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Author: tango449
We Tried 22 Tubs of Cottage Cheese — and the “Decadent” Winner Is the One We’ll Stock in Our Fridge Forever
There are certainly many choices for cottage cheese. Luckily, the kitchn tasted them all for you. They evaluated various cottage cheese brands to determine the best options available. The review assesses factors such as taste, texture, and nutritional content across different products. It highlights top-performing brands that excel in these categories. Additionally, it offers insights into what consumers should look for when selecting cottage cheese.
James Beard Award Semifinalists Revealed
The James Beard Foundation has unveiled its 2025 semifinalists recently, highlighting exceptional culinary talent across Virginia and Washington, D.C. Often dubbed the “Oscars” of the food world, these awards recognize outstanding contributions to America’s culinary scene.
Outstanding Restaurateur
- Scott Drewno and Danny Lee, The Fried Rice Collective, Washington, DC
Outstanding Chef
- Amy Brandwein, Centrolina, DC
Outstanding Restaurant
- The Dabney, DC
Emerging Chef
- Paolo Dungca, Hiraya, DC
Best New Restaurant
- Maude & the Bear, Staunton, VA
- Mita, DC
Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
- Susan Bae, Moon Rabbit, DC
Outstanding Hospitality
- Tail Up Goat, DC
Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
- Charleston, Baltimore, MD
Best New Bar
- Bar Cana, DC
Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
- Andra “AJ” Johnson, Serenata, DC
Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic (DC, DE, MD, NJ, PA, VA)
- Matt Adler, Cucina Morini, DC
- Henji Cheung, Queen’s English, DC
- Matt Conroy and Isabel Coss, Pascual, DC
- Carlos Delgado, Causa and Amazonia, DC
- Ruben Garcia, Casa Teresa, DC
- Fernando Gonzalez, 2Fifty Barbeque, DC
- Cagla Onal Urel, Green Almond Pantry, DC
- Jarad Slipp, Tremolo, Middleburg, VA
The finalists will be announced on April 2, and the winners will be revealed during a gala in Chicago on June 16. These nominations underscore the dynamic and diverse culinary landscape of Virginia and Washington, D.C., celebrating both established institutions and emerging talents.
Food With a Mission: Cafe Appalachia Charleston, WV
Cafe Appalachia
206 D Street
South Charleston, WV 25303
https://cafeappalachia.org/
Farm –to-Table | $
Cafe Appalachia has two locations in Charleston, WV. We visited the south location near our hotel. The two nonprofit cafes are part of a broader organization called Pollen8, which is dedicated to helping women break the cycle of addiction. Their mission statement is to “inspire West Virginians to change the narrative around Substance Use Disorder. Our goal is the reintegration of women in recovery back into society. We do so through economic development, education, employment training, and teaching basic life skills.”
It’s located in an old church, with a funky vibe throughout the place.
My first cup of coffee for the day was wonderful.
I chose the biscuits and sausage gravy. The gravy had a great consistency and light spice to it that blended well with the sausage’s sweetness.
My wife had what she described as the best breakfast quiche she has had.
They have a large garden next to the restaurant that was mostly bedded down for the winter. The menu is seasonal with much of their ingredients coming from the garden.
During winter months, some growing takes place in the cafe. Here, they are starting greens for salads.
They have a small greenhouse for herbs, microgreens, and some flowers.
Each cafe location is open from 7:30 am to 2 pm, Monday through Saturday. The staff at the Southern Charleston location was wonderful. They were kind and open to telling us all about the cafe and their mission. We got a tour of the greenhouse where the young lady opened the door and said “Good morning, I love you” to the plants. If you’re lucky, you will go about your day, and every once in a while, you’ll meet someone who doesn’t have a job; they have a calling.
The food is fantastic and ridiculously cheap. If you live in or are passing through the Charleston, WV area make a point to stop for lunch or breakfast. You’ll be treating yourself to great food and supporting a worthy cause while getting to meet some great people.
Chef José Andrés Receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom
On January 4, 2025, President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Chef José Andrés, recognizing his exceptional contributions to humanitarian relief efforts through his organization, World Central Kitchen (WCK).
Born in Spain and later becoming a U.S. citizen, José Andrés is celebrated not only for his culinary expertise but also for his commitment to humanitarian causes. In 2010, he founded World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing meals in the wake of natural disasters and during humanitarian crises. WCK has been instrumental in delivering millions of meals to individuals affected by events such as hurricanes, wildfires, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, awarded to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the nation, world peace, or other significant societal endeavors. In addition to Chef Andrés, the 2025 honorees include notable figures such as soccer legend Lionel Messi, actor Michael J. Fox, singer Bono, and scientist and activist Jane Goodall.
Under Andrés’ leadership, World Central Kitchen has redefined the role of food in crisis response. The organization emphasizes the importance of providing freshly prepared meals to those in need, ensuring dignity and hope in challenging times. WCK’s innovative approach has inspired a global movement, highlighting the power of food to heal communities and bring people together.
Chef Andrés’s recognition with the Presidential Medal of Freedom underscores the significant impact of his work beyond the culinary world. His dedication to humanitarian efforts exemplifies the spirit of the award, which honors individuals who strive to make the world a better place through selfless service and innovation.
24 Carrot Bistro Shines
24 Carrot Bistro
578 Briggs St.
Erie, CO 80516
303-828-1392
www.24carrotbistro.com
American | $$$
Wood for days. The inviting space is right in the heart of Erie, CO.
For an appetizer, we ordered the P.E.I. mussels with Corn Maque Choux, Chorizo, Cajun Spice, Scallops, and Homemade Cornbread. These Prince Edward Island mussels were sweet and cooked perfectly.
My wife’s Crab Cakes were served with Mixed Greens and a Spicy Caper Rémoulade.
The Alaskan Halibut was served with Sundried Tomato Farro, Bacon, Seared Chard, Pole Bean, Saffron Beurre Blanc, Tarragon Oil, and Micro Greens.
The Pan Seared Duck Breast came with Savory Bread Pudding, Grilled Peaches, Summer Succotash, Tart Cherry Coulis, and Bravo Radish.
For my entree, I chose the Grilled Petit Filet with Herb Goat Cheese Panisse, Grilled Summer Squash, Serrano Ham, Garlic Scape Persillade, Fennel, and a Red Wine Demi Glace. Prepared to perfection, this steak was super flavorful. The best I have had all year.
Dessert was an Orange Butter Cake with White Chocolate Sauce, Orange Syrup, Creme Chantilly, and Sage Meringue. The cake was moist with a subtle orange flavor making it a great way to end a wonderful meal.
Erie, CO is a charming small town about 20 miles north of Denver. The wait staff was professional and extremely knowledgeable about the menu and their beer and wine selection. During summer, there is some outdoor seating. Reservations are strongly recommended. For added fun, the street is blocked off for a farmers market on Thursday evenings from May to September. There is plenty to see if you get there a little early.
If you are in the Denver/Boulder area, put 24 Carrot Bistro on your fine dining bucket list. You don’t want to miss this gem.
The Inn at Little Washington: A Culinary Jewel Maintaining Its Michelin Crown
The Inn
Middle & Main Streets
Washington, VA 22747
540-675-3800
American | $$$$
A Legacy of Excellence
Nestled in the quaint Virginia town of Washington, just 60 miles west of the nation’s capital, the Inn owes its legendary status to the relentless dedication of chef and proprietor Patrick O’Connell. Over the past 46 years, O’Connell has cultivated an environment where culinary artistry meets theatrical elegance, ensuring that every guest’s experience is as memorable as it is delicious.
In a statement, O’Connell expressed pride in this enduring recognition, noting how each accolade serves as fuel for innovation and a testament to the Inn’s commitment to excellence. As of 2024, The Inn at Little Washington remains the only three-star Michelin establishment in the D.C. region, joining a prestigious list of just 14 such venues in the United States.
The Art of Hospitality
The accolades are not merely for the cuisine. Renowned chef and author Jacques Pépin, a long-time friend of O’Connell, lauds the Inn for its warmth and hospitality, describing it as “a great place to go over and over again.” This balance between sophistication and approachability has made it an international destination for gourmands and travelers alike.
Chef Thomas Keller, a Michelin-starred luminary in his own right, praised O’Connell as a visionary, noting his unwavering commitment to a singular establishment. “Patrick transformed The Inn at Little Washington into what it is today—a masterpiece,” Keller said, highlighting O’Connell’s dedication to both culinary and experiential perfection.
Creating Dreams, One Plate at a Time
The Inn’s attention to detail extends far beyond the kitchen. From the meticulously curated ambiance to its world-class service, every aspect of the guest experience reflects O’Connell’s pursuit of perfection. Chef Eric Ripert, another three-star Michelin chef, described O’Connell as “relentless, passionate, and unstoppable,” marveling at his ability to bring dreams to life for his guests while living his own dream.
A Destination Worth the Journey
For food enthusiasts, a visit to The Inn at Little Washington is a rite of passage. Its reputation for excellence, paired with its scenic location in rural Virginia, ensures it remains a beacon for culinary pilgrims worldwide. With its unwavering commitment to innovation and hospitality, The Inn continues to set benchmarks for others in the industry to aspire to.
In retaining its three Michelin stars, The Inn at Little Washington reaffirms its place not only as a regional treasure but also as a global icon in fine dining. Chef O’Connell’s passion and dedication ensure that every guest who steps through its doors embarks on an unforgettable journey, one that blends artistry, hospitality, and a touch of magic.
Alias Never Disappoints
Alias Farm to Table
7150 Farm Station Road
Warrenton, Virginia 20187
(540) 422-0340
https://aliasvinthill.com/
American | $$$$
Service at Alias is first class.
And just like that, two hours later it was over. A feast that will take you on a flavor rollercoaster. Try to get a reservation as soon as possible. You won’t be disappointed. You’ll leave wondering where is Chef Stephen’s Michelin star.
Breakfast at Lucile’s
Lucile’s Creole Café
544 Briggs St.
Erie, CO 80516
720-484-5469
https://www.luciles.com/
Creole | $
With seven locations around Denver, chances are you are close to an awesome breakfast. We enjoyed their location in Erie, CO.
My morning started with an excellent cup of coffee. Full-bodied yet smooth.
Who isn’t going to order Beignets in a Creole restaurant?
Perfect, as good as you will find in New Orleans.
Blueberry Hoe-Cakes griddled in bacon drippings.
Peach Shortcake Pancakes layered with Macerated Palisade Peaches and topped with Marsala Whipped Cream, Pecans, and Peach Syrup. My wife loved the peaches.
I had to go with the Carlin County—Chef Mikey’s Sausage Gravy over a Buttermilk Biscuit with Grits. The dish, off the menu, comes with red beans but I’m not a beans for breakfast kind of person so I got extra grits. The grits were buttery and needed just a hint of salt. The sausage gravy was off the charts. The sausage was super flavorful with just a little spice to it. The biscuit was perfect and reminded me of the ones you find in hole-in-the-wall mom-and-pop restaurants across the South.
Owner Michael Micer, Chef Angelica Bautista, and Sous Chef Quinn are crushing it in the kitchen.
The staff was super friendly and everyone pitched in to get it done. Our hostess cleared, checked on us, poured coffee, and fetched things guests needed all the while keeping a watchful eye on the door. It is pretty clear the staff’s goal is to get you great food in a comfortable setting and get you out talking about coming back.
There is a great outside seating area weather permitting. Come early. We got there around 0800 and were seated right away. Within 15 minutes there was a wait building. I am sure all their locations are great, but I highly recommend the one in Erie. It’s a great place to start your day.
Mile High Pizza
High Mountain Pies
115 W Fourth St.
Leadville, CO 80461
703-486-5555
https://www.hmpies.com/
$ | Pizza
A block off the main drag in Leadville, CO, is the best pizza around. At 10,154 feet, Leadville is a funky little oasis and the highest incorporated town in the country.
Popular with the locals, they’re not kidding when they say the “line is out the door.” That’s where they put their menu.
It’s not a large space; there are just a couple of tables inside. The staff is awesome. They work well together and are always checking on us.
We ended up with a couple of medium Carnivores—a bit much for four people. One large would do the trick. But the leftovers later that night were great. This pepperoni, ham, bacon, and sausage pie was cooked perfectly. Watching the kitchen, everything coming out—wings, salads, and submarine sandwiches—looked great. The chef told me all the ingredients are fresh, and the dough is made in-house.
If you are anywhere near Leadville and looking for fast casual dinning you want to make sure you drop by High Mountain Pies. You won’t be disappointed.
tango449eats 