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SEASONAL CHEESE BOARD AT THE CHEESE COTTAGE
“The Cheese Cottage is a cool breeze on a warm day. The courtyard is a feast for the eyes with the sights and sounds of downtown Mobile. Their seasonal cheeseboard is full of surprises with rich, intense cheeses and an unexpected bacon onion jam. It’s accompanied by fresh strawberries and grapes, local honey and pecans, and a variety of crackers and baguettes. All sipped down with my favorite Moscato.” — Charlana Quiovers, Owner, BackFlash Antiques
The Cheese Cottage • 650 St Louis St. 308-8488
HOT CHICKEN SANDWICH AT SQUID INK
“I am a disciple of this sandwich, having enjoyed at least half a dozen of them over Mardi Gras. They spice rub, batter and fry a chicken thigh. It sits on a nest of lettuce, tomatoes and pickle, is finished with a tangy aioli and served high on a potato bun. I will testify that the Mob Town hot chicken is a must for locals or any hungry tourist.” — Ryan Balthrop, Singer, songwriter, musician
Squid Ink • 102 Dauphin St. 405-0031
THE SPECIAL AT THE RAVENITE PIZZERIA
“If you like New York-style pizza, you’ll love a slice from Ravenite. The Special is topped with traditional favorites — pepperoni, sausage, onions, green pepper, mushroom, beef, ham, black olives and garlic. The hand-tossed dough and brick-oven taste come through immediately, so you’re going to want to eat every bite of this crust. If you’re craving pizza and want to spend your money locally, Ravenite should be your next stop.” — Cade Kistler, Program Director, Mobile Baykeeper
The Ravenite Pizzeria • 102 N Section St., Fairhope. 929-2525
PORK EMPANADAS AT THE HOPE FARM
“You don’t see empanadas on many menus in town, but The Hope Farm in Fairhope is full of delightful surprises. The empanadas are filled with savory pork braised with Fairhope Brewing Co. beer (brewed across the street), lightly fried, and topped with local greens, pickled red onions, Cotija cheese, tomatillo sauce and lime crème fraîche. Pair it with one of their garden-to-glass cocktails, and enjoy the perfect start to your evening.” — Ann-Brooks Morrissette, Executive Director, Fuse Project
The Hope Farm • 915 Nichols Ave, Fairhope. 340-3276