Matt’s segments for “Connoisseur’s Corner” usually air on WBZ Saturdays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25, and 11:55 AM and Sundays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25 AM.

Recent samples can be found at https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1002-Connoisseurs-Corner-28654273/.

If you have ideas for future segments, please send them to Matt@Matts-Meals.com.

Thanks for listening and thanks for supporting our friends and neighbors in the food-service industry!

For those of us who are still wary of venturing out too far to try some of the area’s best food, it is good to know that Time Out Market Boston is reopen and has more than enough to offer!

With more than 23,000 square feet of high-ceilinged floor space in the historic Sears Building at the end of the Fenway neighborhood, an additional 6,000 square feet of patio space, multiple bars and more great food than we can fit in one segment, Time Out is a great place to try a sanitized and socially-distanced smorgasbord of Boston’s best. With DoorDash deliveries and its own app, it is easy to order ahead so you can get in, get out, and enjoy in the space of your choosing. And bartender Nicole Brown has been donating her handmade masks and selling them to raise funds for Covid relief.

In addition to Brown, Time Out boasts such other proper Bostonians as Michael Schlow, who has brought his Monti Roman Pizzeria to the space. There are also outstanding outposts for Cusser’s Roast Beef and Seafood, Revolution Health Kitchen and Bisq, and Union Square Donuts has even brought along the North Shore’s Atomic Coffee Roasters.

 What may be the most encouraging story, however, is the team behind neighborhood-supporters (and Connoisseur’s Corner faves) anoush’ella has not only survived but have expanded and are bringing their new concept, Nu Burger, to Time Out as the first participant in the market’s incubator series. At her new place, Chef Nina Festekjian is going beyond her native Lebanon to explore international takes on the all-American burger, including a cauliflower burger that is burning up Instagram and pleasantly stuffing many veggie fans.

While the Boston food scene is still thankfully too big to fit under one roof, Time Out Boston makes a solid effort that is worth exploring!

www.timeoutmarket.com/boston 

Matt’s segments for “Connoisseur’s Corner” usually air on WBZ Saturdays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25, and 11:55 AM and Sundays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25 AM.

Recent samples can be found at https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1002-Connoisseurs-Corner-28654273/.

If you have ideas for future segments, please send them to Matt@Matts-Meals.com.

Thanks for listening and thanks for supporting our friends and neighbors in the food-service industry!

We have been talking a lot about local restaurant-repreneurs who have been going above and beyond to support their guests and their communities. Among the most notable of these has been the Festekjianfamily at Anoush’ella.

Despite the fact that they had to close their outposts due to Covid, the Festekjians not only kept their South End flagship open, but used it as a community center where hundreds of free meals were distributed to out-of-work hospitality workers!

Now, it appears, that their generosity has been rewarded as they have been invited to open a new (or “Nu”) concept in the reopened Time Out Market in the Fenway, a 23,000-square foot socially-distanced eating emporium that also touts such local legends as Michael Schlow and the teams from Cusser’s, Mamleh’s, and Union Square Donuts.

While many Festekjian family fans are flocking back to Time Out for their faves from Anoush-ella, at Nu Burger, the Festekjians go far beyond their Middle Eastern roots to explore international takes on one of the most popular foods in the world. Every patty is made with all-local beef with no hormones. If you favor the veggie lifestyle, the cauliflower-based burger has been burning up Instagram and pleasing even curious carnivores!

Our local food friends are working hard. Let’s try to get out and show support!

www.timeoutmarket.com/boston 

www.anoushella.com

Matt’s segments for “Connoisseur’s Corner” usually air on WBZ Saturdays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25, and 11:55 AM and Sundays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25 AM.

Recent samples can be found at https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1002-Connoisseurs-Corner-28654273/.

If you have ideas for future segments, please send them to Matt@Matts-Meals.com.

Thanks for listening and thanks for supporting our friends and neighbors in the food-service industry!

Boston is known for its tea parties, but few area tea-makers have done so much to liven them up as Lisa Marie Gennawey of J’enwey Teas.

In addition to being the tea of choice (if not the official tea provider) at such posh places as Canyon Ranch, InterContinental and W hotels, The Newbury (formerly the Taj), the Encore in Everett andLas Vegas, and Fenway Park, J’enwey has expanded its reach to the Four Seasons at One Dalton Street, the 907 Hotel in Cambridge, and Maria’s Java Stop in Marblehead.

At One Dalton (which is quickly becoming theaddress in Boston), J’enwey teas are being offered in the mini bars in each room and as part of their Trifecta High Tea service on Sundays from 11-3 that is quickly becoming a great reason to venture back downtown for a civilized break from pandemic madness.

At 907 ‘s restaurant – The Dial – the teas are being used in creative cocktails like the Sun Rising East (which features J’enwey’s ginger-turmeric oolong) and the Social Butterfly (which combines hibiscus tea-infused Wheatly vodka with rose water and Fever Tree pink tonic).

When Maria Torres reopens the popular coffee shop Java Sun, she is set to offer J’enway tea-based sodas and lattes, including J’enwey’s famed London Fog.

Of course, all of their teas (and some great suggestions for your own concoctions) can be found at www.jenweytea.com.

It is so encouraging to see another kid from Lowell do so well!

Matt’s segments for “Connoisseur’s Corner” usually air on WBZ Saturdays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25, and 11:55 AM and Sundays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25 AM.

Recent samples can be found at https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1002-Connoisseurs-Corner-28654273/.

If you have ideas for future segments, please send them to Matt@Matts-Meals.com.

Thanks for listening and thanks for supporting our friends and neighbors in the food-service industry!

As Connoisseur’s Corner fans know, one of my favorite places to eat is BONAPITA. I love the simple, fresh flavors, the AMAZING fresh-baked pita, and the fact that he food is healthy can actually help me stick to a diet so I can indulge in other treats that I taste test on our listener’s and reader’s behalf.

Like so many other restaurants during the pandemic, BONAPITA has been supplying medical workers and others in the neighborhood (its West Roxbury location is near the VA hospital and Roxbury Latin School). Unlike any others, however, BONAPITA is taking a step further by expanding its already amazing and diverse menu!

In addition to the long-loved chicken a la plancha, zucchini falafel, black bean and beet patties, and Angus beef meatballs that can be plated with Basmati rice and veggies, tossed over salad, or stuffed in a pita, BONAPITA is now offering beef or pizza empanadas, spicy Shakshuka, and a new salad that includes roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed green beans, and grilled broccoli. There is also a new pita stuffer- chicken schnitzel topped with homemade pickles – as well as special value meals that will change regularly, so even die-hard fans like me can enjoy even more variety and flavor!

While BONAPITA also looks forward to reopening in Downtown Crossing, they are still delivering and offering their impressive catering menus that work well for family meals and business meetings as well.

Winter is coming and restaurants need our help more than ever! Let’s help friends like BONAPITA continue to thrive so they can continue to support us all.

www.bonapita.com

Matt’s segments for “Connoisseur’s Corner” usually air on WBZ Saturdays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25, and 11:55 AM and Sundays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25 AM.

Recent samples can be found at https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1002-Connoisseurs-Corner-28654273/.

If you have ideas for future segments, please send them to Matt@Matts-Meals.com.

Thanks for listening and thanks for supporting our friends and neighbors in the food-service industry!

Every year at the time, my mouth begins to water as I start to think about the holiday season especially as it means the annual return of Beyond Bubbe’sKitchen – the popular food extravaganza that is put on each year by the Jewish Arts Collaborative.

This year, Bubbehas to stay home due to Covid, but she has reached out to some of her most talented teammates who are ready to bring their ‘A game’ remotely.

All you need to do to enjoy her homemade hospitality is go to www.jarts.org and order a set by December 2 and it will be delivered in time to participate in this year’s online “kitchen” on Wednesday, December 9 (which, it so happens, is the night before Chanukah begins).

For the event, ubiquitous kosher caterer Catering by Andrew is offering a pareve meal that includes freshly-baked pita with za’atar hummus, latkes with apricot-apple chutney, Moroccan salmon, and Chanukah cake pops or a meat-based meal that includes Barolo-braised short ribs and Andrew’s amazing flourless chocolate cake. Peregrine’s plates include smoke bluefish pate, a potato pancake with cultured sour cream, and lamb stew and can be accompanied by an adult beverage to help light your candle in a different way! Mamaleh’s meal includes their famed matzo ball soup, Israeli salad, latkes with sour cream AND applesauce and a pair of raspberry sufganiyot(aka, donuts) so you can share with your socially-distanced friends. And if you want to share the whole meal, Avi Shemtov’s Simchais putting together a multi-course meal that includes charred dandelion salads, leek kefte, bulgar wheat-based kibbet yatkeen, and a duet of duck that is sure to bring joy to any home that orders it.

Covid may still be raging, but Bubbealways knows how to take care of you, especially at Chanukah!

https://jartsboston.org/hanukkah-2020/

Matt’s segments for “Connoisseur’s Corner” usually air on WBZ Saturdays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25, and 11:55 AM and Sundays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25 AM.

Recent samples can be found at https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1002-Connoisseurs-Corner-28654273/.

If you have ideas for future segments, please send them to Matt@Matts-Meals.com.

Thanks for listening and thanks for supporting our friends and neighbors in the food-service industry!

We have spoken many times before about the amazing food at Farm Grill in Newton and their sister establishment, the Greek International Food Market in West Roxbury. More recently, however, we have also lauded the Iliades family’s dedication to their communities.

While they continue to offer some of the best catering options around and hand-picked packages that make for a trip to Greece in a bag, the Iliades have recently begun to do even more for their friends in the food space by featuring produce from area farms on their menu. If a farm wishes to participate, all they need do is contact Alexi Iliades at (617) 964-7766or info@farm-grill.comand he will drive up to an hour from Newton to pick up whatever the farm wishes to have promoted in the restaurant. In doing so, Alexi makes sure that his customers continue to get the freshest, healthiest foods and the farms get to have their produce enjoyed by people in other areas. Especially as many local farms are hurting due a lack of farmers markets, etc., this is a total win-win and the ones who benefit most are those who get to enjoy Farm Grill’s food!

At the same time, Alexi’s sister Katerina is spotlighting other local food makers at the Greek Market. Again this benefits all involved as the Market gets to expand upon its already encyclopedia selection and the independent food makers get to reach new customers. Among the first set of standouts is Eva’s Pastry (which makes homemade treats from Greece and around the world), the Greek artisans of Tolmee, Connecticut’s, Ariston Olive Oil, Maine’s Lakonia Foods, and even more from Market favorite Olympiana.

Especially in these times, we all need to look out for each other, so it is great to know that we can help independent food makers while also enjoying food that is good for us!

www.farm-grill.com
www.greekmarket.com

Matt’s segments for “Connoisseur’s Corner” usually air on WBZ Saturdays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25, and 11:55 AM and Sundays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25 AM.

Recent samples can be found at https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1002-Connoisseurs-Corner-28654273/.

If you have ideas for future segments, please send them to Matt@Matts-Meals.com.

Thanks for listening and thanks for supporting our friends and neighbors in the food-service industry!

As Connoisseurs Corner followers know, I am a big popcorn fan.

And while I continue to love the likes of the Lesser Evil’s organic popcorns from CT, Norwood’s environmentally-friendly sorghum-based Pop I.Q., and the Oscar-worthy cinematic treats from Arena Cinelounge (who are donating proceeds to help out of work actors and others in the entertainment industry, so please support them!), I recently found a new fave from a company who knows the snack aisle well.

Having recently re-emerged after winning the lunch box wars with Pirate’s Booty, Rob Ehrlich’s new vegan venture- entitled appropriately enough Vegan Rob’s – has popped up with a new slew of popcorns that come in a variety of vegan-friendly flavors that are as good for adults as they are for kids! Some of them are so good, they do not even need corn!

From the hydroponic marvel of sea buckthorn to a variety that is made with curcimin (the active element of turmeric) to the world’s only oat butter popcorn and a minimally-processed demerara sugar variety that Rob himself calls “crazy good” (a claim with which I heartily agree!), Rob’s new case of corns offers protein and other nutrients in delicious flavors that work for almost any diet.

So keep supporting local companies and out-of-work actors, but be sure to leave room in your lunch box for the latest triumph from a man who has been shaking his booty in the snack aisle for decades.

www.veganrobs.com

www.popiqsnacks.com

www.lesserevil.com

www.arenascreen.com/popcorn

While online casinos are typically associated with solitary gaming experiences, the social aspect of gambling has become increasingly prominent in recent years. To meet the growing demand for interaction and community engagement, online casinos have incorporated social features like chat rooms, tournaments, and other community-driven experiences. These innovations not only make online gambling more enjoyable but also replicate the camaraderie of brick-and-mortar casinos.

In this article, we’ll explore the various social features online casinos offer, including chat rooms, tournaments, and how they’re building a sense of community among players.
1. Chat Rooms: Real-Time Interaction with Players

One of the key elements of social gaming in online casinos is the introduction of chat rooms. These spaces allow players to interact with each other in real time, replicating the casual conversations one might have at a traditional casino.
Building Connections

Chat rooms provide an opportunity for players to engage with each other during live dealer games, slots, or even poker rooms. It’s not just about sharing game tips or strategies; these interactions can range from casual banter to celebrating wins together, creating a more communal environment. This sense of camaraderie is especially strong in games like bingo or poker, where players spend extended periods in a virtual room, interacting as they play.
Dealer Interaction

In live dealer games, the social element is further enhanced by allowing players to chat with the dealer. This interaction adds a personal touch, making the experience feel more immersive and closer to what players might experience in a physical casino. Players can ask the dealer questions, comment on the game, or simply engage in friendly conversation, making the live dealer experience even more engaging.
Moderated Environments

To maintain a positive atmosphere, many online casinos have moderators in place within chat rooms to ensure that conversations remain respectful and enjoyable for all players. This moderation helps create a welcoming environment where players can focus on having fun without worrying about toxic behavior.
2. Tournaments: Competitive Thrills and Social Engagement

Tournaments are a popular feature in online casinos that blend competitive gaming with social interaction. These events attract players looking to test their skills against others while offering a unique sense of community through shared experiences.
Types of Tournaments

Online casinos offer a wide range of tournaments, from poker and blackjack to slot competitions. Players can compete for prizes, bonuses, or bragging rights, adding an extra layer of excitement to their gaming experience. The competitive aspect often encourages more social interaction, as players discuss strategies, compare scores, and celebrate victories.
Leaderboards and Community Recognition

One of the most engaging aspects of tournaments is the inclusion of leaderboards, which display the top-performing players in real-time. Not only does this foster competition, but it also creates a sense of recognition and prestige within the player community. Players who consistently rank high on leaderboards can gain recognition from their peers, creating a competitive yet friendly dynamic within the online casino ecosystem.
Multi-Table Tournaments (MTTs)

In poker, multi-table tournaments (MTTs) have become a cornerstone of social interaction. These large-scale events attract players from around the world, offering opportunities to interact with hundreds or even thousands of participants. The shared experience of moving through different stages of the tournament together—whether winning or losing—builds a sense of solidarity among players.
3. Community Features: Clubs, Loyalty Programs, and Social Platforms

Beyond chat rooms and tournaments, online casinos are increasingly introducing other community-oriented features that enhance the social aspect of gambling.
Player Clubs and Guilds

Many online casinos now offer player clubs or guilds, where players can join groups based on their interests, skill levels, or preferred games. These clubs foster a sense of belonging and create tight-knit communities where players can share tips, participate in exclusive events, or even collaborate in team-based challenges. It also gives players the opportunity to form friendships with people who share similar gaming preferences.
Loyalty Programs with a Social Twist

Loyalty programs are not just about earning points or unlocking rewards anymore. Online casinos are incorporating social elements into these programs, encouraging players to participate in community-driven events, collaborate with others, and celebrate collective achievements. Some casinos have even gamified their loyalty systems, offering levels, badges, and social recognition as players advance through the program.
Casino Social Platforms

A growing number of online casinos are integrating social media-like platforms into their sites, allowing players to create profiles, connect with friends, share their achievements, and follow their favorite players or streamers. These platforms create an interconnected environment where players can engage in conversations, follow each other’s gaming journeys, and keep up with the latest community news.
4. Live Dealer Games: Socializing with a Human Touch

Live dealer games have played a pivotal role in bringing the social experience of land-based casinos into the online world. Players who enjoy the human element of gambling can engage with real dealers and other players in a live-streamed environment, enhancing the sense of immersion.
Live Interaction with Dealers

The ability to chat with live dealers brings a personal, human touch to online gambling that many players crave. Dealers often respond to players’ questions and comments in real time, making the experience feel more interactive and engaging than traditional online games. This interaction adds a layer of authenticity to games like blackjack, baccarat, or roulette, allowing players to feel as though they’re sitting at a real casino table.
Shared Experiences with Players

Live dealer games also provide a platform for shared experiences among players. Whether it’s collectively celebrating a big win or lamenting a tough loss, the social aspect of playing with others in real-time fosters a sense of community that’s missing in solo play.
5. Social Casino Games: Fun Without Financial Stakes

For players who enjoy the social side of casino gaming without the pressure of financial risk, social casino games have become a popular alternative. These games, available on platforms like Facebook and mobile apps, allow players to enjoy their favorite casino games with friends, all without betting real money.
Competing with Friends

In social casino games, players can compete with friends or other players worldwide in a variety of casino-style games, including slots, poker, and roulette. Although there are no real-money stakes involved, the competition for virtual currency and leaderboards still provides excitement and social engagement.
In-Game Chat Features

Like traditional online casinos, social casino platforms also offer in-game chat features, allowing players to interact while they play. These chats enhance the social experience, encouraging players to engage in friendly banter or discuss strategies.
6. The Future of Social Features in Online Casinos

As online gambling continues to evolve, social features will play an increasingly prominent role in shaping the player experience. We can expect further innovations, such as:

VR and AR Integration: Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are set to revolutionize the social aspects of online casinos. These technologies will allow players to step into fully immersive virtual casinos, where they can interact with other players and dealers as if they were in a physical space.

Enhanced Community Events: Online casinos may introduce more community-driven events, such as team-based tournaments, where players work together to achieve goals and win collective prizes. These events would encourage collaboration and foster even deeper connections within the player community.

Social Streaming and Esports: With the rise of live streaming platforms and esports, online casinos may incorporate social streaming features where players can broadcast their gameplay to others, building their own fanbase and engaging with viewers in real-time.

Conclusion

The social side of online casinos like joker123 has come a long way, offering players a richer and more interactive gaming experience. From chat rooms and tournaments to live dealer games and social casino platforms, these features are helping to build vibrant player communities that extend beyond the solitary nature of traditional online gambling. As technology continues to advance, the social aspects of online casinos will only grow, providing even more opportunities for players to connect, compete, and engage with one another in a virtual world.

Matt’s segments for “Connoisseur’s Corner” usually air on WBZ Saturdays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25, and 11:55 AM and Sundays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25.

Recent samples can be found at https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1002-Connoisseurs-Corner-28654273/.

If you have ideas for future segments, please send them to Matt@Matts-Meals.com.

Thanks for listening and thanks for supporting our friends and neighbors in the food-service industry!