Derek Timm is the Host of 'Small Bites Radio' The #1 Listed Food Radio Show Philadelphia & South Jersey on Simplecast, iHeartRadio, Player FM, iTunes, Spotify, Pandora, Audible, Amazon Music, and many more distribution partners.
🍗 Wing Wonderland at The Van Reed Inn in Reading, PA! 🍗
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.
The Van Reed Inn – Reading, PA
If you’re on the hunt for some of the best wings in town, look no further than The Van Reed Inn! This local gem is known for its impressive variety of wing flavors, and trust me, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
During my visit, I dove into the spicy garlic, Old Bay, and cracked BBQ wings. Each flavor was distinct and packed with deliciousness! The spicy garlic had just the right kick, while the Old Bay offered a unique twist that perfectly complemented the crispy wings. And the cracked BBQ? Absolute perfection—smoky and savory, it hit all the right notes!
Alongside the wings, I decided to try their BBQ offerings. I went for the brisket and pulled pork, both of which were pretty decent. Just a heads up: the side of beans is served cold, which I found a bit surprising. They’re meant to be enjoyed that way, but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer your sides hot!
Overall, The Van Reed Inn is a must-visit for wing lovers and BBQ enthusiasts alike. With so many flavors to choose from, you’ll definitely find something to satisfy your cravings. What’s your go-to wing flavor? 🍖🔥
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:
On this segment of Small Bites Radio, we had the pleasure of speaking with Sarah Ahn, creator of the viral Ahnest Kitchen, about her upcoming cookbook Umma: A Korean Mom’s Kitchen Wisdom and 100 Family Recipes—hitting shelves April 1st, 2025 and published by America’s Test Kitchen! 🥢📚
In this heartfelt collaboration with her mom, Nam Soon Ahn, Sarah shares over 100 recipes and kitchen secrets passed down through generations of their family. From traditional banchan to inventive midnight snacks and desserts, this cookbook blends emotional intimacy with practical culinary advice, all backed by the recipe-testing power of America’s Test Kitchen.
Here’s a sneak peek of what you can expect:
In-depth ingredient guide for navigating Korean grocery stores 🛒
Traditional & contemporary Korean recipes that are easy to follow 🍲
Heartfelt mother-daughter conversations that bring warmth to every dish 💬
Insider kitchen wisdom from a lifetime of family traditions 👩🍳
Don’t miss this must-have cookbook for anyone interested in Korean cooking or family stories! Pre-order now and get ready to learn, laugh, and cook along with Sarah and her Umma!
Tune in to Small Bites Radio for more insights from Sarah and a taste of what’s to come. 🎧
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:
Comments Off on Small Bites Radio – Episode 187 with Sarah Ahn, creator of the viral Ahnest Kitchen and cookbook Umma: A Korean Mom’s Kitchen Wisdom and 100 Family Recipes
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.
🍞🍪 Deluxe Italian Bakery – A Sweet Tradition Since 1949! 🍪🍞
If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting Deluxe Italian Bakery in Runnemede, NJ, now’s the time! Serving up fresh, delicious breads, rolls, and pastries daily to New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland since 1949, they’ve been bringing a taste of tradition and quality to the community for decades. 🙌
Right now, they’re serving up the seasonal Zeppole di San Giuseppe – Saint Joseph’s Cakes! These deep-fried beauties are a must-try, honoring Saint Joseph’s connection to bread and family. Perfect for celebrating the season! 🍩💕
And if you’re a cookie lover, you can’t miss their jumbo chocolate chip cookies – seriously, they are AMAZING. So thick, chewy, and packed with that perfect chocolate chip flavor. 🍪✨
Stop by and taste the tradition, or check out their wholesale service if you’re in the area! You won’t be disappointed.
📍 Visit Deluxe Italian Bakery in Runnemede, NJ – where fresh, delicious treats are always baking!
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:
Savoring Snow Hill: A Culinary Journey at Elliott’s Tavern and DelVecchio’s Bakery Cafe
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.
Elliott’s Tavern – Snow Hill, MD
If you’re looking for a great food adventure in Snow Hill, MD, you must stop by Elliott’s Tavern! This cozy tavern boasts a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. The friendly staff makes you feel right at home, and the rustic decor adds to the welcoming vibe.
Now, let’s talk about the food. I ordered their AWESOME cheesesteak, and it truly lived up to the hype! Loaded with juicy, perfectly seasoned beef and gooey cheese, it was a flavor explosion. The fresh-cut fries on the side were the perfect accompaniment—crispy, golden, and addictive. This meal is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a good cheesesteak!
DelVecchio’s Bakery Cafe – Snow Hill, MD
After that satisfying lunch, I headed to DelVecchio’s Bakery Cafe, just a short walk away. This charming bakery is a sweet haven, and I couldn’t resist trying their Krinkle Kle—a delightful treat that’s like brownie cookies dusted with powdered sugar. These little gems were out of this world—rich, fudgy, and perfectly sweet!
Elliott’s Tavern and DelVecchio’s Bakery Cafe make for a delicious day out in Snow Hill. Whether you’re craving savory or sweet, this town has got you covered! Don’t miss the chance to indulge in these local favorites on your next visit!
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 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.
Dim Sum Garden: New Location, Same Amazing Flavors!
If you love dim sum, you’ve probably heard of Dim Sum Garden in Philadelphia’s Chinatown. Known for their delicious, freshly made Shanghai-style dim sum, Dim Sum Garden has been a staple in Philly’s food scene since 2013. But now, they’ve made an exciting move to a bigger, better location at 1024 Race St., and trust me, you’ll want to check it out!
A Little Background on Dim Sum Garden The story of Dim Sum Garden begins in 2003 when Chef Shizhou Da made her way to the U.S. with an authentic family recipe for Xiao Long Bao (Chinese steamed soup dumplings). Chef Da is the 5th generation of the family that created the very first Xiao Long Bao in China, so when she says these dumplings are special, she means it! With over 30 years of experience making homemade dim sum, Chef Da’s skill and dedication shine through in every dish.
After a few successful years in North Jersey and New York, Chef Da and her daughter Sally decided to bring Shanghai’s finest dumplings to Philadelphia in 2013. The original location quickly became a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, drawing people in with its mouthwatering dumplings and traditional dim sum offerings.
The Big Move Now, Dim Sum Garden has moved to a new location at 1024 Race St., just down the block from their original spot. This new space is double the size of the old one, with 200 seats—perfect for larger groups, families, and even private events! The stylish new restaurant features a gorgeous backlit ceiling that looks like the ripples of a serene pond, adding a relaxing vibe to the dining experience. There’s also a balcony overlooking a full bar where you can enjoy beer, wine, and cocktails. It’s a perfect spot for casual meals or special celebrations.
What to Order Now, let’s get to the food! During my visit, I tried a variety of dishes, and everything was absolutely amazing.
Shanghainese Soup Dumplings: These dumplings were the highlight of my meal. They’re delicate, perfectly steamed, and bursting with flavorful broth. They’re definitely a must-try!
Beef Ho Fun: A savory stir-fry with tender slices of beef and thick rice noodles—this dish was flavorful and comforting.
Roast Pork Bao Bun: Soft, pillowy buns filled with juicy roast pork. Every bite was a burst of flavor!
Diced Chicken with Chili Pepper: If you like a little spice, this dish is for you! The chicken was perfectly cooked and packed with heat from the chili peppers.
New Additions: Beer & Wine! One of the most exciting updates is that Dim Sum Garden is now serving beer and wine at their new location! Whether you’re in the mood for a cold beer to pair with your dumplings or a glass of wine to complement your meal, they’ve got you covered. This makes the dining experience even better, especially with their spacious new setup and cozy balcony overlooking the bar.
Why You Should Visit Whether you’re a dim sum fan or a newcomer to Shanghai-style dishes, Dim Sum Garden is a must-visit spot in Philadelphia. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes shines through in every bite. Plus, with the new, larger space and the addition of beer and wine, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or a family gathering.
So next time you’re in the mood for some of the best dumplings in Philly, head to Dim Sum Garden at 1024 Race St. You won’t be disappointed!
Dim Sum Garden Location: 1024 Race St., Philadelphia, PA Specialty: Shanghainese Soup Dumplings, Shanghai-style dim sum New Additions: Beer, Wine, Cocktails
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:
Café Mag at Magnolia Garden Village – Magnolia, 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.
Hidden Gem Alert!
Ever hear of Café Mag at Magnolia Garden Village? If not, you’re seriously missing out! This is by far one of South Jersey’s best kept secrets. A cozy café serving up Endgrain Coffee Roaster brews, delicious lattes, rich hot chocolate, and a selection of mouthwatering cookies, cakes, and Asher’s Chocolates.
But it’s not just about the treats, the ambiance is unreal! Sip your drink while surrounded by lush plants, vibrant flowers, and an exotic greenhouse just waiting to be explored.
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:
Flambo Caribbean/Indian Restaurant – Center City – Philadelphia, PA
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 looking for a culinary experience that transports you straight to the heart of the Caribbean and Indian fusion, Flambo Caribbean/Indian Restaurant in Center City Philadelphia is a must-visit. From its vibrant flavors to its warm and inviting atmosphere, this hidden gem delivers an unforgettable dining experience that you’ll crave again and again.
Located in the bustling heart of Center City, Flambo offers a cozy, vibrant setting that perfectly complements the rich, bold flavors on the menu. The service here is top-notch — attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu, ensuring that each guest feels welcome and well-cared for. And what’s even more remarkable is that the prices are incredibly reasonable, especially for the quality of the food and the prime location. It’s a rare find in a city where dining can often break the bank, but Flambo manages to deliver outstanding value.
Start your meal with a must-try appetizer — the Mussels cooked in a spicy Trinidad curry sauce. These mussels are tender, perfectly cooked, and drenched in a sauce that’s rich with layers of aromatic spices. The curry itself is bold, with a kick of heat and a depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Pairing the mussels with a side of Paratha “Buss-up-Shot” is a game-changer. This soft, layered roti is a masterpiece in itself. The dough is meticulously prepared, wrapped in layers, and cooked before being beaten to loosen the layers. The resulting texture is perfect for tearing apart and dipping into the luscious mussel sauce, creating a symphony of flavor in each bite.
For a touch of sweetness, the fried Plantains are served to perfection — crispy on the outside, soft and tender inside, and dusted with just the right amount of cinnamon. The result is a satisfying contrast of sweet and savory that pairs beautifully with the rest of your meal.
For your main course, don’t miss the Chinese Chicken, a standout dish that combines Caribbean and Indian influences with a touch of Chinese culinary finesse. The dark, boneless chicken legs are deep-fried to crispy perfection after being coated in a dry rub of spices that deliver a savory flavor that’s addictive. Accompanying the chicken are sautéed veggies, seasoned with a unique Trinidad Chinese seasoning that perfectly balances the spices, all served over a bed of fried rice. It’s a delightful fusion of textures and flavors — each bite bursting with freshness and complexity.
Flambo Caribbean/Indian Restaurant is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of bold, exotic flavors, vibrant cultures, and impeccable service. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Philadelphia, this spot is a must-try. With its flavorful dishes like the Trinidad curry mussels, Buss-up-Shot, fried plantains, and the mouthwatering Chinese Chicken, Flambo provides a dining experience you won’t soon forget. The perfect combination of exotic spices, unique cooking techniques, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it an unforgettable experience that will keep you coming back for more.
Highly recommend!
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:
🎉 New Episode Alert: Small Bites Radio – The Longest Episode in History! 🎉
The latest episode of Small Bites Radio is our longest episode ever—over 3 ½ hours packed with 9 incredible guests from the food and hospitality world! Whether you’re looking for artisan stocking stuffers, unique holiday gifts, or festive event ideas, this episode is a must-listen to kick off the holiday season!
👉 Listen to the full episode now!
🏆 Small Bites Radio: We’re thrilled to share that Small Bites Radio has been named one of the Top Hospitality Shows on the Planet (2020-2024), Top Philadelphia Lifestyle Blogs and Websites (2021-2024), and Best Food Radio Show in the Philadelphia Area. We’re also the Winner of the Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment in 2023 and 2024, as voted by the readers of Metro Philly! 🎉
🎙️ In This Episode:*
🔥 1:58:00 – Trevor Timm from TNT Spices Get ready to spice up your holiday season with TNT Spices’ newest sauces:
Hot Chocolate Hot Sauce 🍫🔥: A fiery fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory with ghost peppers, balsamic, berries, and butterscotch. Perfect for everything from pancakes to ice cream.
Peanut Butter & Jelly Hot Sauce 🥜🍓: A twist on the classic, adding heat to your favorite childhood flavor.
Dragon Snake Armageddon 🌶️: The hottest sauce in their collection, featuring Carolina Reaper and Armageddon peppers, plus antioxidant-rich ingredients like soursop and mangosteen. A must-try for heat seekers!
🎄 3:03:20 – Kory Aversa of Aversa PR Philly’s Manayunk neighborhood is turning into a winter wonderland! Kory talks about the magical Manayunk Tree Lighting on November 14, the Jolly Trolley, the Manayunk Gets LIT holiday lights competition, and more! 🎅❄️ Get ready for snow, shopping, and seasonal events like:
Hanukkah celebrations
Operation Santa
Rudolphi Run
Santa Paws for four-legged friends
Small Business Saturday with new shops and special deals!
🎅 0:10:00 – Jes & Rob Bickhart of Yuletide at Liberty Hill The Yuletide Festival is back for its second year! Jes and Rob share exciting updates about the event, including:
Bergy’s Beer Garden with seasonal brews
Ice Skating** under the stars
Dazzling Light Displays with augmented reality
Family-friendly fun with rides, Santa photos, and holiday performances
A High-End Market Village featuring over 30 boutique vendors
🌷 3:21:05 – Jessie Sierra Ross of Seasons Around the Table Need holiday hosting ideas? Jessie shares tips from her blog, Straight to the Hips, Baby, and her book Seasons Around the Table. With 100 recipes and 16 seasonal menus, you’ll find everything from Thanksgiving feasts to summer garden parties. 🥂🍴 Get inspired by her floral-infused menus and gorgeous tablescapes—perfect for family gatherings and festive celebrations!
🍸 1:24:45 – Rich Landau & Kate Jacoby from Vedge The duo behind Vedge, one of America’s first high-end vegan restaurants, have just released their latest cookbook: The Vedge Bar Book. It’s filled with 75 innovative plant-based cocktails and light bites for your holiday gatherings. 🥂🍃 Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for new at-home drink recipes, this book has it all!
🍰 0:58:15 – Anne Byrn, author of “Baking in the American South” Anne takes us on a culinary journey through the rich history of Southern baking with her new book. From biscuits and cornbread to pound cakes and lemon meringue pie, she explores how Southern baking traditions have influenced the broader American food landscape. 🥧🍪 A must-read for anyone who loves the stories behind the food!
🍕 2:22:15 – Ciro and Davide Lubrano & Vinny Gallagher of Pizzata Pizzeria Pizzata Pizzeria is already open and bringing a slice of Italy to Philly! Ciro, Davide, and Vinny are here to share the exciting details about their cozy neighborhood pizzeria:
58 seats in the downstairs dining room
A kid-friendly upstairs dining room for events and pizza parties
An expanded menu with pasta dishes, Italian classics, and **naturally leavened sourdough pizzas 🍕
Freshly made pizza dough every day!
🥞 1:45:40 – Pim Pauline Overgaard and Æbleskiver Pim brings us a new take on the traditional Danish æbleskiver (round pancakes), with 70 creative recipes—both sweet and savory! Whether you’re making Almond Æbleskiver with Mixed Berry Compote or a more savory spin like Ricotta Salata Æbleskiver, these unique treats will wow your guests this holiday season. 🌰🍓
🍪 0:33:15 – Heidrun Metzler, author of German Heritage Baking Heidrun’s cookbook celebrates the rich traditions of German baking, with recipes like:
Apfelstrudel** (Apple Strudel)
Black Forest Torte
Spekulatius Cookies
Traditional German Cheesecake Perfect for anyone looking to add some European flair to their holiday spreads. 🇩🇪🍰
🍗 Chef Beth Esposito of Pink Garlic Catering Beth talks about her delicious offerings at Butchers Pantry —now available at The Reading Terminal Market, where you can shop for her specialty products, sauces, and more for your holiday celebrations! She also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming Wing Pole event at Cheerleaders in February 2025. Wing lovers, mark your calendars! 🍗🎉
2024 Awards: A big thank you to everyone who voted for us! Small Bites Radio was voted Best of the Best in Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment out of 80,000 votes in the 2024 Metro Philly Best of Philly! 🙏
We’d love your support again in 2025!
🌟 Don’t Miss Out! Tune in to hear all of this and so much more! Stream the latest episode of Small Bites Radio now to stay in the loop with the best in food, hospitality, and holiday fun! 🎧
A Thanksgiving Feast with a Twist – The Tarantini’s Original Panzarotti Gobbler
Franco’s Place – Haddon Township, 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.
As Thanksgiving approaches and we start gearing up for our annual feast of turkey, stuffing, and all the sides, there’s one spot in Haddon Township, NJ, that makes waves annually this time of year for offering a unique spin on the holiday’s most iconic dish. It’s the Tarantini’s Original Panzarotti Gobbler at Franco’s Place, and trust me, if you haven’t had it yet, you’re missing out on something truly extraordinary.
The Gobbler: A Flavor Explosion You’ll Be Grateful For
If you think you’ve had the ultimate Thanksgiving meal, think again. The Tarantini’s Original Panzarotti Gobbler takes everything you love about the holiday – turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce (inside or on the side) and stuffs it all inside a delicious, golden, perfectly crispy, and pillow-soft dough. It’s a warm, comforting, handheld masterpiece. While many Thanksgiving dishes get drowned in sauce, here, you get to dip your crispy Panzarotti in the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce if you choose on the side, adding a perfect balance of flavors. The combination of savory turkey and stuffing with the sharpness of the cranberry is just next-level. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of everything wonderful about the season, wrapped up in a delicious bundle.
What makes this dish even more special is that Franco’s Place is the only place offering this twist on the classic Panzarotti. Their take on the dish is exclusive, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s worth the trip to Haddon Township.
The History Behind the Tarantini’s Original Panzarotti
To truly appreciate the Gobbler version of the Panzarotti, you have to understand the history behind the iconic dish. The Panzarotti was created by the Tarantini family, Italian immigrants who brought their culinary traditions with them to the United States. The concept of the Panzarotti is a bit like a deep-fried calzone, filled with delicious ingredients like mozzarella, tomato, and various meats. It’s a staple in Italian-American cuisine, and its origin traces back to the Tarantinis’ roots in Italy.
Tarantini’s Panzarotti became a beloved dish, gaining a loyal following for its crispy exterior and rich, flavorful interior. Franco’s Place, known for its devotion to quality and authenticity, embraced the Tarantini family’s recipe and brought it to a wider audience. Over the years, they’ve maintained the Panzarotti’s classic qualities while also experimenting with new and creative flavors — and that’s where the Gobbler version shines.
By adding Thanksgiving staples like turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce to the Panzarotti, Franco’s has taken a beloved dish and turned it into the ultimate holiday-inspired comfort food. Whether you’re craving something festive before the big day or you just want to experience something totally unique, this is the way to go.
Franco’s Place
This family-owned destination in Haddon Township is a local institution, and for good reason. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, the service was friendly. Franco’s Place is known for its pizza, pasta, and of course, the famous Panzarotti, but it’s their willingness to experiment with new dishes and flavor combinations that keeps diners coming back for more.
The commitment to quality ingredients and authentic recipes is evident in every bite, and the Tarantini’s Original Panzarotti Gobbler is the perfect example of their creative approach to traditional comfort food. It’s one of those rare dishes that makes you feel like you’re getting a sneak peek into the future of Thanksgiving meals. It might just become a must-have item on every holiday menu!
Get Your Gobbler Fix Before It’s Gone
If you’re looking to kick off your holiday season with a twist and indulge in something truly special, Franco’s Place and the Tarantini’s Original Panzarotti Gobbler are calling your name. With its perfect balance of crispy, savory, and sweet, this dish will get you fired up for Thanksgiving and maybe even change the way you think about the holiday meal forever. So, make the trip to Haddon Township before the season ends and savor the flavors of the Panzarotti Gobbler. .Happy eating, and here’s to making your Thanksgiving a little more delicious this year!
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 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. This special segment again brings some of the biggest names in the food and entertainment industry!!!
🎉 Tune in to this Special Episode with the Lumpia Queen on Small Bites Radio!** 🎉 We’re thrilled to announce a special episode featuring the amazing Abi Marquez, aka the “Lumpia Queen,” at 12:25 of the episode!
🌟 At just 24 years old, Abi has taken the culinary world by storm, transforming the traditional lumpia into a global sensation. Whether it’s s’mores, California maki, or the beloved pork sinigang, she proves that anything can be wrapped in a lumpia! 🍽️
✨ With her impressive accolades—including Forbes 30 Under 30, a James Beard nomination, and being crowned TikTok’s Creator of the Year for Food—Abi has garnered millions of followers worldwide. Her fun and creative recipes celebrate Filipino culture and community, inspiring food lovers everywhere. Abi has collaborated with major names like Saweetie, Uncle Roger, Michelin-starred chef Kevin Lee, and renowned chef Andre Rush. Recently, she teamed up with Kiwi chef Andy Hearnden, popularly known as Andy Cooks, for a delightful cooking session where they prepared sinigang and dynamite lumpia together. This collaboration not only showcases her culinary creativity but also emphasizes the joy of sharing food and culture across borders.
In this special episode, you’ll hear about Abi’s incredible journey, her viral hit “Peach Mango Lumpia” (which has over 31 million views), and what’s on the horizon for her this year. Plus, get a sneak peek into her upcoming content and projects that her millions of fans can look forward to! 🌍❤️ Don’t miss Abi Marquez on this special episode of Small Bites Radio at 12:25! 🎙️ You won’t want to miss the insights and inspiration from this culinary queen!
Again, in 2023, 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 2023. Truly appreciate everyone who voted for us.
You say you STILL NEED MORE!!! The Small Bites team consists of many segment producers and correspondents. Expect culinary tips and events from celebrity Chef Barbie Marshall who was awarded the title of Pennsylvania’s most influential chef by Cooking Light Magazine, Season 10 Hell’s Kitchen Finalist and appeared on Season 17 Hell’s Kitchen All Stars. You’ll be provided with latest food news and happenings from John Howard-Fusco who has been featured in the Courier-Post South Jersey (a Gannett newspaper), as a contributor for NJ Monthly Magazine, and a New York Times recognized blogger for Eating in South Jersey. The latest trends and food concepts from Chef Beth Esposito the Chef/Owner of Pink Garlic Private Events and Butcher’s Pantry in the Reading Terminal Market and has been spotlighted on The Rachael Ray Show, The Food Network programming, multiple appearances on Fox 29 Good Day, and many more television and radio outlets. Enjoy a funny joke from legendary joke teller Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling, the former head writer for “The Howard Stern Show”. Last but not least we also have freelance writer William Knowles, the personality behind “Around Town” for Bluejeanfood.com doing coverage and blog posts about events.
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:
Hidden Gem Alert! 
Sip your drink while surrounded by lush plants, vibrant flowers, and an exotic 
BlueJeanFood 