The Beverage Testing Institute may not be a household name for everyone, but its impact on the world of top-shelf beverages is undeniable. Founded in 1981 primarily as an international wine competition, the organization expanded its scope in 1994 to include beer, spirits, cider, and sake evaluations. What sets BTI apart is its commitment to
Restaurants
London’s culinary scene is buzzing with excitement this summer, and one restaurant that truly stands out is Humble Chicken. Awarded its first Michelin star earlier this year, this „humble“ restaurant continues to defy expectations and push the boundaries of Japanese cuisine. Chef-owner Angelo Sato has crafted a sixteen-course tasting menu that delights both the eyes
Located inside the Hudson Yards luxury shopping mall in Manhattan, Mercado Little Spain offers a unique opportunity to savor the culinary delights of regional Spanish cuisine without venturing too far from home. Despite the abundance of food choices in New York City, Mercado Little Spain has retained its authenticity and novelty since its opening in
Costas Spiliadis, a 78-year-old Greek immigrant, has transformed a small restaurant in Montreal into an iconic New York seafood establishment, Estiatorio Milos. This culinary entrepreneur’s journey has been one of resilience and passion, leading him to expand his restaurant empire to include 11 locations globally, from Las Vegas to Dubai, with more in the pipeline.
Beer festivals are always a great way to indulge in a variety of craft brews while having a good time. While many local beer festivals have seen a decline in recent years, there are still a few standout events that are worth attending. One such event is the Great American Beer Festival (GABF), which is
Scotch whisky, a drink deeply rooted in Scottish heritage and craftsmanship, has been experiencing a resurgence in popularity in recent years, particularly in the U.S. market. With evolving consumer trends and a growing interest in premium spirits, Scotch has found a new audience among millennials who are drawn to its rich flavors and quality. The
Recent research has revealed that many dark chocolate and cocoa products contain alarming levels of toxic heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic. These levels exceed food safety guidelines and pose a potential health risk to consumers. The study, conducted by researchers from George Washington University and ConsumerLab, examined over 70 dark chocolate and
In the world of summer wines, the usual suspects often include light, crisp whites and refreshing rosés. However, stepping out of the norm and embracing something like a full-bodied amber wine can truly elevate your wine-drinking experience. This particular amber wine from Vine Ponto in Georgia’s Kakheti region breaks the mold with its deep gold
When we think of ramen in America, the first flavors that come to mind are usually Tonkotsu or Spicy Miso. However, chef Steven Pursley, owner of Menya Rui in St. Louis, Missouri, is challenging these norms by offering a menu that showcases the diversity of ramen flavors. While Tonkotsu and Spicy Miso are undeniably popular,
Imagine Jane Austen’s classic novel „Pride and Prejudice“ set in the luxurious backdrop of the Hamptons. This is exactly what writing duo Emily Harding and Audrey Bellezza have done in their latest book, Elizabeth of East Hampton. The contemporary retelling of the beloved Austen tale brings Elizabeth Bennet to the South Fork of Long Island,
The espresso martini has undoubtedly risen in popularity over the years, becoming the fourth most popular cocktail in the US by the end of 2023. As more cocktail enthusiasts turn to experimenting with making drinks at home, sourcing top-quality ingredients becomes crucial. Bartender Chris Leavitt, also known as ‚Not Just a Bartender‘, is on a
A recently published study has shed light on the potential benefits of a vegan diet on health and biological aging. The study, conducted over eight weeks, aimed to investigate the effects of a vegan diet on DNA methylation, a process associated with aging. The research utilized genetically identical twins to control for genetic and lifestyle
Siddhi Capital, a growth equity firm with a focus on food and beverage brands, recently closed its impressive $135 million Fund II, signaling a shift in the investment landscape. In a time where inflation and high interest rates are creating challenges for fund managers and consumer brands alike, Siddhi Capital is taking a proactive approach
Precision agriculture has emerged as a game-changer in the realm of modern farming practices. This innovative approach utilizes advanced technologies to optimize productivity while minimizing input costs. One pioneering example of this is the utilization of „auto-steer“ technology, originally developed as a byproduct of NASA’s research. This technology harnesses GPS and georeferencing data to precisely
Wingstop, founded in 1994 as a buffalo-style chicken wing restaurant, has seen its fair share of ownership changes over the years. Despite this, it has remained one of the fastest-growing restaurant concepts in the industry. With flavors like Lemon Pepper and Hot Honey Rub, Wingstop has managed to keep labor costs low and run efficiently
The Singapore World Spirits Competition recently unveiled the winners of its annual event, showcasing a diverse array of top-quality beverages in various categories. This competition, founded in 2019 by the Tasting Alliance, initially focused on spirits from the Asia Pacific region but has since expanded its scope to include a more global perspective. While the
Recent heavy rainfall in Colorado and other parts of the High Plains has brought an end to the region’s moderate drought, which is great news for agriculture. Last year, extreme heat and drought conditions led to the deaths of hundreds of livestock in the area, making it one of the deadliest seasons for cattle in
In 2004, the Gansevoort Hotel made a bold move by establishing itself as the first luxury hotel in New York City’s Meatpacking District. This strategic decision played a significant role in transforming the once gritty neighborhood into a vibrant hub of luxury apartments, restaurants, art galleries, and nightspots. The hotel’s success paved the way for
The name Lance Collins has become synonymous with innovation and success in the beverage industry. Through a series of strategic business moves, Collins has managed to scale multiple brands to incredible heights. From the sale of Fuze Beverage to Coca-Cola for $250 million to the acquisition of CORE Water by Keurig Dr Pepper for $525
Kiss the Ground, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting regenerative agriculture and healthy soil, is focused on a strategic objective to propel the regenerative agriculture movement to a tipping point. With only 4% of the U.S. adult population currently aware of the benefits of regenerative agriculture, Kiss the Ground aims to increase awareness and educate
As the demand for non-alcoholic beverages continues to rise, bars and restaurants are stepping up their game by offering a variety of mocktails and non-alcoholic (NA) options. These alcohol-free drinks cater to a diverse clientele looking to enjoy a night out without the need for alcohol. While there are plenty of NA spirits, wines, and
The drinks industry has long been a male-dominated space, but individuals like Michelle Brampton are working to change that narrative. As the CEO of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), Brampton is leading the charge for female-focused initiatives and programs centered around diversity, inclusivity, and innovation. Brampton’s career in the drinks industry began when
London is known for its ever-changing weather, but that doesn’t stop gelato lovers from indulging in the creamy dessert. La Gelatiera, founded by Victor Hugo and chef Jacob Kenedy, offers an exquisite range of gelato flavors that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From rich White Chocolate to refreshing Blood Orange, there is something
Beer enthusiasts all around the nation are eagerly awaiting the release of Goose Island Beer Co.’s annual Bourbon County Stout variants for 2024. The Chicago-based brewery is known for pioneering the barrel-aged stout beer style, with their Bourbon County Stout being a favorite among beer lovers for many years. This year’s lineup of variants promises
The Singapore World Spirits Competition recently announced its top tasting entries for 2024, solidifying its reputation as a prestigious event in the spirits industry. Alongside other renowned competitions such as the New York and San Francisco World Spirits Competitions, this event forms a coveted „Triple Crown“ of judgings organized annually by the Tasting Alliance. Winning
Staying hydrated during the scorching summer months is crucial, especially when indulging in refreshing cocktails. One unique recipe that caught my attention is the Aloe-infused Melon Spritz, created by Liberty Adams from Yampa Valley Kitchen. This cocktail combines .75 oz Japanese Midori Melon liqueur, .75 oz Chareau Aloe Liqueur, .75 oz lemon vodka, .75 oz
The recent heat wave in New York City and other parts of the country has raised concerns about the impact of extreme weather on the power grid. Thunderstorms might provide temporary relief, but the heat continues to suffocate many areas, leading to potential power outages. Tornadoes in Chicago and a hurricane in Houston have already
Pairing a Hefeweizen with strawberry ice cream might not seem like an obvious choice, but the clove and banana flavors in the beer actually complement the strawberry, creating a smoothie-like sensation in your mouth. The highly carbonated nature of the Hefeweizen also helps to cleanse your palate after each bite of ice cream. A classic
The mojito is a timeless classic that has graced beach bars and summer soirées for centuries. However, as much as we love the traditional mojito, sometimes our taste buds crave something different and exciting. The good news is, you don’t need to be a master mixologist or have a pantry full of exotic ingredients to
Puesto, an award-winning Mexican-American San Diego restaurant group, has recently partnered with San Diego Padres pitcher Joe Musgrove to launch a special taco inspired by Musgrove’s rescue dog from Tijuana. This unique collaboration not only celebrates Musgrove’s love for Mexican cuisine but also his dedication to giving back to the community. The collaboration between Puesto
After 32 years of service, Bob Pease, the CEO of Brewers Association, has announced his retirement, set for early 2025. Pease has been at the helm of the organization for a decade, during which time he has made significant contributions to the craft beer industry. His impending retirement marks a significant moment for the association
The picturesque town of East Hampton is about to experience the latest burger trend sweeping the nation – smashburgers. These thin, crispy patties topped with gooey cheese have taken social media platforms like TikTok by storm and are now making their way to the upscale neighborhood. Smokey Buns, a new restaurant set to open in
Bourbon enthusiasts worldwide often find themselves torn between two distinct categories: single-barrel and small-batch bourbons. These two styles are revered for their meticulous craftsmanship, unique flavors, and overall artistry in the world of whiskey production. Both single-barrel and small-batch bourbons undergo a rigorous selection process where only the finest barrels are chosen, ensuring that each
MadTree Brewing, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, has recently been awarded the prestigious title of brewing the best India Pale Ale on the planet. The recognition came from the World Beer Competition, an annual event organized by the Tasting Alliance, known for their expertise in judging alcoholic beverages. What sets MadTree’s Holly Days release apart is
As the Dry July movement continues to gain followers looking to reduce their alcohol intake, the demand for non-alcoholic options is on the rise. From canned mocktails to non-alcoholic spirits and flavored mixers, the market is becoming increasingly abundant with creative alternatives. Even restaurants and bars are jumping on the trend by incorporating mocktail menus
The story of Bachan’s Japanese barbecue sauce is not just about a condiment, but about a rich family history that spans generations. Justin Gill, the founder of Bachan’s, transformed his grandmother’s traditional family recipe into a nationwide sensation. The flavors of Yuzu, Miso, and „Hella Hot“ are not just ingredients, but a taste of Gill’s
Nestled away on Bruton Place, a mere stone’s throw away from the lively streets of Oxford Circus, UMU is a hidden gem that has silently thrived for two decades. Despite not being in the spotlight of London’s latest restaurant frenzy, UMU has managed to retain its Michelin star for an impressive eight years – a
Athletic Brewing, a pioneering brand in the alcohol industry, has recently closed a $50 million equity financing round led by General Atlantic. This comes in addition to a previous $50 million Series D round led by Keurig Dr Pepper. Founded in 2018, Athletic Brewing has quickly made a name for itself with its full lineup
In recent years, the craft beer industry in the United States has faced numerous challenges as it moves away from the rapid growth and market expansion of the past. Simply producing a high-quality product and packaging it in attractive bottles or cans is no longer sufficient. Breweries now need to navigate a complex landscape to
New York City Restaurant Week is a highly anticipated event for foodies across the city. With discounted pre-fixe meals at some of the top restaurants, it’s a great opportunity to taste some of the hottest spots on your list. One of the restaurants participating in this year’s event is Nami Nori Williamsburg, an acclaimed Japanese