The Weekly Whisk - 2/26/24
Musings from a foodie…
As I noted above, this is my birthday week. One of the traditions that I’ve always asked for in my home – which started with my Mom – was to have her prepare a “Waldorf Astoria Red Cake” for my annual birthday cake. Each of the kids had their favorite type of cake and mine was clearly “Red Cake”. So, I was more than a bit disheartened when I was told that the dye used in Red Cake has been deemed to be carcinogenic. Yikes!! So, what to do? Suzanne (my wife) came up with a great suggestion by offering up a “Traditional Red Cake” made with red beets for the color instead of using dye. Hmmm. But, will it taste as good? I’m not sure because I’m on the road and will not be home until Saturday when the “new” Traditional Red Cake will be presented in all of its glory with more than a few candles. I’ll report back in a couple of weeks…with the recipe of course! Meanwhile…
Anatolia Mediterranean Restaurant – But, I couldn’t resist mentioning a newfound restaurant in the southern Northeast in Somersworth, NH. Anatolia [ * * * * * ] is a fabulous find that we only recently learned about from friends. I did not get to meet the Owner/Manager – Chef Ali Kalem, but I can assure you I will be asking for him (continuously, if necessary) during upcoming visits. He’s done a masterful job of creating the right food, with the right ambiance and the right staff who truly believe in offering you the finest in dining “experience”. If you like (I “adore”) Mediterranean foods, Anatolia is the place to visit if you are in the Northeast. It’s a bit hidden in one of the back entrances to one of the old mills along the river but it is worth the search. It represents the fusion of Turkish and Greek cuisine at its best. The only downside from my perspective was the noise level was a bit high so I turned the hearing aids down a bit and simply said “Huh?” a bit more during the conversation with our friends. Make reservations because a walk-in may take a bit of time. Check it out: Anatolia Mediterranean Restaurant, 2 Main Street – Somersworth, NH 03878 – (603) 841-5372 – www.anatolianh.com –
