Valentine's Day in Weymouth

Valentine’s Day in Weymouth

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching! Whether you’ll have a loved one on your arm or you’re celebrating being single with friends, here’s a list of great places to go out and celebrate in Weymouth!

Ecco Trattoria & Bar

This upscale restaurant is sure to entice romance in any couple. A gourmet Italian dinner would be nothing but satisfying especially with their wine menu to go along with it. If you’re aiming to please this Valentine’s Day, be sure to check out the restaurant here: http://bit.ly/1iHZEcx

Main Street Grille

No one ever said Valentine’s couldn’t be celebrated at a nice American- bar style

restaurant, especially for those who want to escape the romance of the day and just catch up on a good basketball game. The Main Street Grill has all types of American classics from seafood, to burgers. Whatever your meal of choice be, it’s sure to be a good one. Check them out here: http://bit.ly/1jFMnkT

Tio Juan’s Margaritas

Looking for great Spanish cuisine and maybe a couple rounds of drinks to go with? Look no further than Weymouth’s local Mexican Restaurant. Tio Juan’s specializes in all types of drinks, such as their Silver Star Margarita. The Spanish cuisine that goes along with it is a bonus to your Valentine’s evening. Check out their menu here: http://bit.ly/1b280qy

Reggio Ristorante & Catering

Weymouth has a growing Italian influence so spending Valentine’s Day eating Reggio’s Italian cuisine would be a benefit. Reggio’s makes family recipes all the way from Reggio, Italy. Their Veal Parmigiana is a winner among many couples. Make your man or woman happy with reservations to Reggio’s. Check out their site here: http://bit.ly/1crqLF4

Healthy Cooking at Home!

Did you know that January 17th was National Ditch Your Resolution Day? Hopefully you are unlike the one third of Americans that have already broken their resolution promises! If eating healthy was on your list, we are here to help! Use these tips and recipes to help keep up your good work!

• A key to eating clean and healthy throughout the day is Meal Planning. Before you do your weekly grocery shopping trip - put together a meal calendar for the week so you can be sure to pick up all the needed ingredients. There are many free tools online to help you with this planning - check out websites such as Real Simple and 100 Days of Real Food.
• The second key is Food Prep. You are not going to want to cut, chop and boil the same things every day, so plan ahead and pick your prep day. Hard boil your eggs in bulk, peel and separate garlic cloves, cut your celery in sticks and place in water so that they do not dry out, grill a batch of chicken to have on hand for salads and other recipes. There are so much you can do in advance - make your sauces, hummus, pesto....Do some baking - muffins or eggs frittatas that can be refrigerated for easy snacking. Make a batch of these for breakfast on the go:
• Veggie Frittata (recipe altered from The Biggest Loser):
• 1 tablespoon vegerable oil
• 2 cups egg substitute or 8 eggs
• 1/4 cup skim milk
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 cup shredded low-fat Swiss cheese
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red pepper
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green pepper
• 1 cup thinly sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup finely chopped asparagus
• Directions: Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Mist 12 muffin cups with cooking spray. In large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, red and green pepper, mushrooms and asparagus. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until vegetables are cooked. In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk and parsley until well mixed. Stire in cheese, mushroom mixture and green onions. Spoon mixture into muffin cups, filling approximately 3/4 full. Bake 20 minutes or until set. Allow to cool and refrigerate to keep for breakfast throughout the week!
• Below are just a few ingredients to always have on your hand in your pantry or refrigerator. These will help you to make good choices when cooking in a rush or snacking in a hurry!
• Fresh Greens - have your favorite greens on hand for salads, sandwiches and other dishes
• Whole Wheat Pasta
• Peanut Butter
• Organic Eggs
• Almonds
• Basic Granola
• Flaxseed
• Lean Ground Turkey
• Boneless/Skinless Chicken Breasts
• Here are some suggestions for healthy snacks to have at home or pack for work:
• Sliced Apples dipped or spread with Peanut Butter
• Greek Yogurt
• Edamame
• Air-popped Popcorn
• Almonds
• Hummus & Carrot Sticks
• Try this healthy dinner recipe, it is likely to become a go-to favorite:
• Flank Steak with Caramelized Onions (recipe credit to Fitness Magazine)
• Makes: 4 servings, Prep Time: 5 mins, Cook time: 15 mins
• Ingredients:
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 large red onions, halved and thinly sliced
• 1 red or green bell pepper cut into thin strips
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 beef flank steak (1 1/4 to 1 1/2 lbs)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground pepper
• 4 7-8" flour tortillas
• 1 15-ounce can black 
• Directions:
• Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.  Add the onions; cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 7 minutes.  Add the bell pepper strips, sage and oregano.  Stirring constantly, cook, uncovered over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes, until the onions are golden and the peppers are crisp. Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat Trim fat from the steak; score on both sides by making shallow cuts at 1-inch intervals in a diamond pattern.  Rub with salt and black pepper.  Grill 8 to 12 minutes for medium rare and 12-14 for medium, turning once. To serve, thinly slice the steak diagonally across the grain and top with the onion mixture.  Serve with warm tortillas and black beans on the side.  

To help fight the resolution fears....to stay strong in the kitchen, we recommend that you Plan, Prepare & Cook! It will feel like a bit of work at first, but get into the rhythm and it will become your healthy way of life! 

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New England Winter Getaways

Living in New England has perks for all four seasons. While winter tends to be our least favorite - make the most of it - embrace the cold and find the pretty! Here are some suggestions for weekend getaways that are only a short drive away from your apartment home:

Red Lion Inn, photo credit: Totsandtravels.com

Red Lion Inn, Stockbridge, MA - Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, this well-known retreat is an easy drive down the Pike, but will make you feel so far away. Stay in the Main Inn or one of their guest houses. In addition to the delicious food offered in their four different restaurants, the inn is surrounded by unique shops and delicious eateries - go out and explore the quaint New England town of Stockbridge. Pets are welcomed here. Rates begin at $120.

The Lobby - Stowe Mountain Lodge, photo credit: ecoadventurer.wordpress.com

Stowe Mountain Lodge, Stowe, VT - This is the ultimate New England getaway destination. Everywhere you look the winter views will stun you. Whether you are a novice or expert skier, or if you do not ski at all - this is the place for you. This resort is good at just about everything - fine food, relaxing, skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dog sled rides....every winter activity you can imagine! Accommodations range from guest rooms and suites, to cabins and guest houses with prices beginning at $279 a night. Look into their ski and stay packages.

Mountain View Grand Resort, photo credit: tripadvisor.com

Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa, Whitefield, NH - This is a great spot for families - with a packed schedule of activities to choose from including sledding, snow tubing, ice skating and cross country skiing. This resort also boasts an in-house movie theater, children's play area, game room, indoor pool and spa. Close-by to the resort, guests can visit Mount Washington, local theaters and Cannon Mountain. Guest rooms and suites are available with rates starting at $159 a night.

Stonecroft Inn, Mystic, CT - A quaint bed and breakfast in Ledyard, located in Connecticut's countryside just minutes from downtown Mystic. Snuggle up to their wood burning or gas fireplaces and enjoy your favorite glass of wine. This unique property has two different inns to choose from for your stay. If you are looking for more action - Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods are a short drive away. Rates begin at $225.

White Barn Inn, Kennebunk, ME - Explore the coast of Maine in the winter - nothing could be more peaceful. At this romantic hotel, every room is treated to fresh flowers, fruit and his and her robes. Many of the rooms boast gas-burning fireplaces and jacuzzi tubs. In addition to the charming sites and shops of Kennebunkport, the White Barn Inn has everything you need to relax including a state of the art spa and AAA Five Diamond fine dining at the White Barn Inn Restaurant. If you are passionate about cooking - look into the private cooking lessons offered by the Inn's Grand Chef. Rates begin around $350

Newport Harbor Hotel and Marina, Newport, RI - Visit Newport like you never have before. Gonewport.com is offering an adventurous winter package for your stay at the Newport Harbor Hotel called the 'Newport Extreme.' This is a chance to experience the gorgeous hotspot in a unique way - starting with the scenic views from your guestroom, followed by breakfast for two at Pier 49, and a helicopter mansion tour. Or just enjoy a quiet stay on the water with fine dining and breathtaking views. Rates for this package begin at $200 - it ends March 31st.

Jay Peak Resort, Jay, VT - If you want to take the family away without boarding a plane - this is the ultimate New England family vacation. Jay Peak Resort has something for every member of the family, for every minute of the day. From skiing and skating to an indoor waterpark, daycare and full activities schedule. Look into vacation packages when you book that include ski or snowboard lessons as well as full access to the indoor park. There is a variety of lodging options that begins at $289 per night.

For more dideas and some great weekend deals and packages - be sure to check out Living Social, Groupon and AAA regularly for a spontaneous weekend away. Enjoy our New England winter!

Some Favorite Eats in the Weymouth Area!

Whether you just moved into one of our luxury apartments or have been a resident of this area for years, it is good to know where to find the best bites close to home.  Our chef caliber kitchens make cooking at home a breeze, but it is nice to venture out once in a while and enjoy some fantastic local restaurants. The South Shore is loaded with restaurants of all styles, cultures, and price points; here we hope to help you find just what you are looking for, close to home.  We recommend giving some of these restaurants a try – some are well-known, while others are hidden gem:

Breakfast or Brunch:

·        Mad Hatter Café (119 Main St., Weymouth) – Great breakfast spot.  Open daily at 5 am, except on Sundays when they open at 6 a.m.  Great coffee, and their Crunchy French Toast is a favorite!

·        Stars on Hingham Harbor (2-4 Otis St., Hingham) – Gluten-free menu available.  The sweet potato home fries are the best!

·        Atlantica Restaurant (44 Border St., Cohasset) – Part of the Cohasset Harbor Resort, this upscale seaside restaurant offers a memorable Sunday brunch.  Reservations recommended.  The Crepe Station is an adult favorite, while the kids love the Sundae Bar!  Locally known for their Bloody Marys!

Lunch, Pizza and Quick Bites:

·        Windy City Eats (407A Middle St., Weymouth) – This well-known hot dog shack serves Chicago-style hotdogs, Italian beef, chili cheese fries and more. Offers delivery and takeout.

·        Wahlburgers (19 Shipyard Dr., Hingham) – Family friendly restaurant offering beef, seafood and turkey burgers and hotdogs.

·        Lynwood Café (320 Center St., Randolph) – Best bar pizza in the area.  The bean special is a must-try! 

·        Gios Roast Beef & Pizzeria (176 Middle St., Weymouth) – Thin crust pizza and great subs.  Offers delivery and takeout.

Ethnic Cuisine:

·        Sweet Lemons (828 Washington St., Weymouth) – Thai Restaurant, also has delivery and takeout.  Mango curry is a favorite dish.

·        Fishtail Kitchen (532 Pond St., Weymouth) – Indian restaurant, offers lunch buffet.  Delivery and takeout available.

·        El Sarape (5 Commwercial St., Braintree) - Authentic Mexican cuisine.  Start your meal with their homemade guacamole.  Sangria and margaritas are delicious and the steak fajitas are a favorite.

·        La Dalat (181 Nantasket Ave., Hull) – Asian Fusion and Seafood restaurant.  The hot and sour soup and Tuna Pizza are favorites!

Dinner and Drinks:

·        Mia Regazza (268 Washington St., Abington) – Italian dining.  Seafood mushrooms are a must and if you can save room, end your meal with a blueberry brulee!

·        Hingham Beer Works (18 Shipyard Dr., Hingham) – Great restaurant and brewery with outdoor seating.  Amazing beer selection and the beer pretzels are a great snack to go with your drinks!

·        Main Street Grille (1400 Main St., Weymouth) – Great wings and steak tips! 

Date Night or Special Occasions:

·        Tosca (14 North St., Hingham) – Located adjacent to Hingham’s harbor, Tosca is one of the South Shore’s most popular restaurants, featuring Italian-inspired cuisine.  Reservations are a must. Enjoy the extensive wine menu, seaside views and delicious entrees – perfect date night location.

·        Scarlet Oak Tavern (1217 Main St., Hingham) – Casual elegance best describes this restaurant that focuses on fresh and local ingredients.  Menu ranges from Potato-Crusted Haddock to Summer Vegetable Ravioli, the Chicken Pot Pie is a favorite.

·        Atlantica Restaurant (44 Border St., Cohasset) –Award winning restaurant with panoramic ocean views. Give the Paella or Sea Scallops a try!

·        Alma Nove (22 Shipyard Dr., Hingham) – Great date spot featuring a combination of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, located along Hingham’s picturesque waterfront.  The lobster ravioli and sangria are delicious.  Extensive gluten-free menu.   Reservations are recommended. 

·        Rustic Kitchen (94 Derby St., Hingham) – This well-known eatery offers excellent ambiance with both its indoor and outdoor seating.  The Italian cuisine includes Comfort Classics such as Chicken Piccatta and Parmesan Crusted Veal Cutlet as well as their ‘Pizzas On a Paddle’ and a great seafood and steak selection. 

·        Ecco Trattoria & Bar (1169 Main St., Weymouth) – Great Northern Italian cuisine, and close to home!

Dessert:

·        Cupcake Mojo (93 Washington St., Weymouth) - Delicious bakery.  Check online for their hours before you visit as they are mostly open during the day.  Great variety of cupcake flavors and frosting!

·        Purefections (102 Franklin St., Quincy) – This creative chocolate shop features sweets ranging from Tartarugas and Brownie Pops to Chocolate Dipped Gummy Bears and Chocolate Dipped Sandwich Cookies.  Yum!

·        Pinkberry (94 Derby St., Hingham) - Handcrafted Greek and Frozen Yogurt bar.

Top 10 Kitchen Gadgets!

One of our resolutions for the New Year is to get a little more comfortable in the kitchen.  While our luxury apartments are equipped with state of the art cooking spaces, it is very easy to rely on the variety of delicious restaurants in the Weymouth area.  We did a little research to see what kitchen tools and gadgets we should add to our drawers and countertops to make cooking easier, more fun and even a bit tastier, and here is what we found:

Trudeau Graviti Electric Salt & Pepper Mills – These make adding fresh pepper and sea salt to any meal you make a pinch!  The battery-operated mills will impress your guests and save you a step in the kitchen!  These are available for $39.95 at Williams-Sonoma. 

Microplane Soft-Handle Zester Graters – We have all seen well-known chefs such as Rachel Ray and Bobby Flay use these on their cooking shows.  They can be used for so much – zesting a lemon or lime, grating parmesan cheese, and our favorite – mincing garlic.  This product is a must!  Available for $14.95 at Sur la Table.  

Kuhn Rikon Herb Chopper – This chopping tool will make cooking fun! Includes a blade cover for safe storage and is dishwasher safe. Available at Williams-Sonoma for $19.95. 

Pizza Grilling Stone – Available at Crate and Barrel for $44.95, this ceramic pizza stone is great for making pizzas, tortillas, and you can get more creative with a stone and make meals like burgers, steaks and chicken.  The best part – the more you use it the better your food will taste as it becomes more seasoned. 

T-Fal OptiGrill – Based on the reviews, once purchased, this appliance will not leave your countertop!  This indoor grill uses sensor cooking technology to give perfect result everytime.  Especially if you are cooking for one or even two, this will make cooking burgers, sausage, fish or steak a cinch!  The OptiGrill is available for $179.99 at Bed Bath and Beyond and Macys. 

OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer – If you love homemade guacamole as much as we do – you need this kitchen tool!  Available at Sur la Table for $10 – this slicer will help you split, pit, slice and scoop avocados safely – all you need is the chips!

Williams-Sonoma Smart Tools Kitchen Stand for Tablets – Keep your tablet safe while you cook.  We are constantly bringing it into the kitchen for recipes, keep it safe from spills on this tablet stand, available for $49.95 at Williams-Sonoma.

ITOUCHLESS Keep Fresh Bag Re-Sealer – Keep your snacks, chips, and cooking ingredients fresh with this battery-operated bag re-sealer.  Keep the air out and your leftovers will stay fresh!  The Resealer is $24.99 at Sears. 

OXO Good Grips Mandoline Slicer – Great for slicing and dicing your favorite vegetables and fruits.  The OXO Slicer has great reviews, comes with a great safety cover for storage and changing blades is a piece of cake.  This product retails for $69.99 on Amazon and Bed Bath and Beyond.

Proteak Edge Grain Teak Cutting Board – According to the pros at America’s Test Kitchen, this 18x24” board is the best cutting board out there.  Priced at $89 and available at Amazon, this cutting board came out on top after three months of rigorous tests by cooking pros!