Edinburgh: Beyond the Royal Mile

The probably first things that come to mind when thinking about Edinburgh are the Royal Mile
and Edinburgh Castle. But with Edinburgh, the real magic often lies in the quiet corners away
from well-trodden paths.

Hidden Historical Gems

Take a stroll around Dean Village, a picturesque oasis just a short walk away from the city
center. Quaint, historic buildings make this village seem like it’s stuck in a moment in time with
the feeling of serenity that covers the entire area. Ideal for a leisurely wander or picture-perfect
snap.

To experience some of the more gruesome history associated with Edinburgh, look at The Real
Mary King’s Close. In this underground tour, you make your way underneath the busy streets of
the city into the hidden, ancient alleyways and learn about Edinburgh’s past. It is literally a
fascinating glimpse into the more secretive sides of the city.

Local Favorites and Offbeat Cafés

When you need a break, head to The Elephant House. This quaint little café is not only famous
for the good coffee but also because J.K. Rowling had written pieces of Harry Potter here. It’s
the place that’s just apt for soaking in some great, quiet literary vibes with a silent cup of coffee.

Alternatively, if your taste buds are more for craft beers, do not miss BrewDog’s Original Bar,
since it is the place where the popular Scottish craft beer revolution started. Very relaxed
atmosphere here, and you will find some local brews to taste.

Unique Cultural Experiences

The Edinburgh art scene goes way beyond regular galleries. During the Edinburgh Art Festival,
do not hesitate to glance at some of its less mainstream places, as there is always something
exciting going on in terms of exhibitions and installations that you may not find on the common
tourist agenda. For those interested in tours in Scotland that offer a deeper dive into the local art
scene, these events are a must-see.

Another place you really have to see is Summerhall. Surely, it is a hub for experimental art and
performances where you get to see the creative edge of Edinburgh in a somewhat
unconventional environment with no pressurized atmosphere.

Nature and Outdoor Adventures

If your idea of relaxation involves a little less hubbub, have a look at Inverleith Park. It’s at least
as pretty for a Sunday stroll or casual picnic with lovely views, and less crowded than the city’s
more famous parks.

If you’re feeling adventurous, hike up Arthur’s Seat at dawn-the best views of Edinburgh are
found from this extinct volcano, and making an early start means you’ll get there before the
crowds and catch a stunning sunrise too.

Glasgow: Uncovering the City’s Creative Spirit

Glasgow is surely one of the most energetic and creative cities. While there’s much to see along
its main attractions, some of the most interesting spots lie off the beaten track.

Hidden Neighborhoods and Streets

The West End of Glasgow is a quirky area, full of bohemian little shops, second hand stores,
and eclectic charisma. It’s an excellent place to take a walk around and find some rather special
things, touching the artistic spirit of Glasgow.

Another great place is the Merchant City. This location harmoniously combines old and new,
where historical architecture is balanced with a pulsing food scene. Well, it’s less touristy and
more genuinely Glaswegian.

Local Culinary Delights

For food, the place that goes to is Shilling Brewing Co. It is an excellent place for craft beers
and traditional pub fare, having such a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a meal that is
casual.

For something a little more upmarket, try The Gannet. For modern Scottish, done well, this
restaurant satisfies on many levels. Dishes are local and nicely presented, testament to some of
Glasgow’s culinary innovation.

Art and Culture Off the Beaten Path

For those interested in the more creative part of the city, a visit to the iconic Glasgow School of
Art should be planned. Tours offer a glimpse into the school’s influential stamp on Glasgow’s art
scene.

Then comes Hidden Lane, a small street opposite where the college once stood. Colorful, lined
with studios, shops, and creative spots of all kinds, this is the place to check out, hang around,
and experience the artistic soul of Glasgow.

Urban Green Spaces and Relaxation

Take a break from the buzz of the city at the Glasgow Botanic Gardens, a haven within
glasshouses and plant collections to explore some beautiful green spots.

Another very fine place is the Pollok Country Park. The big park in woodlands, gardens, and
house is perfect for taking an easy walk or having a picnic away from the principal tourist areas
of the town.

Tips for a Unique Experience

Of course, the goal may be to navigate the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow like a local. Make
use of their public transport systems to the fullest and, whenever possible, take bicycles on rent
for travel. Also, look around for functions or events organized locally; these are great to attain
much more about the city.

It is also good to come across locals and talk to them. Strike up conversations, ask for
recommendations, and you may find some new places to visit.

Moving through the hidden sides of Edinburgh and Glasgow is so much more about seeing and
doing other than the usual tourist traps. Be it meandering through the hidden neighborhoods,
enjoying local culinary delights, or taking in the unique cultural experiences, it is an adventure
worth embracing-let the local spirit guide your journey.

It’s pre-made, it’s precalculated for bulk batches, it’s shelf stable, and last but not least it’s ready to drink.

“The key to Wisdom and Tea is proper aging”

Uncle Iroh

My go to clarified milk punch (CMP) recipe is this one here provided by Alton Brown (AB) https://altonbrown.com/recipes/clarified-milk-punch/. A delicious recipe on its own, dead easy to follow, and a great start if you’re unfamiliar with this style of punch.

I’ve made the AB version multiple times but this time around I was struck by a crazy thought and wanted to see if I could make it work…as fate would have it…of course I did, and here we are. Stay humble kids.

My inspiration for this was to finally kill off a bottle of Baijiu I had purchased on a whim out of morbid curiosity.

Baijiu is, after all, the best selling spirit in the world and very, very popular in China. I was curious to see what all the fuss was about.

I’m not gonna sit here and type away as if I’m some renowned expert on Baijiu, that wouldn’t be fair to either of us, and would only do a disservice to the spirit and its deep history. It was new to me and I’m constantly curious about new food/flavor experiences.

Unfortunately like most westerners seem to, I found its flavor profile quite strange. Definitely an acquired taste.

To me, specifically the brand I tried (Ming River), it came across as a very perfume-y gin or vodka. Not a bad spirit but VERY perfume-y.

Circling back to the CMP my crazy thought was to attempt to tame the more assaulting notes of the baijiu with the science of clarified milk punch. One of its most notable features is its ability to round out a cocktail and reign in some of the harsher notes of your drink.

As an extra challenge to myself, since I was using a Chinese spirit, I wanted to see if I could follow the AB ratios but sub in more asian/asian inspired ingredients.

In place of the port, inspired by a different CMP recipe that called for white port, I used Soju (wildly popular Korean spirit). Specifically I used West 32 Soju, a more recent find for me. West 32 Soju is a super easy drinking soju (in my opinion) distilled in New York.

In place of the Rum I used the Ming River Baijiu. From trusted personal sources that seem to be backed up online, Ming River is one of the better options for baijiu in the states.  In place of the allspice dram I used Falernum.

Not Asian in any way but after a few test batches trying other replacements I liked how the falernum complemented the other flavors in the drink.

That said, this is the component I’m most excited to continue experimenting with. In place of the black tea I used green tea, Equal Exchange Organic specifically. This is another part of the drink I’m curious to play with. I’d really like to test a batch using matcha. 

All in all I am extremely happy with how this punch turned out and hope you’ll give it a shot, or a couple…

Ingredients

Directions

1. Bring the water to a boil. Cut the heat, wait 30 seconds, and then pour over your tea bags. Allow to sit for 6 minutes. Remove the tea bags and whisk in the sugar.
2. While your tea is cooling to room temp, combine the soju, baijiu, falernum, and lemon juice. In a Separate container (like a large mason jar) add the milk.
3. Once cooled add the tea to the baijiu mix and gently stir.
4. Pour the new baijiu mix, slowly, into the milk container. It must be done in this order, not the other way around. Do Not pour the milk into the booze mix, it wont work. When the baijiu mix combines with the milk it will, and should, curdle.
5. Allow this to sit undisturbed on the counter for 1 hour minimum or in the fridge overnight to “age”.
6. After at least 1 hour strain the mixture through a coffee filter, either lining a mesh trainer or in something like a chemex. Most recipes call for you to strain a couple ounces through the filter and then transfer that initial few ounces back to the master batch to continue straining. I found it less annoying to simply double strain the entire mix, which has the added benefit of yielding a more clarified punch. Just make sure you use the same filter when you strain the second time. Depending on your batch size this process can take quite some time, be patient and plan accordingly.*
7. From here you’re ready to enjoy. Serve chilled neat or over a large ice cube. As a side note this punch is fridge stable pretty much indefinitely (full disclosure, I’m no scientist) so feel free to throw it in the fridge and enjoy at some point down the road.

*One thing to note when doing clarified punch, that I wish was better reflected in a lot of recipes, is that the coffee filter is not doing the filtering here the milk solids are. The milk solids are extremely crucial to the process. Do not scoop them out or strain them before running the mixture through the coffee filter.*

More Cocktails To Try:

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Well, speaking as a midwesterner, we sure as hell do I can tell you that much.

It might actually be the only tried and true thing Northerners and Southerners agree upon.

Nothing in my mind even comes close.

Not pop nor soda, not unsweetened tea nor sweet tea, not Hellmans nor Dukes, not civil liberties nor whether or not to control the rights of women…whoops too far, what were we talking about?

Ah yes, biscuits. 

In yet another super approachable daily recipe these biscuits come together quickly and easily with minimal ingredients.

Two types of flour, some lard, and a cast iron pan are the biggest components here. Alton Brown blends AP flour and Whole Wheat flour to bring a little depth of flavor to your average morning biscuit. Not to say that most biscuits or northern biscuits don’t have flavor, just that these go about it in a slightly different manner.

The addition of the Whole Wheat flour lends a surprisingly nutty flavor to these more savory than sweet breakfast biscuits.

They’re light and crumbly, almost flakey with defined layers, and hold their structure quite well. I don’t think they would quite be the star of the show but they would make a very fine addition to any morning meal. 

One small issue I did have with this recipe is that it calls for leaf lard, which I was unable to find myself. The book does however say that traditional lard is an acceptable stand in, which is what I had to use in my making of these biscuits.  

I wish I had more to say about these little biscuits but they really speak for themselves and deserve to be tried to show how they stand up (baking pun intended). Plus I don’t want to fluff this up just for the sake of fluffing it up. 

Head over to Alton Brown to grab the recipe and try these for yourself!

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Holiday Gift Guide

For Those With An Incurable Case of Wanderlust:

Portable Phone Charger definitely comes in handy when you travel a lot.

Silk Sleep mask by Blissy. Buy the kit that includes the pillowcase for extra luxury.

Travel Slippers keep your feet clean at your hotel with these cute slippers that come with a case to carry them in!

Upgrade their luggage with the Away Carry-On. So many travelers I know use this luggage. I’m hoping Santa tucks one under the tree for me.

For Those That Like To Shake It, aka, Home Bartenders:

Buy some Fun Syrups From Hipstirs to elevate your cocktail game. They have individual Simple Syrups, Simple Syrup Trio Packs, or Mocktail Kits! Y’all have to check out this Stay Puft Before Christmas cocktail recipe we created with Hipstirs!

Photo From Black Lagoon Room (Heavy Duty Bar Mat)

Fun Tiki Bar Items (Tiki Mugs, Bar Mat, Cocktail Glasses, Cocktail Shakers, Swizzle Sticks) From Black Lagoon Room

Death & Co Cocktail Book, this cocktail book has so many recipes that it has drinks for everyone. Death & Co also has some cool merch at their online store. This cocktail book is well used in our home.

Buy a cocktail shaker I personally like the Boston Shakers like this one shown above.

For The Dog Lovers In Your Life:

Photos From Modern Companion

Buy some cute accessories from Modern Companion, their stuff is so adorable and I have a few of their items for my pups!

Bark Box Toys. I love that these are usually 2 toys in 1 its perfect for my pups who destroy toys. If your pets are a super chewers they also have a line of more durable toys.

Have custom artwork made of their pets. I usually find (local) artists through Instagram.

A Furbo Camera to see what mischievous stuff they get up to during the day when you are not home. Seriously, this is a bit of an investment, but it gives such peace of mind when we’re away from home. Sadly, our one pup is skittish and hates it when we toss treats so we only utilize the camera portion.

Make Bath Time easier with the shampoo brush! Another must. We use this every time we give the dogs a bath.

For Those That Consider Themselves A Chef:

Photo From Hedley & Bennet

hedley & Bennet Aprons, I have their Cookie Monster theme apron and I love it. I like that they have so many designs to choose from you’ll find an apron for everyone.

ThermoPop, I was gifted one of these by my brother a couple years ago and I use it so much at home, it was the perfect gift.

Buy the home chefs some new utensils from GIR.

Everyday Cookbook By Alton Brown, because an Alton Brown cookbook should be in everyones kitchen or if you’re like us, multiple Alton Brown cookbooks are in our kitchen.

Book Lovers:

A Heated Blanket is perfect for those who love to snuggle on the couch and read a good book for a while.

Kindle for those who love to read books all the time, make it easier for them to read on the go.

Remote Page Turner makes reading a book easier with this accessory. Seriously, this might be the best invention.

Find out what genre they enjoy to read and pick out some fun reads for them, you can buy new books from Amazon, buy used from Thriftbooks or shop local bookstores or thrift stores. Shop holiday craft/art markets and find unique bookmarks to include with their book.

For All the Work From Home Peeps:

Laptop Stand perfect to stop the hunchback look. I use it daily and it helps relieve the neck strain.

Coffee Warmer for the desk, don’t let the coffee get cold anymore with these fun options.

Buy them a larger desk chair so they can criss cross applesauce or allow a large dog to sit on their lap while working (ask me how I know).  

A walking pad for them to walk while working away on their laptop. It’s so easy to get wrapped up in work and forget to take that walk. This helps you get some movement during the day.

Find cute Notepad and Pens to put in their stockings because how fun is it to have these on your desk. It might almost make it worth going to work. 🙂

Hopefully this Holiday Gift Guide gives you some great ideas to finish your holiday shopping.

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Feeds 2

I have always been vehemently opposed to oatmeal.

Not an exaggeration, could never stomach the stuff, was never able to find the appeal.

If you were to ask my fiance, or hell even my kitchen crew, they would be able to quote me on more occasions then they could count comparing the stuff to a bowl of paper mache.

Mushy textureless oats that not too long after their preparation take on the consistency of warm Elmer’s glue.

Usually requiring so much sugar to combat their blandness that you’re better off with a bowl of breakfast cereal.

I could go on but I probably shouldn’t.

Needless to say, I was not looking forward to testing this recipe.

One recipe into a book I had just made the decision to cook my way through no ifs, ands, or buts and I was already contemplating skipping one.

I didn’t though, I buckled down, bit my tongue, and gave it the ole college try.

The Secret Ingredient to Always Perfect Oatmeal

This is your pretty stereotypical basic oatmeal recipe with one major difference, the inclusion of quinoa.

It was the one thing that intrigued me just enough to actually give it a shot.

Outside of that its standard oatmeal operating procedure.

Boil your oats and quinoa, let sit for a few, add some fruit if you like, and enjoy (maybe).

Simple enough and next to impossible to mess up.

Did Always Perfect Oatmeal Change My Opinion of Oatmeal?

I actually didn’t mind this oatmeal, the quinoa adds an ever so subtle pop that breaks up the monotony of what is otherwise a bowl of gloop.

This version of oatmeal actually has me considering working it into normal rotation.

Something I don’t say easily and was shocked to realize myself if I’m being perfectly honest.

Though just for personal tastes I would probably work in a tablespoon or two of brown sugar.

The Problem with Always Perfect Oatmeal & How To Fix It

Outside of that the one glaring issue I had with this recipe was the amount of salt called for.

It calls for a whopping 7 grams for what is about a cup and a quarter of dried goods.

I had my suspicions going in but I’m trying to recreate these recipes here.

I had to do it, for science or whatever.

The next time I give these a go I will definitely be starting with 4-5 grams of salt and work up from there.

Follow Along As I Cook The EVERDAYCOOK Book by Alton Brown

Grab a copy of the EVERYDAYCOOK by Alton Brown and follow along as I cook the book and have access to the complete recipes.

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Weirdly enough this type of drink is pretty widespread around Asian continents but is something that you don’t see too often in the U.S., or at least in the Midwest.

Unless you consider smoothies, which are really not all that different. Though we have a tendency to over sweeten them whereas lassi relies more on the sourness of the yogurt and added salt/spices.

I have never had traditional lassi myself but I have had Yakult which is more or less the Korean version of the same thing. The big difference there being that yakult is much thinner than its Indian counterpart, more like whole milk bordering on heavy cream.

With all that in mind, I was very intrigued to see AB’s buttermilk variant of the traditional lassi.

How Does Buttermilk Lassi Taste

There’s really not much to say about this overall. It’s a simple recipe, with simple ingredients, that comes together in minutes.

I actually really liked how this drink came out. I was expecting much more unpleasant flavors considering the straight buttermilk base of this particular beverage. It’s not too often you see someone sucking down straight buttermilk.

As a matter of fact, I’ve never actually seen someone do it; I’ve only heard stories. It’s definitely not something I ever intend on doing.

Is Buttermilk Lassi Hard To Make + My Tweaks

This lassi comes together with a very milkshake-like consistency, which I initially thought was too thick but upon doing some research found that was the norm.

On top of the consistency, it was also extremely rich, too much so for my taste. I ended up thinning it down a bit with some almond milk and actually enjoyed it significantly more after that.

The only other change I made (after trying it in recipe form of course) was to add a little bit of honey.

This helped cut back on the overpowering richness just the right amount.

After my few tweaks I found it much more enjoyable for my palate and could see this being quite refreshing on a warm summer day.

One More Thing

One additional note I would add in its original form this recipe says it’s for two.

Given its richness and consistency without any tweaks. I think this would be much better served as a smaller treat for four. 

See Dylan’s other Cook the EVERYDAY cookbook installments here:

More From Cook The EVERYDAY Cookbook

Read along as our Chef in residence, Dylan, cooks his way through Alton Browns EVERYDAY cookbook!

Always Perfect Oatmeal - Cook the EVERYDAYCOOK book

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Breakfast Carbonara - Cook The EVERYDAYCOOK Book

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Follow Along As I Cook The EVERDAYCOOK Book by Alton Brown

Grab a copy of the EVERYDAYCOOK by Alton Brown and follow along as I cook the book and have access to the complete recipes. 

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What’s there to say about banana bread that hasn’t already been said?

Not much. It’s delicious. It’s always delicious. Everybody knows that.

Nobody is ever mad that there’s banana bread at the party or that you brought banana bread to the potluck. Don’t be ridiculous.

Adding Oatmeal to Banana Bread

Alton Brown’s oatmeal banana bread is no exception.

A little different than your typical banana bread but absolutely nothing to be mad about.

Quite the contrary actually.

The major difference here is that a significant chunk of the bread consists of ground oats rather than straight flour.

If you want you can even pretend this makes it healthier, who’s gonna tell? 

Oatmeal Banana Bread Texture

In all actuality, this bread does end up with an almost whole-grain flavor/texture.

This is a welcome change that I think actually makes it a little more agreeable for a breakfast plate accompaniment.

Slap some brown butter on a slab of this and call it a morning. And don’t you dare forget the coffee. 

At the end of the day, if you’ve ever made or even thought about making banana bread you will have no problem with this recipe.

Follow Along As I Cook The EVERDAYCOOK Book by Alton Brown

Grab a copy of the EVERYDAYCOOK by Alton Brown and follow along as I cook the book and have access to the complete recipes.

More From Cook The EVERYDAY Cookbook

Read along as our Chef in residence, Dylan, cooks his way through Alton Browns EVERYDAY cookbook!

Always Perfect Oatmeal - Cook the EVERYDAYCOOK book

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Breakfast Carbonara - Cook The EVERYDAYCOOK Book

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It’s a town steeped in history where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the fruits of the land.

Just a short 30 minutes north of St. Louis, fall is the perfect time to explore all that it has to offer.

From parasailing to ghost hunting and everything in between you are sure to fill up on fun during your adventures in this Illinois town.

(c)visitalton.com

What to See & Do in Alton, IL

Named one of the most haunted small town in America there is no shortage of strange phenomena. There are a number of guided tours available and some take you into buildings where the odd and paranormal have been known to happen.

This is one of my favorite towns to go ghost hunting and I’ve written about it a couple times.

You can read about Ghost Hunting in Alton and Haunted Alton to learn more.

To get the best view of the Alton and Mississippi Rivers a visit to the Melvin Price Locks & Dam is in order.

An eight story view awaits you as well as a guided tour which will let you in on all of the action on one of the busiest locks of the river.

The Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center is the perfect destination for anyone interested in the expedition of Lewis and Clark. An impressive 55 foot full scale replica of the keel-boat of the party will stir your imagination of the preparations that went into the famous expedition!

The Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower is the place to hear the story of Lewis and Clark while getting an amazing view of the river in 50-foot increments. Enjoy a guided tour and prepare to be amazed by the views that await you on a clear day.

During the age of slavery, a pastor in the Alton area was moved to write editorials that were so strong and moving that the slaveholding element of the area made him their object of hatred.

The Lovejoy monument stands in honor of Elijah Lovejoy, who was killed in 1837 for his views of equality. Pay a visit here to take it all in, and ponder peace for a moment.

Alton is a premier site for Eagle viewing during the winter, but a number of species of birds spend time in the area throughout the year. The Aubudon Center at Riverlands offers a great spot for bird watching and even has binoculars to borrow during your visit.

Take the free ferry over to Calhoun County, located on a narrow strip of land between the Illinois and Mississippi rivers, and enjoy a taste of the region.

Roadside farm stands dot the two-lane road through the county as farmers sell fruits, veggies, jams, and more. Bring the kids and find the perfect pumpkin for home. While there shop for antique and see how many quilt barns you can find.

Drive the Great River Road along the Mississippi to the village of Grafton where the more adventurous can go ziplining.

Everyone else can visit the Grafton Winery & Brewhaus.

(c)https://www.pmlodge.net/

Where to Stay in Alton, IL

The Pere Marquette State Park/Lodge offers a magnificent stay for couples, families, and groups. You can get away from it all here while enjoying amazing meals, shopping opportunities, boat rentals and even a chance to play life-size chess.

This is a rustic yet breathtaking place to visit in the Alton area.

(c)https://www.facebook.com/AltonDesserts

Where to Eat in Alton, IL

Josephines Tearoom has been offering exceptional experiences since 1979. From shopping to mouthwatering meals, Josephine’s will become one of the places you never forget visiting.

The tea rooms and shopping experiences for ladies make this a must stop here location for a spot of tea, something delectable and a unique souvenir to take home.

Grafton Brewhaus and Winery is a spot for all seasons. It is centrally located, features so many adult beverages ranging from local wines, including many award winners to Craft and Micro-brewed beers that I never wanted to leave this place.

Oh! And you can eat here too if the liquid lunch isn’t quite your thing! I loved the family operated atmosphere and the setting.

Maeva’s Coffee is Alton’s only independent coffee shop, and it is a must stop at the place because there is so much to see and do in the Alton area, a great cup of coffee is exactly what you need to keep going!

I admired that fair trade goods are used in the shop. The Baked Goods? Oh, yeah! These are worthy of an article all on their own.

My Just Desserts is THE spot to go for dessert (& maybe lunch, but eat dessert first). The owner is simply lovely and seriously knows how to bake a great pie!

Located in historic Alton and only open from 11a-4p so make sure you don’t miss your window of opportunity.

A visit to Alton, IL wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a meal at Tony’s, an old-school Italian steakhouse and bar since 1954. Their wine list alone is worth a stop.

They offer 60 wines by the bottle and 30 by the glass. If you aren’t up for a full meal, stop in the Prohibition Lounge for a nightcap.

Find more information about Alton, IL and the surrounding area at https://www.visitalton.com/

(c)visitalton.com

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I mean, who wants to stay at a generic hotel when you could stay at one of these unique lodging options?

Great Places To Stay in Thoroughbred Country

Birdnest Inn – Aiken, SC

The Birdnest Inn is located in Aiken, SC, and boasts a history that dates back to 1909.

This beautiful and stately home has been lovingly restored and offers guests six elegant and comfortable guest rooms, each with its own private bathroom.

You’ll find all the modern amenities you need, including free Wi-Fi and plush bedding.

Additionally, pets are always welcome at the inn and that makes us so happy.

What really sets the Birdnest Inn apart is the incredible attention to detail and personalized service that guests receive.

Owner Melinda Walton is always on hand to ensure that your stay is as enjoyable as possible, whether that means offering insider tips on local attractions or whipping up a delicious homemade breakfast.

Speaking of breakfast, you won’t want to miss the Birdnest Inn’s morning spread. You’ll be treated to a rotating selection of hearty and delicious dishes, made with fresh ingredients some sourced that morning from chickens that live on the farm. If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, just let Melinda know in advance, and she’ll be happy to accommodate you.

If you’re an art lover this B&B is going to thrill your inner art geek. Artwork is displayed throughout the inn. Melinda is an art enthusiast, and her collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art adds a special touch to the inn’s decor.

Lookaway Inn – North Augusta

The Lookaway Inn was originally built in 1898 and has since been transformed into a luxurious bed and breakfast, complete with 13 beautifully appointed guest rooms.

Each room at the Lookaway is unique, with its own character and charm. But all feature cozy seating areas, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. You’ll also find plenty of thoughtful touches, like fresh flowers, locally made soaps.

Breakfast is served in the lovely dining room and includes an array of muffins, toast, cereals, yogurt and eggs made to order. Delicious coffee and tea is always available.

The mansion is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and rolling lawns, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an afternoon picnic.

And if you’re looking for a little more activity, the innkeepers can point you in the direction of some of the area’s best trails, golf courses, and more.

Wisteria Cottage – Blackville

Immerse yourself in country living with a stay at the 1940’s Wisteria Cottage. The 1940s rustic hideaway sleeps four, with two bedrooms, one bath with a claw foot tub, and a small kitchen.

This Blackville, South Carolina, bed and breakfast is the perfect place to unplug and escape from it all. It’s ideal for a quiet get away from the everyday hustle and bustle of life.

Your cell service may or may not work during your stay and wi-fi is definitely not part of the stay, but it will be worth it.

The cottage sits on 25 stunning acres of picturesque land, complete with trails, bird-watching opportunities and a gorgeous garden.

Lill’s Herb Garden is also on the property and the Mennonite proprietor is happy to chat about all things herbal and also provide a fresh breakfast upon request.

Willcox Hotel – Aiken

The Willcox Hotel, located in Aiken, is a historic hotel with a rich and fascinating history that spans over a century.

This iconic hotel has been a beloved landmark in the area since its construction in the early 1900s, and it has played a significant role in the development of Aiken as a destination for the rich and famous.

It quickly became a popular destination for the elite, attracting wealthy families from New York, Boston, and other northern cities who were seeking a warmer winter climate and a luxurious getaway.

The hotel was known for its exquisite dining, elegant ballroom, and spacious rooms, all of which catered to the needs of the wealthy clientele.

Throughout the years, the Willcox has been a favorite of celebrities and politicians, including Winston Churchill, who stayed at the hotel during his visit to the United States in 1946.

Other famous guests have included Elizabeth Taylor, James Brown, and Harold Vanderbilt, among many others.

In recent years, the hotel has undergone extensive renovations, which have modernized the facilities while preserving the historic character and charm of the building.

Today, the Willcox Hotel remains one of the most iconic and beloved hotels in the South, and continues to attract visitors who appreciate its rich history and elegant surroundings.

Be sure to check out fun things to do outside in Thoroughbred Country!

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“The best cakes are cakes that can arguably be served as breakfast.” – Alton Brown (AB). It’s hard to summarize it any better than that so I’m not even going to try.

Given that we were in the middle of a pandemic when I started cooking through this book I had to make a small adjustment with this blueberry pound cake recipe.

What To Use Instead of a Bundt Pan?

The book calls to use a bundt pan which I do not own as I honestly don’t enjoy baking that much and never saw the need to get one.

In its place, I decided to try it with a typical 9×5 bread pan. While this did work I can see how the bundt would be more preferable.

My advice is if you are in the same boat as me only fill your bread pan halfway. I filled mine the typical 3/4ths and had minor issues with it setting in the middle, even with adjusted cooking times. 

Blueberry Pound Cake Surprise

The thing that surprised me most about this recipe was how balanced it was.

Not too sweet, not too savory.

This may sound like a strange thing to be shocked by but the base of this cake was equal parts flour to sugar.

I was expecting nothing other than aching teeth going into the taste test.

However, it is AB so I should have known better than to doubt.

In addition to the present balance, there was a very nice texture, very light and airy.

Not to the point you would expect from say a sponge cake, because well it’s not one, but very nice none-the-less.

With that almost fluffy texture, the cake also developed a very pleasant crust, which I would contribute to the call to dust the pan with sugar, which offered a very satisfying contrast to the airy insides. 

Is Blueberry Pound Cake Hard to Make?

This recipe comes together quick and easy.

It won’t dirty much more than your stand mixer and you’ll be off doing anything else waiting for the oven to finish it off in no time at all.

This cake would make a great accompaniment to any breakfast you’d be comfortable serving a sweetbread with.

Who am I kidding just eat the cake for breakfast as we did and save yourself the extra work. No one needs to know.

Trust me I’m not going to tell anyone, that would require talking to people.

Follow Along As I Cook The EVERDAYCOOK Book by Alton Brown

Grab a copy of the EVERYDAYCOOK by Alton Brown and follow along as I cook the book and have access to the complete recipes.

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