Bon Ton Meat Market - more than meat, but still a classic!

September 10th, 2014

Bon Ton Meat Market
28 Crowfoot Cir NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3(403) 282-3132

http://www.bontonmeatmarket.com/

The weather in Calgary right now is less than desirable.  At this time of year, I am usually making my friends from across Canada jealous with descriptions of our wonderful fall weather.  This week?  Not so much.  In fact, instead of jealously regarding our current forecast (5-10cm of snow and below freezing temps), I’ve been receiving messages of sympathy (and one of two of good natured laughter).  On the bright side, weather like this does provide me with the perfect opportunity to make some dishes that just don’t fit with warm weather and a hot house.  It’s time for some good old fashioned comfort food! 

Our house has been trying to make a really good effort supporting local, sustainable, food sources.  So today while out getting some groceries I stumbled upon the new location of Bon Ton Meat Market.  This market has been around since the 1920's in Calgary but just recently moved to Crowfoot. 

We always liked Bon Ton, but their previous location wasn’t convenient for us to shop there.  As a result, it has been about 2 years since I have been to there, but now they are closer I am sure I will be here weekly!

Walking in my first impression was: WOW!

Clean, open and lots of space! A huge improvement over the old location by Foothills hospital.  As I stood there taking it all in, someone came over immediately to make sure I knew if I needed help they would be right there to help.

They have a huge selection of fresh and frozen meats, cheeses, pies, and desserts.  The frozen section has everything that would you would hope.  I saw Sausage, Chickens, Burgers, CocoBrooks Pizza, Pot Pies, Fruit Pies, and our family favourite Bison! 

The middle section of the market is devoted to fresh cheeses!  Everything from soft to hard, stinky to mild, white to orange.  As well as a great selection of coiled meats great for parties, appetizers or a craving. Fresh spices, BBQ sauce, sauces, dippers, and pastas outline the shelves. So when I say there is something of everyone, there truly is.

I even found a cooler with farm fresh free range eggs!

Onto the meat section!  It's beautifully laid out, and huge selections! I started in the chicken section.  So much to choose from, but ended up selecting the Chicken Cordon Blue (made in shop). The associate even offered me the recipe if I wanted on how to cook properly and to get the desired crispiness without the cheese escaping before it hits your plate. I can tell you that the ground chicken also looked amazing!  We aren't huge pork fans so I didn't get anything from that section, but I did grab a few of the beef ribs.  Beef ribs in a slow cooker with my dads 'Big Daddy Spice' sounds pretty delish on a snowy day!

Most of you who know us, know that T loves pies!  Meat pies, fruit pies, breakfast pies; he’ll pretty much eat anything in pie form!  So when I noticed the in shop traditional pie display, I had to pick T up a couple to try. Although there are 5 or 6 flavours, I stuck with the traditional chicken. They smell great, but I must wait until T gets home from work to see how they taste.

If you are stopping for lunch (based on the mouth-watering sights and smells you might want to), there is a wonderful selection that includes a lot more than just pies.  There are ribs, cabbage rolls, wings, sausage rolls and take out dinners. 

Now if you're thinking 'Sounds great, but now I have to go somewhere else for dessert'.....NO! 

You Don't! They have a huge section of desserts, not only fruit pies in the stand-up freezers, but fresh cakes too!  Beautiful red velvets, cheese cakes, fruit cakes, black forest, carrot cakes and so much more! 

Getting dinner for your family at Bon Ton will most definitely increase your popularity at home, but if you’re looking for more of a ‘OHMYGOODNESSHOWDIDYOUKNOWTHAT’ 'ITSWHATIWANTEDILOOOOOOOVEYOU’ sort of reaction, you need to stop by the section for dogs!!  Fresh smoked marrow filled bones, huge knuckle bones and pigs ears all fresh!  I can’t wait to see the reaction of our Bulldog when I get home with his marrow bone.

I had a blast at Bon Ton today, and I really think you will too! 

Overall of Bon Ton Meat Market

When to eat/go here: Lunch, dinner party ingredients, grocery needs, BBQ needs.

Who to take: Well you don't need to take anyone, but tell everyone you know to go here!

Why go here: The selection is extensive and top quality, it's local (support local), its clean, lots of in house made treats.

Kuzina, a hidden gem out in the open.

Holy!  Has it really been a year since I wrote my last entry?
Trust me, it isn't because I haven't eaten anywhere fantastic.  T and I have been to some pretty fantastic places in Calgary, Phoenix, Anaheim, and Ireland. But it wasn't until last night, that I put my foot down and decided I am going to get back on it.


Delve into the wisdom of the Greeks, and be inspired by it. 


Kuzina A Greek Inspired Kitchen
1137 17th Ave SW Calgary
Reservations accepted but not required
Family friendly
http://www.kuzina.ws/Kuzina/Welcome.html
(403) 245-0060

A very dear friend of mine M, insisted that we do dinner just the two of us, she also suggested greek as she is a few short weeks of jetting off to the amazing country.  I must admit I am a bit jealous, as Greece is still on my top 10 of places I want to go but haven't yet and I have already fallen in love with the cuisine.

We decided on Kuzina, on 17th Ave SW in Calgary.  They are fairly new, and admittedly since I have noticed the location, I kept thinking I totally have to go there.  So finally we went!

Parking was a breeze, at 6:10ish there was lots to choose from and a quick walk.  Coming out after dinner there wasn't much left unless you wanted to walk 5 mins or more.

Walking in, I was worried.  Friday night, 6:15PM and only one other table had patrons.  This can't be a good sign.....however;

As soon as I sat we had water, and wine list at the table.  The wine list was a great selection of wines (red & white), we both selected an Italian Pinot Grigio because I prefer white with my greek food UNLESS I am having a lamb dish.

The menu is extensive, so lots of choices for vegetarians, meat eater or like me pretty much anything. They also have a very large portion of the menu in Gluten Free options.

I really like going for dinner with my friends, they love to share!  Which is awesome, especially when writing a flog, cause its nice to try a variety. So we started with a Trio of 'Dips' and fresh in house made Pita.  The Pita was warm, crispy in a really good way.  The dips we chose were; Tyrokafteri (feta, yogurt and roasted red pepper) Melizanosalata (Aubergine, garlic) and the tried and true Tzatziki. All of them were really tasty but my fave was the Tyrokafteri.

 The next thing we ordered was Saganaki, A cheese that is placed in a hot skillet and then a shot of Metaxa is added then lit on fire!  There is something so comforting about this dish, salty warm cheese with that sweet drizzle of citrus they put on after.  Who doesn't love cheese and flames!!!

We also ordered a plate Lukaniko, a house made pork sausage with fresh greek spices.  It was OK, a bit salty for my palate (I am spoiled with a dad who makes the best sausage on the planet), I found myself using the left over dip to cut the salt. I am not sure I would do two salty dishes like that again together.

After a quick discussion with M, we opted for sharing a main dish.  At this point I think we could have thrown in the towel.  SO FULL! But there is one greek dish that I love to try every time.  Moussaka is one of those dishes that every one with a greek grandparent, or even parent has their special recipe.  I find that each one is different.  Ours came piping hot, and beautiful with a side of greek salad.  I say this with passion while waving my hands; This was the best Moussaka I have ever had!  Cooked perfect, the eggplant wasn't soggy, the potatoes cut to just the right thickness and of course CHEESE!!

This was altogether an amazing meal, the service was amazing, always being tended to without being disruptive.

Would you believe the two of us ate and had a 9oz glass of wine each for under $90?
You MUST try this place soon!  I figure the rest of the city will discover this gem soon enough and you won't be able to just walk in.






Rating Scale:
I'm not a huge fan of scales, especially the one you step on after a night out of eating and drinking.
So I would like to do my When, Who and Why.

Overal of Kuzina
When to eat here: Last min dinner plan, birthday parties, family events, quite romantic night out, even an office gathering.  A great place to start a night out downtown.
Who to take: This place can accommodate small to large groups, so bring just your lover or your entire family. This would also be great for a girls night or just a catch up session.
Why go here: The selection is fantastic, the staff is super, and the price won't break the bank.

Calgary's New Farmers Market - Symons Valley Ranch

September has arrived, and with it come cold mornings and warm afternoons.  While its arrival is always one of sadness since it marks the end of our summer, one of the best things about September (other than the beginning of football season) is that it always begins with a long weekend!  An extra day to spend together as a family is always a highlight of the fall. This 'September Long' our family chose to spend one of our mornings at the Symons Valley Farmers Market; luckily for us, it just happens to be around the corner.

Located in the Symons Valley Ranch (est. 1968) in NW Calgary between Evanston, Kincora and Sage Hill. 

We arrived around 11am, and the parking lot was only about half full; we lucked into a spot right by the front of the building.  As soon as we got out of the vehicle we could smell wonderful aromas of all different sorts of food cooking and baking.   The smell of bread baking, meat cooking and coffee roasting caused an audible grumble in our tummies.

Walking in the main entrance we could see the market was busy with the bustle of people shopping, browsing, and just enjoying the local, sustainable family run produce, meats & treats businesses.  Colour is such an underrated part of the shopping and cooking experience and Symons Valley is visually stunning.  Everything from the vibrate blues and reds of fresh berries to the browns and oranges of the squash bring makes shopping and browsing a lively visual experience.

The colour was almost enough to distract T & I from finding a coffee.  Almost…

Before we could make our way to a coffee vendor, our first stop was for all-natural vitamin water for little B.  Filled with fresh Strawberries, lime and mint, little B seemed to really enjoy his treat.  With him quieted by his new drink, T & I grabbed a Phil & Sebastian cappuccino.  On our way outside to enjoy our beverages in the sun, we couldn’t pass up stopping for a homemade monster size Peanut Butter cookie from Dessert Designs for all of us to share.  We were able to easily find a table outside in the little courtyard, which also has a small play structure for the kids.  The coffees were a great treat, and the cookie was wonderfully fresh.

T & I picked up some Bison for dinner, along with a few other items for us this week.  Having spent nearly an hour at the market, little B was starting to show signs of 'nap time' so we knew that our visit was nearly over.  We stopped at the Spicy Jamakan BBQ to go for lunch to have at home.  T had the Jerk Chicken with Rice & Beans Plate while I had the Jerk Chicken with pineapple wrap.  If you like spicy food, you will love the fare offered by the Spicy Jamakan.  The portions are very fair, and the price wasn’t ‘too hot’ to handle.

We had promised little B we would visit the Aviary located at the entrance where they have Geese, peacocks, and other fouls. This very cool attraction gives you more of the feeling of a traditional market. 

One of the changes that we would like to see in the market is the addition of new vendors, especially another bakery.  The smell of fresh baked bread is one that nearly everyone enjoys, and a bit of competition would offer some more unique/specialty products. 

After our visit today, T & I both agreed you can truly do an entire grocery shop here. From fresh & frozen meats, dairy, veggies, fruit, oils, pizza's, desserts, bakery's and a few cute boutiques that range from speciality coffees for your single serving coffee machines and organic safe soaps and clothes!  Truly a market for everyone, and I am so happy that it is in my neighbourhood.

Whether you are from South Calgary, Airdrie, or anywhere in between, I would recommend taking a jaunt to the Symons Valley Farmers Market. 

K & T (but mostly K)

Please visit the Market's website for times, and vendors.

www.symonsvalleyranch.com

14555 Symons Valley Road NW, Calgary

We desperately need input for a rating scale; T’s suggestion that we use a scale that rates our visit from 1-4 ninja turtles!

 

Until a less ‘iamstuckinthe80’sasa12yearold’ scale is developed, we give Symons Valley Ranch 3 out of 4 Ninja Turtles.

Calgary's Italian Secret - Franca's

Franca's Italian Specialities
100, 3811 Edmonton Tr. NE

403-277-0766
www.perfectgifts.ca

I have been fortunate enough to travel to Italy, and although I loved it, I was a tourist and had a tourists experience.  After walking into Franca's, I feel like I now know what it would have been liked to have dinner at some long lost italian cousins house. Franca's isn't just a family place in that it's a wonderful place to take your family, it's truly a family restaurant.  The entire Flaviano family contributes to your dining experience; with her 2 boys waiting tables, her husband Mario preparing and attending to tables (insuring the meals were satisfying everyone's taste buds),  and of course Signora Franca herself.  With her bubbly personality, beautiful smile and welcoming hug. This is a place I already see becoming on my 'regular' list.

Located right on Edmonton Trail just south of McKnight, although isn't much on the outside.  Actually my first impression was, if this is the outside.......wonder what we will find inside.
Well, what we found was a cozy dining area, with a warm inviting atmosphere and did it ever smell delish! We were meeting friends there who had made the reservations (It's an Italian deli Tues-Fri 10am-5pm and reso's only on saturday's with a set menu) and they were there waiting for us when we arrived.  There is only about 10 tables in the dining room with a semi open area for prep and the most beautiful Cappuccino machine.

There was no indication of what we were about to be served so it was truly a surprise. I did find myself trying to peak at the other guest plates as they traveled by.  I have a hard time with letting go the fact that I don't get to choose or even know until the meal arrives.

I had the house red wine, which was AMAZING (and for some reason I didn't even ask what it was GASP!) The first course arrived, a hardy size Bocconcini Salad ~ Fresh buffalo mozzarella, beefsteak tomatoes, and an amazing cold balsamic reduction drizzled atop a fresh leaf of basil.  Something I would personally choose at any Italian restaurant.  Then the bread arrived...O...M....G! It's a homemade family recipe of soft on the inside crunch on the outside foccaccia bread. So good we asked for a 2nd plate. And there was just enough of the oil and balsamic left over on the salad plate to soak it all up.
The 2nd plate arrives perfectly timed, a bowl of steaming gnocchi.  Definitely hand rolled, this potatoe pasta was served in a light tomatoe sauce and each bite seemed to just melt in your mouth.  We were still scraping the last of the sauce out of the bowl when the 3rd course arrived at our table.  A plate of vibrant green beans with slivered almonds, and a perfect grilled steak with a drizzle of mushroom gravy.

At this point of the meal I am already so full, but I can smell the aroma of italian cappuccinos and notice the platters of in-house made pastries. Franca is the pastry chef in this family.  I would love to explain each and every delicious morsel on this platter, but I am going to tell you this.  GO NOW!  Pick these heavenly pieces up for your family to enjoy tonight!  Seriously, this woman's love comes out in her master pieces.  T recommends the Cannoli and I recommend the peaches.  And be sure to enjoy these with any of the coffee or teas they offer.

I wish I could tell you the price of this amazing meal, but our gracious friends picked up the tab without us even seeing the bill.

I think the highlight of this meal was that Chef Mario & Franca came by the table several times, telling us stories of their travels to Italy, the family, and inviting us back for more (and there may have been a shot of Grappa in there).

I am yet to develop a rating system, but I am open to any ideas :)

However I can say this :  GO TO THIS PLACE! Its amazing, authentic, and a great atmosphere.

K & T (again mostly K)

Why Flog?

Why call it a Flog?

Well, bottom line I LOVE food.  I love how gives you the opportunity to express yourself.  I love how food helps celebrate special occasions.  I love how food brings family and friends together.  However,  with a little man in the house (not even 2 yet) my husband and I don't get to go out much as we would like.
So we decided that we would share our passion and experiences trying all different types of eateries; we are going to talk about everything from 'little holes in the wall', to upscale 'fancy pants place's', a few little markets and possibly what we create in our own kitchen too.   Our journey will take us to different places in all 4 corners of this city, and we may even include a couple of fun places we visit when we 'get away'.  

We hope you enjoy our journey through many plates, new spaces, old places and delicious food.

Welcome to our Flog!

K & T (But mostly K)