Play (& Eat) Something Country

Saying I love country music is like describing the Empire State building as tall – the words just don’t suffice. Think about it.

Did you think about it? Good. Now you can begin to understand just how excited I was to go to the Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan concert this past weekend. And let me tell you… they did not disappoint! Both were charismatic performers and sounded like the real deal. No lip-synching here (take that Top 40!). If you ever get the chance to go see them, I highly, highly recommend it – these men know how to rock.

While it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what I like about country music, I think it has something to do with the lifestyle/ideals that go along with the music. Songs about hardworking people, loving people and people living their lives the best the know how, being the best people they can be… while drinking a few beers. Pass the red solo cup.

Though I’ve yet to spend much time in the southern United States, I’m surely infatuated with them. The food, the hospitality, the slower pace of life – it all sounds divine. And since this is a blog focused on food, let me share one of my most favorite southern treats with y’all. The red velvet cupcake!

My personal favorite (to make) is this recipe from Paula Deen – thought I add a little more cocoa powder to mine. The cream cheese frosting is absolutely to die for and really makes the cupcake — so don’t skimp on it!!

Red velvet cupcake with cream cheese frosting

Yum!

Restaurant Review: Kona Grill Favorites

One of my favorite sushi spots, Kona Grill, is great not just for the sushi, but for everything else it has to offer as well. To begin with, the restaurant has one of the best happy hour deals in the area. There are a few drink specials, but the highlight of my trip is always the half-price sushi rolls and appetizers. Yum – California rolls for $3!! Love, love.

Anyways, last time I was there (a few days ago) I snapped some picks of a few of the other things that I found to be absolutely delicious.

Strawberry Basil Lemonade

Strawberry Basil Lemonade

Delicious sweet strawberries balanced out by basil leaves. Refreshing!

Red Velvet Cupcake

Red Velvet Cupcake

Some of the softest red velvet cake I’ve ever tried. Cream cheese frosting and fresh fruit are the perfect complementing flavors.