Tag Archives: recipes

Small Bites Radio Episode 186

🎉 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! 🎧

Tarantini’s Original Panzarotti Gobbler at Franco’s Place – Haddon Township, NJ

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:

www.bluejeanfood.com/smallbitesradio

#foodradioshowphiladelphia

#FoodRadioShowSouthJersey

#tophospitalityshow

#foodradio

#foodradioshow

#topphiladelphialifestyle

#toplisted

#bestfood

#bestpodcast

#bestofphilly

#bestphillyblog

#bestfoodfeed

#bestphillyartsentertainment

#metrophillybest

La Morelense Plus – Oaklyn, NJ

La Morelense Plus – Oaklyn, 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 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.

Welcome to a flavorful journey through La Morelense Plus, nestled in the heart of Oaklyn, New Jersey, where every dish is a testament to the vibrant tapestry of Mexican street food culture.When you arrive,, you’re greeted by the tantalizing aromas of spices and the promise of an authentic gastronomic adventure.

La Morelense Plus is more than just an ice cream shop; it’s a celebration of tradition and community. With a menu brimming with authentic Mexican street snacks, ice cream, spicy fruits, water ice, and more, every bite here tells a story of heritage and flavor.

Let’s dive into the menu, shall we? Start your journey with their signature street snacks. From Piping hot elotes slathered in tangy mayo, cheese, and chili powder, each bite is a symphony of textures and flavors. Now, let’s talk about their ice cream. Oh, where do I begin? Creamy, decadent, and bursting with flavor, their ice cream selection is a dessert lover’s dream come true. From traditional favorites like creamy vanilla and indulgent chocolate to exotic delights like mango, there’s a scoop for every palate. I tried the Chocolate Abuelita topped with marshmallow. It had all the notes you would expect from the original version of milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla extract, cinnamon, chili powder, and a little bittersweet chocolate in an ice cream form. 

Did I mention the spicy fruits? Dive into a refreshing cup of freshly diced mango, pineapple, or watermelon, sprinkled with zesty chili powder and a squeeze of lime. It’s a flavor explosion that’ll leave your taste buds tingling for more.

But perhaps what sets La Morelense Plus apart is its Instagram-worthy surroundings. From the colorful murals adorning the walls to the vibrant atmosphere buzzing with laughter and chatter, every corner of this eatery is a feast for the eyes. So don’t forget to snap a few photos for your social media feed before diving into your delicious meal.

La Morelense Plus is an experience. With its authentic flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and vibrant surroundings, it’s a culinary journey you won’t soon forget. So gather your friends, bring your appetite, and get ready to savor the flavors of Mexico in Oaklyn, New Jersey.

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. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2024. Vote by clicking below:

https://bestoftheboro.secondstreetapp.com/og/3404cb77-3204-4794-a8af-46ac4a01d04b/gallery/439098138

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

Pretzel Boys – Aston, PA

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Pretzel Boys – Aston, 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 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.

Pretzel Boys in Aston, PA is a gem for anyone craving that perfect soft pretzel experience. You walk in and are immediately greeted by the inviting aroma of freshly baked dough. The warm, right-out-of-the-oven soft pretzels they serve up are nothing short of heavenly – soft, chewy, and oh-so-fresh. Each bite delivered a satisfying blend of saltiness and doughy goodness that’s simply irresistible.

But it’s not just about the pretzels themselves – it’s the whole experience. The staff at Pretzel Boys are friendly and welcoming, adding to the cozy atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. You ever find yourself in Aston, PA and in need of a pretzel fix, do yourself a favor and swing by Pretzel Boys. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

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. We would be thrilled if you voted for us again in 2024. Vote by clicking below:

https://bestoftheboro.secondstreetapp.com/og/3404cb77-3204-4794-a8af-46ac4a01d04b/gallery/439098138

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

The Secret French Fry Club – East Greenwich Little League – Clarksboro, NJ

The Secret French Fry Club – East Greenwich Little League – Clarksboro, 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 2022-23 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment, and winner of Metro Philly Newspaper 2023 Best of Philadelphia Arts & Entertainment.

Discover another of the hidden gems of South Jersey! I unveil for you the culinary secrets that only a select few know about. Just months ago, the South Jersey Food Scene revealed the unexpected: Virtua Hospital’s Voorhees Campus Cafeteria boasts some of the finest sushi in the region, captivating not only locals but also the attention of FOX 29, Philadelphia Inquirer, Courier Post, NJ.Com, JL Jupiter, and more.

That was  just the tip of the iceberg. There are many places. Now have you heard about The Secret French Fry Club at East Greenwich Little League? Tucked away in this unassuming baseball haven lies a snack stand that’s causing a sensation. It’s not just for Little League families; it’s drawing in food enthusiasts from far and wide. If you’ve never heard, it’s probably because you probably don’t live around the immediate area or your child is not involved with baseball or softball. The obvious people who already know are the families of softball and Little Leaguers that call these fields their home. Then once those seasons are over picture Sandlot-style baseball games under the summer sun, accompanied by the aroma of freshly cut fries while giving all children no matter their ability level in the surrounding towns the opportunity to play ball without the input or direction from adults just letting the kids play. 

What has really put this location on the map is that this complex hosts Perfect Game Tournaments which is a big deal in the baseball community and has teams traveling hours to be able to play in them. This is truly where this little gem of french fry fandom has expanded and has people involved in baseball from all over the East Coast talking about a Little League snack stand. Everyone who visits raves about the little league snack stand that could with fresh cut fries topped with all sorts of deliciousness. It’s not just the spectators enjoying them either. You will overhear umpires chatting up fans who are chomping on their fries and hear the umps tell the crowd they look forward to doing these games because they know they’ll be eating some of those amazing fries afterwards. 

What’s the secret behind their success? It’s simple: potatoes piled high, sliced on demand, deep-fried to perfection, and served piping hot. And the prices? They’ll make restaurant owners blush. But that’s not all. Indulge in hand-spun milkshakes, made with a generous sprinkle of childhood nostalgia. From cookies and cream to classic strawberry, they’ve got your cravings covered. In addition they have many other items that most other snack stands don’t offer, along with all the usual suspects pleasing all palates. The hotdogs are prepared on the rollers, but they even went above and beyond when I asked if they were grilled and popped the hot dog on the grill to give it a quick crisp. My order was grilled hot dog, strawberry milkshake, and the pièce de résistance of their old bay cheese fries. 

But what truly sets them apart? It’s the stories whispered in line, tales of travelers who journey far and wide just for a taste of those legendary fries and aren’t there to watch baseball or softball. Don’t miss out! Keep an eye on social media for game days and become a member of The Secret French Fry Club at East Greenwich Little League. Experience some of the best fries in South Jersey and become part of a deliciously exclusive community.

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.

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

Villa Nuova Ristorante & Pizzeria – Deptford, NJ

Villa Nuova Ristorante & Pizzeria – Deptford, NJ

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

Step into the charm of old-school Italian hospitality this Valentine’s Day at Villa Nuova Ristorante & Pizzeria in Deptford, NJ. Tucked away like a hidden gem on a completely unassuming residential area road, this dining destination offers an experience reminiscent of stepping back in time. Despite its unassuming exterior and older decor, Villa Nuova promises an unforgettable evening filled with warmth, flavor, and romance.


The minute you step foot inside, you are entering a cozy dining room where the air is filled with the aroma of authentic Italian cuisine. Your senses are immediately captivated by the tantalizing scent of delicious food.


We went with a great selection of take away food. Clams Casino, each little neck clam topped with peppers, onions, and crispy bacon, offering a perfect balance of savory flavors. As you delve into the Mushroom Trio, featuring a medley of white, shiitake, and portabella mushrooms sautéed with jumbo lump crab in a white wine lemon sauce, you’re transported to culinary bliss. Savor the comforting embrace of Chicken and Escarole Soup, followed by a refreshing mini salad, perfectly setting the stage for the pièce de résistance: the Chicken Marsala Dinner. Picture tender chicken breast sautéed to perfection, mingling with earthy mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich marsala wine sauce, accompanied by grilled veggies that burst with flavor. And for the pasta aficionados, Villa Nuova presents a delightful dish of little neck clams sautéed in a delicate white sauce, gracefully draped over a bed of linguine. To conclude this culinary symphony, indulge in a slice of heavenly cheesecake, the perfect finale to an unforgettable meal. Villa Nuova may not boast opulent surroundings, but it’s heartwarming ambiance and delectable offerings make it a must-visit destination for a romantic Valentine’s Day celebration and whether you choose to dine in or opt for a cozy night at home, Villa Nuova’s authentic Italian fare promises to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. This Valentine’s Day, treat yourself and your loved one to the magic of Villa Nuova Ristorante & Pizzeria, where every bite tells a story of love, tradition, and culinary excellence.

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.

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