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March 3, 2022

Are Outdoor Restaurants Making a Come Back Thanks to Covid?

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There is no point in telling you just how much covid and the following restrictions that came with the virus have had an effect on all of our lives, now that we are seeing infection rates lowered thanks to the determination of the world and the isolation periods we have all been through. Restaurants are opening their doors again in order to salvage the loss of income that has been faced by the entire events and hospitality industry. While the covid numbers may be on the decrease, many people are still very wary of going back out in open and public spaces with other people. After so long sheltering in our homes it makes sense that there would be some anxiety present, but businesses are really doing all they can to recover lost income

This article will be looking at how you can stay safe while doing something for the good of your health and getting out of the house to treat yourself and your loved ones to a nice meal. There is a much lower risk of catching the virus if you are in an outdoor area with plenty of personal space and air circulation. This means that you are able to safely go out and socialize after so long away from your friends, which is also why many restaurants are encouraging guests to book their outdoor spaces, especially now that we are finally getting some nice weather also.

Restrictions Being Lowered

It has been a long few months of non-essential retail closures, an hour a day of exercise, and sifting through the shows you have left to watch on Netflix, all of this hard work has resulted in a steady slowing of the virus’ spread so restrictions have eased for the time being. With talks of a sudden reappearance of covid rules, if a spike in infections should occur, you should definitely make the most of this sudden grace period if you feel fine to do so. All current guidelines can be found online, so if you are unsure of anything regarding what is in place in your area then I would highly recommend checking out the relevant sites. You also need to stick to testing regularly and wearing your mask when you know you may be interacting with large groups.

Socializing After so Long Indoors

Staying inside for so long has been a drain on your mental health whether you are aware of it or not, this is why it may be a good idea for you to try stepping out of your comfort zone and going out for a few hours while restrictions allow it. It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant, just a quiet night with your loved ones in a nice restaurant, this could be a much-needed morale boost in what has been some very trying times and circumstances for us all.

Boosting the Food and Drink Industry

Another reason why outdoor restaurants are making a comeback is due to the dire need for a boost in income within the hospitality and catering industry, while many businesses have been making do and implementing deliveries and take-out options within current covid restrictions. There has still been a big loss that has resulted in stress and money issues for those affected, it is now time for these businesses within the catering industry to do all they can to bring in new customers and raise the profits to make back some of what they lost. This is why so many businesses are offering special offers to try and get people through the doors again, with the fear of restrictions coming back as motivation.

Redecorating and Rebranding

While there is an opportunity to boost the business again we have also seen many restaurants and bars have had a little makeover during the lockdown, this again is a good idea to take advantage of all of the spare time and attract customers to return now that restrictions have eased. From remarkable interior transformations to fresh gardens and landscaping for perfect outdoor hosting are just some of the redecorating jobs we have seen. If you are a restaurant owner in the Victoria area then finding a landscaper in Victoria BC, should be very easy with a variety of reputable companies in the vicinity, who will be able to work wonders on your outdoor spaces.

Is it safe to go out again?

For those of you that are worried about going out again after so long away from other people, you should try and avoid stressing about it. As long as you are following vaccination and testing advice, isolating when you are told to do so, and wearing your mask you should be absolutely fine to treat yourself to a night off and have a nice meal with the family. With some of the discounts and special offers that you can get right now, it would be a real shame to miss out.

Trying New Foods

While many of us have been trying to cook new and interesting things during the lockdown, it is safe to say that some of the experiments may not have been successful. This new freedom to get out for a few hours in the evening again is also the perfect opportunity to try a new food that you may not have ever had before, which will also make it a nice and memorable experience amongst some of the more stressful memories of the year.

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May 24, 2021

6 Easy Meals that both You and your Dog can Eat

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As a dog owner, you may want to think about making them their own fresh and natural meals to give them a break from eating the pre-packaged food that could include artificial colors or flavorings which could affect your dog’s health in a very negative way. It is not very often heard of for an owner to make a habit of cooking their dog fresh and organic meals but if you really do consider them a part of the family then you should be making an effort to treat them every once in a while.

 

Chicken and Carrots

Although this is one of the more basic meals on this list, chicken and carrots are a great meal that can be enjoyed by both humans and dogs safely. Carrots are a great source of vitamins for humans and chewing on a carrot is very safe for dogs and can actually help maintain the health of their teeth by removing plaque. It should be noted that too much vitamin c can be toxic so you shouldn’t make this meal a regular thing and instead use it as a special weekly treat.

 

 

White Rice

As is the case for humans, rice is a very versatile ingredient that can be used as a base for a variety of dishes, if you are looking for a meal that both you and your dog can eat then white rice mixed with a protein and some vegetables would be a good and healthy choice for both humans and dogs. If your dog has an upset stomach, plain white rice is a great meal choice as it is easy to digest and can help to settle their stomach in a very gentle way and without the need for further treatment.

 

Chicken Stuffed With Cheese

I think it is safe to say that both dogs and humans alike have a huge enjoyment for dairy products, dogs love to eat creamy dairy products but as it can have a negative effect on their health it is only safe to be consumed in small quantities. If you want to give your dog a treat for the week then simply stuff a chicken breast with a cheese of your choice and bake for about twenty-five minutes, as a treat this meal is absolutely safe for your dog and they will love you so much for it makes it all worth it in my eyes.

 

Fruit and Vegetables

If you find that you and your dog could do with losing a few pounds then it may be a good idea to think about implementing more natural fruits and veg into your diet plan to help maintain both your own and your dog’s health. Things like blueberries, carrots, cucumber, and apples are a great source of nutrition and as a low-calorie snack or combined together to make a delicious meal you should definitely see an improvement if you stick with a more natural meal plan.

 

Peanut Butter Snacks

You may be shocked to know that dogs are able to eat peanut butter, this has the potential to be another low-calorie snack for both humans and dogs which is actually very tasty. If you find yourself with a sweet craving you could mix up some low-fat peanut butter with your favorite fruits and maybe even some plain popcorn to add some crunch. It’s very important however that the peanut butter you choose does not include the sweetener Xylitol as this is extremely toxic to dogs, but you should be able to find an alternative very easily.

 

 

Turkey Dishes

During a special occasion when you are having a turkey dinner for Thanksgiving or Christmas then do not fear, there is no reason why your dog should be excluded from the festivities and they can enjoy some plain unseasoned turkey. Turkey is a great source of protein for dogs which is why it can be found on so many commercial dog food brands. When you are celebrating a joyous occasion like Christmas you want your pets to feel happy and involved so do not hesitate from putting a little bit of turkey done for them to enjoy.

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February 16, 2021

10 Fantastic and Healthy Meals that can be Prepared in a Microwave

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If you’re wanting to make the most out of your very important time, or if you’re simply a student hoping to get by on your very limited appliances and probably, let’s be honest here, budgets, then an absolute must-have is a microwave. Microwaves have the unbelievably handy ability to make any meal quick and easy and can help you stay on budget as you’re able to cook healthier portions. The wonderful thing about it too is that there are so many things you may not realize can be cooked in the microwave.

 

These meals are all delicious but to get the best results, you need to make sure your microwave is of a good enough quality, if you aren’t sure, why not check out https://mikrowellen-tester.de/beste-mikrowelle-test to see how your microwave pairs up and if not, find a decent replacement. So, if you’re wanting to save yourself some time and also learn how to make some meals that are actually quite good for you, here’s a great list for you.

Omelet

The first, and arguably the easiest meal to make in the microwave is an omelet. All you need is a mug, some eggs, and whatever your preferred filling may be. A quick stir and a few minutes in the microwave and you’ve got a delicious, quick, and (depending on your chosen filling) nutritious meal.

Mac & Cheese

The next dish it may be worth trying out in the microwave is some good old-fashioned mac and cheese. All you need is some elbow pasta, a bit of water, and a few minutes to cook the pasta initially, before adding a splash of milk and your chosen selection of cheeses for a tasty, quick, and cheesy dish.

Quesadilla

The next item may be something you may not have realized could be done in the microwave, but an absolute must-try is a microwave quesadilla. The only real thing you need to switch is you need to use already cooked chicken to make the quesadillas. Combine the ingredients in a bowl with some taco/fajita seasoning, heat up your tortillas, and get your cheese and it’s muy bien.

Nachos

Hear me out, nachos may not sound like the healthiest dish but everyone deserves a treat now and then. If you’re wanting to make them a little healthier then you can switch to some lower fat cheese or maybe add some jalapenos. Also, why not try using some carne asada instead of salsa. Just experiment and you might just find your new favorite quick and easy cheat dish.

Salmon

This dish is an absolute health staple. Fish is a great thing to add to your diet in order to contribute to healthier brain functionality. Not only that, but salmon is also chock-full of lots of healthy fats, amino acids, and a bunch of other benefits to keep you in tip-top shape. Pair it with your favorite vegetables and you’ll be feeling your best in no time.

Fried Rice

Next on the list is a personal favorite of mine and it’s surprisingly easy to make. When you see some delicious-looking photos of fried rice, it may seem like an impossible task to make it yourself, especially in a microwave. But that isn’t the case at all, all you really need is some microwave rice, some vegetables, soy sauce, egg, and your choice of protein. Toss them in the mic, give them a quick stir and you’ve got yourself a delicious and hearty meal you can make in under 10 minutes.

Spaghetti & Meatballs

An unknown time-saving tip, you can actually make spaghetti and meatballs in half the time by just preparing the ingredients in the microwave. All you need to do is add the spaghetti and some water into a bowl, cook it for about five minutes or until soft, and then drain it. Heat up your meatballs and sauce in the microwave, combine and add any garnishes you may be thinking of and there you go.

Pita Pizza

Perhaps another unexpected contender, it is actually possible to make yourself a quick pizza in the microwave. All you need to do is add some marinara (or whatever else you fancy) onto the pita and add your It may not be the most structurally sound pizza, it may land a little on the floppy side, but that won’t make it any less delicious.

Loaded Potato

If you’re looking for something heartier during the cold winter months, it’s impossible to go wrong with a loaded potato. The possibilities are endless and you can be as healthy or as unhealthy as you so desire. Whether you go for the classic beans and cheese or if you’re wanting to try your hand at something more out there, there is something that is sure to tickle your fancy. Why not mix and match proteins with different cheeses. I’m sure there’s a way to tackle a good few of the main food groups in one super healthy dish.

Green Bean Casserole

Last, but certainly not least. I’ll bet you never thought you could make a casserole in the microwave, but well, you learn something new every day. Maybe more unconventional, but certainly, as has been the trend for the rest of the meals, still delicious and much, much quicker. So forget everything you heard from your mama, all you need are some green beans, fried onion, and some cream of mushroom soup and you’ve got yourself a tasty and hearty dish suitable for any family dinner.

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July 30, 2020

These World Renowned Chefs Reveal Their Secrets For Creating The Perfect Menu

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Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or struggling to put together the right menu for your business deciding on what food you are going to serve can be a monumental task. There are lots of factors to consider such as food allergies and any other food preferences your guests may have. It is vital you offer options for people who may be vegetarian or vegan so they feel included in your menu, if you are planning on hosting some kind of food event I would recommend you plan your menu well in advance and inform your guests of the options you have available, this allows plenty of time for your guests to decide what they want to eat and puts you in a position where you know exactly what you need to make.

 

However, a pre-planned menu is not always suitable as diners visiting a restaurant may not want to decide on what they are going to eat until they visit. This is where an innovative and well thought out menu is required to ensure every dietary requirement is met, here is some advice from a select few of the world’s most renowned chefs as well as some helpful tips on how catering companies in Brisbane select their menu.

 

Think about what you would enjoy eating

As a chef it is important that you have a level of interest and passion behind the food that you serve, this not only ensures a delicious meal is created but also reflects your flair and style of cooking to your dinner guests. The best chefs around the world are all known for a signature style of cooking and their food is instantly recognizable, it is important you find your own style in terms of flavor combinations, cooking methods and presentation as this will be the type of food you not only enjoy cooking the most but also what tastes the best.

 

Cater to every dietary requirement

It goes without saying how crucial it is you have food options for every single dietary issue there is, all it takes is for one person to come into your restaurant with a dietary requirement you haven’t properly prepared for and your professional reputation can seriously be hindered. It would be advisable to take the time and do thorough research into any food deficiency there is and come up with ways in which your menu could be adapted to suit your guest’s needs. Like any business you are going to have a huge variety of customers each in need of a different service, in this case, you need to ensure your menu has a solid meal option they can enjoy.

 

Consider the event and venue

Deciding on the perfect menu can totally depend on the event and venue your food is being served at, if the event is more social with guests standing and interacting with each other then it would be much more suitable to serve easy to eat buffet style food. If your guests want a luxury style service then a seated meal with different courses would be required, a good idea would be to meet with your customers prior to the event and discuss the kind of atmosphere their event will have. Meeting with your customers not only displays a high level of customer service but also ensures you know exactly what they want to eat and allows you to deliver the perfect menu as they have had involvement. Communication is also a key factor when it comes to finding out any potential dietary requirements and allows you to deal with them to the very best standard.

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June 23, 2020

This Australian Food Festival is Changing the Cooking World

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The Ballina food and wine festival is a unique and interesting food event displaying everything that makes great cuisine, its large following has only grown over every year the event is held. Its popularity has grown so much the festival now features two separate events in two amazing locations, held in the summer months you can expect to enjoy great food and wine under the beaming sun with like-minded food enthusiasts. The range of local produce that is available to sample and purchase is unlike any other event in the region, as well as a large array of produce native to Australia, Ballina also hosts food retailers from all over the world so there will definitely be something new for you to try.

 

Location

Set in the modern, picturesque location of the Ballina Jockey club this food festival has a much more unique atmosphere than any other event out there. There is a sense of elegance around the festival with the club hosting a whole range of other prestigious events throughout the year. With long stretches of colorful and well-maintained gardens, this event is the perfect place to find a delicious new dish to sample, pair it with a glass of accompanying wine, and just relax. Where other events can overwhelm its visitors with a busy and sometimes hectic atmosphere, Ballina takes a more relaxed approach to how it is hosted.

 

Charity Support

As well as providing amazing food and wine, the Ballina festival works with a different charity organization every year, the fact that this event works so hard to provide its loyal visitors with a great festival whilst helping to raise money for charity really is commendable. As previously mentioned the Ballina also hosts a second event, the after-hours gala is hosted in order to show off a classier dining experience with live music and entertainment. As if the main festival wasn’t enough the dinner attracts an elegant clientele, with extra charity shows and a raffle with some pretty juicy prizes on offer, a large portion of the profits that are made also go towards charity.

 

Produce

The main focus of any food festival would have to be the food they offer, at Ballina there is no shortage of world cuisines for you to try. Below are just some of the types of food that are offered at this amazing event.

 

  • Mexican street food
  • Indian cuisine
  • Local Australian produce
  • Flavored Cheeses
  • Customizable Chinese noodle boxes
  • Shawarma
  • Artisan baked goods
  • Deli counter
  • Organic fruit and veg

 

That is just the tip of the iceberg and the best thing is they all offer a diverse range of foods at very reasonable prices, Ballina is very supportive of its local Australian businesses and has been inviting smaller retailers and Australian Catering Services to come and display what great dishes they have come up with.

 

If you are someone who enjoys good food and good wine then the Ballina festival is the one for you, not only will you find a range of delicious foods but you will be morally satisfied through the fact that the event is supporting local businesses whilst helping those in need through its charity work. The food festival is really paving the way to helping smaller food retailers in getting a solid footing on the market.

 

The food industry can be very competitive and getting a strong reputation can take a lot of time, by providing opportunities to smaller businesses Ballina is contributing to the success of small businesses around the globe and paving the way for the mainstream names in the future of the food industry. The cooking world is constantly changing, from trends in what food is popular and the innovative methods in how different meals are created, Ballina food and wine showcase it all and more!

 

If you find yourself lucky enough to attend this prestigious event then really relish in the opportunity to try some new cuisines, you may not find some of the produce anywhere else so take advantage of the opportunity to try something new, support small businesses and contribute to a very noble cause.

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April 29, 2020

The Absolute Beginners Guide to Fishing

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Fishing is quickly rising to be a popular sport among people once again due to its relaxing yet competitive nature. But it’s not as easy as just casting a line into a body of water and hoping for the best, fishing requires the right equipment and knowledge, as well as a lot of patience. Here are some handy tips on how to successfully fish for absolute beginners.

License

If you’re really serious about starting your fishing hobby then it is important that you get a license. Not many people know that in many towns it’s actually illegal to fish without a license, this law is put in place in order to conserve local wildlife. It also means that people can’t just begin fishing whenever and wherever they please. You can get a licence online for a very reasonable price.

Equipment

Arguably the most important tool of a successful fishing trip is using the correct equipment. If you are just starting out and a little hesitant on whether or not you should sink a lot of money into something you may not enjoy, there are many options out there. For example, if you decide to take a class or instructional course, they will provide you with all of the right equipment- meaning that you don’t have to spend your own money. If you decide that you enjoy fishing but are a little hesitant of spending so much money on gear, there is always the option to buy it second hand. You can easily find second-hand gear on local selling sites, but it’s important to request to see the gear before purchasing it as you want to make sure that it is good quality and not damaged at all. Your goal should be to find a rod with a spinning wheel as your main tool, this will probably be your most expensive initial item but it’s important that you invest in a quality rod as a good rod will last you a long time. If you get a combination rod, it’ll be easier to set up and use as you only really have to focus on the reel. Basic things like fishing rope and hooks are easy to acquire for a small price, you can get them online or at any local fishing store. If you want to make the fishing experience slightly easier for yourself it would be recommended to get some bobbers as these will help tell you whether or not a fish has hooked on to your line.

Comfort

When it comes to fishing you’re going to be sitting out for many hours on potentially freezing days and so making sure you’re comfortable is something you should prioritise. Invest in some thick jackets, socks and boots as that will make sitting out for hours far more bearable. It wouldn’t hurt investing in a fishing chair either as you don’t want to be sat upon the cold floor for hours. Don’t skimp out when it comes to this as this is something you’ll use for a long time and will make fishing more enjoyable. There’s also no harm in getting a small pop up fishing tent to protect yourself from any cold breeze or rain. Once again, this is quite an inexpensive purchase and will not break your bank, but will make fishing feel more comfortable. Make sure you have the basics too, like a hat and scarf. Many people forget about the importance of basic warmth, especially when you’re so close to sea breezes, this will make it easier to stay out for longer.

Picking the right spots

Unfortunately, you can’t just start fishing in whatever body of water you fancy. There are a number of things to consider before you set up your fishing station. For example, check if the water is privately owned. Most privately owned lakes do not permit you to fish in them for the safety of its ecosystem. This can be easily checked online. Also check if whatever body of water you choose actually had fish in it as surprisingly, a lot of manmade water sources don’t have any fish in them at all so you would be completely wasting your time. Look at local fishing forums to really find out the most popular fishing areas near you. This is also a good opportunity to find some fishing groups to share your picks and find out where the most densely populated areas to fish in are. If you are allowed to fish in some areas, check any rules that they may have as surprisingly most fishing areas don’t let you take the fish home with you after catching them whereas some may.

Get to know your fish

Not every fish is the same so you should really get to know what fish are in your area and what are the best ways to catch these fish. If you are looking for advice on how to catch these fish then you should visit the pursuingoutdoors site as they give you lots of useful information on how to attract individual fish. You should look at investing in a variety of bait to attract a number of fish, bait can easily be acquired at local fishing shops as well as local pet shops as key baits like mealworms are actually very popular reptile foods. All this information can also be found in fishing books.

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