Latest news with #Vidalia
Eater
22-05-2025
- Eater
The 9 Best Restaurants in Port Aransas, Texas
View as Map Though often overshadowed by more well-known Texas beach towns like Padre Island and Galveston, Port Aransas charms visitors with its tight-knit community and slower pace. Visitors and locals alike can take advantage of the Texas fishing capital's top-notch inshore and deep-sea fishing, its sandy beaches perfect for building sandcastles, and its warm Gulf waters ideal for swimming. Located on Mustang Island, Port Aransas offers six miles of beach within 12 square miles and is home to just over 3,000 residents. That small-town vibe only enhances the vacation experience. Instead of numerous fast food chains, diners will find an abundance of locally owned restaurants, bars, and coffee shops serving everything from fresh seafood to frozen cocktails. Things move a little slower here, so relax, take your time, and dig in. Here's where to eat and drink across Port A. Looking for some other Texas cities to travel to this summer? Check out Eater's maps for dining in Kemah and Seabrook, Galveston, Sugar Land, Fredericksburg, and Hill Country. Check out our guide on San Leon. For all the latest Houston dining intel, subscribe to Eater Houston's newsletter. Read More It's easy to work up an appetite after a day at the beach, and Butter Churn's all-you-can-eat buffet is more than satisfying. Even the pickiest of eaters can find something to enjoy among the many buffet stations, with options ranging from layered of lasagna, crispy chicken-fried steak, and golden-fried catfish. Don't skip the buttery, soft dinner rolls or the multiple options of cobbler waiting to be paired with a scoop of ice cream. Tortuga's Saltwater Grill This surf and turf destination delivers elevated fare in an approachable, kid-friendly, and dog-friendly atmosphere (there's a covered porch for those with pups). Order the seafood tower stacked with fresh sashimi or dig into boudin balls made with Cajun sausage and rice before proceeding to indulgent plates like crab-crusted fish of the day served over seasonal risotto. Swing by for Sunday brunch to enjoy French toast and carafes of mimosas mixed with your choice of orange, cranberry, pineapple, or ruby red grapefruit juice. Why go to a restaurant when the restaurant can come to you? Rollin' Tide Boil Co. brings the full shrimp boil experience to your location, whether the beach or your backyard. The three-hour dinner includes a bonfire, Adirondack chairs, and a spread of jumbo Gulf shrimp, corn on the cob, red potatoes, smoked sausage, Vidalia onions, and a house-made Texas-Cajun boil seasoning, all prepared on-site by the crew. You can upgrade with snow crab legs or lawn games like cornhole. If the kids don't eat seafood, hot dogs are available. And to end the night, everyone gets sticky s'mores by the fire. Eat like a local at the Gaff, a pirate-themed hole-in-the-wall that's anything but a tourist trap. Open daily starting at 11 a.m., this laid-back hangout slings customizable pizzas, including gluten-free cauliflower crusts, alongside cold beer, live music, and offbeat events like sand belt races (yes, the power tools). With a friendly crowd and a come-as-you-are attitude, the Gaff is a true Port A staple. The colorful, striped exterior of Lelo's reflects the playful menu found inside. Starters like cheese curds and jalapeño cheddar bites set the tone, followed by hearty mains such as a Jack and Coke-glazed burger, a barbecue chicken bacon cheddar sandwich, and a classic patty melt. Be sure to check the specials board for off-menu surprises. Discover tiki-style sips like the Blue Hawaii, a jewel-toned blend of vodka, coconut rum, blue curaçao, sweet and sour, and pineapple juice. Or, cool down with a frozen Banana Colada, a creamy mix of Baileys, light rum, and dark cocoa liqueur. MacDaddy's Family Kitchen Diners know how tricky it is to find a fast, tasty spot that can accommodate a large group, but MacDaddy's makes it easy. The space is built for families and large parties, with oversized tables with rolls of paper towels and all the condiments you might need. You'll find family-style meat platters such as smoked pork ribs, sliced brisket, and sausage, along with entrees like grilled seafood, fried favorites, and Angus beef burgers. The signature MacDaddy Burger is a highlight, with a quarter-pound patty topped with coleslaw, sliced brisket, pepper jack cheese, fried onions, jalapeños, and housemade sauce. Sign up for our newsletter. Seafood & Spaghetti Works An island staple since 1978, this family-owned restaurant is easy to spot thanks to its blue, circular building with a wraparound porch. Inside, patrons gather under the peaked dome ceiling to dine on plates of seafood, pasta, and pizza. Kick off the meal with crab cakes before sharing the Works, a seafood feast for two with shrimp, scallops, mussels, and clams over linguine, smothered in your choice of marinara or Alfredo sauce. After being destroyed by Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Coffee Waves rebuilt its Port Aransas location. Now, it's stronger than ever and holds the title of the island's oldest coffee shop. Lines often snake out the door on weekends, but the wait is well worth it. The menu spans espresso-based drinks, 'Energy Waves' beverages, bagels with homemade cream cheese, paninis, wraps, and snacks like peanut butter protein bites. For something sweet, grab a scoop (or two) of gelato in flavors like Coke float, strawberry pineapple, or blackberry white mocha. For those needing a beach read, find a charming bookstore tucked into a corner of this spacious coffee shop. Before you head out on the fishing boat, fuel up on this casual Mexican spot's breakfast tacos filled with eggs, chicharrón, barbacoa, beans, or potatoes. If you don't manage to reel in your next meal, return to the Cancun Grill and Cantina to dig into Tex-Mex staples like tortas, quesadillas, gorditas, and sizzling fajitas. The staff is warm and welcoming, whether you're dining in or grabbing takeout to keep the adventure going. © 2025 Vox Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Link copied to the clipboard. It's easy to work up an appetite after a day at the beach, and Butter Churn's all-you-can-eat buffet is more than satisfying. Even the pickiest of eaters can find something to enjoy among the many buffet stations, with options ranging from layered of lasagna, crispy chicken-fried steak, and golden-fried catfish. Don't skip the buttery, soft dinner rolls or the multiple options of cobbler waiting to be paired with a scoop of ice cream. Open in Google Maps Foursquare This surf and turf destination delivers elevated fare in an approachable, kid-friendly, and dog-friendly atmosphere (there's a covered porch for those with pups). Order the seafood tower stacked with fresh sashimi or dig into boudin balls made with Cajun sausage and rice before proceeding to indulgent plates like crab-crusted fish of the day served over seasonal risotto. Swing by for Sunday brunch to enjoy French toast and carafes of mimosas mixed with your choice of orange, cranberry, pineapple, or ruby red grapefruit juice. Open in Google Maps Foursquare Why go to a restaurant when the restaurant can come to you? Rollin' Tide Boil Co. brings the full shrimp boil experience to your location, whether the beach or your backyard. The three-hour dinner includes a bonfire, Adirondack chairs, and a spread of jumbo Gulf shrimp, corn on the cob, red potatoes, smoked sausage, Vidalia onions, and a house-made Texas-Cajun boil seasoning, all prepared on-site by the crew. You can upgrade with snow crab legs or lawn games like cornhole. If the kids don't eat seafood, hot dogs are available. And to end the night, everyone gets sticky s'mores by the fire. Open in Google Maps Foursquare Eat like a local at the Gaff, a pirate-themed hole-in-the-wall that's anything but a tourist trap. Open daily starting at 11 a.m., this laid-back hangout slings customizable pizzas, including gluten-free cauliflower crusts, alongside cold beer, live music, and offbeat events like sand belt races (yes, the power tools). With a friendly crowd and a come-as-you-are attitude, the Gaff is a true Port A staple. Open in Google Maps Foursquare The colorful, striped exterior of Lelo's reflects the playful menu found inside. Starters like cheese curds and jalapeño cheddar bites set the tone, followed by hearty mains such as a Jack and Coke-glazed burger, a barbecue chicken bacon cheddar sandwich, and a classic patty melt. Be sure to check the specials board for off-menu surprises. Discover tiki-style sips like the Blue Hawaii, a jewel-toned blend of vodka, coconut rum, blue curaçao, sweet and sour, and pineapple juice. Or, cool down with a frozen Banana Colada, a creamy mix of Baileys, light rum, and dark cocoa liqueur. Open in Google Maps Foursquare Diners know how tricky it is to find a fast, tasty spot that can accommodate a large group, but MacDaddy's makes it easy. The space is built for families and large parties, with oversized tables with rolls of paper towels and all the condiments you might need. You'll find family-style meat platters such as smoked pork ribs, sliced brisket, and sausage, along with entrees like grilled seafood, fried favorites, and Angus beef burgers. The signature MacDaddy Burger is a highlight, with a quarter-pound patty topped with coleslaw, sliced brisket, pepper jack cheese, fried onions, jalapeños, and housemade sauce. Open in Google Maps Foursquare An island staple since 1978, this family-owned restaurant is easy to spot thanks to its blue, circular building with a wraparound porch. Inside, patrons gather under the peaked dome ceiling to dine on plates of seafood, pasta, and pizza. Kick off the meal with crab cakes before sharing the Works, a seafood feast for two with shrimp, scallops, mussels, and clams over linguine, smothered in your choice of marinara or Alfredo sauce. Open in Google Maps Foursquare After being destroyed by Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Coffee Waves rebuilt its Port Aransas location. Now, it's stronger than ever and holds the title of the island's oldest coffee shop. Lines often snake out the door on weekends, but the wait is well worth it. The menu spans espresso-based drinks, 'Energy Waves' beverages, bagels with homemade cream cheese, paninis, wraps, and snacks like peanut butter protein bites. For something sweet, grab a scoop (or two) of gelato in flavors like Coke float, strawberry pineapple, or blackberry white mocha. For those needing a beach read, find a charming bookstore tucked into a corner of this spacious coffee shop. Before you head out on the fishing boat, fuel up on this casual Mexican spot's breakfast tacos filled with eggs, chicharrón, barbacoa, beans, or potatoes. If you don't manage to reel in your next meal, return to the Cancun Grill and Cantina to dig into Tex-Mex staples like tortas, quesadillas, gorditas, and sizzling fajitas. The staff is warm and welcoming, whether you're dining in or grabbing takeout to keep the adventure going. Open in Google Maps Foursquare
Epoch Times
20-05-2025
- General
- Epoch Times
French Onion Dip
View the Sweet onions transform into something magical when caramelized—they go from sharp and pungent to sweet and savory, with a deep, jammy flavor that makes everything taste better, from smash burgers and grilled cheese to baked potatoes. This French onion dip takes all that What You'll Need To Make French Onion Dip Jennifer Segal Butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize the onions for a deep, sweet flavor. Sweet Onions: Lend a mellow, caramelized sweetness that defines the dip. Look for varieties like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui Dried Thyme: Brings an earthy, aromatic note to complement the sweetness of the onions. Cream Cheese: Provides a smooth, creamy texture, helps thicken the dip, and adds a subtle tanginess. Be sure it is softened before using (you can give it a quick blast in the microwave at 50 percent power). Sour Cream: Adds a tangy flavor and creamy consistency, balancing the richness of the onions and the mayo. Mayonnaise: Contributes to the creaminess of the dip. Always use a good-quality brand like Hellmann's or Duke's—it makes a big difference. Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a wonderful umami flavor, giving the dip a rich depth. Garlic Powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor that complements the caramelized onions. Sugar: Helps intensify the natural sweetness of the onions. Fresh Chopped Chives: An optional ingredient that adds a fresh, mild onion flavor, and color as a garnish. Potato Chips And/Or Crudités: Perfect crunchy accompaniments for dipping. Step-By-Step Instructions Over medium heat, melt the butter in a large skillet and add the onions, salt, pepper, and thyme. Jennifer Segal Cook the onions, stirring often, until they are soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes. If they begin to burn, lower the heat. Towards the end, deglaze the pan by adding one tablespoon of water at a time, using just a few tablespoons in total, to scrape up any browned bits. Transfer the onions to a plate and let them cool. Jennifer Segal In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or beaters, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and sugar. Jennifer Segal Mix until creamy and smooth. Related Stories 2/24/2025 2/3/2022 Jennifer Segal Add the cooled onions to the bowl. Jennifer Segal Mix until the onions are evenly incorporated. Jennifer Segal Serve the dip at room temperature, topped with chives, and pair it with potato chips and/or crudités. The dip can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in a covered container in the refrigerator. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Stir well and adjust the seasoning if needed. Jennifer Segal French Onion Dip Serves 8 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 large sweet onions, chopped (about 3 cups) 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon dried thyme 4 ounce cream cheese, softened (see note) 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 cup mayonnaise, best quality such as Hellmann's or Duke's 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/8 teaspoon sugar 2 tablespoons fresh chopped chives, for serving (optional) Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, pepper, and thyme, and cook, stirring often, until the onions are soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes. If the onions start to burn, lower the heat. Towards the end of cooking, deglaze the pan by adding one tablespoon of water at a time, using only a few tablespoons in total, to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Transfer the onions to a plate to cool. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or beaters, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and sugar. Mix at medium speed until smooth and evenly combined. Stir in the cooled onions until they are thoroughly incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Serve the dip at room temperature, sprinkled with chives (if using), alongside potato chips and/or crudités. Jennifer Segal Notes Note: To quickly soften cream cheese in the microwave, remove the wrapper and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on 50 percent power in 5 to 10-second intervals until soft but not melted. This method ensures it softens evenly without turning runny. Make-Ahead Instructions: The dip can be made up to 3 days ahead of time and stored in a covered container in the refrigerator. Remove the dip from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving to let it come to room temperature. Give the dip a good stir and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Nutrition Information Serving: 3.5 tablespoons, Calories: 287kcal, Carbohydrates: 11g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 27g, Saturated Fat: 10g, Cholesterol: 46mg, Sodium: 405mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 7g This article was originally published on Follow on Dear Readers: We would love to hear from you. What topics would you like to read about? Please send your feedback and tips to
Axios
15-04-2025
- Climate
- Axios
Georgia's Vidalia onions are coming to stores near you
Spring is here, and that means you'll soon be able to spruce up your recipes with Georgia's own Vidalia onions. Why it matters: The famous sweet onions are only available from April to early September. Driving the news: This year's "pack date" for Vidalia onions is April 15, the Georgia Department of Agriculture said in a news release. The date is "based on soil and weather conditions during the growing season, ensuring that only the highest quality onions reach consumers," the department said. How it works: The onions are planted by hand, and are harvested after the designated date to ensure "peak freshness" by the time they arrive in stores, according to the agency. By the numbers: This year, 10,000 acres of Vidalia onions were planted in 20 counties across southeast Georgia, said Cliff Riner, chair of the Vidalia Onion Committee. Threat level: Hurricane Helene last year and the snowfall this year walloped Georgia's agriculture industry, but the Vidalia onion crop withstood the challenges with only minor damage, Shane Curry, executive director of the committee, said in a statement. Flashback: In the 1980s, farmers across Georgia began lobbying to protect their crop and the onion's name. In 1989, federal marketing order No. 955 established production and market research for the crop. The marketing order is administered by the Vidalia Onion Committee. Along with Georgia state laws, the order also protects the trademark of the Vidalia onion.
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Famous Georgia-grown Vidalia onions headed back to stores on April 15
The Georgia Department of Agriculture announced that a famous native product will be back on the shelves in just a few weeks. Starting April 15, Georgia's own Vidalia onions will be ready for sale, bringing 'these beloved sweet onions' back to shoppers across the United States and 'bringing a taste of Georgia's unique agricultural heritage to kitchens everywhere,' according to the department. Vidalia onions are prized for their sweetness and versatility in cooking, according to state officials. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] They're also only available a few months each year, with the state saying they're an eagerly anticipated seasonal favorite and kitchen staple. 'I'm excited to announce, in coordination with the Vidalia Onion Committee, that April 15 is the official pack date for this year's Vidalia onion season,' Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper said in a statement. 'Georgia's world-famous Vidalia onions are coming to a store near you very soon, and we are thrilled that professional chefs, home cooks, and consumers across the globe will soon be enjoying the incredible, sweet flavor of our Georgia Grown Vidalia onions.' TRENDING STORIES: Atlanta bagpiper killed while scuba diving; son who vanished 4 years ago found dead at home City of Atlanta to have all workers return to office, except 1 department Georgia Republicans want to limit early voting sites to just 1 location per county in revised bill This year, the onions will come from 10,000 acres of planted fields in the state. The Vidalia Onion committee Chairman, Cliff Riner, said the state is looking forward to another successful crop year and that 'it's evident that consumer demand for Vidalia onions remains strong.' According to the state, Vidalia onion growers worked hard to ensure success, even after multiple weather challenges, including Hurricane Helene. 'It was unexpected that our crop would endure a tropical storm, a hurricane, floods, and even six inches of snow—but that is exactly what happened,' VOC Executive Director Shane Curry said. 'Despite these unpredictable conditions, our crop has managed to withstand the challenges with only minor damage. We are eager to provide our consumers with the high-quality Vidalia onions they look forward to each year.' The onions themselves are popular as a matter of taste, literally. 'Renowned for their sweet, crisp taste, Vidalia onions thrive in a unique growing region spanning 20 counties in South Georgia,' according to state officials. 'Their exceptional flavor results from a delicate balance of specific weather patterns and soil conditions found exclusively in this area, creating an optimal environment for their growth.' The Agriculture Department said the onions are still planted traditionally for sustainability, meaning that farmers hand-plant, harvest and cure the onions 'using time-honored agricultural methods.' Once they hit the shelves, Vidalia onions will be available in stores through early September. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Yahoo
05-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Georgia farmers could see impact from latest round of tariffs
While tariffs on Mexico and Canada have been delayed, China issued a retaliatory tariff in response to the 10% duty on Chinese imports that went into effect Tuesday. With the uncertainty of this latest round of tariffs, some Georgia farmers are facing new challenges. Delbert Bland, owner of Bland Farms in Glennville, is among the top producers in Georgia. Grown in only 20 counties in southeast Georgia, Bland Farms is the largest grower, packer, and shipper of Vidalia sweet onions. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] In the Vidalia onions off-season, they grow sweet onions on their farms in Mexico. 'I've talked to our onion farmers in Mexico about every two hours,' Bland told Channel 2′s Brittany Kleinpeter. Bland said not only do they rely heavily on their imports from Mexico, but they also export a lot of their products to Canada. 'We're trying to figure out what to do and how to react and the main goal we have is keeping our customers supplied,' he added. Georgia Pecan producers like Lane Southern Orchards have already experienced the toll that tariffs can have. The Fort Valley Farm's CEO, Mark Sanchez, said they had to cut back their Chinese exports significantly just a few years ago. 'Up until 2017, China was a very lucrative market for pecans. The tariffs in 2017 threw a wrench into that,' he added. Economist Tom Smith says while he has hope that leaders will work out an agreement to avoid tariffs, he's hoping that history doesn't repeat itself. 'I really hope that no tariffs are put into place because as we saw in 2018, our farmers really took it on the chin. They will see a decrease in the volume of exports, their incomes will drop, and then it puts way too much pressure on an important resource,' Smith explained. TRENDING STORIES: US Postal Service says it has suspended inbound packages from China, Hong Kong Atlanta-based designer featured in Target campaign feels 'gaslit' after DEI changes Former DA breaks down as she testifies in illegal interference trial over handling of Arbery case [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
