I explored one of my new favorite ‘hoods of the city this past Sunday: Astoria, Queens!

The occasion was “Sweets for your Sweet,” a food artisan market at the Queens Kickshaw. This place serves possibly the finest grilled cheese sandwich in existence: gouda, black bean hummus, guava jam, and pickled jalapenos on brioche.

YOU.  MUST.  HAVE.  IT.

But I digress. As stunning as the sandwiches are, they certainly didn’t outshine the vendors. I met the proprietors, and of course, tasted and gushed over their marvelous creations.

AJ Simone, the brilliant mind behind Handjobs (for the Home),
revealed  to me his plans to teach a preserving class in the near future.
Keep us posted AJ, I’m looking forward to it!

The vegan, Indian inspired delicacies of Sweet Silk

Matt Swanston, creator of the evilly addictive cakes of  Gooey&Co.