THANKSGIVING IN NORTH CAROLINA
We spent Thanksgiving week in North Carolina. I was pleased to see burnished fall colors on the trees as we landed at RDU. That’s something I miss about living in Florida. But it was a cold week, and this Florida wimp wore many layers to stay warm, even on the afternoon we explored a new park in Cary.
There was plenty of warmth on Turkey Day with several generations of family celebrating. Our granddaughters and our son and daughter-in-law, my two sisters and spouses, along with nieces and spouses and one other kid. We toasted with mimosas and sparkling cider and nibbled at an assortment of fine cheeses, jalapeno popcorn, and chips before attacking the table’s bounty. With roast turkey and a ham, tasty sides (including mac and cheese), and a choice of pecan pie, apple cake, and yummy cookies to finish, there was no cause for complaint. We had much for which to be thankful—not least the sheer joy of being together.
DINING HERE AND THERE
Magone Italian Grill & Pizza, Chapel Hill
As an antidote to turkey, many of us decamped to Magone Italian Grill the next day for dinner. This unprepossessing place appeared casual in the extreme. It looked like they focused on takeout business. I explained that we were going to be 10 people and was it possible to have a table. The young waitress quickly sprang into action, leading me toward the back, pushing two tables together, and offering to bring water for everyone.
The menu is long and extensive, making one initially wonder if they would deliver on quality. We were not disappointed. My chicken piccata with angel hair pasta was delicious, while others enjoyed shrimp with pesto over penne, a pizza with pepperoni and fresh basil, and other classic dishes. Throughout, our server was pleasant and helpful. It was a relaxed dining experience, and I’d happily return!
BESO, Sarasota
The Chief Penguin and I had a favorite Spanish restaurant in San Francisco, Coqueta, near the Ferry Building. In Manhattan, we were regulars at family-owned El Porron until they closed due to the pandemic. Consequently, we were delighted to read about the opening of BESO (kiss in Spanish), a tapas restaurant in The Mark in downtown Sarasota. We had dinner here with friends and were wowed by the food, the space, and the service.
Had I not been so involved in sampling what we ordered, I would have taken a photo or two. As it was, we tried the patatas bravas (best I’ve had), mini pork & chorizo meatballs, shrimps in garlic oil, croquetas, fried artichokes, and bread with olive tapenade. Portions are small as tapas are meant to be, and we happily shared what we ordered among the four of us.
The menu includes a variety of Spanish wines by the glass or bottle, cocktails, and, of course, several flavors of sangria. For those who want a more leisurely experience, it’s possible to order one of three paellas (allow 45 minutes.). I can easily envision this restaurant becoming a favorite! It fills a hole in the local dining scene.
VIEWING—FOR FANS OF BRIDGERTON
The Buccaneers (Apple TV+)
Loosely based (very loosely) on Edith Wharton’s unfinished novel of the same name, The Buccaneers is an exuberant series of high emotion and high society. The time is the 1870’s. Five young women, daughters of rich American fathers, have journeyed from New York to London. They have hopes of snaring a duke or a lord as a husband. Unlike the more reserved English girls, these Americans romp and run around outside, feet off the ground, arms high in the air.
The central focus is on Nan (Annabel) who attracts the attention of two worthy men, one a duke, the other simply impoverished. Nan has a rich father, but she is not entirely whom she seems. One friend, Conchita, marries quickly and just as quickly discovers marriage is not all that she expected. Her British in-laws expect her to be demure and subdued.
Jinny, Nan’s sister, follows with a wedding to Lord Seadown, a controlling figure. Others in the group are not sure men are what is needed in their lives. What begins as balls and parties and gaiety soon dissolves into the messiness of life and unrealistic or unfulfilled expectations.
The gorgeous costumes, the lavish settings, and the modern musical soundtrack provide a wonderful backdrop to the dramas being played out.
The series runs to 8 episodes with new ones released weekly. I have watched the first four episodes, enjoying the series more as the five women are more individually defined. Indulgent, fun, and occasionally poignant! Recommended!
Note: All unattributed photos ©JWFarrington (some rights reserved.)
