Dixie Dining

Paisano’s Italian Bakery on Stickney Point Road in Sarasota. Stopped by today for the first time — not sure what took me so long to give them a try. What a great assortment of baked goodies. You’ve heard us sing the praises of Solorzano Brothers’ New Jersey Pizza on Siesta Key and their parents’ Italian Restaurant in Sarasota. Now we have an authentic Italian bakery within striking distance. I was on my way to the gym when I popped in, but just couldn’t resist ordering up a small cannoli, which was just perfect. Cannoli’s are so darn rich and packed with fat and calories, but who can resist their crunchy pastry exterior and sweet ricotta cheese filling? Not this guy — that’s for certain.

I’ve never heard of a Bachelor’s Button before — interesting name

Pour me a tall cappucino and I’m a happy man

The mighty Cannoli — the Mob Boss of all decadent desserts

I am so glad I discovered this place. I will be back and will spread the word. Owners Laurie and David Moretti (now that’s Italian!) deserve our support. Check ’em out at www.paisanosItalianBakery.com

I mentioned my friend Sherman Willmott in a previous column about his Memphis Pops music fest coming up later this summer. The headliner in this event is Roy Head, a Texan who recorded the rockin’ hit “Treat Her Right.” The tune is best described as a James Brown style rave up. It was a substantial hit in the 60’s but Head soon drifted into obscurity. The video clip offered above gives you a glimpse of this dynamic performer. Who else can combine live performance and a yoga session into one show-stopping production? Note: Head’s son (Sundance) made a name for himself on the “American Idol” TV series.  Is it just me or does it look like Girl Scout Troop #1965 dancing in the background? 

I have typically shunned store-bought salsas because, frankly, they just didn’t taste as good as fresh salsa and pico de gallo (translates to “rooster’s beak”). However, we have recently tried some salsas that are really pretty good. One is the brand you see above. Mrs. Renfro Salsa is made by Renfro Foods in our former home base of Fort Worth, TX. They offer an amazing variety of flavors including Peach, Raspberry Chipotle, and Mango Habanero. Exotic and tasty.

Even Pace Foods out of San Antonio is getting into the act of churning out specialty salsas. They recently unveiled 5 new flavors. We especially like the Tequila Lime Salsa made with real Blue Agave tequila. You’re not going to catch a buzz eating it, but you can really taste the tequila. Our kids won’t touch the stuff, so that leaves more for Momma and me. That’s not a bad thing.

 Seek out these new products in your local uber market — I think you’ll be mucho impressed. They will never replace fresh homemade salsa, but it’s the next best thing in a pinch.