BOSTON (CBS) – The Phantom Gourmet recently purchased four brands of fruit cocktail at a local supermarket.

The sweet contenders were Del Monte, Dole, Libby’s and Polar.

Del Monte’s chunky mixed fruit finished at the bottom of the bunch. This can offers plenty of variety, featuring peaches, pears, grapes, pineapples and cherries, but unfortunately they all taste pretty much the same. Even worse, these small chunks are so mushy, Phantom almost forgot to chew.

A step up from there is Libby’s fruit mix. This tropical blend of guava and red and yellow papaya boasts bright colors and bold flavors, but they just aren’t the kind of flavors Phantom found very appealing. On the upside, these big chunks have a nice firm texture, making Libby’s a good choice if you’re looking for something exotic.

The runner up is Polar mixed fruit. This glass jar gives customers a good look at what they’re getting before they even pop the top. The decent-sized pieces of fruit tasted fine, but there just isn’t enough of them. In fact, this jar serves up so much syrup, Phantom suggests serving it with a straw.

The best choice by far, Dole mixed fruit serves up pineapple, peaches, pears and apples in 100% fruit juice. These big slices are firm and extra juicy, tasting as close to fresh as you can get. They even come in a handy resealable plastic jar.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

BOSTON (CBS) – The Phantom Gourmet recently purchased four jars of Kosher dill pickles from a local supermarket.

The contenders were Cains, Claussen, Mt. Olive, and Vlasic.

Mt. Olive finished at the bottom of the pickle barrel. Phantom struggled to open the jar, and struggled even more to find anything positive to say about these insipid spears. With their pungent punch of vinegar and off-putting aroma, maybe they ought to change the name from Mt. Olive to Mt. Awful.

Vlasic wasn’t much better. This wildly popular brand is the pickle Phantom grew up eating. But, childhood memories couldn’t help these flaccid, mushy spears. The only thing the stork on this jar delivered was disappointment.

Next up is Cains. The oldest brand of the bunch, Cains has been around for more than 100 years. But, all that experience couldn’t help this pickle. While it does sport the deepest color of the bunch, and provides a nice crunch with every bite, Phantom found the flavors muddy, and the aftertaste unpleasant.

At the top of the food chain is Claussen. The only refrigerated brand in the bunch, these crisp fresh tasting pickles had the satisfying snap phantom was looking for. Their pale, natural color, and pleasing balance of garlic and dill make this the pickle to pick.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

BOSTON (CBS) – He’s a trend-setting chef, a cookbook author, a TV host, but first and foremost, he’s a restauranteur.

Ming Tsai is one of the most highly recognized and respected chefs in the country. Yet, on most nights, you can still find him in the kitchen at his one and only restaurant, Blue Ginger in Wellesley, where Asian ingredients and French techniques are infused in every recipe.

In Blue Ginger’s feng-shui inspired dining room, popular choices include the wok-stirred garlic-black pepper lobster, Szechwan-style chicken, and the signature miso-sake butterfish with soba noodle sushi.

Over in the more casual lounge side of the restaurant, Asian tapas is the focus with gourmet chicken lettuce cups, short-rib grilled cheese with Thai tomato soup and crispy squash wontons, along with Ramen Noodle soups, and house-made dumplings known as “Ming’s Bing’s.”

It’s all prepared in an open kitchen staffed with one one of the most talented kitchen crews in New England.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

BOSTON (CBS) – Chicken and Waffles dripping with hot pepper syrup, old school mac and cheese topped with Ritz crackers, and a burger piled high with just about everything.

There’s only one place serving up food that looks and tastes that good: Trina’s Starlite Lounge, located on the Cambridge-Somerville line.

This laid-back neighborhood hangout specializes in soul-satisfying comfort food, and hand-crafted cocktails, at pocket friendly prices.

Entrees cost around $15, but lots of customers just order a bucket of beers, and snack on small plates like homemade barbecue sweet potato chips with French onion dip, fresh baked cornbread topped with sweet honey butter and thick-cut fries that can be ordered plain, topped with chili, or smothered with rich meaty gravy.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

BOSTON (CBS) – Dan Andelman of the Phantom Gourmet visited some authentic Mexican restaurants.

El Centro is a cool new Mexican eatery in Boston’s South End. The guacamole is amped up with chorizo and cheese, the tacos are authentically delicious, and the Carne asada is served with fresh corn tortillas made on site.

The Howling Wolf in Salem, Mass. is a California style taqueria featuring cuisine inspired by the southwest. What started as a simple take-out taco joint has evolved into much more.

Every meal feels like a ‘Cinco de Mayo’ celebration at “La Siesta” in Winthrop, which is known for fresh, home-style Mexican dishes like tortilla crusted shrimp and crab cakes and Chile Rellenos.

Cinco de Mayo is always one of the busiest days of the year at Mexican restaurants and since it’s on a Saturday…it’s gonna be loco.

BOSTON (CBS) – The Phantom recently purchased four brands of tomato sauce with cheese at a local supermarket. The slow simmered contenders were Barilla, Bertolli, Francesco Rinaldi, and Prego.

Which one made it to the top of the food chain?

Prego Three Cheese finished in last place. This lackluster sauce had a thin consistency and an even thinner flavor. Worst of all, Phantom tasted virtually no cheese whatsoever. Prego may mean ‘you’re welcome’ in Italian, but Phantom just says ‘no thanks’ to this sauce.

Bertolli Five Cheese was another disappointment. With two more cheeses than the other competitors, Phantom had high hopes for this brand. Unfortunately all Bertolli delivered was a thin sauce with way to much salt and acidity.

The runner up is Francesco Rinaldi Three Cheese. This sauce scored points for its thick consistency, and big chunks of tomatoes in every bite. But when it came to flavor, it was way too sweet, which might be okay for kids, but not for Phantom.

At the top of the food chain is Barilla Formaggi Three Cheese. This thick sauce hit all the right notes. The ricotta gave it a creamy consistency, while the Romano and Parmesan imparted an earthiness that tasted most like homemade. That’s why Barilla Formaggi Three Cheese tomato sauce is at the top of the food chain.

BOSTON (CBS) – The Phantom Gourmet recently purchased four bags of cheese-flavored potato chips at a local supermarket.

The contenders were Kettle, Lay’s, Pringles, and Ruffles.

Ruffles cheddar and sour cream was Phantom’s least favorite. This brand is famous for its ridges, which make it the ideal chip for dipping, but when it comes to flavor, Phantom was underwhelmed. The bag boasts that these chips are made with real cheddar, but Phantom just wishes they used a little more of it.

Next up is Kettle cheddar and sour cream. These earthy krinkle cuts are extra thick, giving this chip the best crunch of the bunch. Unfortunately, the cheese is hard to see, and even harder to taste.

The runner-up is Pringles cheddar cheese. Packaged in that classic tube that Phantom can just barely fit his purple glove into, these ‘potato crisps’ are shockingly orange. Their parabolic shape is a favorite of nerds everywhere, but their processed flavor make Pringles the fast food of the snack world, not that that’s such a bad thing.

At the top of the food chain is Lay’s. This chip had everything Phantom was looking for. The cheddar, sour cream, and potato flavors were all well-represented, and the light and airy texture made him want to devour the entire bag.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

FAIRHAVEN (CBS) – There’s nothing the Phantom Gourmet loves more than getting a good meal, at a great price.

And at The Pasta House in Fairhaven, Mass, that’s exactly what they’ve been providing for over thirty years.

They have classic Italian cuisine and all kinds of incredible sauces.

And over the past decade, owner Mario Ribiero and family have completely renovated this landmark restaurant, while staying true to its roots.

“Being The Pasta House, you have to have a lot of pasta. For string pasta we have linguine, fettucini… angel hair… a lot of raviolis, tortelloni, tortellini, so we have plenty of pasta. But other than pasta, we also have a lot of beef, veal, chicken, fresh seafood,” said Ribiero.

There’s a family-style atmosphere in the dining room, and family-style dinners at every table.

Instead of your standard appetizer platter, the antipasto here is served on skewers.

Meatballs the size of your fist are boosted with big slabs of garlic bread.

There are twelve-inch fire-deck pizzas and four cheese lasagna layered with meat sauce, ricotta, fontina, parmesan and mozzarella.

And everything comes with fresh bread, soup, salad, and sides.

The only bigger value than cooking at your house, is dining at The Pasta House.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

BOSTON (CBS) – With tax day coming up, many people dining out may be looking to save a few dollars. The Phantom Gourmet’s Dan Andelman went out in search of some meal deals.

At “The Avenue” in Allston, every item on the menu costs way less than ten dollars, and on Mondays, they offer one of the city’s juiciest burgers for a buck.

“New Brothers” in Danvers is a cafeteria-style eatery serving up big value on dishes like Greek moussaka, roast pork dinners, and hand-carved turkey clubs.

For an Italian-style feast with big portions and small prices, “Gennaro’s” in Quincy is a good place to stretch your dining dollar. Some popular dishes are the toasted ravioli, frutti di mare and even a grilled New York sirloin, all well south of twenty dollars.

Remember, tax day is actually the seventeenth this year, so you have a couple extra days to eat well and save big.

BOSTON (CBS) – The Phantom Gourmet recently purchased four tubs of hummus from a local supermarket.

The classic flavored contenders were Cedar’s, Joseph’s, Sabra, and Tribe.

Joseph’s finished at the bottom of the bottom of the barrel. Some might describe its flavor as mild, but Phantom would simply call it non-existent, except for that unpleasant burn in the back of his throat. At least the artwork on the lid was attractive.

A step up from there was Tribe. This popular brand is the thickest by far, meaning you’ll need a very sturdy chip if you’re looking to dip. The flavors were well-balanced, but also a little flat, leaving Phantom more than a little disappointed.

The runner up is Sabra. With more fat and calories than the rest of the competitors, this strongly flavored spread has a nice tartness that pairs well with carrots or crackers. Phantom especially liked the extra wide tub, which makes dipping easy, and helps keep his purple gloves clean.

At the top of the food chain is Cedar’s. The lightest and creamiest of the bunch, this brand had everything Phantom was looking for. The consistency is silky smooth, and the flavors are bright and balanced, with just the right notes of garlic and lemon.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

BOSTON (CBS) – The Back Bay Social Club on Boylston Street serves what many people believe is the best burger in Boston.

The ten-ounce patty is topped with extra sharp cheddar and sweet slow roasted onions. Served with a side of golden hand-cut fries, it costs an eye-popping $21…and it’s worth every penny.

Besides the burger, Back Bay also offers all kinds of upscale comfort food, from inventive bar snacks to soul-satisfying entrees to whimsically delicious desserts.

There’s even weekend brunch that guarantees to cure whatever ails you.

It’s all served up in a dining room featuring red leather booths, and a mahogany bar where mixologists put their own twist on classic cocktails, allowing customers to just sit back and relax.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

Here comes that dreaded tax deadline. With the day of reckoning nearly upon us, it’s time to sharpen up the mind (and the pencil) in preparation for the daunting task ahead of us.

Sleep and healthy eating are the most efficient ways to improve cognition and keep the brain functioning at peak potential. We can’t get you to to bed earlier, but we can improve your diet, so you can improve your tax return. Here are five healthy (and tasty) foods that will boost brain function:

(Photo Credit: Thinkstock)

Blueberries

Blueberry season doesn’t start for at least another month. But frozen blueberries, preferably organic, can be found in the freezer at your friendly neighborhood grocery store. Pick up a bag or three of this supercharged food… your brain will thank you. Blueberries, when eaten on a regular basis, improve memory and reverse age-related declines in motor function, balance and coordination. They’re high in antioxidants, which help prevent certain diseases. And best of all, blueberries are delicious. Throw them in cereal. Mix them with yogurt or oatmeal. Blend them into a tasty smoothie. Just remember to floss before crunching the numbers.

(Photo Credit: Thinkstock)

Salmon

Salmon is rich in protein, Vitamin D and Omega-3 fatty acids, the last of which helps the brain develop tissue to increase brain power, particularly memory and performance. Salmon also helps fight Alzheimer’s disease and other age-related cognitive disorders… yet another perk. It can be eaten raw in sushi, in a salad or sandwich (like tuna) and even seared and served with cold peanut noodles. But remember to have an early dinner, because those taxes won’t do themselves.

(Photo Credit: Thinkstock)

Coffee

Now who isn’t turning cartwheels over this one? Coffee has caffeine which is actually good for the brain if ingested in moderation. Regular coffee drinking has been shown to reduce the risk of Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and other mental disorders. Caffeine also contains antioxidants. No need to feel bad about a freshly brewed cup to get you through that stack of receipts. Drinking coffee in moderation is perfectly fine, just avoid excessive cream, sugar or syrups.

(Photo Credit: Thinkstock)

Chocolate

Here’s another lucky break for all of us with a sweet tooth. While chocolate expands waistlines, it also expands brain function. Dark chocolate is antioxidant-rich and improves focus and concentration. Milk chocolate boosts memory and reaction time. Grate some chocolate into your milk or other drinks. Make a chicken mole sauce with chiles and chocolate. Eat a small chunk for dessert. Or just keep a bag of miniatures nearby… a little chocolate therapy to alleviate the stress of taxes.

(Photo Credit: Thinkstock)

Eggs

The incredible edible egg… it truly is. Eggs are so easy to prepare: fried, scrambled, whipped into omelets and frittatas, mixed into egg salad and even hard-boiled, to eat on the go. Though we don’t recommend drinking them raw, Rocky style. Easy to find and easy to prepare, eggs, specifically the yolks, are rich in choline, an essential nutrient to improving memory function.

Alma Schneider is a licensed Clinical Social Worker helping individuals overcome their psychological and practical obstacles to cooking and parenting on her blog and consulting business, Take Back the Kitchen. She is a native New Yorker transplanted to the suburbs with her husband, four children and loving yet stubborn Beagle Shiloh.

HINGHAM (CBS) – The hottest new burger joint this side of Hollywood, Walhburgers, is the newest creation of chef Paul Wahlberg, and his famous actor brothers Mark and Donnie.

Located in the Hingham Shipyard, across the street from their other restaurant Alma Nove, Wahlburgers serves burgers, dogs, shakes, and fries.

Here, the three-ounce all-natural burgers are griddled on the flat-top, and served up with lettuce, tomato, and homemade pickles, on a fresh baked roll.

Plus, there are three specialty burgers, one for each brother. And if you look closely, you’ll see that the toppings are actually on the bottom, so you get all the right stuff in every mouthful.

In addition the burgers, there are creamy frappes, golden fried sides, and steamed hot dogs.

And while Paul is the Wahlberg brother you’re most likely to see at the restaurant, Mark and Donnie are well represented here too with their movie clips on the TV’s, and posters on the walls.

“It pays homage to who we are as a family. From our roots in Dorchester, all the way to today,” said Paul.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

BOSTON (CBS) – A great glass of wine can really enhance a meal. And cooking with wine can add layers of flavors to all sorts of dishes.

Dan Andelman of the Phantom Gourmet uncorks some tasty restaurant recommendations.

Sintra in Braintree serves food that’s inspired by Mediterranean flavors, and chef Brian Jenkins features wine in many of his popular dishes, including the grilled sirloin steak.

Cafe Assisi in Wrentham offers a lot of value on its Italian menu and wine list. The so-called Veal Gino is equally tender, and intoxicating.

AKA Bistro in Lincoln is a one of a kind combination French bistro and Japanese sashimi bar. But wine lovers tend to order the authentic moules frites.

If you’re a wine lover, you can sample thirty wines from around the world at the Phantom Gourmet Wine and Food Phest next Saturday at the Boston Center for the Arts.

And for more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV38.

BOSTON (CBS) – There’s really just one word you need to describe the Yard House at Legacy Place in Dedham: big.

Whether you want to have a meal, drink a beer, watch a game or do all three, this is the place to be.

The Yard House claims to have the largest draft beer selection in the world, with so many taps at their giant circular bar it will make your head spin.

And when it comes to food the choices are almost as endless, with well over a hundred items on the menu.

There are over forty appetizers alone from wings and sushi to addictive Chicken Nachos, made from scratch.

Entrees run the gamut from a surf and turf burger to a pepper-crusted filet to hand-stretched pizza.

For dessert, there’s a giant brownie fresh baked to order and served warm, right out of the oven.

And it’s all served up in a big bustling dining room complete with a $250,000 entertainment system.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

BOSTON (CBS) – If the assignment is to find the ultimate neighborhood restaurant, then at the Mission Bar and Grill, it’s mission accomplished.

Located in Boston’s Mission Hill neighborhood, Mission Bar and Grill has everything you want in a great local spot.

General Manager Brian Beattie says The Mission really is the kind of neighborhood restaurant that can be whatever you want it to be.

“We’re definitely a place where you can come have a burger and beer, or just an appetizer and a couple drinks at the bar. But you can also come here and have a nice dinner,” said Beattie.

So if you want some over-sized hand breaded chicken tenders or a giant plate of nachos topped with all the good stuff, they’ve got it.

But, if you’re looking for risotto fritters stuffed with goat cheese or gnocchi tossed with shrimp, chorizo, and sweet peas, they’ve got that too.

And it’s all served up in an inviting dining room dominated by high ceilings, big windows, and exposed brick.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

Watch to see who won:

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

Annabelle’s Restaurant in Hyde Park offers classic American cuisine in a casual ‘come as you are’ type setting. Annabelle’s fisherman’s platter, piled with shrimp, haddock, scallops, and fried clams, will feed the whole boat.

Watch Phantom Gourmet

Hooked restaurant in Manchester, NH is a funky seafood eatery serving dishes like Aegean Haddock Picatta, Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos, and Cioppino packed with shrimp, mussels, and clams.

Fishbones in Chelmsford not only has a first class fish market on site, but also there’s an excellent restaurant attached.

Specialties here include fried whole belly clams, baked stuffed lobster, and the seafood Mediterranean with artichokes and feta cheese. Seafood restaurants tend to get a big spike in business during Lent. There’s also an uptick in pizza sales with veggie toppings.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV38.

But all you really need to call it is The Local.

This upscale pub has a comfortable atmosphere and a comfort food menu serving elevated versions of all the foods you like.

At the kinds of prices you’ll love.

Watch video:

“Our goal is to have everything on the menu under twenty,” said executive chef Brian Counihan is classically trained.

And he puts those skills to good use serving everything from Asian noodles, juicy burgers and flatbread pizzas to homemade potato chips, truffle parmesan fries and fried pickles with spicy mayo.

And whether you’re enjoying a beer at the bar or dinner in the dining room, everything is fresh, affordable, and delicious and best of all It’s all “Local.”

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

(credit: legalseafoods.com)

Clam chowder is one of the most popular dishes in Boston. You won’t find too much of the red stuff in Boston. The local chowder is white, made with cream or milk, chocked full of clams, potatoes and onions, with added flavors that can sometimes include bacon, sherry or other spices. Here are some of the best in Boston.

“Ceia” means “supper” in Portuguese, and at Ceia restaurant in downtown Newburyport, owner Nancy Batista Caswell has created a modern menu inspired by her family’s classic recipes.

At “The Pasta House” in Fairhaven, Italian food is the primary focus. But one of the most popular items on the menu is the Portuguese steak pizza.

Watch The Phantom Gourmet

The Azorean Restaurant in Gloucester is an authentic Portuguese spot serving up large portions of home-style food like cod cakes, carne guizada, and the seafood paella cooked and served in a traditional cataplana that seals in all the flavors.

Some of the best Portuguese restaurants can be found in New Bedford. In fact, “Antonio’s” was named one of the “best ethnic restaurants in New England” by Bon Appetit.

But that’s only because you’ve never been to Truly Jorg’s.

Inside this unexpected spot, Chef-Owner Jorg Amsler creates some of the best European pastries you’ll find this side of Europe.

“I don’t want to just do a Swiss thing, or just a German thing, I want to bring the whole European flavor a little bit together, and just throw it all in one pastry shop,” said Amsler.

Watch video:

Jorg grew up in Switzerland, took an apprenticeship when he was 20, and has been baking ever since all over the world.

“I’ve worked on cruise ships, in resorts, hotels, for catering companies, so you know I’ve been around the block. I’ve been doing this for god, you know, 25 years,” said Amsler.

And Jorg is more than a baker. He’s also an artist.

Whether he’s icing and decorating, or carving and spray painting, he makesg sure every creation tastes as good as it looks.

“There’s a lot of artistic work involved and it’s a challenge, and it’s just a lot of fun doing it, so yeah, I get up in the morning and I’m excited to go to work,” said Amsler.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

Dan Andelman of the Phantom Gourmet visits three of the neighborhood’s most talked-about new eateries.

Catalyst is a vast, exciting new restaurant in Kendall Square. This industrial space is dimly lit with a double sided fireplace and long, stylish bar. Elegant eats like the tournedos of beef are topped with a taleggio ravioli and red wine demi-glace. And the decadent chocolate fondant is the perfect way to wrap up your meal with a hazelnut streusel and banana coulis.

Watch The Phantom Gourmet

Kika Tapas offers creative Spanish eats in a funky space clad with eye popping wall paper. Small plates are the specialty, like baby lamb chops cooked with a sweet apricot glaze.

But if you’re looking to feast, try the Paella Valenciana overflowing with pork sausage, chorizo, chicken and seafood.

Just down the street, Abigail’s is another Kendall Square newbie offering upscale eats at down to earth prices. This American style bistro is attracting crowds for the raw bar, along with thick cut steaks and a killer barbecue brisket sandwich topped with a fried egg.

And some other Phantom favorites include “Amelia’s Trattoria” for Italian cuisine and “Hungry Mother” for upscale southern food.

The contenders were Amy’s, Campbell’s, Progresso, and Wolfgang Puck.

Campbell’s finished in last place. This condensed soup just didn’t stand a chance. It was way too watery and completely flavorless. Maybe if Phantom ignored the directions and added way less water, this soup might have measured up.

Watch video:

A big step up from there was Progresso. This hefty can boasts a full serving of vegetables in every bowl, and with the biggest chunks in the bunch, it certainly delivers. The addition of spinach gives a rustic earthy feel, but in the end Progresso just tastes too canned.

The runner-up is Amy’s. This organic entry is rich and thick with tons of veggies and noodles in every spoonful. Unfortunately the pasta was mushy, and the broth was overwhelmed by so much onion flavor phantom could barely taste anything else.

At the top of the food chain is Wolfgang Puck. This celebrity chef is more than just a pretty face; he actually makes some seriously good soup. The broth was well balanced, tasting like it was slow-simmered for hours. And the pasta and beans stayed firm, giving this soup a wonderful contrast of textures.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

Watch Phantom Gourmet

Restaurant Oro is a romantic, city-style restaurant overlooking Scituate Harbor.
Seafood is the specialty here, including velvety corn and clam chowder, crispy lobster cakes packed with chunks of fresh-shucked meat, crispy potato strings, and creamy lobster bisque.

For a different kind of date experience, Tangierino in Charlestown is a sexy Moroccan restaurant offering exotic flavors and honey-sweet pastries with a little live belly dancing on the side.

Sorellina in Copley Square is the ultimate destination for that date you’re looking to impress. Modern Italian cuisine is the focus, including handmade pastas and Kobe beef meatballs. But you can’t leave before you taste the seductive molten chocolate cake.

Valentine’s Day is on a Tuesday this year, which is great for restaurants, because Tuesday is typically one of the least busy days of the week.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11a.m. on MyTV38.

They’re gearing up for a very busy Super Bowl Sunday at Easy Pie in Braintree a sleek new pizzeria offering upscale slices.

They’re offering two cheese pizzas and a large order of wings for $25.

Watch the Phantom Gourmet

For some super-sweets, North End Treats in Framingham is selling a big game platter stacked with enough Italian pastries to fill a stadium, for $30.

AJ’s Kitchen in Wilmington offers take-out specials big enough to feed an offensive line. They’ll be serving two extra-large two foot long calzones, or a tray of 40 home-style meatballs $40.

Sparky’s in Haverhill is selling 60 wings for $50.

And the Chocolate Truffle in Reading in Winchester is offering a free order of chocolate wings with the purchase of a chocolate pizza!

Sunday, the biggest day in football meets the biggest day in food. So watch the Phantom Gourmet pregame marathon from 10:30 until 6 on MyTV38.

If you’re interested in changing up your menu this year and going beyond nachos and chicken wings, Paula Ebben got a great idea from the folks at Wilson Farm’s Kitchen.

WBZ-TV’s Paula Ebben reports

Turkey Chili

2 lbs. ground turkey

2 – 15 oz. cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed

2 – 26 oz. boxes chopped tomatoes

2 medium red onions, chopped

2 green peppers, diced

2 yellow peppers, diced

2 Tbs. garlic, minced

1 Tbs. chili powder

¾ tsp. ground cumin

½ tsp. ground coriander

½ tsp. dried oregano

1 Tbs. salt

1 tsp. black pepper

3 Tbs. olive oil

scallions, chopped

Directions:

In a large shallow pot (a Dutch oven) heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.  Add garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add dry spices, salt, and pepper and cook for 1 minute. Add turkey and cook until golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add tomatoes and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Add beans and simmer for 10 minutes. Add peppers and cook another 8 minutes. Adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with scallions.

Enjoy.

And a decade later, this comfortable bistro continues to turn out some of the best food outside the city, under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Andrea Schnell.

“The food is modern American with global accents. A lot of fresh flavors,” said Schnell.

Watch video:

Square Cafe has Fresh flavors and plenty of Asian influence too, like the crispy hot & sour calamari, Korean spice rubbed flat iron steak, or the amazing seared sea scallops with ponzu emulsion, sautéed asparagus, crispy bacon, and shrimp fried rice.

The menu is broken up into small and large plates, allowing diners to sample and taste a wide variety of dishes.

“Try not to mess with the food too much, I mean there’s beautiful food, you don’t really play with it too much and we just enjoy feeding people and making people happy and that’s what we do,” said Schnell.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

Dan Andelman takes us to some of Boston’s best spots for wings.

In a neighborhood full of Italian restaurants, Vito’s Tavern stands out as the North End’s one and only sports bar.

Chicken Wings are their specialty, in flavors like Traditional Buffalo, Smoky Chipotle, and sweet and tangy Korean style. The wings are double fried so they’re extra crispy.

Watch: The Phantom Gourmet

Short for pizza and wings Pizzings in Abington and Marshfield offers varieties of chicken wings all meticulously flipped and covered so every bite is packed with flavor, whether it’s on the bourbon barbecue, the O.M.G. hot wings, or the signature bee-sting flavor packed with fiery chilis and a sweet touch of honey.

Located in an underground space in Kendall Square in Cambridge, Think Tank Restaurant puts a unique spin on wings, by tossing and saucing them with spicy Thai Siracha sauce.

You can find some more great spots for wings, pizza, subs and all kinds of take-out on the Phantom Gourmet Pregame Marathon Next Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on my TV38.

The Rattlesnake Bar and Grill in Boston has stirred up a Ghost Chili Margarita and they’re daring people to drink it.

Here’s the catch – you aren’t allowed to wash it down with a chaser.

This “glass of fire” is filled up with ghost chilies, Trinidad Scorpion chili sauce, habanero powder and red pepper flakes.

Starting February 2nd, anyone bold enough to give it a try will have an hour to finish the entire drink without the assistance of any heat-dulling aids.

Win or lose, you’ll get a bowl of Brooklyn Chocolate Stout Ice Cream at the end, a t-shirt, and a photo on the Rattlesnake’s Facebook Page.

The difference is, the winners get a T-Shirt that says “Champion,” while the losers’ shirt says “loser.”

The challenge costs $16 per person.

The snack-sized contenders were Frigo Cheese Heads, Polly-O, Sargento, and Sorrento Stringsters.

Polly-O finished at the bottom of the barrel. This cheese stick was too firm and chewy, reminding Phantom of rubber. Even worse, there was virtually no flavor whatsoever.

Watch video:

A big step up from there is Sorrento Stringsters. With a nice texture and flavor that’s not too tangy and not too salty, this brand had more of what Phantom was looking for. But when it came to stringiness, Sorrento just didn’t peel as well as the other contenders.

The runner-up is Sargento. Firm and flavorful, this snack actually tasted like real cheese. It had a salty earthiness that might not appeal to kids, but should keep adults full until dinner.

At the top of the food chain is Frigo Cheese Heads. The package boasts that this cheese is ‘America’s Favorite’ and Phantom has to agree. Softer, tangier, and much creamier than any of the other competitors, this fresh-tasting cheese was a satisfyingly stringy snack.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.

But Dan Andelman of the Phantom Gourmet says, there’s no better place to warm up, than at a good restaurant.

“Willy’s Steakhouse” in Shrewsbury is the kind of restaurant that can warm you up on a cold winter’s night, because they pan-sear all their steaks at a very high temperature.

Watch The Phantom Gourmet

“MT’s Local” in Nashua, New Hampshire is a new Phantom favorite for wood-fired pizzas.

“The Grog” in Newburyport is a classic warm-up spot, serving hearty clam chowder, pork chops, and chicken pot pie, all in front of a roaring fire.

The lack of snow this winter has been tough for the ski resorts, but for most restaurants, less snow means more business.

“We do all regions of Italy. It’s not Northern Italian, it’s not Southern Italian, it’s all Italian,” said chef-owner Jimmy Burke. “If it’s Italian, we do it.”

Ever since Burke opened Orta in Pembroke a couple years ago, the warm and inviting dining room has been packed with customers who can’t get enough of his rustic Italian comfort food.

Watch video:

To start, there are almost a dozen small plates to choose from, but just about everyone orders the homemade meatballs: a recipe passed down from Jimmy’s mother.

Pizzas are cooked in a blazing wood fired oven, and cost less than $15, and most entrees are priced well below $20. It’s food that will make you feel good at a price that will make you feel great.

It’s the best of Italy, served up on the South Shore, at Orta.

Dan Andelman of the Phantom Gourmet takes us to some hot new restaurants in the city and suburbs.

Brand new to Brookline, Jimmy’s Bar and Oven looks straight out of New York, and tastes straight out of the North End. Popular items include the thin-crust pizzas and the signature chicken parmesan.

At Blue Inc. on the Greenway, Chef Jason Santos serves a small but creative selection of dishes, like duck fat waffle fries and hoisin glazed duck confit.

Watch Phantom Gourmet

Now open in Marlboro, Fish Restaurant and Wine is an upscale seafood spot offering a top-quality raw bar, gourmet fried clams, and a decadent lazy-man’s lobster.

And some other new restaurants on Phantom’s radar include Chef Jody Adam’s Trade at Atlantic Wharf and Tiffany Faison’s new barbecue joint in the Fenway named Sweet Cheeks.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV38.

Dan Andelman shows us some of the Phantom Gourmet’s favorite spots for Chinese take-out.

For Chinese food lovers, Mai Place in Canton is a favorite for tender boneless spare ribs and the tangy triple delights packed with shrimp, beef, chicken, and veggies served in an edible nest of fried potato sticks.

Watch: Phantom Gourmet

Bamboo in Bedford, Dedham and Westford specializes in both Chinese and Japanese cuisine, but the biggest crowd pleaser is the so-called bobo for two. It’s an amped up pupu platter stacked with shrimp tempura, crab rangoon, and teriyaki beef skewers.

Great Chow in Quincy and Abington offers an upscale Chinese take-out experience, with standouts like the house lo-mein with shrimp, pork, and beef. This is also Phantom’s favorite place for general gao’s chicken, cooked perfectly crispy, yet tender, with an ideal mix of sweet, sour, tangy, and hot.

At Lavender in Sudbury, instead of chicken lettuce wraps, they offer lobster lettuce wraps are served with a tangy hoisin sauce. Plus, there’s light and flavorful pineapple fried rice, and tropical pineapple chicken served right in the shell.

Put in your order as soon as you can and pick up your order as early as possible.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on TV38.

At Bacaro in Providence, partners Brian Kingsford and Jennifer Matta are serving up a new way to experience Italian cuisine.

“It’s great little explosive flavor bites in a small format,” said

They’re called Cicchetti, essentially Italian-style tapas, like mini-panini and arancini, stuffed olives and seared scallops.

Watch video:

“The boundaries are endless which is really what’s wonderful about it,” said

In addition to the small plates, there are dozens of imported meats, cheeses and olives.

Customers are given a paper menu and a pencil, and check off whatever they’re in the mood for.

“It’s a great way to try different flavors, and things that you normally wouldn’t try without committing to a huge plate of food,” said

For those who want to dine a little more traditionally, there are plenty of fresh pastas, grilled pizzas and mouthwatering meats to choose from.

It’s all to be enjoyed downstairs in the bustling wine bar or upstairs with gorgeous views of Downtown Providence and the Waterfront.

“People really want a customized, personalized dining experience. And I think that the amount of choices that we offer, people really can set up the meal that they’re looking to have,” said

The Marliave in Downtown Crossing serves classic French, Italian, and American dishes with an historically delicious twist.

“Marliave is one of the oldest restaurants in Boston, It’s been here since 1875. We try to do things a little bit more the old fashioned way,” said chef and owner Scott Herritt.

Watch video:

Along with Pan-seared diver scallops, and gourmet meatball sliders, the Marliave features oysters shucked fresh from the raw bar, Ice Cream that’s churned in house, even a French-style grilled ham and cheese sandwich… with cheese on the outside and a fried egg on top.

Plus, Herritt makes a mean plate of steak frites, for just twenty bucks!

“We want to get the best steak we can we use Wolfneck Farms, it’s a flat iron cut, very tender, great flavor, and we cut all our own french fries in house, toss them with some fresh berbs, salt pepper, make our own sauce and that’s how we get our Steak Frites,” said Herritt.

Some customers come just for drinks at the bar, others to experience a full meal in the intimate dining room. But everybody gets a taste of history at the Marliave.

“I think the name Blue Inc. came from what I would think is the obvious, is my hair, I’ve had blue hair for 13 years,” said Santos.

Overlooking the Rose Kennedy Greenway, Blue Inc. serves up some of Boston’s most inventive food, like mini Kobe Corn Dogs in an onion cheese batter, Duck Fat Waffle Fries with smoked gouda and pink peppercorns and Honey and Hoisin Glazed Duck Confit with cashews.

Watch video:

Not to be outdone, the drink menu takes creativity to the next level with cocktails featuring fire roasted marshmallows, and nitrogen infused foams.

Everything is carefully selected, keeping the menu small, but satisfying.

“I’m not sure we need The Cheesecake Factory menu. I think 6 apps, 6 entrees, and 6 six bar menu items. Eighteen things to choose from, hopefully that’s enough for someone to find what they love,” said Santos.

For more food and fun, watch the Phantom Gourmet every Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on myTV 38.