, I'll be notified and will, in turn, send you a confirmation e-mail.  You will not be officially registered until you receive this confirmation.

THANK YOU SO MUCH!  WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU ON THE 12TH!

Mike Bloomberg

Mixology 101 - Date Night

Did you see Cocktail with Tom Cruise?

 Have you ever wanted to learn the art of Bartending?

 Can you see yourself at your next party impressing your friends with your Mixology skills?

MIXOLOGY 101

The Premium Institute of Bartending
Friday, September 28, 2012
6:30pm - 7:00pm: Arrive/Setup
7:00pm - 10:00pm: Hands-on Bartending Class
$79/couple

How many times have you thought, “I wish I could make a drink like a professional bartender?”  Even better, “I wish I could look like a professional Mixologist when making my favorite concoction.”  Never before has a class like this been offered or a Date Night that even comes close. 

The Romance CEO and The Premium Institute of Bartending are partnering for ONE NIGHT ONLY!  On Friday night, September 28, 2012, only 15 couples will come together and partake in this memorable Date Night.  Not only will you learn how to make many of your favorite drinks, you will learn the basics of bartending, maneuvering your way around a bar and leaving with skills best described as “Professional Mixologist!”

The Premium Institute of Bartending is a real bartending school.  You will be taught by a real, certified bartending instructor.  The only thing not real is the alcohol that will be used to practice making the drinks.  For obvious reasons, colored liquid has to be used for learning purposes.  This is not to say that alcohol will not be served and consumed that night.

Here is what the evening will look like:

6:30– 7:00pm: Arrival and set-up

7:00 – 10:00pm: MASTERING MIXOLOGY

Alcohol

When registering, each couple will get a choice of one bottle of white or red wine.  This will be waiting for you when you arrive.  If you feel like one bottle will not suffice, please feel free to bring whatever you two prefer.  Also, the bartending school has said that if you would like to bring your own alcohol/mixes to “practice” with, you are absolutely free to do so.

Food

To keep this Date Night class at a much lower price, we have decided to let each couple bring their favorite bar food/finger food/appetizer.  It’s your choice whether to make this or buy it.  If it needs a dish or a serving spoon, please bring.  Utensils and plates will be provided.

Location

The Premium Institute of Bartending

Fort Worth Location

6080 S. Hulen St. #340

Fort Worth, TX 76132

The inside of this school looks like a real bar…without the smoke and obnoxious drunk guys.  It even has a disco ball and a sound system, so your favorite tunes will be playing all night. 

This event will only accommodate 15 couples.  Here are the easy steps in securing your spot.

1.  Send me a quick e-mail to mike@theromanceceo.com letting me know you want to sign up and include both of your names.  There will be no refunds.  However, transferring to another couple is absolutely fine.

2. Please include if you would prefer a bottle of WHITE or RED wine.

3. You'll then receive a PayPal invoice by e-mail.  Once you pay, I'll be notified and will, in turn, send you a confirmation e-mail.  You will not be officially registered until you receive this confirmation.

THANK YOU SO MUCH!  WE HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE 28TH!

Mike Bloomberg

One Intention is Worth a Thousand Pictures

Several years ago, when thinking about what my next step in my business would be, I knew I needed a stronger online presence.  This includes a rebranded, professionally done website, the launching of a brand-new online product website, the creation of online videos and some new pics.

My promotional pictures weren't terribly old and I really liked them, especially since I am not one who had really ever spent time in front of the camera.  However, over the recent years, when it would come up with others and would be asked what I envisioned for the theme of my dream photo shoot, I kept coming back to one thing. I want something 1920's to 1940's, in a tux, bow tie undone and in an unconventional setting...like a warehouse.

Move forward to this year, March 2012.  Through a friend whom I used to volunteer, I was introduced to a photographer who had expressed interest in meeting me based on what he told her I did...plan and implement the world's greatest marriage proposals.  Within a few weeks, we scheduled a meeting.  She was attractive, energetic, passionate, well-spoken and professional.  And, in the words I often use to describe a person, place or thing I like...Great Energy!

A few weeks later, I believe it was Friday night, April 6th, when I received an e-mail from her.  It starts off with "You can say 'No.'" And proceeds to tell me of a training she's doing with one of the world's premier photographers...some other stuff..."Would you please be my model?"

I did chuckle as "model" is far from how A) have ever viewed myself and B) have never thought others perceived me.  She mentioned that she would start thinking of ideas and, if I had any, please share with her.  And, of course, I'd get copies of the pics. DUH!  How can I say no to that???

I e-mailed her back, told her I was in, told her my concept and the next day, she responds with that she had been thinking the exact same thing.  That she didn't know me well enough to ask, but, basically...LET'S DO THIS!!!

On April 30th, we scheduled a planning session and on Monday, May 21, 2012, with a tux in hand, headed out to The Cotton Mill in McKinney, TX (http://www.mckinneycottonmill.com).  I just got my hands on a few of the pics and was told I could share.  Click on each pic to enlarge.

A BIG thank you to the amazing photographer, Rhonda Brunson!!! (http://www.snapshotsbyrhondakay.com).  Grateful does not even come close to how I feel about being asked to do this.  And, the final product is beyond what I could have ever imagined.  I'm proud to now call her "Friend!"

It's so great how the Universe can deliver exactly what we set our intentions on.  The very first pic I get back is the picture that has been in my head for several years.  The rest are just gravy!

Rhonda mentioned she wanted to add a "high fashion" edge to these pics.  The above required an interesting pose. It's a good thing I do yoga!

This was taken from a distance.  When I look at these, I can't help but notice the personality and the nuances of the old Cotton Mill.

I'm not sure what to call this one.  I really wasn't angry.  But, I do love the black and white.

When I received this one, Rhonda mentioned it might be her favorite.  I feel like when my book comes out, it  would belong next to the author's blurb.  I love the patina of the equipment in the background.

This one captures the oldness and uniqueness of the building.  Again, the layers are intriguing.  From the tux, to the equipment, to the interior brick.

The above might be my favorite.  This was also a dangerous area.  Part of the room had no floor, with only a makeshift catwalk to get across.  Again, the equipment, the junk in the back and the windows really pop in black and white.

This might also rank as a favorite, too.  It reminds me of an old private investigator movie.  My dad suggested it looks like a "high-dollar cologne ad...like Stetson." :)

O.K., change of clothes and I was forced to smile.

The light plowing through the windows is interesting in the above pic.  We'll call this "Buddha."

When I first saw this one, it appeared like I was in 3-D. Or floating.

With the massive size of the room, I love how this pic captures all of the interesting layers of this space.

The columns that run the span of the room, when taken at just the right angle, appear to be a wall.  Very cool effect from a long distance. There was glass and debris all over the floor.  I had to watch the bare feet.

As always, I love to hear your comments, suggestions or just to say "Hi!"  Thanks for stopping by!

Mike

Fort Worth Date Night: In Vetro

by Michael Bloomberg
November 3, 2010

They say that all good things must come to an end. But, what about all beautiful things? Why do those have to come to an end? For example, flowers. I've attended many weddings where tens of thousands of dollars were spent on the budded beauties. Only to know that they will soon wilt.

Or what about a Chocolate Lava Cake? Once the first cut is made, the perfectly cylindrical treat is overwhelmed and flooded by the river of chocolaty greatness. Three bites later....all gone. And, this week, it's glass that has to end.

It's time to head to Grapevine this Saturday night from 6-10 p.m. The uber cool glassblowing studio, Vetro Glassblowing Studio and Gallery, is hosting their annual holiday party. It's intriguingly dubbed, "Glass on the Tracks."

First things first, there will be wine, beer and Hors d’ouevres. Whew! Food and drink are covered. Now on to the entertainment. The "Fate Lions" will be entertaining the crowd. For those not in the know, they are described as a "lush, bright and melodic pop group that takes its listeners though landscapes of 80s riffs and 60s fillers." Sure to be a crowd favorite.

At this event, raffle tickets will be on sale for 75 one-of-a-kind handblown ornaments. This is sure to fill up your tree and then some. The retail value for this boatload of creative holiday glassyness is $1500.00. Tickets are $20.00 for 1 ticket, $30.00 for 2. The drawing will be held November 26 at 10am. The winner need not be present to win. Also, tickets may be purchased without attending the Glass on the Tracks party.

Speaking of the party, it's time to reveal the Belle of the Ball. Perhaps the real reason for attending this cool event is to witness something called the "Truth or Consequences" Auction. According to Vetro, here's how it plays out. "Everyone puts his/her name in for a drawing. If your name is chosen, David Gappa asks you a question about Vetro. If you get the question correct, it's yours for nothing. However…If you get the question wrong, it is held for ransom for 30 seconds, and the piece goes up for auction. It is awarded to the highest bidder, IF the secret reserve price is met. So what happens if the reserve price is not met? The piece is crushed in Vetro's proprietary "Glass Guillotine". That’s right…it dies. It’s intense, it’s wild, and it’s even a bit overwhelming for some."

Which leads us back to my opening sentiment about the quote, "They say that all good things must come to an end." I'm not sure who "they" is. Who "they" are. Editors, if you can take it from here.

For complete details on Vetro, please visit: www.vetroartglass.com

Fort Worth Date Night: Halloweenie

by Michael Bloomberg
October 27, 2010

This weekend could already be spoken for. It's the weekend where we throw together a costume at the last minute, try to remember what we wore last year so we don't repeat the same faux pas or try to squeeze into that superhero outfit (thank goodness for lycra). Whichever you can relate, there is no mistaking that Halloween falls on a weekend this year.

As it turns out, so does some great sporting events in the DFW area. TCU is just climbing up the polls and remains undefeated, the Texas Rangers are hosting their first-ever World Series appearance and the Dallas Cowboys are....have I mentioned that the Baylor Bears, just down the road in Waco, have cracked the Top 25 in the college football polls?

The Halloween options are endless this weekend. You may want to take in any of the many great haunted houses in the Metroplex. Or, maybe a scary movie is more your style. For those who have been keeping score, the 7th movie in the Saw series is opening this weekend. What makes this one different? It's in 3D. I may or may not have seen them all and may or may not see it on its opening weekend.

Perhaps, you have little ones or just the two of you want to get out for a bit on Sunday night. From 6-8pm, a great option is "Treat Street" hosted by the Fort Worth Stockyards. Stockyards Station has teamed up with Radio Disney to bring Fort Worth a safe, family-friendly Halloween celebration in the Historic Stockyards. Highlights of this event are trick or treating the Stockyards Station shops and free hayrides.

But, is there really anything bigger than the Texas Rangers representing the DFW area in its first World Series appearance? And, it just so happens that the 3rd, 4th and 5th home games begin on Saturday and run consecutive days through Monday. I'm excited to see what our creative home team's fans come up with for costumes on Halloween night.

No matter what you end up choosing, there is not a wrong answer. Just remember that if you do celebrate on Sunday night and do have a "real" job, Monday morning will arrive very quickly. So, if you choose to get completely spooked and take in a scary flick or haunted house or if you're a sports nut and passing up baseball and a hot dog is not an option, either way, you are sure to be called a "Halloweenie." *cue the crickets* Is thing on? I'll be here all week.

Happy Halloween! Go Frogs! Go Rangers!

Fort Worth Date Night: Orange you glad I didn't call you banana? Or, chicken?

by Michael Bloomberg
October 20, 2010

It has become my life's mission to find the area's best holes-in-the-wall. From the city's best unknown dessert, to the search for the tastiest Pad Thai, to a martini that has been flying under the radar. One of my favorite things in the world is to introduce friends, both old and new, to these off-the-beaten path locales.

So, when the tables were turned recently when I was taken to Bangkok House (438 S Cherry Ln.), I immediately knew I had a new best-kept secret. During the week, from 11-2, Bangkok House offers up a lunch buffet that you won't easily forget. Also, not easily forgettable is one half of the owners who is referred to as "Mama." She is worth the price of admission as she makes sure everyone is enjoying themselves and/or is making sure she is enjoying herself. It's hard to tell.

Back to the buffet. While it's not a super buffet with 100's of choices, the food is actually super. It has an interesting selection that many buffets don't cover. Some of these items are Pad Thai, Thai fried chicken and various curry dishes. However, what sold me was something that most buffets do offer.

This was the Orange Chicken. I know what you may be thinking. Orange chicken is orange chicken. And, until I went to Bangkok House, I subscribed to the same theory. This is absolutely THE best Orange Chicken in the world. To answer "why" might be difficult. It's the chicken. Or, the marinade. Or, the preparation. Or, perhaps, just the planets align and each piece is just crispy and sweet, yet, a touch spicy, but, consistent. My second visit to this buffet was pretty much an Orange Chicken-fest. If I wasn't concerned about the other patrons, I was tempted to pull a chair up to the buffet and just eat the entire dish of Orange Chicken. It's that good.

Bangkok House offers up a full menu when dining at night and on the weekends. Pad Thai,Massaman Curry and many other Thai selections are fantastic. But, how do I not cheat on the Orange Chicken? While ambiance and romance is not part of this locale, good food definitely is. And, you really know that you that you have made it when you enter the restaurant and "Mama" greets you with a slow, sultry, drawn out, "Hey, Baby..."

Fort Worth Date Night: Kiss a Frog

by Michael Bloomberg
October 13, 2010

If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area and have been living under a rock, then you might be the only one who hasn't heard all the buzz about TCU's football team. Ranked #4 in the country, the Horned Frogs are halfway through the season and 6 games remain. Out of those, only 3 are home games.

It's that time of year that the weather is what we in Texas call, "perfect football weather." The stadium is easily accessible with plenty of festivities going on. Whether it be a pre-game tailgate, hitting up Fuzzy's for the best tempura fish burrito or eating at the game, it's never too late to get on the Horned Frog bandwagon.

While being #4 in the country is impressive, it's become a little clearer when you truly understand the actual number four. You can now see why it's a little more fitting why TCU has that particular rating. Defining the number "four" in Numerology will shed some light.

According to Numerology, the number four "is the rock and cornerstone of an enterprise, does not give up easily, is perseverant and a hard worker." This pretty much sums up TCU football. From Coach Patterson, his staff, the players, the school and the fans. So, for the fans, there is an annual event coming up that might make going to a game even more enticing.

The weekend of October 22-23 is TCU's Homecoming. Friday evening, the 22nd, from 6-9pm, marks the return of FrogFest. A family-friendly evening, but also great for a date night, which include fun activities such as: Giant inflatables, huge slides, face painting, crafts and a live band. Food will be available and a cash bar featuring purple margaritas.

Pick a game, get your tickets, pull out your purple attire and be prepared for football greatness. Equally impressive is the energy of not only TCU coming together, but the whole Fort Worth community uniting for a great cause. It's been exciting the last few seasons watching our Horned Frogs rise to the elite of college football.

It was French politician and philosopher, Charles de Montesquieu, who said, "To become truly great, one has to stand with people, not above them." Go be with the Frogs and cheer them on to greatness. Not to mention, another undefeated season. Followed by a bid to an exciting bowl game. Fingers crossed.

Fort Worth Date Night: The Art of Date Night

by Michael Bloomberg
October 6, 2010

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" is often used to describe that no one can truly define what is beautiful. It is a definition that only lies within ourselves. This term is most widely familiar with art.

Unless you are an artist, the thought of creating a masterpiece might seem unattainable. Picture a canvas marked up only by the tip of your brush hanging on your wall like it belonged in a gallery. It might even seem laughable that a house guest would ask when looking at said artwork, "Who is the artist of that piece?" Such joy you'll have in replying, "That would be ME!"

A stone's throw off of Camp Bowie at 5714 Locke Ave. lies a Date Night locale that is sure to inspire you both. It recently opened and is appropriately called, "A Piece of Work." To give you an idea, they say it's "where Merlot meets Masterpiece." You two will be creating the art. What makes it "datey?" Wine, of course.

Actually, you bring the beverage of your choice. Food or snacks are even allowed. They will supply wine openers, ice buckets and cups. Complimentary water and soft drinks are always available. Do remember you must be 21 years old to consume alcoholic beverages.

The obvious "datey" part is the actual creation of your work of art. When you register, you will know beforehand what you will be creating. Their website has a picture which correlates to a particular day on the calendar. However, no artistic experience is required. A local artist will guide you step-by-step to create your own masterpiece to take home at the end of class.

This would make a great first date. Equally impressive would be for an anniversary. Here are the pros: Quality time together, meeting new and other fun couples like yourselves, having something to show for your time and energy, laughing, creating and just being. The cons: There are none. You might think getting paint on your clothes might be one. They've got you covered. Literally. Aprons are provided. So, get online and check out A Piece of Work. If you think you can't do this or won't be very good, think about what Ralph Waldo Emersonsaid, "Every artist was first an amateur."

For complete details on A Piece of Work, please visit: www.apieceofworkonline.com

Fort Worth Date Night: Getting out of the Downward Dog House

by Michael Bloomberg
September 29, 2010

It is often said that those who experience excitement and adrenaline together as a couple, keep an emotional bond for longer periods of time than those who don't. Not every twosome is going to jump out of a plane, run a marathon or enjoy skiing. What about the couples who just love each other without the frills? Perhaps, they just need some time away, but with a quiet, peaceful, more solemn approach.

Friday evening, October 22, you will have the opportunity to become one with yourself, one with nature and, as a bonus, become one with each other. How can it be possible to become one with yourself and with another at the same time? If you have never experienced yoga in an outdoor setting, this will be your opportunity.

You might be asking, "What if we've never tried yoga before?" Perfect! This evening is for the inexperienced to the most advanced. Miranda Davis, of PerfectFit studio, in Fort Worth, is finally making a vision she's had for years come to fruition with a workshop so aptly dubbed, "Full Moon Yoga." An outdoor yoga workshop held during, from a weather point-of-view, one of the most amazing times of the year.

According to Davis, "I feel it is going to be a very intimate, creative, and celebratory time of Yoga practice. Every detail is very important from the playlist, to the mood, to the setting, aromatherapy used, type of tea served…etcetera. I want my participants to feel completely cared for in all aspects."

Here's how the evening will go for you two. Pre-registration is required and beginning promptly at 6:15pm, class will begin. All that is required is to wear comfortable clothing, a yoga mat, a large towel and water, if desired. This workshop is open to the public, but, is limited to 35 participants. While I personally think this will make a great date night, individuals are also welcome.

Think about this. You've had a long week. Maybe you haven't seen much of each other. It's time to reconnect. A quick change into some comfortable clothes and off you two go. And, according to the PerfectFit website, you will "allow nature to be a source of inspiration as we breathe, move and connect under the glowing gaze of the stars and a full moon. Invoke breathing techniques to slow down the mind, enhance awareness, and de-stress the body. This Viniyoga (therapeutic) practice will focus on opening our major muscles and joints via twists, bends, binds, deep holds, and soft flows. Our meditation time will include star gazing and positive visualizations. We wrap up our time with refreshing warm towel therapy and a calming cup of Zen tea."

Now, picture yourself after. Fully relaxed. Completely simpatico with one another. All in the world is good. Absolutely no reason for arguments or disagreements. Because, according to one of my favorite philosophers, Anonymous, "Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape."

For complete details on Full Moon Yoga and PerfectFit, click on: http://www.1perfectfit.com or contact Miranda at miranda@1perfectfit.com.

Fort Worth Date Night: Taking Flight on Date Night

by Michael Bloomberg
September 22, 2010

When you think of Fort Worth and art, there are a few names that might immediately come to mind. Sid Richardson and Amon Carter are sure to be in the top tier. What about Cyrus Rowlett Smith? C.R. Smith? Not ringing a bell?

American Airlines, with so much history, has a great flight museum. The name of the museum? The American Airlines C.R. Smith Museum. This is definitely an experiential locale that will reach out to all of your senses. But, it's the name that dons the museum that is so interesting.

According to the museum's website, "On May 13, 1934, Cyrus Rowlett Smith was elected president of American and, except for a period during World War II when he served asDeputy Commander of the Air Transport Command, continued as chief executive officer until 1968 when he was named Secretary of Commerce by President Johnson." Smith was also an avid art collector like his contemporaries, Sid Richardson and Amon Carter.

This collection has been housed at the Blanton Museum of Art at the University of Texas at Austin. The AA Museum has borrowed 15 selected works from this collection of western art and will be open to the public from October 2 through November 13. It's being called "The American West: A Collection of Western Art from a Man who Loved to Fly."

In honor of this exhibit, The AA C.R. Smith Museum is hosting a very special preview on Friday evening, October 1 at 7pm. Not only is the art motivation enough to attend, the museum has brought in wines from 10 different wineries from around the world. Selected hors d'oeuvres and live music will definitely go beautifully with the vino.

If you are a member of the museum, tickets are $25 each or $40 per couples. Non-member tickets are $30 each or $50 per couple. The C.R. Smith Collection of Western Art, as we say in Texas, is "rarely in our neck of the woods." This special event will be a great way to see the exhibit before everyone else. While you are there, you can learn everything you've ever wanted to know about American Airlines and it's history. Throw in food, wine and music, and this Date Night is sure to take your relationship to new heights.

For complete information on this event and the American Airlines C.R. Smith Museum, please visit: www.crsmithmuseum.org

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

Fort Worth Date Night: Road Trip!

by Michael Bloomberg
September 9, 2010

Growing up, if your family was anything like mine, you know that traveling with four children can be tough. For weddings, celebrations and vacations, we didn't often fly. Rather, my parents would load us four kids in the car and down the highway we went. It didn't matter if it was to Austin, Missouri or somewhere in the middle, automobile was their transportation of choice.

This is a great time to throw in that I was the third of three boys. Then, just to mess up my perfect role of being the baby, the parents had a girl. Move forward to the family trips. For whatever the duration we were in the car, it meant being tortured by my two older brothers. Either physically, mentally or both. Seriously, who wouldn't enjoy ten hours of continuous Wet Willies? (Google it)

Fortunately, there is a different kind of road trip coming up that is much more exciting. It starts in one of my favorite cities (Austin), involves one of my favorite foods (BBQ) and includes one of my favorite beverages (cold beer). For this event only, Date Night is being changed to Date Weekend.

The lovely ladies over at Texas Toast Culinary Tours are at it again. You might know them from their local "Feeding Frenzy" progressive dinners. As famous chef, Emeril Lagasse, would say, they are "kickin' up a notch" with their next installment in the "BBQ & Brew Tour." All you have to do is get to Austin. They've taken care of the rest. According to their website, the trip is as follows:

Friday, Sept. 17, noon
* We'll depart Austin from the Holiday Inn Austin Town Lake, right off I-35, south of downtown. It's free parking and if you're spending the night in Austin, it's extremely convenient! We'll be in a luxury motorcoach, so get ready to kick back and be chauffeured.
* First stop: Southside Market in Elgin. This smokehouse makes some of the best sausage in Central Texas.
* Next: Pointing the bus toward Shiner, Texas. We'll tour Spoetzl Brewery where deliciousShiner Bock comes from. You'll get to taste test their whole family of beers. We're a little partial to Shiner Black right now.
* Final: We're off to Gonzales for sublime lamb ribs, fresh tortillas, avocado and a dash of hot sauce from Gonzales Market. Once back in Austin, you can enjoy the city’s legendary live music.

Saturday, Sept. 18, 9 a.m.
* You better wake up hungry because we're headed to Lexington for brisket at Snow's, ratedTexas Monthly's No. 1 Barbecue. Snow's is only open on Saturday and only as long as they have meat!
* Next: Louie Mueller in Taylor has some of the best peppered brisket. This joint has been featured in one of our favorite movies "The Rookie" and also was where Stevie Ray Vaughanwas photographed for "Family Style."
* We're off to Lockhart for Smitty's BBQ. You get to wind through building and see the open fire pits. We're partial to the Blue Bell ice cream cones they serve. We'll stop by Kreuz Market, as well.
* We'll finish up the afternoon with some homemade pie from Pies Galore in Bastrop. Our return to Austin gets you back in time to rest up for an evening out. We can recommend a number of distractions for those in search of music and dancing.

Trip cost: $225 per person, which includes transportation, food and beer on Friday and Saturday; gratuities; and tour guides.
Friday only - $100
Saturday only - $175

For complete details and registration info on this road trip and all of the Texas Toast Culinary Tours, please visit: http://www.texastoastculinarytours.com

Fort Worth Date Night: Stirring the Pot

by Michael Bloomberg
September 2, 2010

A few summers ago, on a trip across Colorado, we randomly happened upon a local metal fair going on. Many artists creating the most amazing works out of steel, iron, aluminum and all other metals. Even better, since it was a fair, this meant that fair food was not far away.

It was here that I discovered the greatness of Kettle Corn. This is popcorn attentively cooked with both the predictable required salt, but, paired with the sweetness of sugar. A big bag was purchased followed immediately by a big bag of this amazing concoction disappearing. Equally impressive as the taste was the sheer size of what the Kettle Corn was prepared in.

I'm guessing it was a cast iron bowl with a diameter somewhere between three and four feet. I had never seen anything like it. Until recently, when I attended a paella party. The paella pan was easily three feet across. They say in Texas that "bigger is better." When it comes to food, I tend to think that "better is better."

On Friday night, September 10, there will be a paella party that only you are invited. Shhhh!!! Don't tell anyone. It's being held at D'Vine Wine in Grapevine. They refer to it as "Paella Night." Others simply call is "YUM!"

What exactly is paella? Most definitions describe it as "a saffron-flavored Spanish dish made with varying combinations of rice, vegetables, meat, chicken, and seafood." The paella pansin which this tasty dish is prepared run the gamut as to sizes.

A good rule of thumb is for a home stovetop, the maximum size is usually 20 or 22 inches. In an oven, the largest is usually 17 or 18 inches. A large outdoor grill can usually handle up to a 26 inch pan. If you're looking for precise control over the heat and maximum flexibility, a gas paella burner is ideal, which can be used with any size pan up to 40 inches.

On the night of September 10, expect D'Vine Wine to impress you with their paella prowess. Planned for the evening is Paella Valenciana. A paella medley of chicken and a variety of seafood (shrimp, calamari, mussels, clams, scallops, crab and fish), vegetables and, of course, saffron. A fresh green salad will accompany this tasty dish. And, please don't forget where this is being held. There will be wine.

D'Vine is great because of their selection of wines, their knowledgeable (and super friendly) staff and reasonable and generous wine tastings. When you find one you like and just a glass won't suffice, full bottles are available for purchase and can be enjoyed at their location or taken home for consumption at a later date.

You can expect this Date Night to cover all the senses:

Taste: Have I mentioned it's paella?

Sight: Watch as the paella is prepared right in front of you by their official "Paella Chef."

Sound: Listen as everyone in attendance will be laughing, drinking, eating and enjoying a perfect evening.

Touch: Sitting next to your culinary partner in crime, holding hands, lost in your surroundings.

Smell: Have I mentioned it's paella?

D'Vine Wine is located in Grapevine at 409 S. Main St. To make reservations for Paella Night, please call 817.329.1011. Their website is: http://grapevine.dvinewineusa.com