Denis Culinary Tours

The word of the year, according to Merriam Webster, is a suffix.   This got me thinking . . . Despite the freneticism, the skepticism, and the commercialism, one of the reasons I truly love the holidays is the details.  Mostly, besides the good feelings I, and most others, seem to automatically have, it’s the new décor that interests me. The small, or large, touches that whisper, or shout, hey, there’s something special going on -- so lookie here, lookie here. Our K.C. restaurants, like those everywhere, join in this spirit.  Sure, it’s a great season for eating out but I get the feeling it’s more than a chore.  The purple tree at Bo Lings Plaza is festive and different.  801 Chophouse in Leawood has a giant tree not to be missed.  Walk into the Hilton President and gander at the garland, the tree and the many touches in this classic place before you dine at Providence .  Walk the Plaza streets and even look at the light poles befor...

It occurs to me that not only is it already December, but that brings Christmas and Hanukkah along with it – and the, let’s face it, responsibility and accountability of gifts.  Every year, the month is apparently a surprise – and somehow I’m never ready. There are a few ways to go here – endless, mindless traipsing, on-line clicking and re-clicking and then hoping it gets here or there in time, or simply knowing a few great places that somehow always seem to work. Among those places, for me, are Pryde’s  Kitchen &Necessities in Westport and the FrenchMarket   in Prairie Village.  Everyone knows Pryde’s whether your loved (or just liked or heck, just the person who works for you) wants premium cutlery or Fiesta Ware or a molcajete.  They have some really nice gift baskets I notice – whether the receiver is a barbeque fan (local of course!) or a gourmet coffee drinker.  Or, they’ll put together and package whatever you choose so beautiful...

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse will have special hours during the holidays, with several locations open on Christmas Day, and offer holiday menu additions included as part of their Full Churrasco Experience. New items include a classic slow roasted beef roast; Quentão (keen-tao) – a warm Brazilian mulled red wine made with fresh oranges, cinnamon, clove, and ginger; Sweet Potato Casserole with rich butter, cinnamon, and toasted marshmallows; and tender New York Strip steak carved tableside by gaucho chefs. Fogo offers a lively and elegant atmosphere that is perfect for celebrating with family, friends and loved ones during this holiday season. Fogo de Chão shares the centuries-old Southern Brazilian cooking technique of churrasco , the art of roasting meats over an open fire, and espeto corrido , or “continuous service.” Their menu features a wealth of savory, fire-roasted meats perfectly seasoned, prepared and carved tableside for each guest by a team of authentic Brazilian-...