Ever wanted to dine like the stars? Well, if you happen to be in NYC, you can dine like Taylor Swift because we just figured out what her favorite Italian restaurant in the city is: Via Carota.

Most recently, she made headlines for going to Via Carota with her brother and Dakota Johnson, but she’s gone quite a few times over the years.

It’s unclear what exactly she orders, but we do know what the average price is for a meal there.

Located in the West Village, Via Carota is a gastroteca that serves some delicious Italian food from chefs Jody Williams and Rita Sodi. It’s open from 10 am to 11 pm, and we have some more details.

Entrees range from $22 to $30, with appetizers being around $15 to $20, and desserts are typically under $20. So for one person, the price can range from $60 to $80, excluding beverages and gratuity.

Speaking of, per their website, they have an impressive collection of wines and beverages, with some bottles being as low as the Trento Brut for $68 and as expensive as the $305 Chouilly Grand Cru Brut Special Club Champagne.

Now, if you’re not in NYC, or can’t make the trip, you can bring a bit of Via Carota to you.

If you go to their website, you can see that they have craft cocktails you can buy online.

You can treat yourself to their signature Manhattan, Martini, Negroni, Old Fashioned, Espresso Martini, and Margarita drinks, either in a single bottle or a set, ranging from $39 to $421. (And yes, they also have sparkling drinks!)

So, treat yourself and have your own Taylor Swift-like outing in your own town thanks to these drinks.

Before you go, check out our roundup of summer cocktails below:

We love a good dinner party, especially when we get to be the guests instead of the hosts. Now, we have hosted a lot of dinner parties ourselves, so we know how much work goes into the planning, shopping, cooking, and decorating, and that’s why we always like to bring the party host a little gift to show our appreciation. No one knows more about dinner parties than the Barefoot Contessa, so we always listen to her advice. In the past, Ina Garten has shared her go-to dinner party host gift, and it’s perfect for chocolate lovers. But recently, she shared two host gift mistakes everyone should avoid, and we’re glad she did, because we can’t say they’re issues we’ve ever thought of before.

In an interview clip posted on the TODAY Show’s TikTok, Garten spilled the details on the two things she says you should never bring to a party. The first was “Something that the host feels like they should serve,” giving the example of a Jell-O salad. Who wants to have to serve that at a party, anyway? But the same holds true for things like bottles of wine or other comestibles. If you do bring something like that, tell the host explicitly that it’s a special treat just for them, and that you don’t expect it to be served at the party. That way, the host can enjoy it in peace, rather than having to do the extra work of serving it to their guests (or, in the case of a Jell-O salad, they can discreetly dispose of it after everyone has gone home).

Garten’s next tip shows how detail-oriented and considerate she is of the party host’s time. “Don’t ever bring flowers that aren’t in a vase,” Garten advises. That’s because if you do bring flowers that aren’t in a vase, the party host has to stop what they’re doing to go dig one out of storage, then has to trim the flower stems, fill the vase with water, and arrange the flowers so they actually look nice. Who has time for that when they have a house full of hungry guests?

Commenters on TikTok chimed in with their own thoughts about these rules. “My grandma always said giving flowers without a vase is giving the host a chore instead of a gift,” shared Michael Kinson, while user Wolfies Dad said, “I like to send flowers to arrive that afternoon w/card saying looking forward to seeing you.” That’s pretty classy, and the vase problem can be avoided if you get an arrangement that comes with one.

Some TikTok commenters shared host gift rules and suggestions of their own. “Also don’t bring something that has to be heated up,” suggested user132104528031Kath. If you are asked to bring a dish to share with others at the dinner party, “Make sure whatever you bring has the serving plate/bowl and serving utensils,” said Apple User686497. And if you’re still searching for host gift ideas, here’s one that sounds pretty scrumptious and low-stress: “I have brought breakfast for the next day — really good bagels or homemade muffins and homemade jam and flavored butter,” said Dawhoo.

The next time you’re invited to a dinner party, keep Ina Garten’s host gift tips in mind. Not only will you avoid putting unnecessary stress on the party host, but you’ll also increase your chances at getting a repeat invite for the next dinner party.

Before you go, check out Garten’s best dinner recipes below:

Get out your sauce mops and fire up the grill (or grill pan, or broiler, whatever you can make work!). We’re talkin’ barbecue and slow-smoked burnt end goodness today — and we’re sayin’ it with a Southern accent (because I’m from Texas and have no choice in the matter).

Yeah, great barbecue takes a spell to cook, but one time-saving tip is to invest in the best store-bought barbecue sauces for homemade flavor you can’t shake a stick at. (OK, I’ll stop with the Texanisms now. Probably.)

The sauces on this list represent the best of the best available at the grocery store and online, because let’s face it — if you’re going to be spending a ton of time cooking your meats, you don’t want to have to spend even more time making a sauce from scratch.  We based our results on a combination of online reviews, input from our friends and personal preference. From tangy to sweet, mustard-based to hot n’ spicy, there’s a barbecue sauce here for everyone.

Best Store-Bought BBQ Sauces in 2025, at a Glance

BEST OVERALL

Kinder's Barbecue Sauce

$4.99

Buy Now

It can be puzzlingly difficult to find a store-bought barbecue sauce that doesn’t list high fructose corn syrup as one of the first ingredients, but Kinder’s hits the mark in that regard. Their Mild BBQ Sauce is sweetened with regular ol’ brown and white granulated sugar, and has a versatile sweet-tangy flavor.

---

BEST SWEET & TANGY

Bachan's Japanese Barbecue Sauce 2 Pack

$23.98

Buy Now On Amazon

Once you try Bachan’s Japanese Barbecue Sauce, you’ll never go back. It’s got teriyaki vibes, with a sweet and savory flavor that’s bolstered by aromatics like ginger, garlic, and green onion. We love it on grilled chicken, pork, and beef, but it’s also delicious as the base sauce for tofu veggie stir-fries. Try the Original flavor, but don’t miss the others, like the citrusy Yuzu or sweet Honey flavors.

---

BEST SPICY

Lillie's Q Barbeque Sauce 2-Pack

$23.14

Buy Now On Amazon

Your slow-cooked ribs and tri-tip will get just the right amount of heat at the end from this smoky-sweet Memphis-style sauce. Get the two-pack – you’ll definitely end up using all of it.

---

Rufus Teague Honey Sweet Barbecue Sauce

$24.99

Buy Now On Amazon

The bold tang of this honeyed barbecue sauce is not too sweet and not too spicy.

---

Bone Suckin' Sauce

$14.99

Buy Now On Amazon

Bone Suckin’ Sauce has a vinegary kick that makes it an ideal pairing for fattier cuts of meat. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free and non-GMO (also, it’s kosher), but it ain’t health food — the honey and molasses will keep you hooked if you like the sweet stuff.

---

Bootsies Delta Funk Hi-Tone White BBQ Sauce

$12.99

Buy Now On Amazon

Alabama white bbq sauce is usually used for chicken (or, you know, french fries or mozz sticks). But this tangy, creamy, spicy sauce is also great on turkey, pork, and even on top of burgers.

---

CaJohns Trinidad BBQ Sauce

$20.27

Buy Now On Amazon

This Trinidadian bbq sauce is not for the faint of heart. It’s made with scorpion peppers, which means it’s the spiciest sauce on this list. The fruity sweetness of the sauce balances it out, making for the complex flavor you’d hope for in a barbecue sauce.

---

Dreamland Bar-B-Que Sauce

$11.79

Buy Now On Amazon

Slather it on ribs and sop it up with a thick slice of white bread. This Tuscaloosa tradition is thin, sweet and vinegary — just like North Carolina intended.

---

Sonny's BBQ Sweet Barbecue Sauce

$19.99

Buy Now On Amazon

Sonny’s brown sugar-sweetened sauce is a Southern favorite. Who knew Floridians had their own style of barbecue?

---

The Palmetto Sauce Company Congaree Gold Mustard Barbecue Sauce

$24.69

Buy Now On Amazon

Carolina-style mustard sauce is what you get when German settlers and a deep barbecue tradition combine to make culinary magic. It’s got a real kick and just a hint of sweetness, and tastes just as great on smoked and grilled meats as it does on soft pretzels.

---

Stubb's Original BBQ Sauce

$9.99

Buy Now On Amazon

Since 1968, Stubb’s has been a barbecue staple. It’s a balanced sweet and tangy Texas bbq sauce that’s got notes of tomato and molasses. This one earns a few bonus points because it’s also Ina Garten’s favorite.

---

In search of more summer recipes? Giada De Laurentiis has plenty:

Watch: How to Make Watermelon Mango Salsa

Let’s be honest—May the 4th is basically a food holiday at this point, right? This year, we’re taking your Star Wars celebration beyond just watching the movies for the fifteenth time (no judgement) with 41 recipes that are fun but won’t make you roll your eyes. Think grown-up Star Wars food—not just blue milk and Wookie cookies. We’ve got everything from cocktails that would fit right in at a Coruscant rooftop bar to dinner party dishes that happen to look like Death Stars. Some recipes are obvious nods to the iconic franchise, like those Tatooine sunset mocktails that are actually delicious, while others are more subtle, perfect for when you want to be festive without going full costume party with your food. The best part is you can make most of these with regular grocery store ingredients, so you don’t need to send your droid on any special missions.

A version of this article was originally published in April 2016.

]]> https://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/slideshow/2014/star-wars-inspired-recipes/feed/ 0 2014 https://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/2028000/passover-recipes/ https://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/2028000/passover-recipes/#respond Wed, 02 Apr 2025 14:47:00 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/?p=2028000 Passover starts on April 12, and like all good Jewish holidays, food plays a central role. The holiday kicks off with the seder, held on the first and second nights of Passover. It’s a time for friends and family to gather around the table and retell the story of the Jewish people’s exodus from Egypt. There are lots of symbolic foods, lively discussions, singing, and plenty of matzah and wine to go around. When it’s finally time to eat the meal, people are pretty hungry, so you’d better have some delicious Passover-approved recipes on hand so you can deliver the goods! 

While there are some dietary limitations during the week-long holiday (bye, bread), there are plenty of delicious chametz-free dishes to enjoy. We gathered the best Passover recipes perfect for your seder. Matzo ball soup, brisket, gefilte fish, macaroons, lemon tart, we’ve got the recipes to take your Passover feast to the next level.

Gefilte fish

Image: Joan Nathan.

While it’s not the sexiest Jewish food, gefilte fish is a seder staple that shouldn’t be overlooked. This recipe is far from the gelatinous jarred version and is made with whitefish, pike or carp, carrots, matzo meal, eggs and onions.

Get the recipe from Joan Nathan.

Matzo ball soup

Image: Once Upon a Chef.

Seder night is like the Oscars for matzo ball soup. Make your matzo balls and stock ahead of time and keep them separate until you’re ready to serve. 

Get the recipe from Once Upon a Chef.

Brisket

Image: Once Upon a Chef.

Brisket is the perfect make-ahead seder dish as the flavors actually improve the longer it sits. This gorgeous Moroccan-style brisket is made with apricots, prunes and plenty of delicious spices like cinnamon, cumin and coriander. 

Get the recipe from Once Upon a Chef.

Lemon tart

Image: Rachel Kor.

This gorgeous and quick to make lemon tart is the perfect light dessert to end your heavy late-night seder dinner.

Get the recipe from Rachel Kor.

Haroset

Image: Lexi’s Clean Kitchen.

Haroset is a Passover condiment made with apples, nuts and wine. 

Get the recipe from Lexi’s Clean Kitchen.

Chocolate matzo crunch

Image: Tori Avey.

Traditionally the afikomen (more matzo) is eaten for dessert at the Seder. For a sweet twist, make this addictive chocolate toffee matzo crunch made with pistachios and sea salt. 

Get the recipe from Tori Avey.

Potato kugel

Image: Tori Avey.

This Jewish classic is total comfort food and the perfect accompaniment to brisket.

Get the recipe from Tori Avey.

Chicken Marbella

Image: She Wears Many Hats.

Not into red meat? This chicken Marbella would be a great addition to your Seder dinner. It’s saucy, sweet, tangy and oh-so-satisfying.

Get the recipe from She Wears Many Hats.

Green salad

Image: Tori Avey.

Lighten up your holiday table with this fresh, springy green salad made with arugula, avocado and asparagus.

Get the recipe from Tori Avey.

Cauliflower mash

Image: Minimalist Baker.

Soak up all that delicious brisket gravy with this garlicky cauliflower mash.

Get the recipe from Minimalist Baker.

Raspberry coconut macaroons

Image: Smitten Kitchen.

Coconut macaroons are synonymous with Passover. Instead of the bland store-bought ones, make these pretty raspberry macaroons for a fruity twist on the classic dessert.

Get the recipe from Smitten Kitchen.

A version of this article was originally published April 2019. 

In researching this story, two things transpired. First, we came away with a tasty arsenal of new recipes (or new spins on old favorites) that, if nothing else, should prove a welcome addition to the dinner table. But, more poignantly, we realized how food serves as both an equalizer and a connector — it is a tie that binds women in history across all races, professions, classes and time periods.

So, feast your eyes on the following recipes inspired by some of history’s most badass women. You’ll get to see some of your heroes in a different light and, when all is said and done, you can quite literally feast.

A version of this article was originally published March 2019. 

Imagine all the flavors of a classic pizza, transformed into a creamy, bubbling dip that’s perfect for sharing. This isn’t just another appetizer – it’s a game-day revelation that combines the best elements of pizza into one irresistible dish. Packed with rich cheeses, zesty marinara, and topped with classic pizza toppings, it’s guaranteed to be the MVP of your Super Bowl spread.

The magic begins with an ooey gooey cheese base that combines creamy ricotta, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. A touch of fresh oregano some traditional Italian flavor, while a generous amount of mozzarella ensures you get that Instagram-worthy cheese pull we all know and love. The dip is then topped with a marinara sauce, creating picture-perfect layers that will have your guests reaching for their phones before diving in.

But wait, there’s more! Mini pepperoni, black olives, and diced green peppers scattered across the top bring those classic pizza toppings front and center. It’s like a fully loaded pizza, reimagined as the ultimate dippable appetizer. The fresh basil garnish adds a bright, herbaceous finish that elevates the entire dish. But like any pizza, the toppings are totally customizable. I’ll be swapping those olives for heaps of hot pepperoncini peppers on mine.

The accompanying garlic toast is no mere sidekick. Crispy French bread slathered with a fragrant mixture of butter, oregano, and garlic provides the perfect vehicle for scooping up every last bit of this divine dip. Baked until golden and crisp, these breadsticks are practically irresistible.

With just 12 minutes of baking time, this recipe is as easy as it is impressive. Whether you’re hosting a big game day party or just looking to enjoy the Super Bowl with a few close friends, this Pizza Dip is sure to score a touchdown with everyone at your gathering.

So preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to become the MVP of Super Bowl Sunday. Trust us – this is one appetizer that will have your guests cheering louder than the football fans on the screen.

Get the full recipe from Food Network.

Before you go, check out our gallery:

You know what’s great any time of the year (but especially during football season)? Sticky, messy, mouthwatering chicken wings. From spicy, tangy Buffalo wings served with cooling ranch dip to crispy, sweet, and sticky Korean chicken wings, we admit that sometimes we end up paying more attention to eating these savory treats (and our favorite slow cooker Super Bowl snacks) than we do the game. But if you’re tired of ordering Super Bowl chicken wings online from the same place every year, why not try some unique chicken wings recipes for yourself?

Whether you’re a dry rub or a glaze fan, making chicken wings from home is simpler than you think. For many recipes, it merely requires throwing the wings into an oven and letting them bake to get as crispy a texture as you’d like. And if you’re brave, you can try your hand at traditional deep-fried chicken wings, too.

Just for you, we’ve rounded up irresistible chicken wing recipes in nearly every flavor imaginable. Ever have dill pickle wings? No? Find the recipe in this list and get to it. You’ll also find tried-and-true classics with a tasty twist, like bourbon-maple wings and chipotle-honey wings.

Are you ready? Have a whole roll of paper towels nearby — you’re going to need them.

A version of this article was originally published in January 2016.

The big game is almost here, and that can only mean one thing — the countdown to Super Bowl snacking can commence! Oh, yeah, sure, there will be football, too. But if we’re really being honest with ourselves, we look forward to the foodie aspect of Super Bowl Sunday just as much as we enjoy the action on the field…if not more.

Of course, Super Bowl-level snacking means you (a) either step up your game or (b) you resign yourself to an evening filled with greasy chips, bar nuts and, well, whatever other generic junk food you have stashed in your pantry. You can do better than that though, even if you don’t have the energy to make an assortment of unique chicken wing recipes this year, because Trader Joe’s has your back.

Not only can you finger perfectly portable and convenient finger foods, but it won’t set you back your entire paycheck just to feed your friends. Plus, since TJ’s food is actually interesting, you’ll come off looking like the MVP host who put extra time and energy into creating a fun Super Bowl menu for everyone.

You can score (sorry, couldn’t resist) the following quick, delicious and Super Bowl worthy snacks at your local Trader Joe’s just in time for the big game.

A version of this story was originally published January 2020. 

Let’s be real, parents. Between driving to soccer practice, helping with homework, and trying to maintain some semblance of sanity, the last thing you need is complicated game day cooking. That’s why we’ve rounded up 16 crowd-pleasing Super Bowl snacks that your trusty slow cooker can handle while you’re busy wrangling tiny sports fans or making that last-minute run for face paint in team colors.

Think bubbling dips that stay perfectly melty throughout the whole game, tender pulled pork sliders that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds, and wings that practically cook themselves (yes, really!). The best part? Most of these recipes follow the “dump and go” method – just toss everything in before the pre-game show, and by kickoff, you’ll have a spread worthy of the championship game.

Whether you’re hosting the neighborhood watch party or bringing a dish to a friend’s house, these slow cooker recipes are your ticket to actually enjoying the game instead of playing short-order cook. And let’s be honest – with the Eagles and Chiefs facing off in what’s sure to be an epic rematch, you won’t want to miss a single moment.

So dust off that slow cooker, grab your ingredients, and get ready to score big with these game-winning recipes that practically make themselves. Because the only stress you should have on Super Bowl Sunday is wondering if your team’s going to pull through in the fourth quarter.

A version of this story was originally published January 2019.