Citiscapes Eats
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buffalo grilled MUSHROOMS

Mushrooms when cooked properly are the epitome of umami; I love this recipe as a side dish, but it’s also killer as a vegetarian main course as the base for sliders…it’s also excellent as an accoutrement to pizza.

The high heat grill ensures a crispy mushroom, so be sure to keep the burners on high through the cooking process. Morels are a seasonal treat, but worth the addition to the mix during the Spring months if you can find them. Thump thump!

buffalo grilled MUSHROOMS
Metrobilly Eats
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the essential RANCH CHICKEN

his recipe is not only a great homemade RANCH DRESSING for salads, dips, and pizza; but also one of my favorites as a marinade for seared or grilled chicken. The yogurt-based dressing is quick and easy to make, and feel free to use whatever fresh herbs you have from your garden.

The yogurt marinade ensures a super juicy, tender meat - but it’s also a great dip for the cooked chicken and fresh tomatoes we love to eat with this recipe.

the essential RANCH CHICKEN
Metrobilly Eats
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rose-chia PANNA COTTA

One of our favorite healthy desserts - it’s certainly strong enough for a man or a woman, but clearly made for couples! Thump thump!

rose-chia PANNA COTTA
Metrobilly Eats
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venison BOLOGNESE

This pasta dish has been one of my favorites during the Winter season; hearty, slightly spicy with a gingery Korean twist that has even the most hardcore Bolognese purists asking for seconds - unlike the more traditional sauce that using milk and hours to simmer, my version incorporates ground venison (feel free to use beef) and omits milk entirely, plus tons of fresh grated parmesan and green onions,

venison BOLOGNESE
Metrobilly Eats
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high south RILLETTES

I love this recipe as a “make in advance” idea days before your guests arrive; simply keep in the fridge until you’re ready to set out the day of your dinner or party.  Jarred Rillettes are also great gift options for your guests as you bid adieu; just be prepared to make this “potted meat” every time you host a party…they’re that good!

high south RILLETTES

#teamspringdale

Don Pedro's Carnitas - SCARY Good!

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I like uncomfortable social situations; those idiosyncratic moments when the inner YOU is  suddenly forced to weigh the pros and cons of flight or fight mode...what's it gonna be?  Usually, I chose FLIGHT because, well, I'm a big fat baby and don't really like the idea of endangering the people close to me, or probably more importantly, myself.  Still, those quick, brilliant flashes of fear keep the wheels turning and the heart thump, thumping away; and food is no exception - I like being scared, approaching the great unknown of some small back alley, hole-in-the-wall, greasy spoon, scary restaurant that makes something so sublime, beautiful that it can't help but garner a devoted, cult following regardless of when it's open, and where it's located - because it's THAT GOOD! 

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Chef David Palos of Don Pedro's in Springdale is a badass; as a father, as a husband, and as a chef with an almost superhero knack for using every single part of the pig; in a town where carnitas are undoubtedly the most beloved, consumed food no less.  Don Pedro's is a family affair, Palos' father supplying the whole pig from the butcher shop around the corner, and his strong, hard working wife manning the front of the house...the entire operation is a well oiled, badass machine.  Don't fear Chef David; despite his tough, confident exterior, he's really a sweetheart...always ready to show you his intricate, impressive al fresco smoking design, or just to chew the proverbial fat about his pork cooking skills and passion; and trust when I say that these skills and passions are worth fighting for.       

Don Pedro’s Carnitas

Address:  300 W Sunset Avenue, Springdale, AR 72764

Hours:  Mon-Sun 10am-10pm

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What to expect: 

Don Pedro’s is the newest “write-in” on the Springdale Taco Tour, promising the most fun, stylized stop of all.  Locally raised whole hogs that are broken down on premise, then prepared in a massive smoker that serves as an olfactory beacon from miles around.  And Chef David welcomes guests with a boisterous “Hello” draped in smiles, black apron, while brandishing giant knife and tongs. 

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What to eat: 

The Carnita Taco and Burrito are worth the trip alone, but don’t forget about the whole smoked chicken served with rice, beans, and a chopped salad.  If you’re lucky enough to arrive when David is carving up his wares, ask for a bite of the pig intestine, coiled, tender, butterscotch-y, divine.

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