by Erin Thursby
At Maggiano’s, by ordering from a special menu you can Eat-A-Dish for Make-A-Wish through July 3rd. And, for every new Facebook “like” they’ll donate $1 to Make-A-Wish.
According to the Orlando Sentinel, an Asian, street-fare restaurant will open in October at 1001 Park Street in Five Points. It will be the second location of Orlando’s Hawkers.
John Rivers, owner of 4 Rivers Smokehouse, is a native to the First Coast. Previously, his Texas-style barbecue, much adored in Orlando, was only available in Central Florida. This month a 4 Rivers Smokehouse will be opening at 9220 Baymeadows Rd. Chef-owner John Rivers has also launched a line of sauces and rubs, along with mail-order brisket and turkey. Check them out at www.4rsmokehouse.com.
Metro Diner is in the news for more than one reason. Two of their recipes (Huevos Ranchos, Strawberry Butter and signature dish, Yo Hala on the Square) were featured in Off the Eaten Path: Second Helpings out this last month. Also, Metro Diner, along with the new Maple Street Biscuit Company was named one of Urbanspoon’s Most Popular Breakfast Spots—in the nation!
But it’s not all sunshine and lolipops: Cattlemen’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q has closed on Baymeadows.
More indie big names are making their way to the lucrative St. Johns Town Center. As you might know, Bistro Aix Chef Tom Gray is taking his talents to new digs at the Town Center (while keeping Bistro Aix open in San Marco). But he’s not the only one: M Shack, a posh, burger joint run by the brothers Medure (Matthew and David) is set to open a second locale by October, in the space where Ritz Camera used to be, within sight of P.F. Chang’s giant horse.
Tim Tebow is getting into the food franchise business. He’ll be investing in the new PDQ (stands for People Dedicated to Quality) slated to open at the St. Johns Town Center. The Tampa-based chain features fast food chicken and milkshakes.
Jun 6 Brew with a View The St. Augustine Lighthouse presents Brew with a View, an incredible, fun evening featuring a low-country boil, local craft beer and live music. Latest shipwreck artifacts recovered by the Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program’s archaeologists will also be on display. Takes place from 7-10 pm. Tickets are $30 for non-members and $25 for members. 829-0745 ext. 242, www.staugustinelighthouse.org/events/eventsmain
Jun 6 Jacksonville FOODFIGHT The event will feature more than 50 local restaurants, beverage distributors and caterers engaging in a friendly competition showcasing their signature dishes. In addition to the fabulous food and spirits, live entertainment will provided by local band Split Tone. More than 1,200 guests are expected to attend the event and enjoy the samplings provided by the best in the industry. Last year, nearly $100,000 was raised at the event–a record total–with all proceeds benefiting Second Harvest North Florida. General Admission tickets are $60; VIP tickets are $100 and include access to the Jaguar Suite level and exclusive food offerings, 6:30 pm-9 pm, EverBank Field’s Touchdown Club East. For more information contact Tia R. Ford at 739-7074 or email her at tford@wenourishhope.org.
Jun 14 Evening in Wine Country: “An International Tour” A fun-filled evening for over 500 guests will feature a fabulous selection of international wines to delight every palate, paired with heavy hors d’oeuvres and a selection of tantalizing fruits, cheeses and desserts. Groove to the sounds of live smooth jazz inside the grand banquet room, and enjoy a cigar and beer or port as you party to the rhythms of a steel drum under the stars on the outer deck. End your fantastic evening by taking home an awesome raffle prize. All proceeds benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida, helping provide a safe, positive place for 3,600 youth in Duval, Nassau, & St. Johns counties. $75 per person, 6 pm-10 pm, Adam Herbert University Center at UNF, 12000 Alumni Drive, www.bgcnf.org
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