Tag Archives: food critic philadelphia

Small Bites Radio Episode 198 – Chef Tara Punzone – Vegana Italiana

Posted on October 28, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

Small Bites Radio is the WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment 2023-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022 Best of Arts & Entertainment, named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, and Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025.

🌱🍝 Get ready to spice up your kitchen with Chef Tara Punzone! 🍝🌱 – New Episode of Small Bites Radio!🎙️Presented by D & L Coffee Services Inc. 👩‍🍳 Meet the powerhouse behind Pura Vita, the first 100% plant-based Italian restaurant and wine bar in the USA! Chef Tara is serving up southern Italian soul — all vegan, all flavor, zero compromise. 🌿 Vegan for over 35 years, this Italian-American dynamo from New York has been perfecting the art of turning family classics into plant-based perfection since childhood. Now, with her debut national bestseller, Vegana Italiana, you can bring those same flavors home!

📖 Vegana Italiana features over 100 drool-worthy recipes — from ravioli and meatballs to tiramisu and lemon mint granita — all crafted to deliver that authentic Italian comfort, minus the animal products. ✨ Some fan favorites include: 🍆 Eggplant Parmigiana 🥖 Strawberry Almond Ricotta Crostini 🍝 Ravioli Pomodoro 🍰 Tiramisu (yes, vegan and just as dreamy!)

🎧 And now, Chef Tara joins us on Small Bites Radio!

🙌 She’s sharing her culinary journey, her love of Italian heritage, and a few fun stories (like serving Michael Imperioli — yes, Christopher from The Sopranos and Dominic from The White Lotus!). Plus, her dream dinner guest list? Howard Stern, Jesus, and Claudia Cardinale. We’re obsessed and want to know what the menu would be and what they talk about. 😂

👉 Click the link to listen — and find out how Chef Tara is proving Italian food can be totally vegan and totally delicious.

🎙️ https://small-bites.simplecast.com/episodes/small-bites-radio-episode-198-chef-tara-punzone-vegana-italiana

#VeganaItaliana #ChefTaraPunzone #PuraVita #VeganItalian #PlantBased #SmallBitesRadio #VeganCooking #ItalianFood #FoodieGoals #VeganChef #EatPlantsLoveHard #ItalianExcellence #PhillyEats #DLCoffeeServices #AuthenticItalian #ItalianCulture #ItalianCoffee #PhillyFoodies #SupportLocal #FamilyBusiness #ItalianHeritage

Again, in 2025, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2025. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2026.

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

http://www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia #FoodRadioShowSouthJersey #tophospitalityshow #foodradio #foodradioshow #topphiladelphialifestyle #toplisted #bestfood #bestpodcast #bestofphilly #bestphillyblog #bestfoodfeed #bestphillyartsentertainment #metrophillybest

Comments Off on Small Bites Radio Episode 198 – Chef Tara Punzone – Vegana Italiana

Posted in Small Bites Radio and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Wally’s – Surf City, NJ

Posted on October 28, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

Wally’s – Surf City, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

If you’re in Surf City, definitely check out Wally’s—just a block from the beach and serving up good vibes and great food for over 50 years! 🌊🍴 It’s family-owned, super clean, has friendly service, and a chill atmosphere that fits perfectly with the LBI vibe.

Tried their award-winning Rhode Island Chowder 🥣—a tomato-based red chowder packed with clams, whitefish, veggies, potatoes, and a seriously tasty blend of seasonings. No surprise it took home the ’23 & ’24 Chowder Cook-Off win! 🏆

Also had the Whiskey Burger 🍔 with American cheese and crispy fried onions—so good and totally hit the spot. Only wish they had fresh-cut fries, but everything else was awesome.

Bonus: Wally’s is one of the few places on the island that stays open all year round, so you can get your fix even in the off-season. 🙌🌴

#WallysSurfCity #LBIeats #ChowderChampion #WhiskeyBurgerWin #OpenAllYear #SupportLocal

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Comments Off on Wally’s – Surf City, NJ

Posted in Restaurants and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Verdant Cafe – Hi-Nella, NJ

Posted on October 21, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

Verdant Cafe – Hi-Nella, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

If you haven’t checked out Verdant Cafe in Hi-Nella yet, definitely add it to your list! 🌿 It’s a casual, takeout-only spot with a super calming vibe—tons of beautiful plants everywhere that make picking up food feel like a little escape. 🪴✨

We ordered ahead online (heads up: definitely give them some time since everything’s made fresh to order), and it was so worth the wait. ⏳🍽️

Tried the chicken parmigiana sandwich—perfectly crispy and flavorful, 🍗 chicken tenders that were seriously excellent, and their house-seasoned waffle fries were delicious. 🍟 Everything was made with care and the prices were really reasonable. 💸

Highly recommend if you’re looking for great food and a chill, plant-filled atmosphere (even if it’s just for pickup)! 😌🌱

#VerdantCafe #HiNellaEats #TakeoutDoneRight #SupportLocal #PlantVibesAndGoodEats

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Comments Off on Verdant Cafe – Hi-Nella, NJ

Posted in Quick bites/Takeout, Restaurants and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

The Amish Dutch Wagon – Paradise Valley Fresh Poultry & Barbecued Chicken – Medford, NJ

Posted on October 14, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

The Amish Dutch Wagon – Paradise Valley Fresh Poultry & Barbecued Chicken – Medford, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

🌟 Delicious Dining at The Amish Dutch Wagon – Paradise Valley Fresh Poultry & Barbecued Chicken! 🌟

If you’re in Medford, NJ, and craving mouthwatering smoked wings, seasoned carrots, and sautéed veggies, look no further than The Amish Dutch Wagon! 🤤🍗

From the first bite, you can tell they take pride in serving up delicious, fresh food at great prices. The smoked wings were tender, full of flavor, and perfectly cooked. The seasoned carrots were the perfect sweet touch, and the sautéed veggies were a great balance to the savory dishes. 🌽🥕🧄

What really made the experience stand out was the friendly service—everyone was so welcoming, making us feel right at home! 😊

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a relaxed meal with loved ones, The Amish Dutch Wagon has got you covered. Highly recommend checking them out if you’re in the area!

#AmishDutchWagon #SmokedWings #MedfordNJ #BarbecuedChicken #FreshPoultry #GreatService #YummyEats #DeliciousDining #SupportLocal

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Comments Off on The Amish Dutch Wagon – Paradise Valley Fresh Poultry & Barbecued Chicken – Medford, NJ

Posted in Small Bites Radio and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Falcon Diner – Brooklawn, NJ

Posted on October 7, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

Falcon Diner – Brooklawn, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2024, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2024, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-24, Top 25 Philly Food RSS Feeds in 2024, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

🚨 New Era for a Classic Spot: Falcon Diner in Brooklawn, NJ! 🚨

For those who’ve been around the area for years, the Brooklawn Diner has always been a staple. After the Empire Diner took the reins for a while, it’s now time for Falcon Diner to shine and give this beloved spot a fresh spin. They’ve made a few updates, but don’t worry—it’s still the classic Jersey diner experience we all know and love! 🍳🍔

Whether you’re craving breakfast at any hour, a hearty sandwich, or a comforting dinner, Falcon Diner has you covered with a wide variety of options, all at prices that won’t break the bank. 🥞🍽️

I personally tried their Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich with fries, and it was the perfect meal to hit the spot—crispy, cheesy, and just the right balance of flavors. 🍗🧀🍟

If you’re in the Brooklawn area, make sure to stop by Falcon Diner and see what they’re cooking up. Great food, great prices, and the classic diner vibes are alive and well. 🏙️ #FalconDiner #BrooklawnEats #JerseyDiner #ChickenParm #AffordableEats #DinerVibes

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Comments Off on Falcon Diner – Brooklawn, NJ

Posted in Restaurants and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Oriental Palace – Lawnside, NJ

Posted on September 30, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

Oriental Palace – Lawnside, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2024, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2024, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-24, Top 25 Philly Food RSS Feeds in 2024, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

🍜 Discover Oriental Palace in Lawnside, NJ 🍣

If you’re in the mood for a little bit of everything, Oriental Palace has you covered! From flavorful Asian cuisine to hibachi, sushi, and a full bar, there’s something for everyone.

I recently had the pleasure of trying a few dishes, and here’s what stood out:

  • Wonton Soup: Warm, savory, and comforting with a perfect balance of broth and delicate wontons.
  • Double Cooked Sauteed Pork with Cabbage: A savory, crispy delight with a touch of spice and richness.
  • Szechuan Chicken: Packed with bold flavors and the perfect level of heat, this dish hit all the right notes.

What I love about Oriental Palace is that it offers a more elevated dining experience compared to your typical takeout neighborhood spot, yet the prices are still totally reasonable. Whether you’re craving sushi, hibachi, or something more traditional, this place is worth checking out.

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Comments Off on Oriental Palace – Lawnside, NJ

Posted in Restaurants and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Medium Rare – Philadelphia, PA

Posted on September 24, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

✨ New Alert: Medium Rare recently landed in Philly and wow it’s a must-try! 🥩🍟🍨

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-25 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

It’s rare I talk about chains, but Medium Rare isn’t your typical steakhouse and their new spot in Fishtown is absolutely worth the hype. 👏

For those who don’t know, Fishtown is one of Philly’s most creative, buzzing neighborhoods full of indie vibes, amazing street art, cool coffee shops, and now one of the most fun (and affordable!) steak dinners you’ll ever have.

🔪 About Medium Rare
Originally from DC, this mini chain has built a cult following for doing one thing really well, steak frites. The menu is set and simple:
🥖 Warm rustic bread
🥗 Mixed green salad
🥩 Tender steak with their signature secret sauce
🍟 A mountain of golden fries

You can add a few extras too. I added the grilled mushroom, and it was absolutely worth it. Umami heaven. 🍄

Everything came hot and fresh, and the whole experience feels fancy but is incredibly budget-friendly, which is rare these days. (notice the Rare puns)

And don’t sleep on dessert. The Ice Cream Sundae was a delightful treat to end the night. 🍨 Classic, nostalgic, and totally hit the spot.

🍷 Great cocktails, chill atmosphere, and friendly service make this place feel special without the pretense. Whether it’s date night, catching up with friends, or treating yourself, Medium Rare in Fishtown is the move.

📍 Trust me and go. You’ll eat like royalty, feel like a local, and probably start planning your next visit before the check even arrives.

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Comments Off on Medium Rare – Philadelphia, PA

Posted in Restaurants and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Whole and Grounded Café – Woodbury, NJ

Posted on September 23, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

Whole and Grounded Café – Woodbury, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2024, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2024, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-24, Top 25 Philly Food RSS Feeds in 2024, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

🌟 Dining at Whole and Grounded Café in Woodbury, NJ! 🌟

If you’re a bagel lover, you need to check out Whole and Grounded Café! 🥯✨ They serve freshly baked bagels delivered daily by Beck’s Bagels in Bellmawr, NJ — and trust me, you can taste the quality in every bite! 😋 With over 15 bagel flavors and 15 different spreads to choose from, there’s something for everyone.

I went with an onion bagel with pork roll, egg, and cheese and it was absolutely delicious! 👏 The perfect balance of flavors, and definitely hit the spot.

Not to mention, the decor is Instagram-worthy with so many cute and cozy spots around the café. 📸🌿

Bonus: The staff was super friendly and made the experience even better. Highly recommend stopping by for a bite!

#WholeAndGroundedCafe #BagelHeaven #WoodburyEats #PorkRollEggAndCheese #NJFoodies #BreakfastGoals

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Comments Off on Whole and Grounded Café – Woodbury, NJ

Posted in Quick bites/Takeout, Restaurants and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Small Bites Radio Episode 197

Posted on September 16, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020–2025, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2025, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-25, Top Philly Food RSS Feeds 2024-2025, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-25 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

🎙️Italian Excellence in Philadelphia – New Episode of Small Bites Radio!🎙️Presented by D & L Coffee Services Inc.

This week on Small Bites Radio, we’re spotlighting true Italian excellence in the heart of Philadelphia. From master bakers to cultural culinary ambassadors. 🍰 First up, we’re thrilled to welcome Berardino Varallo and his sons Michael and Luca Varallo of the iconic Varallo Brothers Bakery a beloved family-owned institution that’s been serving South Philly since 1981. A true story of heritage, heart, and handmade perfection, the Varallo family has spent decades preserving and passing down traditional Italian baking techniques. From their roots in Montella Avellino, Italy, to the bustling streets of Philadelphia, their dedication to quality and authenticity is unmatched. 👨‍🍳 Highlights include: Founder Michele Varallo is one of the only bakers known to make Sfogliatelle entirely by hand from start to finish Their journey from Italy to the U.S., and how the bakery has grown over three generations Signature pastries like award-winning cannoli (in six mouthwatering varieties), Zuppa Inglese, and homemade gelato How they’ve kept the family dream alive and what’s coming next for the Varallo legacy.

☕ Next, we sit down with Riccardo Longo, Founding Partner and Culinary & Wine Director of Gran Caffè L’Aquila, the most authentic Italian café in America rebuilt in Philadelphia after the original was tragically destroyed in the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake. From its original home in Piazza Duomo to a meticulously designed and imported location in Center City, Gran Caffè L’Aquila is more than a restaurant, it’s a full immersion into Italian culture. 🍷 What you’ll learn: How Riccardo and Italian Gelato Champion Stefano Biasini brought the dream back to life Their weekly rotating menu focused on regional Italian cities and their culinary specialties What makes their gelato and coffee internationally recognized including being selected by the Italian Government to represent Italian coffee culture at the G8 Summit The Italian-style bar that evolves throughout the day: from breakfast to aperitivo to cocktails A full upstairs experience: restaurant, wine bar, cultural and language school, and coffee/gelato labs A retail and online store offering over 500 products of excellence from all 20 regions of Italy.

🎧 Don’t miss this rich episode filled with family traditions, culinary passion, and true Italian excellence only on Small Bites Radio, presented by D & L Coffee Services Inc.

📍 Whether you’re craving fresh pastries or a deep dive into Italian culture this episode is a must-listen.

#SmallBitesRadio #ItalianExcellence #VaralloBrothersBakery #GranCaffeLAquila #PhillyEats #DLCoffeeServices #AuthenticItalian #ItalianCulture #Sfogliatelle #Cannoli #Gelato #ItalianCoffee #PhillyFoodies #SupportLocal #FamilyBusiness #ItalianHeritage

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

Small Bites Radio Show

#foodradioshowphiladelphia #FoodRadioShowSouthJersey #tophospitalityshow #foodradio #foodradioshow #topphiladelphialifestyle #toplisted #bestfood #bestpodcast #bestofphilly #bestphillyblog #bestfoodfeed #bestphillyartsentertainment #metrophillybest

Comments Off on Small Bites Radio Episode 197

Posted in Small Bites Radio and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Just Like That – Pennsauken, NJ

Posted on September 16, 2025 by Bluejeanfood

Just Like That – Pennsauken, NJ

Small Bites Radio has been named Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet from 2020 – 2024, #Bluejeanfood.com named Top Philadelphia Best Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites from 2021-2024, Best Philly Food Blogs and Websites 2023-24, Top 25 Philly Food RSS Feeds in 2024, nominated by Metro Philly Newspaper 2022-24 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and WINNER of Metro Philly Newspaper Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024.

If you’re ever driving around Pennsauken, NJ, keep your eyes peeled for Just Like That — it’s tucked away in a tiny strip mall, and unless you know exactly where to look, you’ll be driving around in circles trying to find it! But trust me, it’s worth the hunt.

Ever heard of Rasta Pasta? If not, you’re in for a treat! I recently tried their Jerk Chicken Rasta Pasta, and it was a game-changer. Imagine a perfect blend of Italian and Jamaican flavors — penne pasta, jerk-infused cream sauce, and loads of fresh, colorful veggies like bell peppers. The result? A vibrant, flavor-packed dish that’s definitely something different and absolutely delicious. Definitely not your typical pasta! 🏝️🍝🌶️

So, if you’re in the area and craving something unique, make sure you swing by Just Like That!

Again, in 2024, Small Bites with Donato Marino and Derek Timm of Bluejeanfood.com was blown away by winning the Best of the Best in the Philadelphia Region Arts & Entertainment category out of 80,000 votes tallied in total through Metro Philly’s Best of Philadelphia for 2024. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2025. 

As usual don’t forget to listen to the #1 listed “Food Radio Show Philadelphia” and the #1 listed “Food Radio Show South Jersey” Small Bites Radio. For a list of guests who have appeared on the show and more information click below:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

Comments Off on Just Like That – Pennsauken, NJ

Posted in Quick bites/Takeout, Restaurants and tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.
← Older Posts
Newer Posts →