Picture courtesy of NY Eater

Earlier this summer, Paul and I headed out to Vinegar Hill House in Brooklyn. They had been featured within New York Magazine for their Cast Iron Chicken and we knew it would be tasty as the ex chef from Freeman's, Jean Adamson was one of the co=owner's of the restaurant. It was an amazing night where we were able to sit outside in the garden area (although someone was renovating their home and we could hear their saws at 10pm) and enjoy a great meal. We knew that we would want to come back and taste what they would do for the fall. So last Fri, after dropping in on a Burlesque Festival, we came to a crowded Vinegar Hill House. Fortunately, we were able to get a seat at the bar while we waited. The vibe is very rustic and I love all the wood that's around. As packed as it is, it definitely feels very intimate. I love their basic approach to the overall decor. Although they have a limited amount of alcohol at their bar, they have specialty drinks that are always very satisfying.

As opposed to my last visit where I had a sea bass I believe, I ended up having their famous cast iron chicken! It's important to note that they have 3 appetizers, 5 entrees, 3 sides and a choice of two desserts. The chicken is the only entree that doesn't include a side that comes with your meal. Of course I looked at the available sides and somehow the squash puree, long beans and bitter greens were not something that I wanted. Although the waiter said that I couldn't choose a side that came with the entree (apparently they buy enough sides for each entree), Paul asked someone else and fortunately my fingerling potatoes came with my meal. If you're looking for a nice vibe and a place for a date or group of friends, this is the place. Their coal burning stove kicks out amazing dishes that make you feel at home - the chicken was perfection. For dessert, we had the Guinness Cake which I LOVED when I came the first time and enjoyed having again! If you're in the area, take some time to have a meal here and bring your friends along! If you're brave, try the Apple Cider and let me know what you think of it (4% alcohol but tastes like a mix of apple vinegar with olive juice - it's an interesting taste). I wonder if this could be a future brunch spot or a fun place to have a holiday dinner as long as you're cool with the wait.

Vinegar Hill House

72 Hudson Ave

Brooklyn, NY 11201

718.522.1018

Today was hot and absolutely amazing! Today I started early in the afternoon at the Big Apple BBQ Fest which took place in Madison Park today and tomorrow! Not only was it hot but it was a lot of fun to see food, music, hear seminars and to hear happy people getting excited about BBQ. I have to say that I was a BBQ novice but after a recent visit to Dinosaur BBQ in Harlem, I had a renewed respect (yes how does a Midwestern girl not get into BBQ until a late age - I don't know but I am definitely interested and got a lot of information). After picking up my press passes (thanks Katy) I went to the seminars first. Sponsored by Snapple and Every Day With Rachael Ray, I really wanted to see what was going on and sit in on a few demos if possible. I had the luxury of making it in to my first cooking demo "On the Side". This was lead by two Food Editors of my favorite magazine - Every Day with Rachael Ray. Pamela Mitchell and Teri Tsang Barrett shared interesting sides that you can include on your barbecue which are just as important as the main attraction! I came in right when they handed out the amazing golden sweet tea and I also sampled the hush puppies that I hadn't had in quite some time. This video clip includes the segment about the hush puppies. Teri is on the right and Pamela is on the left! These ladies were a lot of fun to listen to and was a great way to introduce me to my day!

 

This weekend is going to be hot and when it's hot - you have to get nibbles and beverages! Think back to previous weekends - maybe you grabbed icecream in the park, had brunch at an outdoor cafe or you enjoyed a back patio with friends. You have to change it up a bit by making sure you head out to the Big Apple BBQ sponsored by Snapple this weekend! I am so excited as The Kitten Lounge will be attending this event! I can't wait to tell you guys some of the hottest places in the city to enjoy BBQ and what cities are definitely bringing it too! Now if you want more than BBQ, you will enjoy yummie sides, dessert and beer! In addition to hanging out in Madison Park with tons of people that will be your jolly new friends, there will be live music and seminars. When you check in this weekend on the Kitten Lounge, I will bring you recaps of what you can enjoy as I will be there on Sat and Sun will have closing thoughts on this 10th annual event. In addition, my Flip will be coming with me as well. To check out the schedule and to see what works for you, make sure you visit their snazzy site! If you were fortunate enough to get your Fast Pass - congrats, I can't wait to try all the amazing items. If not, everything is reasonably priced and waiting - come on an empty stomach and remember to drinks lots of fluids! The inconsistent weather of this week will be worth it to enjoy the sun and heat of the weekend.