Thursday, September 30, 2010

Fleur Irisée's Tweets (September 2010)

 
twitter.com/Fleur_Irisee
September 2010
Tweets on Twitter by Fleur Irisée

YTD Tweets: September 2009
Posted by Kristin Kim at 11:56 PM 0 comments
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Cigar Masters Bar Review

Cigar Masters

My Opinions:  I enjoyed some beer and a fresh Ashton tonight in the back room. They finally got some more comfortable chairs for the two-top tables lining the wall - cheers!

It's always a fun time here. They have a decent wine/beer list,  there's good conversation, a handsome crowd, and friendly cocktail waitresses. The humidor sells a nice variety of smoke accessories, cigars and cigarettes (they even sell Nat Sherman cigarettes - my favorite).

I like this lounge since smoking indoors is tough to come by nowadays. The bar scene is always fun and social. Since they only serve wine and beer, the locker storage VIP option is fantastic, so you can have your own personal products on hand.

To note: The management and staff are very easy to work with for special events!

Most Recent Visit: 9/29/2010
Amount Visited: 75+
Experiences: Bar

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 745 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116 (multiple locations)
Website: http://www.cigarmasters.com  Phone: (617) 266-4400
Social Networking:  Twitter @Cigar_Masters  -  Facebook /Cigar Masters Boston

Previous Posts: August 2010  -  June 2010  -  February 2010  -  January 2010
Posted by Kristin Kim at 9:40 AM 0 comments
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Back Bay Social Club Bar Review

Back Bay Social Club
My Opinions:  I should admit, the first time I stopped by I walked in and walked out immediately because it was so dark and quite inside; it just didn't feel comfortable or fun. (RIP Vinny T's) This time, however, I stayed and had a nice time. The upstairs lights were at a better level and the crowd was upbeat, which makes all the difference for this space. The downstairs bar is nice as well, but much more low-keyed ... a good option for drinks and conversation, but not good for meeting new people. 

This evening I just came to have a drink with friends, but the menu does look enticing, especially the butcher's plate and toffee pudding, yum! I will get around to dining here, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it will be good.  p.s. I am still curious what inspired the design of their lit sign ... things that make you go hmmm??

Most Recent Visit: 9/29/2010
Amount Visited: 2
Experiences: Bar

Patronage Inclination: Fleeting

Address: 867 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116
Website: www.backbaysocialclub.com  Phone: (617) 247-3200
Social Networking: Twitter @BackBaySocial  –  Facebook /BackBaySocialClub
Posted by Kristin Kim at 9:01 AM 0 comments
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Sunday, September 26, 2010

The Coffee Table Cafe Review

The Coffee Table Cafe
My Opinions: This is such a fantastic addition to Hy-Line Landing, and it's kid-friendly! Although it's not a very big place, it has everything you may want for a delicious and healthy bite, and it comes with great service and a smile. 

I love that their sandwiches are made with Boars Head meats & cheeses that contain no fillers, gluten, artificial colors, flavors or trans fat. I wish more places at least offered this option on their deli menu. There are always a nice sample of bakery goods, like cakes, brownies and cookies, to pick out on a whim. If you come for breakfast, don't miss their freshly baked bagels.

The coffee bar here is delightful too ... their mocha latte is made with real chocolate (that's why it's one of my favorites). A must-visit place in Hyannis.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Coffee Bar - Yogurt Parait w/Granola - The Mayflower Sandwich - Prudence Sandwich - Bakery Goods

Most Recent Visit: 9/26/2010
Amount Visited: 5+
Experiences: Lunch

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Address: 230A Ocean Street, Hyannis, MA 02601
Website: www.thecoffeetablecafe.biz  Phone: (508) 771-0080
Social Networking:  Facebook /Coffee Table
Posted by Kristin Kim at 5:22 PM 0 comments
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Saturday, September 25, 2010

Puff the Magic Bar Review

Puff the Magic
My Opinions: I adore this establishment and its owners ... David has always been working when I go in, and he makes you feel welcomed. The walk-in humidor has a great selection of cigars, loose tobacco and cigarettes. They don't serve food, but they do host a full bar that includes  (but not limited to) wine, tequila, and cognac.

The atmosphere is friendly with piano music, comfy seating, and games to play while you can unhurriedly enjoy your drink/smoke - there's even a front porch to sit on in the nice weather. When you visit, don't forget to look up and appreciate the unique ceiling that makes you wish you could lie down on it!

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Most Recent Visit: 9/25/2010
Amount Visited: 30+
Experiences: Humidor, Bar

Address: 649 Main Street, Hyannis, MA 02601
Website: http://www.puffthemagic.com  Phone: (508) 771-9090
Social Networking:  Facebook /Puff the Magic Cigar Lounge

Previous Posts: August 2009
Posted by Kristin Kim at 11:59 PM 0 comments
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Roadhouse Cafe Restaurant & Bar Review

Roadhouse Cafe
My Opinions: This is a classic place, and one of the best restaurants in Hyannis. I sat at the bar for dinner tonight, and got to meet a real nice bartender, Linda.  The service was great, and the food was fresh. To top it off, they had a nice wine list with a lot of by-the-glass options.

The live music here is a wonderful touch. They have a piano bar that you can sit at while enjoying the music. Also, the owner's father plays in a Jazz group on Monday nights. I hope to come by some time to hear him play.

To note: They have a secure parking lot with a complimentary valet. I am looking forward to coming back here and perhaps also visiting their other two restaurants, Colombo's and The Black Cat, which I haven't been to in a while.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Parma Prosciutto and Parmesan Cheese - Pan Seared Crab Cakes - Shrimp Cocktail - Vine Ripe Tomatoes and Buffalo Mozzarella - Roasted Beet Salad - Filet Mignon - Broiled Scrod - Steak Au Poivre - Braised Short Ribs - Roadhouse Cake a la mode

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Most Recent Visit: 9/25/2010
Amount Visited: 25+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 488 South Street, Hyannis, MA 02601
Website: www.roadhousecafe.com  Phone: (508) 775-2386
Social Networking:
Posted by Kristin Kim at 11:58 PM 0 comments
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Friday, September 24, 2010

Seaside Pub On Main Restaurant Review

Seaside Pub On Main
My Opinions:  This was my first time coming here, and I really liked this spot. What really won me over, it is the only place around that served food past 10pm!  Even though it was primarily a drinking crowd at the time I went in, the service was still friendly and attentive, and the pub-fare was really good!

From what I observed, the bar was great fun with a local older crowd. It was nice that Seaside Pub offered some entertainment like a communal wii game and dart boards (and I love darts!).  I can't wait to come back here for lunch or when I'm in the mood for a low-keyed night.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Apple Salad - Artichoke & Cheese Fondue - BLT - Sweet Potato Fries

Most Recent Visit: 9/24/2010
Amount Visited: 1
Experiences: Dinner

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 615 Main Street, Hyannis, MA 02601
Website: www.seasidepub.com  Phone: (508) 815-4517
Social Networking:  Facebook /Seaside Pub on Main
Posted by Kristin Kim at 11:48 PM 0 comments
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Stanza dei Sigari Bar Review

Stanza dei Sigari - Cigar Bar Review
My Opinions: They have an early last call for drinks, but it's still one of my favorite places to go to before I head home. Stanza has a full bar with hard liquor (something Cigar Masters on Boylston Street doesn't offer). It is underground, so it's dark and private without windows ... they still do a fairly good job of keeping the room ventilated.

There is a small humidor with a decent selection of Ashtons, Davidoffs (my favorite), and more ... I had my first Zino Platinum cigar there (delicious!) - Something special: They offer Hookas which make it fun for groups.

This is a well-managed establishment with a great group of bartenders. If you get hungry, it's a short walk upstairs to get something at Caffe Vitorria!

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 9/23/2010
Amount Visited: 60+
Experiences: Bar

Address: 292 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113
Website: www.stanzadeisigari.com  Phone: (617) 227-0295
Social Networking:  Facebook /Stanza Dei Sigari

Previous Posts:  April 2010
Posted by Kristin Kim at 1:53 PM 0 comments
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Florentine Cafe Restaurant & Bar Review

Florentine Cafe
My Opinions: I came here just after dinner and drinks at Tresca, and it was definitely the right choice. The bartenders were energetic and the crowd was wicked fun (per usual!). I haven't always had the best table service here, but the bar service is always spot-on.

Not to age myself, but I've been enjoying this restaurant since before they started accepting credit cards - I love its traditional North End feel, and, in the summer, they open up their windows to enjoy the energy off of Hanover Street.

The food is delicious, so don't miss this neighborhood gem.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Calamari - Caprese – Prosciutto E Pear – Arugula – Sicilian Eggplant Parmesan – Pollo and Veal Parmigiana – Tagliatelle al la Bolognese - Veal Marsala

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 9/23/2010
Amount Visited: 40+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 333 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113
Website: http://www.florentinecafeboston.com  Phone: (617) 227-1777
Social Networking:

Previous Posts:  August 2009
Posted by Kristin Kim at 1:40 PM 0 comments
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Tresca Restaurant & Bar Review

Tresca
My Opinions:  The food and service here is very good - the atmosphere is great (warm and intimate). The clientele is friendly and well-traveled.

I sat at the bar  this time and found the bartenders to be very easy going and great mixologists. This scene can be quite fun and the entire place gets very busy especially on the weekends and during the summer season. For a sit-down meal (try the veal!), I like to sit upstairs. Be sure to make reservations for dinner so you won't have to wait for a table.

They offer valet, thank goodness! ... such an important option when dining in the North End!

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Caesar con Tartufi - Tresca Misti - Pollo Romano - Osso Bucco - Risotto Milanese - Tagliatelle Bolognese - Creste di Gallo con Porcini - Tiramisu - North End Classic

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Most Recent Visit: 9/23/2010
Amount Visited:  25+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Address: 233 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113
Website: http://www.trescanorthend.com  Phone: (617) 742-8240
Social Networking:  Twitter @TrescaNorthEnd  -  Facebook /Tresca

Previous Posts:  January 2010
Posted by Kristin Kim at 1:23 PM 0 comments
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Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Gingerbread Construction Company Review

Gingerbread Construction Company

My Opinions: I remember when this family owned business opened in my quite hometown of Winchester. The space was known for it's rotation of businesses, and after I had a taste of the goods, I hoped that this is what we needed to "reverse the curse" ... and it was!

Yes, they have fantastic gingerbread houses and cookies to justify the company name, but they bake so much more. I am in love with their muffins. They are large, always fresh, super flavorful and moist, and come in a wide variety of flavors. These muffins are a sure-hit if you're tasked with bringing desert for a party or treats for the office. The pre-made and build-your-own gingerbread houses are great fun as well.

For convenience, you can even place orders online. I can't wait for my next muffin-run!

My top favorite muffins here: Chocolate Chip - Gingerbread - Blueberry - Coffee Cake - Lemon Poppy Seed

Patronage Inclination: Frequent

Most Recent Visit: 9/22/2010
Amount Visited: 100+

Address: 562 Washington Street, Winchester, MA 01890 (multiple locations)
Website: www.gingerbreadusa.com  Phone: (781) 729-7700
Social Networking:  Facebook /Gingerbread Construction Company
Posted by Kristin Kim at 11:57 PM 0 comments
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The Gallows Restaurant & Bar Review

The Gallows
My Opinions: Welcome to the South End, The Gallows! (RIP Sage)

They did a great job with the interior. It's now brighter and more welcoming with fair wood that has light peaking through, a more communal dining room layout, and a wrap around seating section at the bar that fits the space better. I like that they have an ever-changing drink and dinner menu ... and I want to celebrate this new local spot, but ...

The unfortunate news - I won't come back here to eat on my own volition. To be fair, I have only eaten here once, but I did go all out and try a large amount (what I remember is listed below). I did like the novelty of trying the Scotch Egg, but as a whole I did not enjoy the food here.

The upside - the mixologist here is fantastic and I will be coming back here to drink! I like that they are on-point with seasonal cocktails, and I really wish they could make the "Skin & Bones" drink available year round (salted watermellon is so addictive!).

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Scotch Egg - Ploughman Board - Iceberg Wedge - Cheese Ball - Carmel Popcorn with Bacon - Desert Special

Most Recent Visit: 9/21/2010
Amount Visited: 5+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Patronage Inclination: Fleeting

Address: 1395 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02118
Website: www.thegallowsboston.com  Phone: (617) 425-0200
Social Networking: Twitter @SEgallows  –  Facebook /The Gallows
Posted by Kristin Kim at 9:14 AM 0 comments
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Sunday, September 19, 2010

Kayuga Restaurant Review

Kayuga
My Opinions: I was a bit skeptical of this location, but I was plesantly surprised with the menu, cleanliness and food. I didn't try the sushi even though I have heard good things about it, but I did get a plate of my favorite Korean meat (bulgogi) and it was very good. I didn't like the Gyoza, but everything else (even the salad) was tasty.

Kayuga offers a variety of Japanese and Korean cuisine. I will definitely give this place another try to experience more of the menu.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Edamame - Pork Gyoza - Garden Salad - Bulgogi - Seamed Rice

Most Recent Visit: 9/19/2010
Amount Visited: 1
Experiences: Dinner

Patronage Inclination: Fleeting

Address: 1030 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Website: www.kayuga.com  Phone: (617) 566-8888
Social Networking:  Facebook /Kayuga
Posted by Kristin Kim at 9:38 PM 0 comments
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Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Via Matta Restaurant & Bar Review

Via Matta
My Opinions: I had an opportunity to come by for lunch today after my Exhale Spa visit and, dare I say, I had my first bad meal here ... what?! I was so confused, because I have never had a bad meal here. I hope this was a once-in-a-dining-season experience.

I did come in at an off hour, but the place was completely empty. They finally hired a new manager, and word is that he is not respecting previous contracts signed with strategic alliance ... the Phoenix/S@N specifically. Hmmm, as a professional business development consultant, I don't recommend burning bridges during this economy. Who would ever want to partner with this place after that??

Aside from this experience, Via Matta has had consistently good food, service, ambiance and cleanliness - The food is fresh and very tasty with some unique flavors, but nothing too over-the-top. The bar is very nice, but isn't consistently busy, and lately has been bare. They offer a smaller function room at the front-left of the restaurant that has large windows and its own bar which is a nice touch for private parties/events.

I'm a big fan of Radius, a member of Michael Schlow's restaurant family. I think I'll be opting to eat here first from now on.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Truffled Mushroom Salad - Burrata – Insalata Mista – Crunchy Eggplant – Panini – Prosciutto Cotto – Duck Tortelli – Pappardelle – Veal with Lentils – Beef Sirloin – Tagliatelle alla Bolognese - Brussels Sprouts – Apple Crostata – Cannoli - Panna Cotta w/strawberries and pistachio

Patronage Inclination: Occasion / Fleeting

Most Recent Visit: 9/15/2010
Amount Visited: 100+
Experiences: Lunch, Dinner, Bar

Address: 79 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116
Website: http://www.viamattarestaurant.com  Phone: (617) 422-0008
Social Networking:  Twitter @ViaRadius  -  Facebook /Via Matta

Older Posts:  April 2010  -  March 2010
Posted by Kristin Kim at 11:29 PM 0 comments
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Exhale Spa (Boston) Review

EXHALE SPA


My Opinions:  In my last entry, I claimed that Exhale "is now officially my new favorite spa in the city!", and my affection grows for it after today's lash application here. I was certainly nervous to switch from LuxLash lashes to another, less known, lash application, but I needed a switch. The pleasant surprise was that my lashes looked fuller than they ever got from LuxLash!

To be fair, if you're looking for a wide variety of lash types and add-on products, then this place is not the right fit for you. If you're looking for quality and luxurious surroundings, then opt for Exhale. Also, they can accept American Express cards and their lash fills are significantly cheaper than what's charged at LuxLash.

On a whole, the spa's layout is spacious and the service list is rich with the basic services, yoga classes, and more exclusive treatments like acupuncture, lash extensions, herbal cleansing, and more.

Experiences: Lash Application, Deep Tissue Massage, Body Glow, Yoga

Address:  28 Arlington Street, Boston, MA 02116 (multiple locations)
Website: www.exhalespa.com  Phone: (617) 532-7000
Social Networking: Twitter @ExhaleBoston  –  Facebook /ExhaleSpa

Previous Posts:  August 2010
Posted by Kristin Kim at 11:17 PM 0 comments
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Tuesday, September 14, 2010

My Fashion Juice (September 2010)


I am in no way a fashion expert, but I do appreciate designers that make me salivate when I hear their name and see their designs. I love the styles that can be worn (and afforded) by the classy, self-assured, every-day woman.

We all know that labels have their ups and downs, but for now, this is currently what I'm drinking to:

Trends: Leather, Nudes, Fur (or faux fur if so inclined), all that Glitters
Shoes/Boots: LAMB, Boutique 9, Louboutin, Ralph Lauren, Yves Saint Laurent
          xoxo: Natalia Shearling Bootie, Clarie Calfskin Lace-Up Boot, Namara Haircalf & Leather Boot
Jackets: Burberry, Derek Lam, Gucci, Mackage
           xoxo: Gucci Kite Cut Overcoat, Mackage Belted Bow Coat
Dresses: Catherine Malandrino, Dior, Herve Leger, Marchesa
           xoxo: Dior Mademoiselle Wool Knit Dress
Tops/Sweaters: Akris, Burberry, Eileen Fisher, Lafayette 148 New York
Eyewear: Tiffany & Co.
Baubles: ABS by Allen Schwartz Jewelry, Adriana Orsini, M.C.L by Matthew Campbell Laurenza, Pomellato, Roberto Coin, Stephen Webster

... and to top off my wardrobe, here is what's literally wetting my whistle:
Caffeine: Soy latte with an extra shot of espresso
Cocktails: Patron or Belvedere with a burnt orange peel and a splash of St. Germain elderflower liqueur
Bubblies: Perrier-Jouet Fleur de Champagne

I am looking forward to getting Alice + Olivia, Black Halo, Nanette Lepore, Pink Tartan, and Stuart Weitzman back on the list!

Posted by Kristin Kim at 6:14 PM 0 comments
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Friday, September 10, 2010

Towne Restaurant & Bar Review

Towne Stove and Spirits
My Opinions:  I had dinner at the bar here tonight because it was so busy!  The bartenders are great, and I had great service.  The beef short ribs weren't very good this evening, but the last time I had them they were great, so I'm hoping it was just a fluke.

The crowd is still hopping for after-work drinks, dinner and socializing ... so come get your flirt on! You'll find people here that also frequent Abe & Louie's and Sonsie.

They've opened for lunch, but I haven't yet stopped by for a taste. As far as the food goes, I've tried quite a bit of the menu and still haven't been wowed by anything yet. The bacon sandwich with mayo & brioche was buttery and good, but you can't eat that all the time if you want to still fit into your clothes - the salmon and foie gras is not my favorite. Their deserts could still use some work. If the food doesn't better,  I'll definitely still come here just to drink.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Iceberg/baby - Tuna Belly - Tartare - Crostini's - Lobster Popovers - Ravioli - Duck Crisp - Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza - Bacon Sandwich - Lobster & Corn w/Honeyed Ricotta Pizza - Foie Gras - Beet Carpaccio - Salmon - Peking Chicken - Beef Short Ribs Crisp Tender - Pavlova - Warm Dark Chocolate w/Cherry Gelato - Toasted Hazelnut - Baja Breeze - Frozen Vanilla Mosaic - Chocolate Pudding - Sorbet

Most Recent Visit:  9/09/2010
Amount Visited: 15+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Patronage Inclination: Occasion

Address: 900 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215
Website: www.towneboston.com  Phone: (617) 247-0400
Social Networking: Facebook /Towne Stove and Spirits

Older Posts: August 2010
Posted by Kristin Kim at 9:58 AM 0 comments
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Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Bistro du Midi Restaurant & Bar Review

Bistro du Midi
My Opinions: I just went to the 1st floor bar this evening and had a nice time, and the bartender was friendly, but I was not thrilled with the bar stock.  Their infused spirits flavors were off, even the bartender agreed, and then they were out of Patron, so I went for an old-school classic (Cape Codder) ... at least they had Kettle One in. <shrug>

So, once the street windows close up, I'll only be coming here for dinner upstairs. There are plenty of places around to get a good drink like the Bristol Lounge, W Lounge, Jer Ne, Via Matta, and thensome.

Some Food/Drink Tasted: Barbajans, Parmesan & Black Olive Shortbreads – Fried Artichokes with Aïoli – Chestnut Soup – Marinated Beet Salad – Filet of Beef – Classic Provençal Beef Daube - Trio of Sorbets - Grand Marnier Soufflé - Chocolate Soufflé - Anis Pot de Crème - Warm Chocolate Fondant w/ Nougat Ice Cream - Eggplant & Olive Dip with Crostini - Croque Monsieur - Roasted Chicken Breast with Polenta - Chocolate and Pistachio Tart

Most Recent Visit: 9/7/2010
Amount Visited: 40+
Experiences: Dinner, Bar

Patronage Inclination:  Occasion

Address: 272 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116
Website: http://www.bistrodumidi.com  Phone: (617) 426-7878
Social Networking: Facebook /Bistro du Midi 

Previous Posts:  June 2010 - May 2010 - March 2010 - January 2010
Posted by Kristin Kim at 11:58 PM 0 comments
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Wednesday, September 1, 2010

National Food Holidays (September)

SEPTEMBER
NATIONAL FOOD HOLIDAYS
Here are some national food holidays that you can celebrate which ever way you see fit. Pick you favorites and put them on your calendar to enjoy! If you are truly passionate about a food that doesn't yet have its day, our President has the authority to grant them, so get a petition introduced by a constituent, trade association or public relations firms and keep your utensils ready.
  • September 1: National Cherry Popover Day
  • September 2: National Blueberry Popsicle Day
  • September 3: National Welsh Rarebit Day
  • September 4: National Macadamia Nut Day
  • September 5: National Cheese Pizza Day
  • September 6: National Coffee Ice Cream Day
  • September 7: National Acorn Squash Day
  • September 8: National Date Nut Bread Day
  • September 11: National Hot Cross Bun Day
  • September 12: National Chocolate Milkshake Day
  • September 13: National Peanut Day
  • September 14: National Cream Filled Donut Day
  • September 15: National Linguine Day
  • September 16: National Guacamole Day
  • September 17: National Apple Dumpling Day
  • September 18: National Cheeseburger Day (FAVORITE!)
  • September 19: National Butterscotch Pudding Day (FAVORITE!)
  • September 20: National Rum Punch Day
  • September 21: National Pecan Cookie Day
  • September 22: National Ice Cream Cone Day
  • September 23: National White Chocolate Day
  • September 24: National Cherries Jubilee Day
  • September 26: National Pancake Day
  • September 27: National Chocolate Milk Day
  • September 27: National Corned Beef Hash Day
  • September 29: National Coffee Day (FAVORITE!)
  • September 30: National Hot Mulled Cider Day

    Posted by Kristin Kim at 6:00 AM 0 comments
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