• Eco,  food,  Los Angeles,  San Diego

    Truly Healthy Protein Bars Made For And By Outdoor Enthusiast

    Mushrooms are having much more than a moment… and for good reason. Functional mushrooms have some very real and amazing natural health properties – brain-boosting, stress-reducing, immunity-fueling, anti-inflammatory, and mood-enhancing – so it’s no surprise that these powerful fungi are some of the most vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant-rich foods on the planet.

    Made for and by outdoor enthusiasts, Fringe Bars are naturally high in protein, equipped with the most powerful adaptogenic mushrooms, and taste rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious. Even if you’re not well clued-up on the world of Lion’s Mane, Ashwagandha, and Turkey Tail, you can agree that life can get stressful, any balance we can add, the better.

    Mushroom Magic: 

    Why Fringe Bars Support Your Health AND Mother Earth

    Not only will Fringe be your favorite mushroom-centric meal to pack for your next adventure, but they also make being a conscious consumer easier than ever. Fringe is proud to be partnered with 1% For The Planet, pledging to donate 1% of its annual revenue to environmental non-profits. To fulfill their commitment, they are contributing their annual funds to Save The Waves Coalition, a global non-profit working to protect surf ecosystems around the globe. Additionally, on Earth Day, Saturday, April 22nd, Fringe donatied 10% of proceeds to Save The Waves to further support their mission.

    Do what you love, and #FindYourFringe, because the stoke is contagious!

    Fringe Bar Highlights:

    • Comes in 3 mouthwatering flavors:
      • Chocolate Almond Butter
      • Mango Hemp
      • Coconut Cashew
    • Made With Mushrooms:
      • Each bar contains organic functional mushrooms, such as Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi, Turkey Tail
      • All are sourced at the highest quality to deliver functional nutrition and help you live in flow
    • Healthy Ingredients:
      • Naturally high in protein, antioxidants, and nutrients
      • Each bar is made with different adaptogenic and superfood ingredients such as ashwagandha, raw cacao, and hemp
      • Gluten-free, plant-based, and supercharged with clean, real food
      • 0 grams of added sugar – naturally sweetened using only dates.
      • Free of artificial sweeteners & flavors, preservatives, added sugar, gluten, soy, dairy, seed oils, and bad vibes 😉

    Behind The Brand: Founder Hunter Schaeffer is a surfer from Rehoboth Beach, DE, whose passion is living to the fullest, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and pursuing what keeps him stoked! While searching for the best and most convenient fuel source for surf sessions, travels, and other endeavors, Hunter was continuously disappointed with the options on the market. This led him to start making his own nutrition bars with clean, wholesome ingredients. And including his favorite adaptogenic mushrooms to conveniently harness their benefits. These “delicious mushroom protein bars” quickly became a hit for those living similar lifestyles, and thus, Fringe was born!

    Pricing:

    • Each flavor comes in a 12-pack ($37.75)
    • Variety Pack includes 12 bars, 4 of each flavor ($37.75)
    • Subscribe and save 10% off on each order ($33.98)

    To learn more, visit: fringefoodco.com

  • Los Angeles,  New York,  San Diego,  Toys

    Put down your phones and pick up a beer! 🍻 It’s time to get outside, soak up the sun, and play some beer darts with friends!

    Looking for a game that combines precision, strategy, and ice-cold refreshment? Look no further than beer darts! It’s like regular darts, but with more laughs, more drinks, and more fun with friends. Wait no more, you can get Beer Darts shipped directly to your door.

    Let’s enjoy the beautiful weather and each other’s company without any distractions. Cheers to good times and good company! Looking for a game that’ll keep your party guests entertained for hours? Look no further than Beer Darts Game Set! Beer Darts Game set is not just any ordinary game, it’s an incredibly designed gadget that will take your party to the next level. With two darts included, you and your friends can challenge each other in this fun and exciting game. But what’s so special Beer Darts Game Set is the backboard clips! You can attach anything like a pizza box or part of your 30-rack for a safe and stylish backboard for your game.

    Beer Darts Game Set is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a tailgate party, or a weekend hangout with friends. It’s easy to set up, and with the convenience of the backboard clips, you can have your game up and running in no time.

    The Original Beer Darts Set

    Slips into a pocket or backpack with EASE and comes with 2 darts. Bring Beer Darts to BBQs, pool parties, pre-games, or any outdoor hangout! AND those darts aren’t going anywhere because they are magnetically attached to their inserts! More sets, more friends, more FUN.

    *** WHITE CLAW ADAPTER! ***
    The “Claw Adapter” is made in-house and is 3D printed so that you can plug-n-play, seltzer cans!

    Beer Darts is here to provide a new approach to your classic competitive drinking game. Each Beer Darts set is assembled by hand by friends and founders, Jonathan and Ryan, directly from their original workshop in Summit County, Colorado. The compact design fits standard drink cans while keeping them stable and out of the dirt. Simple, straightforward, and endless ways to play, Beer Darts is the next best drinking game. Read their tips and instructions to get started with your spring fun or check out this in-depth video for a visual!

    As ski patrollers, the founders discovered the fun of playing beer darts during downtime of 2020. However, they realized there was no official set or equipment for improving the gameplay. So, they designed and built their own beer dart set in their garage (originally out of wood) and later launched a successful Kickstarter campaign in April 2022 (raising $10k!). Since then, they have sold over 3000 sets, won multiple awards, and are grateful for the journey from a simple game played in their backyard to a successful business venture that is still run by just the 2 of us in the garage.

  • food,  Los Angeles,  San Diego

    Thrilling Foods Offers A Cure For The Vegan Bacon Blues With Patented Bakon Line, World’s First Fatty & Lean Protein Streaked Plant-Based Bacon

    In recognition of its breakthrough status as the first plant-based bacon to harness techniques providing the genuine flavor and  texture of bacon, Thrilling Foods Bakon™ has just been awarded a U.S. Patent, with other U.S. and international patents pending.

    Patents are a rarity in the booming plant-based meat category, and Thrilling Foods’ patent specifically covers its proprietary use of “protein bound fat” streaks that alternate with ultra-lean meaty layers, and their use of the natural umami flavors found in proteins. Thrilling Foods unites those elements with a traditional salt and smoke cure to provide the taste and texture bacon lovers crave.


    Plant-Based Bacon Finally Comes Of Age
    Over an 18 month period of COVID lockdowns, lifelong cook and culinary innovator David Jones created Bakon™ — the first low carbohydrate, high protein, plant-based bacon. Jones’ patented technique alternates lean protein with fatty streaks, allowing it to render and fry in its own fat like conventional pork bacon. Available at the Thrilling Foods website (www.thrillingfoods.com) and in a fast-growing number of health and premium markets, Bakon™ stands out from other plant-based bacon alternatives in several ways beyond just its protein and fat structure.

    Salt-cured and Smoked
    Just like its traditional counterpart, Bakon™ is the only dry salt and smoke cured plant-based bacon in the marketplace. According to Jones, “If it’s not cured, it’s not going to    taste right!”

    Healthier Than Pork Bacon
    Bakon™ contains only wholesome ingredients that provide a 100% complete and healthy protein for plant-based diets. These ingredients include non-GMO soy milk; RSPO-certified sustainably-harvested palm oil (no deforestation); yeast extracts; sea salt; maple syrup; citric acid; black pepper; and natural food colors from radish and paprika. Thrilling Foods has also developed a breakthrough protein structure that holds the zero cholesterol fat within the protein structure, releasing it during cooking from the outside in, much like the way animal fats are released during cooking.

    Demand Is Exploding
    Thrilling Foods is scrambling to keep up with growth in institutional and consumer demand. Currently sold in over 200 locations across the United States from Maine to Hawaii,  Bakon™ is already the 8th-ranked vegan breakfast meat in high-end health food markets despite only being in 3% of those stores, and has emerged as the #2 alternative protein overall at a top tier grocery chain in Southern California.

    Bakon’s traditional flavor and texture are not only winning over plant-based eaters, but meat-eaters as well: 75% of all consumers surveyed at a Portland area Farmers Market— including both meat eaters and vegetarians—agreed that the new product’s taste and texture is somewhere between an 80% to 100% match to pork bacon, and over 66% of  repeat Bakon™ buyers self-identify as omnivores.

    The Future of Bakon™
    Thrilling Foods has experienced such strong demand for Bakon™ that the founders are already planning their third expansion facility, scaled to produce over two thousand pounds of Bakon™ per day.

    For more information or to see a video featuring David Jones demonstrating his preferred methods of preparing Bakon™ , please visit www.thrillingfoods.com.

     

  • food,  Gift Guide,  Los Angeles,  New York,  San Diego

    Indulge Your Mom’s Sweet Tooth with Z. Cioccolato’s Handmade Fudge

    Mother’s Day is a special occasion to honor and appreciate the incredible women who have raised us and supported us throughout our lives. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious way to celebrate your mother this year, consider giving her a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box.

    Z. Cioccolato is a San Francisco-based company that handcrafts high-quality fudge and other chocolate confections using only the finest ingredients. Their fudge is rich, creamy, and available in a variety of flavors, including classic chocolate, peanut butter, cookies & cream, and more. With a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box, you can treat your mother to a sweet and indulgent gift that she is sure to love.

    One of the best things about giving a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box for Mother’s Day is that it is a unique and thoughtful gift. While flowers and cards are always appreciated, a box of artisanal fudge and other treats is a special and unexpected treat that shows your mother just how much you care. Plus, with a variety of flavors to choose from, you can customize your gift to suit your mother’s tastes and preferences.

    When you give a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box, you’re not just giving a gift – you’re giving an experience. Each piece of fudge is carefully crafted and hand-wrapped, making every bite a moment of pure indulgence. Your mother will savor each and every flavor, and every time she enjoys a piece of fudge, she’ll think of you and the love you share.

    In conclusion, if you want to give your mother a gift that is both delicious and meaningful, consider a Z. Cioccolato fudge gift box this Mother’s Day. With its high-quality ingredients, unique flavors, and handmade craftsmanship, this gift is sure to delight and impress the special woman in your life.

    Z. Cioccolato’s S’more Fudge is my favorite! It is a delicious twist on the classic campfire treat. This handmade fudge combines the rich and creamy texture of Z. Cioccolato’s signature fudge with the sweet and gooey flavors of marshmallow and graham cracker, making for a delightful and indulgent dessert.

    The S’more Fudge is made with high-quality ingredients, including premium chocolate, butter, and cream, which are carefully blended together to create a smooth and velvety texture. The fudge is then layered with marshmallow fluff and crumbled graham crackers, giving it a sweet and crunchy texture that perfectly complements the rich chocolate.

    With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures, as the creamy fudge melts in your mouth and blends with the sweet and crunchy toppings. Whether you’re a fan of traditional s’mores or simply love the taste of chocolate, Z.Cioccolato’s S’more Fudge is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

    Z. Cioccolato’s S’more Fudge is a unique and delicious treat that is perfect for sharing with friends and family, or indulging in all by yourself. So if you’re looking for a fun and flavorful dessert that captures the essence of summertime, be sure to try Z.Cioccolato’s S’more Fudge today.

    What else do I have in the gift box?

    Z. Cioccolato’s gift box includes a variety of delicious treats, including their caramel popcorn. This gourmet snack is the perfect addition to the box, offering a sweet and salty taste to complement the other handmade fudge flavors. The caramel popcorn is carefully crafted with premium ingredients, ensuring a delightful combination of crunch and chewiness. It’s a perfect snack to enjoy while indulging in the rich and creamy flavors of the fudge, making the Z. Cioccolato gift box a perfect treat for any occasion.

    Z. Cioccolato’s chocolate covered Oreos are a decadent and delicious addition to their gift box. These classic cookies are coated in a layer of rich and velvety chocolate, making for a satisfying and indulgent treat. The combination of the crunchy cookie and smooth chocolate creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it hard to resist just one. The chocolate covered Oreos are handmade with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that each bite is a heavenly experience. They make a perfect addition to the Z. Cioccolato gift box and a great treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

    Z. Cioccolato’s Salt Water Taffy is a delightful treat that adds a touch of nostalgia to their gift box. This taffy is soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. Each piece is individually wrapped, making them perfect for snacking or sharing. The gift box includes an assortment of flavors, from classic fruit to more unique and whimsical options. With its bright colors and sweet taste, Z. Cioccolato’s Salt Water Taffy is a fun and delicious addition to any occasion.

    Z. Cioccolato’s Chocolate Truffles are an indulgent addition to their gift box that are sure to impress. Made with the finest quality chocolate and expert craftsmanship, the truffles are a rich and velvety treat that melt in your mouth. Each truffle makes it a beautiful presentation and a luxurious texture. The gift box includes an two flavors, they are creamy, French-inspired granache wrapped with milk, dark and white Belgian chocolates and topped with a signature design from the chef!

    Z. Cioccolato – from San Francisco’s beloved sweet shop featured on the Cooking Channel’s “Unique Sweets” and ranked by MSN as one of the top 25 of all shops in the U.S., Z. Cioccolato brings multi-layered gourmet fudge to the rest of the world. Made only 6-pounds at a time, Z. Cioccolato fudge showcases up to seven layers with candy legends such as Reese’s, Heath English Toffee, liquors, and beer such as Irish Coffee and Guiness, epicurean classics like Boston Cream Pie and time-proven favorites such as mint chocolate, salted caramel, peanut butter and more.

  • Las Vegas,  Los Angeles,  Miami,  New York,  San Diego

    Fun Star Wars Cocktails to Celebrate Star Wars Day: May the 4th Be With You!

    These are the drinks you’re looking for! Rock legend Sammy Hagar is celebrating Star Wars Day on May the 4th with five cocktail recipes that are simply out of this world. You won’t need a protocol droid to translate these Star Wars-themed drinks, which have been renamed in honor of the iconic film series. The drinks are a fun twist on existing recipes from his best selling cocktail book, “Sammy Hagar’s Cocktail Hits,” and all featuring his award winning brand Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum. May the 4th be with you!

    The Sith Lord

    In the times of the Old Republic, there were legions of Sith. However, that all changed when the rule of two was introduced, which stated that there may be no more than two Sith at any given time, the master and the apprentice. Luckily for you, no such rule exists when it comes to this sinfully delicious twist on the Kir Royale, now aptly named The Sith Lord. You may have as many as your heart desires! This villainous red tinctured drink is a swanky cocktail perfect for sipping from the throne room of the Death Star, or in the cockpit of an Imperial Star Destroyer as you hunt down Jedi scum. Be careful though! This champagne based drink is the pathway to such a great time, that it could be considered “unnatural.” A photo of The Sith Lord aka the Kir Royale is available for download here.

    The Sith Lord aka Kir Royale

    1 ounce Sammy’s Beach Bar Red Head Rum, divided

    4 ounces chilled champagne

    Garnish: fresh lemon twist

    Preparation: Add half the rum to a chilled champagne flute. Slowly add the chilled champagne until ½ inch from the top. Top  with the remaining rum. Garnish with a fresh lemon twist.

    The Rebel Princess

    The Rebel Princess, is an intergalactic twist on Sammy’s Coconut Mojito, and on a hot May day, this flavorful white drink may be your “only hope” for some refreshment. Like the Princess of Alderaan, this drink’s dainty and pretty outward appearance belies an inner power beyond belief! This spunky drink pairs the traditional mojito ingredients of rum, lime, mint and cane sugar with the tropical nuances of coconut.  Whether you’re sipping this drink in the hot Tatooine sun, or getting ready for a night at Mos Eisley Cantina, this drink has got you covered. A photo of the Rebel Princess aka Sammy’s Coconut Mojito is available here.

    The Rebel Princess aka Sammy’s Coconut Mojito

    6-8 fresh mint leaves

    1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar

    ½ ounce fresh lime juice

    1 ½ ounces of Sammy’s Beach Bar Platinum Rum

    2 ounces coconut water

    1 ½ ounces Cocó Lopez Cream of Coconut

    1 ounce soda water

    Rim: coconut cream and toasted coconut flakes

    Garnish: fresh mint sprig

    Preparation: Dip the rim of a rocks glass in some coconut cream then roll the moistened rim in toasted coconut flakes. In a prepared glass, add the mint leaves, brown sugar, and lime juice. Using a muddler, gently (yet firmly) muddle the ingredients. Then fill with ice and add the rum, coconut water, and coconut cream. Stir well and top with soda water. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.

    The Jawa Roast

    Jawas, those loveable little creatures who abducted R2D2 and C3PO in the beginning of “A New Hope,” have been a long-time favorite of fans of the series. These pint-sized scavengers spend their lives traversing the desert looking for any sort of scraps of metal or droids they can sell. So what’s the secret to their infectious energy, despite spending a lifetime under the heat of two suns on the harsh desert planet? Meet The Jawa Roast, a Tatooine twist on Sammy’s Red Head Roast, this spiked coffee cocktail is the perfect drink to give you the energy to “crawl” out of the house and have a good time. We guarantee that you’ll be sucking this one up to the last drop like a Jawa who just found droids wandering the desert. A photo of the Jawa Roast aka Read Head Roast is available for download here.

    The Jawa Roast aka Red Head Roast

    1 ½ ounces Sammy’s Redhead Rum

    ½ ounce Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur

    2 ½ ounces iced coffee

    ½ ounce simple syrup

    ¾ ounce cream

    Garnish: freshly grated nutmeg and cinnamon

    Preparation: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the rum, liquor, iced coffee, simple syrup, and cream. Shake well and strain into a chilled rocks glass. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg and cinnamon.

    Kyber Crystal Jello Shots

    Since ancient Jedi times, young padawans have traveled the galaxy in search of Kyber Crystals, the small force-attuned gemstones give lightsabers, the Jedi’s weapon of choice, their power and distinctive color. Lucky for you, they can be made right in your kitchen, no galaxy-wide quest required! These colorful gems are perfect for the on-the-go Jedi who may be hiding in the ice-covered caves of Hoth or need something that won’t spill during an attack on the Death Star. Use green lime Jell-O to follow the noble path of the Jedi, or red Sith-strawberry Jell-O to learn the secrets of the dark side. Each of these “crystals” is sure to pack a punch, the force is strong in these ones! A photo of Kyber Crystal Jello shots available for download here.

    Kyber Crystal Jello Shots

    1 package (3 ounces) Jell-O fruit flavor gelatin (lime, strawberry; your choice)

    ⅔ cup boiling water

    ⅔ cup cold water

    ⅔ cup Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum

    Preparation: In a suitable bowl, add the Jell-O gelatin. Add the boiling water and stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved, about 2 minutes. Add the cold water and Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum. Stir well to incorporate. Divide the mixture into mini plastic disposable cups (about 2 ounces each) and refrigerate until firm.

    Jabba The Hutt’s Key Lime Martini

    This green sludge-like drink may at a glance look like something that would be dripping out of the corners of everyone’s favorite intergalactic crime boss’s mouth, however we assure you that this drink is anything but that – this indulgent drink is one fit for a king! If you want to live the Jabba Life, this dessert drink is great for relaxing in a big comfy chair enjoying some premium entertainment such as a Star Wars movie marathon or a secret rancor pit in your living room. A photo of Jabba The Hutt’s Key Lime Martini is available for download here.

    Jabba The Hutt’s Key Lime Martini aka The Key Lime Martini

    ½ ounce of Sammy’s Beach Bar Platinum Rum

    1 ½ ounces of Keke Key Lime Pie Cream Liqueur

    ½ ounce of banana liqueur

    ½ Cocó Lopez Cream of Coconut

    ½ of fresh lime juice

    Rim: honey and crushed graham cracker

    Garnish: fresh lime wheel

    Preparation: Roll the rim of a chilled martini glass in some honey. Then gently roll the honey rim in crushed graham cracker and set the glass aside. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the rum, Keke Key Lime Pie Cream Liqueur, banana liqueur, cream of coconut and lime juice. Shake well and strain into a prepared glass. Garnish with a fresh lime wheel and serve.

  • food,  Los Angeles,  San Diego

    The Rise of Etto Pasta: Exploring the Versatility and Flavor of this Italian Classic

    Not all pasta is created equal. Pasta is simple and unpretentious. Yet it is also complex, nutritious, and distinct. It is amazing how something so simple can be incredibly diverse, endlessly creative, and good for you. Craft pasta like the best ones made in Italy are rare and delicious in texture, aroma and flavor. Etto brings the best of pasta to California using the best American ingredients and the best Italian craft pasta equipment, technique and style.

    Etto Pasta is a brand of artisanal pasta that is known for its high-quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and unique shapes. Founded in 2012 by chef and restaurateur Liz Matthews, Etto Pasta is based in the UK and uses only the finest, carefully-sourced ingredients, including Italian semolina flour and free-range eggs.

    Pasta is a daily food of Italy. However, its appearance across the country is far from monotonous. The great variety of pasta shapes accentuate Italy’s regional differences and draw attention to the distinctions that define local identities. Each dish can tell a story of a place, its history, its people, and a way of life. (Not to mention that Italy ranks as the healthiest nation in the world*.) Italians eat pasta by the etto (100 grams or about ¼ pound). An etto represents a sensible portion of pasta for one person, as either a primi or as part of a balanced meal.

    Etto is family-owned, sources quality ingredients, and values our customers and community. Our pasta factory is located in Tin City, an industrial area comprised of small artisanal winemakers, breweries, a creamery, distillery and more. This creative hub is in Paso Robles, California.

    You can also visit the Etto Marketplace located in Tin City. Here you will find fresh Etto pasta, local and imported specialty foods, Italian wines from Giornata  and much more!

    Etto Pasta offers a wide range of pasta shapes, from classic option like Creste di Gallo to more unusual shapes like Casarecce, Conchigliette and Figaro. Each shape is crafted using time-honored methods and the best ingredients, resulting in a pasta that is both flavorful and texturally superior to mass-produced options. Etto Pasta also offers a range of sauces and pestos to complement their pasta, making it easy to create delicious and authentic Italian meals at home.

    Herbed Chicken and Tomato Pasta with Etto Pasta

     Recipe for Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Thighs with Sliced Tomato and Etto Pasta

    Ingredients:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
    • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
    • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
    • 1/2 pound Etto Pasta (penne, fusilli or spaghetti)
    • Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
    2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
    3. Heat olive oil and butter in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
    4. Add minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    5. Arrange sliced tomatoes around the chicken thighs in the skillet.
    6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are tender.
    7. While the chicken is baking, cook the Etto Pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    8. Serve the Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Thighs with Sliced Tomato and Etto Pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).

    Enjoy your delicious and flavorful meal featuring Etto Pasta!