Matt records segments for Jordan Rich’s “Connoisseur’s Corner” which airs on WBZ (http://boston.cbslocal.com) weekdays at 11:55 AM.
The following is a “script” for one of Matt’s forthcoming segments:

Vida Cantina

While NH may not be the first place people think of when they think Mexican food, Vida Cantina is Portsmouth is changing all that. Not only have they been named Best Mexican Food in NH, but chef/owner David Vargas has been invited to the James Beard House to cook on Jan. 25.  And while this means he will be out of town for a day, his local fans (and those who come from miles around to enjoy dinner at the Cantina) will benefit by being able to taste his Beard House menu throughout the month of January.

Among the special creations will be organic Maine tofu with chia seed tostadas, Peruvian beans, and peanuts, grilled New Hampshire oysters with peppers and habanero crumbs, Tuckaway Farm heirloom corn tamale with locally-grown mushrooms, cashew queso, and Guajillo chiles, and arroz con leche with Horchata, cinnamon tuile, raisin semifreddo, and sesame seeds. Chef Vargas is even putting together a tasting menu of accompanying wines and beverages to make the new menu even more special. Among these will be Chef’s tribute to his hometown, the Portsmouth Sunset, which is concocted using White Heron roobois-infused MIlagro tequila with Solerno blood orange liqeuer, lemon and dried apples.

So next time someone says they feel like Mexican, take them north of the border for a meal worthy of the legendary James Beard.

(www.vidacantinanh.com)