December 14, 2012
Here in Santa Barbara, I’m a fan of Metropulos (216 E. Yanonali St.), a Greek deli and specialty grocery. It’s a little spot located in the “Funk Zone”—yes, Santa Barbara actually has a part of town called the “Funk Zone.” In the middle of a marathon shopping day, I stopped in and not only got a killer sandwich (turkey, tapenade, feta, avocado, cucumber — opa!), but managed to find a few treats for those on my list…and a couple for me too.
Specialty food stores offer great and unusual finds that add character to the other gifts piled under the tree. I mean, check out some of my amazing finds– just act surprised if you find them in your stocking.
I’m currently obsessed with this Greek wine, Kir Yianni Petra. I tried it for the first time a few weeks back and have been thinking about it ever since, so I was thrilled to find it and somehow managed to wait until I got home to pour a glass.
Bucatini is expensive, but until I can figure out how to drill a hole through my spaghetti, I buy it and save it for special occasions. Usually I have to order it online, so it was great to see it here.
This Italian Nutella, from Alba, is the real deal. It’s so much better than the American kind! We love it on our Saturday morning crepes. The jar is really cute, it would make a great little vase after we polish off the good stuff in record time.
This Bodegas Dios Baco Jerez-Xeres Sherry Oloroso is the best. It gets splashed into so many of my dishes for a spectacular punch of flavor, and a little always finds it’s way into my glass as well. Featured in my Holiday Gift Guide this year, it makes a great gift for any discerning foodie in your life.
As kids, my Dad would buy us these Lazzaroni Amaretti di Saronno as treats and there is no comparison. I haven’t seen them around in years!
How cute is this Hummingbird feeder?
Look at this fully-stocked shelf of my favorite beans! There is nothing even remotely close to how delicious Rancho Gordo beans turn out.
They even had cheese for my cheese curler, which I love to have out during the holidays for guests. Pair a little cheese with Balsamico, and you’re golden.
