Frosted Cakery Has A New Cupcake!

So are you dying to know Frosted Cakey’s new flavor?? Is it just killing you?! Ok, drum roll please…

Pecan Waffles And Bacon!!!!

Isn’t she a beauty? And lemme tell you- it’s tasty, too! (<–anyone remember that "I Love Lucy" reference?)

So we said so long to the famous French Toast and Bacon Cupcake, but hello to another breakfast goodie. This cupcake is made with Belgian waffle cake with bacon baked into the cake. Did you hear me?! Baked into the cake, folks. This isn’t your grandma’s cupcake (well maybe it is if she likes breakfast).

Anyhow, here are a few more stats on the cup-

– Infused with 100% maple syrup
– Topped with butter pecan cream
– Garnished with candied pecans, bacon and waffle

And if those deets don’t impress you, just take it from me. The cupcake was delicious. And I don’t eat meat, which means I don’t eat bacon, but in this case–for the big reveal, I ate it. I did it in the name of cupcake love. I did it for you, Fresno (and it was phenom).

Once you try this bad boy, you’ll find yourself saying, “French Toast, who?” (of course we can all tip our hats to that trusty cupcake that had us all drooling long ago).

A moment of silence for French Toast.

…

And a hip, hip, hooray for Pecan Waffles and Bacon!!!!!!!

Go get one. NOW. Seriously… they are nice and fresh. Tell them I Heart Fresno sent you.

❤ Dominique

Pssst- Have you “LIKED” Frosted Cakery yet? Well what are you waiting for? Do it, do it now!

I Heart Fresno: Whole Farms Market

As you all know by now Dominique, my partner in crime, is a veggie who dabs in vegan. I thought it was time I one uped her and tried to be RAW vegan for a day. I only lasted an afternoon, but OMG I am like SO healthy now.

What is a “raw vegan” you ask? A raw vegan is someone who does not eat meat, dairy, or anything cooked over 104 degrees. I’ve never really had a desire to go vegan. Mostly because I am mildly (ok majorly) obsessed with gourmet cheese. I mean my fiance put aged gouda in my stocking. That must sound really sick to you, but I was more than pleased.

A few weeks ago, the explosion that is downtown got a new joint. It’s called Whole Farms Market. Which may be my only complaint about the place. A little too close to another “whole” name if you ask me. If I was naming a raw food cafe I would call it “Rawdiculous”, but that’s just me. I went on a little culinary adventure to check out what it’s like to go raw.

When I entered the space I was immediately greeted warmly by the family of farmers/owners. The ladies were so helpful and excited to share the world of raw with me. They have their own locally grown produce as well as produce from other local organic farmers. They had hummos for us to sample and their version of brownies made out of dates and walnuts which were actually really tasty! They encouraged me to try their version of “fettucini alfredo”. Let me tell you right now, this doesn’t taste anything like fettucini alfredo. It’s not bad, but it’s definitely not fettucini. Here it is.

It’s made out of kelp noodles and a cashew and coconut cream. When I say that it wasn’t bad, I mean it. The texture of the noodle is definitely an acquired taste. Unlike the richness and creaminess of fetticini alfredo, this was packed with spice. It had lots of nutmeg and cinnamon. Again, I need to emphasize it wasn’t bad, but it just wasn’t what I expected. The more I ate the more I enjoyed it. It just tasted more like a thai noodle to me than fetticini.

I was surprised by how full I was on very little. One of the chefs told me that when our body receives enough nutrients it sends the message to our brain that were full. I don’t know if that’s true or not, but I do know I wasn’t hungry all afternoon and that I had a great level of energy. I don’t know if it was the placebo effect or if I was just riding the high of being totally more vegan than Dom for 5 minutes, but I felt good.

Stop by and give it a try for yourself. It was definitely an experience that was worth the trip.

I Heart Fresno Weddings: a Vintage Tea Party

The lovely ladies of Encore Events treated me to a high tea at the Victoria Rose Cottage in Clovis. I happen to be getting married on the royal weekend, so it was quite fitting. Though I’ve heard about it for years, this was my first visit to the Victoria Rose Cottage. The house is under new ownership and Nathan is embracing what Clovisians have loved for years while expanding the business to reach a new client base. Nathan has plans to maintain the traditional tea room and also create a space for business lunches. He and his head chef are going to keep the favorites on the menu and add some updated options for the business crowd.

We went classic. Pinky’s up and all that.

I had the creme brulee tea, which was delightful. Just sweet enough and super yummy! As we were sipping on our tea, they brought us some AMAZING homemade scones. Seriously, I was in pastry heaven. I don’t have a picture, because the scone didn’t stick around long enough. The homemade jam and clotted cream were a perfect topping and I was a happy little piggy.

Before our meal was done we had a delicious salad and finger sandwiches. Both the experience and the food were unforgettable. I can imagine that if you have a little princess, this would be the perfect place for a unique birthday party or event. I loved this little gem. Make sure to stop by and experience it for yourself.

❤ Cambria

A Golden Deal

Around this time of year I usually gain a lot of weight. Ok, all year I gain weight, but especially this time of year. I love a good coffee shop anytime, but especially on a cold winter day. Don’t you? What about a coffee shop that’s clean, offers free wi-fi, and any coffee flavor or hot chocolate for 99 cents? What about freshly made cookies for 49 cents?

The Golden Bakery is owned and operated by a cute Armenian couple. The wife bakes cookies and pastries daily to ensure freshness. Yum, yum, yum. The atmosphere is clean, but random. I would have to say the most surprising thing about the place is the flat screens in every corner. Hmmmm… not really sure why they’re there, but I’m not hating it.

Chance ordered a frap and I stuck with the bakery goodies. The cookies melted in my mouth. So delish.

If you’re not in the mood for a crowded Starbucks or a super trendy coffee joint, then head over to The Golden Bakery on the Southwest corner of Bullard and Palm.

❤ Dominique

On Crack at Cracked Pepper

No, there is not a drug problem at Cracked Pepper Bistro. However, I love this place so much, one might call me addicted-as if I was on some kind of crack cocaine. You feel me?

The atmosphere is romantic and Vatche, the chef himself comes out to greet you after your meal. What a place! One of my top 5 restaurant picks for Fresno. I’m giving it a big I Heart Fresno heart attack.

Vatche, the owner and head chef at Cracked Pepper doesn’t mess around. He’s the real deal, folks. I think one of my favorite things about Vatche’s Restaurant is the fact that they cook for the season. Vatche uses almost all local produce! I see him at Farmer’s Market from time to time (bonus!). He changes his menu regularly so it’s always exciting to see the new food dishes he creates. His food is his art and I appreciate that very much. He also knows how to pair a good wine with your meal, so don’t hesitate to try something new.

Somewhat more pricey, Cracked Pepper is worth your buck. Chance and I went about a month ago before all the craziness with the holidays started and our bill was about $80 including tip. I grabbed a mixed green salad topped with lemon dressing. I also ordered one of my new favorites, the amazing walnut pumpkin soup. Chance ordered the filet with potatoes and ate it so fast I almost wasn’t sure if the plate ever hit the table.

For dessert we had bread pudding. And I didn’t take a picture of it, because to be honest, I just wanted to shove it in my mouth and not worry about snappin’ away. Do you like bread pudding? Well, I don’t either EXCEPT for Cracked Pepper’s bread pudding. I’m telling you, it’s the most amazing, most delicious, most incredible thing you will ever eat. Non-negotiable. Order it, you won’t be disappointed. And tell him Dominique from I Heart Fresno sent you.

Here I am with my head cut off.

And here are the better looking photos…

This pumpkin soup had chopped walnuts inside and was topped with a dollop of sour cream. UGH. One of my favorites.

And we have very exciting news for you, Vatce told us he’s opening a new restaurant over on Friant and Fort Washington. And we’ll be bringing you an exclusive peek at that location real soon!

P.S.- My hubby, Chance James has some of his paintings hanging in Cracked Pepper so be sure to check them out when you stop in!

I love you, Fresno. You’re alllllright.

❤ Dominique

Like Cracked Pepper

Time For THAI

Whoa, what’s this.. we’re blogging?! Could it be true?! I know we’ve been the worst right? Well we’re back in action kids and ready to ATTACK!

Today, I had a break from the evil cocktail of rain and holiday traffic and enjoyed a roommate reunion. Sunny Yingling, our dear married friend and former roommate had lunch with roomie Brooke and I. Such a great holiday diversion.

Here’s me and Mrs. Yingling. (BTW Mrs. Yingling happens to be an AMAZING dietician, so if you’re trying to slim down in the new year check her out!)

Here’s the other side of the table.

Ya, I was magically on both sides. Sorry to disappoint you but I don’t have a twin.

As far as I’m concerned, any time is a great time for Thai. I had never been to Time For Thai on Willow and Nees, but I really enjoyed my experience. First of all, I walked in and the restaurant was completely empty. Not great for business, but great for a quiet lunch. The ladies who were working were crowded around what I’m guessing is a Thai Soap Opera. Whatever it was I was entertained until my girls arrived. We all were craving some Pad Thai and none o us were disappointed. The menu is huge, reasonably priced and from what I gathered from my Pad Thai, tasty.

Here’s a picture of Brooke’s leftovers, cause I sure did finish mine.

If you need a diversion from the holiday madness or you just want to catch up on your Thai Soaps, check out Time for Thai.

 

❤ Cambria

I Heart Fresno Weddings: Englemann’s Cellars & Encore Events

Fresno’s selection of wedding locations can be a little limiting for a bride who is looking for something truly unique. There are definitely places here that are wonderful, but you really have to dig to find something different. Wolf Lakes is beautiful and I’m totally not dissing what they do, but I just didn’t want to get married where so many of my other friends had.

It’s also hard to find a place that will give a you the freedom to choose your own vendors. If you’re on a budget and you’re planning a wedding in Fresno, having the freedom to choose your vendors will help you save money and create the unique feel that you want to. With all of this considered I went on an exhaustive search looking for the right place, with the right feel, for the right price. Exhausted I turned to the lovely Suzanne Devereaux of Encore Events who came in and saved the day. She is an absolute joy and is changing my life. Seriously, if you are looking for a wedding planner who is warm, professional, and gets your style, she is totally your gal. She loves what she does and you can feel it in the way she treats you and gets excited with you.

Together we headed out on a mission and found our perfect location. Drum roll please…… Englemann Cellars! Andrew plays music and his band Bellarios played a gig out there awhile back. They have a beautiful open area out there and the sun totally sets over the vineyards. It basically looks like they just took out a huge rectangle in the middle of the vines and added a beautiful grass area with trees. You’re surrounded on three sides by vines and it’s absolutely beautiful. We really wanted our wedding to have a natural and laid back feel and Englemann’s is absolutely perfect for it. Plus, they allow us to bring in whatever vendors we want. On top of that, they are super reasonable. For events of 80 people or more, you just have to purchase 10 cases of wine and you get the facility… for free! We were going to purchase wine anyway. How great for us to buy a great local wine and get the perk of using their gorgeous facility.

If you’re a bride looking for something different in the Valley, you are not alone. I literally looked EVERYWHERE in the Valley, so if you need any suggestions of places, feel free to email me at my new email! Cambria@iheartfresnoca.com. As soon as I figure out how to check it, I’ll send you my list of spots.

❤ Cambria

Wassssssssabi !!!!!

You’ve been there, right? They yell “Wassssssabi” or “What’s up” at you and then you feel really uncomfortable while you stand there waiting for a table. But it’s all good fun.

This place is good. In fact, they won a Best of Fresno award for “Best Sushi Bar” And someone else very special won, too! My hubby, Chance James for Best Artist and Best Photo Studio!!!

Sorry, I’m a proud wife… I had to plug that.

Anyway, before Chance and I had the studio downtown we were located in Fig Garden and we basically went to Wassabi 3 times a week for lunch. Speaking of lunch, their lunch specials are AWESOME! You can pick two entrée items, plus soup, salad, rice, and a drink (even a beer!) all for 10$!!! It’s their Lunch Box special. It’s phe-nom.

I always eat way too super fast, so this is my only picture. I know, I’m so lame!

It’s really important that we support local businesses. And that brings me to my next point. The Fresno Bee’s People’s Choice Awards for 2011!! I know, we have to vote again?! Yes you do, folks. Let’s give people the recognition they deserve.

To vote, click THIS LINK.

Happy Thursday, everyone!

❤ Dominique

Wassabi Locations

1085 E Herndon Ave # 110
Fresno, CA 93720-3160
(559) 435-5423

Fig Garden Village
752 W. Shaw
Fresno, CA 93704

Zamora Taqueria

Alright, first things first. Can we get a little excited for I Heart Fresno Weddings???!!! I almost peed my pants when I received the call from Cam. I’m THRILLED for her and Andrew, but I also selfishly was super excited that I Heart Fresno will be including all things WEDDING (as it relates to Fresno, of course). We will be checking out local venues, food, décor, etc. Would you judge me if I told you I just did a little happy dance? Oh, you would? Then I didn’t.

Moving on…

Salvadorian Food. I went to Zamora Taqueria today and I LOVE IT. To be honest, the tacos tasted like Mexican food…I couldn’t really tell the difference, but maybe it’s because I didn’t have a Pupusa. Anyway, this place is incred. Incred, I tell ya!

The only thing that throws me off a tad is their awkward location. It’s located downtown, but that’s not the weird part. The weird part is that it’s like diagonally facing the street in a funky position with nothing else surrounding it. I don’t know how to explain it, you’ll just have to go there. And from the outside it kinda looks like you could get murdered there. But you won’t. I made it out alive and happy so you’ll be fine, my dear North Fresnans. You walk in and the two cutest old ladies make all these authentically delish items. I don’t know what else to say. I like tacos. I like good guacamole and I love me some Coke-a-Cola Classic from a glass bottle. Zamora’s has it all, so I’ll be back.

Any other good taco places out there? Lay it on me.

❤ Dominique

Zumora Taqueria
619 E Divisadero St
Fresno, CA 93721-1038
(559) 266-2235

I’m Nuts For Sierra Nut House

I love this place. I’ve been going there ever since I was a little girl because my mom would ALWAYS shop at Sierra Nut House for Christmas gifts. Did you know it’s been open since 1969?! Local owned, and locally grown. Love that. Read more info on their website HERE.

But I have to say, my favorite thing about this place is their charming atmosphere. It’s like Pottery Barn but with food instead of furniture. Oh! And instead of ugly plastic baskets to hold your goodies while you shop, they offer wooden baskets– so stylish! They also have cute little gifts like tea sets and decorative napkins. AND fresh sandwiches, fresh coffee, fresh soup and “tea of the day.”

I took lots of pictures.

And here they are.

❤ Dominique

Locations
3034 East Sierra Avenue
Fresno, CA 93710
(559) 299-3052

7901 North Blackstone Avenue
Fresno, CA
(559) 432-4023