Weekend Meanderings … Valentine’s Day & Super Bowl Edition

Today on Weekend Meanderings, a crowd pleasing game day dip, a Valentine’s Day dessert & cocktail pairing, and the most stunning farmhouse kitchen.

Happy weekend, friends!

It’s Saturday and I’m joining Kim and Elizabeth for Weekend Meanderings.

Our weekly roundup of inspiration and goings on.

This post includes affiliate links for your convenience at no additional cost to you. You can read my full disclosure policy here.

Teak bench with valentine pillow

Valentine’s Day is Tuesday.

I bet you hadn’t noticed.

And tomorrow is Super Bowl LVII.

I’m not for or against either team so I can enjoy the game, commercials and halftime show.

While nibbling on an array of football food.

More on that later.

Let’s jump in!

DECADENT CHOCOLATE POTS DE CREME & RASPBERRY KIR ROYALE’S

Early this week I joined a group of 12 amazing bloggers to share Valentine’s Day Dessert Ideas. I made Jim’s favorite Decadent Chocolate Pots de Creme and paired it with my favorite Raspberry Kir Royales. I previously talked about Raspberry Kir Royale’s here and here. Did you know the Kir Royale is having a resurgence thanks to Emily in Paris season 3?

Raspberry Kir Royales on a tray with chocolate pot de cremes in front of the fire.

Monica Vargas Photography

These pots de cremes and quick and easy to make, no baking required. Watch how easy it is here.

More decadent chocolate dessert ideas ~

Elizabeth and I are on the same wavelength. This week she shared her Chocolate Ganache Mousse recipe.

And Ina Garten is also thinking along the same lines with her Easy Chocolate Mousse and Kir Royales.

 

SUPER BOWL MENU & TRULY DECILIOUS DIP

Will you be watching the game on Sunday? The commercials? The halftime show? Maybe just indulging in wonderful, over the top football food while chatting with family and friends?

Board of cut vegetables and bowl of dip.

I’ll be doing all of the above. We’re having steak nachos and my World Famous Bean Dip. To balance the good with the bad, I made a batch of my Auntie Cookie’s Truly Delicious Dip to accompany an assortment of raw veggies.

Oops, I forgot the onion salt in this photo (see recipe below), but not to worry, everything made it into the bowl. If you’ve been following along here for a while, you know my aversion of mayonnaise. And the original recipe calls for it. I replaced it with Greek yogurt, forgive me Auntie Cookie.

Tip: Make the dip a day ahead (at least a few hours ahead) so the flavors fully marinate and be truly delicious!

Board of cut vegetables and bowl of dip.

Truly Delicious Dip

The simplest yummyest dip to go with everything from crackers to crudités.
5 from 2 votes

Ingredients
  

  • 2/3 cup Sour Cream
  • 2/3 cup Plain Greek Yogurt
  • 1 tsp Onion Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Beau Monde Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Dry Dill
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Combine all ingredients well and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.

BUNGALOW KITCHEN IN TIBURON

Last weekend I joined my friend Jane, and her beautiful and charming twin daughters, for brunch to celebrate her birthday. We trekked over to Tiburon to experience the year-old Bungalow Kitchen. Anything with bungalow in the name has got to be good, right? And this newish Michael Mina restaurant is very good. It’s also beautiful … and pricey, a fun treat.

Bungalow Kitchen, Tiburon.

AVABLU via Forbes.com

When we walked in the door the first thing I noticed was gorgeous paint colors. I’m not sure how to describe them, bright but muted (???) blues and greens in a satiny finish. Very vivid … my first thought was Alice in Wonderland. Whimsical. Magical. The stunning colors are complimented by warm wood accents and potted plants. The half-circle and standard banquettes are beautifully upholstered, with lots of bamboo and wicker chairs, a combination of round wood and rectangular tiled tables. A warm, cozy, clubby atmosphere. Ok, I just looked up the decorator (should have done that first). It’s Martin Brudnizki, and now it all comes clear. My photos don’t do it justice.

Situated right on the ferry landing, looking out toward Angel Island and the City, the setting and views could not be more spectacular. Even though it was cold and wet outside, inside on the enclosed deck, overhead heaters were doing their job and we were happily ensconced in our banquette watching the ferry’s glide in and out and enjoying the most delicious brunch.

four women sitting at restaurant table.

Jane, Moi, Tess, Alex

Brunch is served Saturday’s and Sundays from a prix fixe menu. Soccer ball size lobster pot pies passed by frequently on their way to other tables and seemed to be the menu’s piece de resistance. None of us indulged, but what we did have was amazing!

A music theme runs through the menu covers and overall decor … and their playlist was classic rock circa 1960’s thru the 90’s. I loved it. Inside, behind the enormous bar, is a fireplace flanked by sconces and bookcases … and several tables. A very library like atmosphere and if I was planning a romantic dinner I’d request it … that said, it’s tough to beat the waterfront, deck dining. There’s not a bad table. You can probably tell, I’m a huge fan and I’ll be dragging Jim there as soon as I can.

Bungalow Kitchen Tiburon.

The requisite powder room shot.

Oh, and I was thrilled to see the new Malibu Farm outpost (between Bungalow Kitchen and stalwart Sam’s) nearing completion for its spring opening. I can’t wait for that!

But back to the decorator, Martin Brudnizki … some snaps of his other work. Swoon. The Bungalow Kitchen is more laid back and California casual than these examples, but you can get Martin’s whimsical, storybook aesthetic.

More from our brunch adventure here.

 

WINTER WEEKEND BRUNCHING OUTFIT

What to wear to a weekend birthday brunch on a cold and rainy day? So glad you asked. I pulled out my Banana Republic corduroy blazer purchased last fall for a wine country dinner. To my shock and dismay, the blazer is no longer available. What?! I checked Banana Republic’s Factory (outlet) and they have this black version at a good price, but limited sizing. Note: the blazer is generously sized and I’m wearing size zero. Talk about vanity sizing. eBay has the same blazer in size 6, Poshmark has it in an 8 and 10. I’m sure it can be found on other resales sites as well. Google ‘Banana Republic Oversized Corduroy Rivoli Blazer in Vicuña Brown.’

Anyhoo, a blazer is a great piece to spiff up jeans and t-shirt. And speaking of jeans and t-shirts, I wore my Madewell Flea Market Flares which are also no longer available (this is getting ridiculous), but they have many other options. And I love this Loft long sleeve boatneck tee … I bought two in white and two in black. The fabric is a nice weight, a little heavier than a standard tee, but not bulky.

woman wearing corduroy blazer and jeans standing in front of white fence.

Did I already mention it was a cold, rainy day? So the suede booties I planned to wear stayed home, and my Steve Madden lug sole boots went instead. I was running late or I would have changed out my bag to my more rain friendly Longchamp Le Piliage tote. I also forgot my raincoat, but did remember an umbrella.

I might wear this outfit to a Super Bowl party. If I was going to a Super Bowl party.

Outfit collage.

Corduroy Blazer (see above) | Long Sleeve Boatneck Tee | Flare Denim (another option) | Silk Scarf | Belt | Lug Sole Boot | Hoop Earrings | Tote

 

KITCHEN CRUSH – HEDGE HILL FARM

Do you follow John Kanell of Preppy Kitchen? Last year I bought his new cookbook, Preppy Kitchen; I don’t think I mentioned it here. When it arrived I set it aside and quite honestly forgot about it. Earlier this week, I stumbled upon a Preppy Kitchen tour on the Quintessence blog/YouTube channel, part of their At Home in the Kitchen series. Well … after watching the video and seeing this amazing kitchen, I went running for the cookbook. Next thing I knew several hours had passed with me balancing the cookbook on my lap while watching John’s YouTube channel and Instagram all at once. I had to stop in order to get this post written. I wasn’t planning on sharing this today, but it’s what’s on my mind so here goes.

I haven’t completed my deep dive, but from what I’ve gleaned so far John (a former middle school science and math teacher) and his husband, Brian, along with their twin boys, moved from Los Angeles to a Connecticut farmhouse around in 2019. While refurbishing the house, that they named it Hedge Hill Farm, they documented the process in a series of videos that live alongside John’s cooking videos on his popular YouTube channel. I’ve only seen the kitchen so far but if it’s any indication the rest of the house and surrounding property is going to be right up my alley.

Without further ado … the drop-dead amazing Preppy Kitchen!

 

John’s book is beautiful too and I’m planning to read it cover to cover this weekend. I’ve got a fresh stack of sticky notes to mark recipes I’ll want to make. Probably every single one.

Preppy Kitchen Cookbook.

Preppy Kitchen

So there you have it.

Let’s see what Kim and Elizabeth are up to.

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA STYLE

PINECONES AND ACORNS

Odds & Socks ~

This Simple Romantic Valentine’s Day menu!

A wild Galentine table setting.

Wondering how to add red to your wardrobe, check out Kim and Cindy’s Signature Style posts here and here.

Hilderbabes Take Nantucket

If you missed the last weekend’s meanderings, you can catch up here.

And follow along for more fun on Instagram and Pinterest.

As always, I appreciate your visit and welcome your thoughts in the comments below.

Woman holding Valentine Cake

Happy Valentine’s Day from Snowberry!

 

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  • You outdid yourself on this post! That brunch spot is just dreamy and your descriptions brought me along for the ride. Your outfit was fab and now I’m hustling to find that jacket before your other readers! Easy dip tip too. Intrigued by cookbook, will explore more. Enjoy your weekend!

    • Good morning, Carol … and thank you! Hope you snag the blazer … I’m going to be loving it for years to come. Happy weekend! xo

  • Juliet, Love this Bungalow Kitchen! I have to drag Max there soon too. I love beautiful design and following him now on Insta. Of course he is British.. They have much more whimsical aesthetic. I LOVE it all. Food sounds good too.
    You ladies look chic! The weekend look with the cord blazer is classic and cute. What gives with the clothes there and gone in a blip? Can’t they carry classics all the time. I love the brands that do that. Lucky you go that blazer. It is darling on you.
    I can’t wait to sit down and do a deep dive on the Preppy Kitchen stuff!!
    Hope you have a fun weekend.. Saving your dip recipe to try too. Thanks for sharing the red post.
    xoxo
    Kim

    • Good morning, Kim … Bungalow Kitchen is so worth the drive. On a sunny day!!! Happy weekend! I’m with you, why are these classic pieces such a flash in the pan? So shortsighted … sigh. I think you’ll love the Preppy Kitchen too. Have the best weekend. xoxo

    • Thanks, Ellie … you’re right it is a sort of 70’s vibe and I’m really drawn to it! Have a wonderful weekend! xo

  • I’m new to your blog and reading this latest, I know I’m going to love it!
    I went “down the rabbit hole” with the Kir Royale/Chambord etc. Ordered a few things from Crate and Barrel!
    Love your brunch outfit… and all this is just pure fun!
    I look forward to reading more…

  • Fabulous post! Loved the outfit, restaurant and kir royales! I always serve kir royales for brunch! But the pot de crème recipe was so appreciated! I had invited my son’s family for an impromptu Valentines dinner this evening and wasn’t sure what I was going to serve for desert. This was quick, easy and my pot de cremes are now chilling in the refrigerator! I happened to have all the ingredients on hand so desert dilemma solved!

    Thanks and happy ❤️ Day to you and Jim!

    • Happy Saturday, Catherine! So excited to hear about your plans tonight … I know everyone will love the pots de cremes. Weren’t they simple?! What else are you serving? Have so much fun! xoxo

  • Hi Juliet, Thank you for introducing us to the Bungalow Kitchen: I hope to get there on one of my Bay Area visits! I love the colors and decor. It oddly reminds me of the Blue Talon Bistro in Williamsburg, VA — the colors, woodwork (and restroom!) — wonderful ambiance. Love John Kanell / the Preppy Kitchen: he is so likable and offers recipes that are in that sweet spot: interesting but not too much work! I had the 40″ version of his Lacanche range (w/ two ovens) in my last kitchen in SoCal — a lovely beast. When I was unpacking it, I lifted the french plate (massive piece of iron) from the top and the entire range fell face-down off its pallet — ahh, memories! We toured the factory in Burgundy — fun and interesting. I look forward to trying your dip recipe: what are the flavors in Beau Monde seasoning?? You look terrific in your Cord blazer and bootleg jeans!

    • Happy weekend, Joan! Oh my, what a story … such beautiful ranges and I’m sure they’re a dream to cook on. I believe Beau Monde is salt, onion, celery seed-ish. I always have a jar in my spice drawer, but this is the only recipe I make that calls for it! I can’t wait to dive into John’s cookbook … it’s sitting on the sofa just waiting for me to back away from the computer. Ha! Blue Talon Bistro sounds like my kinda place … I think you’d like the Bungalow too! xo

  • Tiburon! So fun! Jealous! We went to Sausalito years ago when we were in SF for a conference. The whole area is so great! I can tell I’m going to go down the rabbit hole (pun intended) with the decorator who did the restaurant. I LOVE it – love the whimsy. I love the brunching outfit – the whole situation is great! Happy Weekend!

  • Juliet, I love your outfit! You look chic and sophisticated.
    Your pots de creme look delicious as does your Kir Royale. I make my own raspberry and cranberry liquor and add it to champagne, a bit like a Kir and delicious.
    I cannot wait to make your dip! I love party food and dips are one of my favorite things at any party.
    Love the Preppy Kitchen! And his kitchen.
    Have a wonderful weekend, enjoy the game and have a very happy Valentine’s Day too!

    • Dips are the best, right? Have you watched Only Murderers in the Building? Great ongoing gag with Martin Short’s character and his obsession with dips! xo

  • Hi Juliet,
    It looks like you and Jane and her beautiful twin daughters have been friends for a very long time. Tiburon is such a beautiful town. We used to go when I lived in Sausalito. The views are so beautiful. Bungalow Kitchen is gorgeous, and the food delish too. It looks like you had a swell time. Treasured memories you have.
    Simple question (hopefully) what size pan do you suggest I bake “Juliet’s Top Secret World Famous Bean Dip in?” I’m thinking next time I need to bring a little something this might work out perfectly. I bet it is addictive. Food like this is not what you want to have hanging around the house that often.
    I’m sure you will make your Valentine’s Day so very special.

    • Hi Katherine … good question about the pan, and sorry I’m just seeing this today. Yesterday I used two cans of bean dip, and a 10 x 7 ceramic dish. For one-can go smaller and when feeding a crowd I’ve used a much larger dish or bowl. I’m definitely feeling guilty today and will atone with logs of fruits and veggies! Hope you had a great game-day! xo

  • Wow, what a beautiful restaurant, and you four lovely ladies made it even better! Such great inspiration, especially as we are finishing our basement, and we plan to use similar colors.

    I just got The Preppy Kitchen from the library and have already marked many recipes that I want to try. Speaking of recipes, I plan to make your Meyer Lemon Fettuccine as part of our Valentine’s Day menu. It looks so good! If you still have lemons to use, I highly recommend Ruth Reichl’s Lemon Panna Cotta, so easy and delicious (https://www.slowfoodsonomacountynorth.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Lemon-Panna-Cotta.pdf). Also, all of her books are so interesting, especially Garlic and Sapphires, which is about when she was a New York Times food critic, and she disguised herself in order not to be recognized at restaurants. All of her books include great recipes too.

    • Hi Jeanine … I recently read one of Ruth’s books. Loved it. Thanks for the recipe. I’m looking forward to trying Preppy Kitchen’s cream scones! xo

  • 5 stars
    Juliet,
    Love your look with your BR blazer. I just looked, and they have so many great blazers and vests too!
    Your Pot de Creme looks so yummy!
    xx

  • I recently made Preppy Kitchen’s Tortellini Soup. I think my husband told me 3 times that evening how much he liked it!! Looks like I need to order his book.

  • Hi Juliet,
    Thx for getting back to me on the size of the ceramic dish to use. It’s totally fine about the timing of you responding. I will tuck that info onto your famous recipe.

    I get it when you over indulge on certain foods you feel kind of yucky afterwards. A good amount of water makes you feel so much better the next many days.

    By the way I meant to compliment you on your beautiful pillow on the bench. the texture. You also looked so adorable in the outfit you styled for the Tiburon lunch brunch. You always look so pretty and put together.

    • You’re right, Katherine … I’m drinking a ton of water today! Hope you enjoyed the game and had some yummy, over indulgent food yourself. Thanks for the lovely compliments … you’ve made my day! xo

  • Do you know about The Hostess of the HUMBLE BUNGALOW BLOG.
    She is in Canada.
    Ex school teacher retired living her best life!
    Xxx

  • Wow, what a kitchen–thanks for sharing! Love your outfit, and you always wear everything so well. I’m making the recipe today as an appetizer for a dinner party tomorrow night!

  • I want to make that dip. Not a Mayo fan myself. I keep forgetting to tell you that I enjoyed the House Love book so thanks again for pulling my name out of a bowl!

    Speaking of bowls…. Super Bowl is a conundrum. I like both teams. Became a KC fan when Joe Montana (best QB to ever play the game) played there. So I’ll have to celebrate both teams by wearing red. We will be doing snacks then pulled pork Sammie’s with coleslaw for half time dinner.

    • Karen … I substitute Greek Yogurt for the mayo. But, I’ve made it with mayo (which I hate) and it’s fine. Anyway … this information is a little too late! I’m so happy know you enjoyed the book. I find Patric endlessly entertaining and fascinating. xo

  • Hi, I’m Juliet … welcome to Make Mine a Spritzer where we talk about all things home décor, classic style and more! I’m so happy you’re here!

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