PeeDeeFoodie.com™

PDFS 058 – Walt Disney World Kids Food – Learning about Mickey Check Meals at Food Blog Forum 2013

Kevin Barron — Sat, 25 May 2013 15:24:50 +0000

This unique Pee Dee Food Show episode is a fun and informative compilation of the interviews that I conducted during Food Blog Forum 2013 in Walt Disney World.

Congratulations to PDF Sponsors and Content Partners for “Pee Dee’s Best” Recognition

Kevin Barron — Tue, 21 May 2013 03:31:24 +0000

IT”S CELEBRATION TIME! Here at PeeDeeFoodie.com we just couldn’t let the day end without sharing celebrating that four of our fabulous sponsors and content partners were recognized by popular vote as leaders in the WMBF News’ Pee Dee’s Best awards for 2013. Their commitments to quality and to our community clearly shine through to their customers from across the region. We [...]

THANK YOU, FoodBlogForum.com and Walt Disney World

Kevin Barron — Sun, 19 May 2013 16:14:42 +0000

Just a quick personal post to say THANK YOU to everyone at FoodBlogForum.com and Walt Disney World for hosting us this weekend. Can you tell I had a great time? The food blogger conference was amazing and the new “Mickey Check” healthy kids options around the parks and resorts are creative, tasty and fun. Look [...]

PDFS 057 – The List Magazine with Cathy Elliott and Elicia Seawell

Kevin Barron — Sat, 18 May 2013 12:00:17 +0000

Subscribe to the Show Welcome back and thank you for the download. It’s time for the Pee Dee Food Show! This is the companion podcast to PeeDeeFoodie.com. It’s the first and only internet radio show dedicated to the food, foodies, and food culture of the Pee Dee region of South Carolina. Join us each week [...]

Images from Our Opening Day at Food Blog Forum 2013 at Walt Disney World

Kevin Barron — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:30:28 +0000

We’ll it’s almost tomorrow. It’s about 11:30pm on Friday, May 17th as I write this, so I’ll keep it brief. Here are just a few photos from our Opening Day adventure at Food Blog Forum 2013 at Walt Disney World. Follow our updates on Twitter and Facebook. The hashtag is “#FBFORL“. See you real soon.

Follow us. This Weekend is Food Blog Forum 2013 at Walt Disney World

Kevin Barron — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:44:14 +0000

Guess what? We’re attending FOOD BLOG FORUM 2013 in Orlando — this weekend! To say that we’re excited is a gross understatement. Buzzing with anticipation is probably a more apt description. LOOK AHEAD TO #FBFORL 2013 As last year, Walt Disney World® is the Hosting Sponsor at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Sponsors also [...]

Happy Mother’s Day

Kevin Barron — Sun, 12 May 2013 11:24:43 +0000

Today, we awoke to the sounds of songbirds. Chirpy and cheery, they created a nest near our chimney. What sweet sounds they have brought to our quiet home this morning. I wonder if it’s Mother’s Day for them as well. Happy Mother’s Day to my wife, my mother, my mother-in-law and all of the ladies [...]

PDFS 056 – Dolce Vita Chocolate and Wine Tasting Room

Kevin Barron — Sat, 11 May 2013 05:00:29 +0000

Join us as we discuss a brand new concept for the Florence and the Pee Dee Region, a chocolate and wine tasting room located downtown at 152 South Dargan Street. It's called Dolce Vita and it's opening soon.

PDFS 055 – Carolina Heritage Farms with Gra’ Moore

Kevin Barron — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 23:38:20 +0000

This week in the booth I'm joined by Gra' Moore of Carolina Heritage Farms. Carolina Heritage Farms is a local sustainable farm located here in the Pee Dee Region of South Carolina specializing in naturally raised heritage poultry, hogs and vegetables.

Garden Tower Project: Let’s Get Started with Background and Purpose

Kevin Barron — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 15:29:31 +0000

TODAY, we ordered our very own Garden Tower to test drive on our back patio. Our goal is to document our experiences with video and text and share them with you here on the blog, on YouTube and possibly in a dedicated podcast episode. We also hope to demonstrate that everyone can grow some of his/her [...]

The List: Tasteful Rules of Tailgating (Column)

Kevin Barron — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 11:32:21 +0000

I’d like to personally invite you to click over to The List, a brand new magazine focused on the people, places and events of the Pee Dee Region of South Carolina. I’m excited to be part of the team as a food columnist for the publication which debuted this month. My first column is called [...]

PDFS 054: Struttin’ Turkey BBQ with Charlie Raines and Charles Timmons

Kevin Barron — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 17:20:23 +0000

This week in the booth, I'm joined by Charlie Raines and Charles Timmons. As two of the partners in one of the areas newest restaurant ventures, they know good food and how to create a unique concept that captures the public's attention. Listen & Subscribe Now.

Abingdon Manor: Apple Pancakes

Kevin Barron — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 15:49:50 +0000

This winter for a little variation on regular pancakes, we started making multigrain pancakes incorporating pecans (we still have lots from the fall harvest) apples and a dash of cinnamon for a delicious and nutritious start to the day. The brand we are using has a lot of special grains (also referred to as ancient [...]

Coming Soon: Long Grain Cafe

Kevin Barron — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 11:00:48 +0000

Somewhere around the end of April or beginning of May 2013, Florence will see the addition of a new fusion-style restaurant. Called Long Grain Cafe and located at 260 West Palmetto Street, it will combine traditional Asian and Southern flavors. From the website: “Long Grain Cafe is the blossoming idea of Raymond Ho. Ray grew [...]

PDFS 053 – Downtown Culinary Crawl for the Leadership Florence Alumni Association

Kevin Barron — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 12:00:56 +0000

Join us this week for a conversation about the origins of LFAA, its purposes and the great foodie fun that's anticipated through the upcoming Downtown Culinary Crawl on June 6, 2013 in Downtown Florence.

Downtown Farmers Market Returns Today – April 10, 2013

Kevin Barron — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:00:32 +0000

The date has been announced. It’s going to be on Wednesday, April 10, 2013. Today, April 10, 2013, will be the return of the Downtown Farmers Market (Florence, SC) in the Breezeway on the South side of the 100 block of West Evans Street. It’s next to the Pee Dee Land Trust building. The hours [...]

Guest Review: PhoVietnam in Florence

Kevin Barron — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 21:52:35 +0000

We'd like to thank Janet Stoda, guest blogger, for this review of PhoVietnam in Florence, South Carolina. Based upon her findings, we hope to visit PhoVietnam ourselves very soon.

Video: Recap of Food Blog Forum 2012 in Walt Disney World

Kevin Barron — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 12:26:30 +0000

Over St. Patrick’s Day Weekend in 2012, over 100 food bloggers from around the nation were invited to visit Walt Disney World by FoodBlogForum.com and WDW Public Relations. The conference was organized as a learning experience for attendees and a way for WDW to share information about its healthy eating initiatives across its theme parks [...]

PDFS 052 – Gardner’s General Store with Glynnis Farmwald

Kevin Barron — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 11:00:55 +0000

My guest this week is Glynnis Farmwald, new owner of the Hartsville institution, Gardner's General Store. Known as the local "feed and seed" for over 50 years Gardner's is becoming a wonderful source for regional produce, meats, and homesteading knowledge.

PDFS 051 – Our Food System is Busted with SC Real Foods, Part 2

Kevin Barron — Sun, 31 Mar 2013 14:54:57 +0000

This week in PART TWO, we start hearing Andrew Criswell changing gears to bring us forward to talk about the supply chain within our food system. We move on to discuss our what each of us can do to make a positive change for our families.

Restaurants Open This Easter Sunday – 2013

Kevin Barron — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:00:42 +0000

It seems as though the year has just begun, but here we already find ourselves in April 2013. Where does our time go? This Easter Sunday we hope that you are able to savor your time with family and friends over a great meal. If you’re not inclined to be in the kitchen, then be [...]

Seven Tips for Getting the Most from Your Local Farmers Market

Kevin Barron — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 12:38:53 +0000

We want to help you get the most from your visits to the Pee Dee Region's local farmers markets. To do that, we thought we'd compile seven tips for maximizing the related experience, value and benefits. Please share your tips with us in the comments section.

PeeDeeFoodie.com is Now on YouTube – Subscribe Today

Kevin Barron — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 11:00:46 +0000

It took a while, but I'm happy to share with you that PeeDeeFoodie.com is now on YouTube! Our channel is located at http://www.youtube.com/user/PeeDeeFoodie and we invite you to subscribe so that our latest videos are added to your queue for future viewing.

PDFS Video 001: Celebrating 50 Episodes of the Pee Dee Food Show

Kevin Barron — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 11:00:36 +0000

We're excited to share with you that we've reached the milestones of 50 podcast episodes as of March 2013 and over 28,000 downloads! Take a brief look at this recap video which is really a message of thanks to our panelists, guests, sponsors and listeners.

Downtown Farmers Market Returns to Florence on April 10th

Kevin Barron — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 22:00:28 +0000

The Downtown Farmers Market will bring regional produce to the heart of historic downtown Florence. From organic vegetables to grass-fed beef, you'll no doubt find real food readily available at reasonable prices. What makes this market special? It's local in more ways than one.

PDFS 050 – Our Food System is Busted with SC Real Foods, Part 1

Kevin Barron — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 15:00:18 +0000

This episode is PART ONE of a TWO-PART SERIES in which I seek to learn more about our food system. In PART ONE we start with our historic food system in the United States of America and work our way up to current day. Listen and Subscribe to learn more.

Is Panera Bread Coming to Florence?

Kevin Barron — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 11:00:01 +0000

Short answer: Not any time soon. Long answer: We touched base with Panera Bread recently after seeing a rumor circulate via social media that Florence was due for a location in the coming months. The response from Panera was timely and clear. We appreciate both. “We saw [the PeeDeeFoodie.com] post on our Facebook page regarding [...]

Hybrids versus GMOs

Kevin Barron — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 20:12:03 +0000

Most people today don’t know the difference between a hybrid and a GMO. I have to admit that I didn’t until a recent podcast episode recording session with SC Real Foods, a highly knowledgeable content partner here at PeeDeeFoodie.com. Listen to that special episode here. While I’m no expert in these areas, I’ll attempt to [...]

Third Annual Pee Dee Area Big Brothers Big Sisters BBQ Cook-off

Kevin Barron — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 22:00:15 +0000

Mark your weekend calendars for Friday, April 5th and Saturday, April 6th. Those are the dates for the Third Annual Big Brothers and Big Sisters Bar-B-Que Cookoff. Watch this brief video by Smile Media for more information. Then enjoy!

New Regional Magazine to Feature Foodie Column

Kevin Barron — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 16:00:13 +0000

I’m excited to share with you that I’ve been asked to contribute a monthly column on local food happenings and culture to a new regional magazine. It’s called The List and it will be unlike anything out there today. Scheduled to release its debut issue in April 2013, The List will spotlight the people, places [...]

PDFS 049 – Red Bone Alley with Dale Barth

Kevin Barron — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 16:00:26 +0000

There is a growing trend (thankfully) for local restaurants to use locally-sourced produce. In this episode I talk with Dale Barth, a long-time proponent of all things local to learn why it's so important to him. You might be surprised at what you hear and how it's setting a standard for others.

Which Restaurants are Serving Corned Beef & Cabbage?

Kevin Barron — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 11:00:16 +0000

You may have heard the phrase, “Everyone’s Irish on St. Patrick’s Day.” I think that may very well be true. That said, I’m proud to say that I’ve got a bit of the Cochran clan blood in me. My maternal grandfather’s family came from Ireland many, many years ago. Maybe that’s why I love the [...]

Google Reader is Going Bye-Bye. Time to Re-Subscribe

Kevin Barron — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:00:31 +0000

Do you use Google Reader to subscribe to our blog or other blogs around the interwebz? If you do, this helpful housekeeping information is for you. Google, in its infinite wisdom, has decided to sunset the much beloved Google Reader, effective July 1, 2013. That means its going away folks. Since it’s hugely popular, that [...]

Pee Dee Food Show: Relevant and Easy to Find

Kevin Barron — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 15:50:52 +0000

Periodically, we check the standings of our PeeDeeFoodie.com podcast, the Pee Dee Food Show, among the over one hundred thousand other English language podcasts on the interwebz these days. Here’s why that’s important: • We want to know how relevant the show is to listeners’ key areas of interest; and • We want to know [...]

PDFS 048 – Rebel Pie with Alan Cooke

Kevin Barron — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 16:39:58 +0000

Rebel Pie, the award-winning wood fired, brick oven pizza restaurant near Timmonsville, SC is moving! To where? Well, you'd better listen to this episode of our podcast to find out. Alan Cooke, owner and professional pizzaiolo, is my special guest.

Vendor Booth Space for Taste of Florence 2013 is Now Available

Kevin Barron — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 15:53:53 +0000

The official TASTE OF FLORENCE website has now been updated with the forms you need to register your business for the October 15, 2013 event at the Florence Civic Center. If you're a food producer, processor or purveyor this event is one that you shouldn't miss.

Photo Gallery: Charleston Wine + Food Festival 2013

Kevin Barron — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 09:41:18 +0000

We invite you to view this photo gallery of the Saturday events at the 2013 Charlestson Wine + Food Festival. Amy Scott-Lundy, contributing blogger here at PeeDeeFoodie.com, and her husband, Clay, attended and reported what they found and enjoyed. Watch the official recap video, as well.

Video Recap: Charleston Wine + Food Festival 2013

Kevin Barron — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 09:35:19 +0000

We invite you to watch this official video recap of the Saturday events at the 2013 Charlestson Wine + Food Festival. Amy Scott-Lundy, contributing blogger here at PeeDeeFoodie.com, and her husband, Clay, attended and reported what they found and enjoyed. View Amy’s photos, as well.

Quick Tip: Decoding the Secrets of the Produce Aisle

Kevin Barron — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:57:21 +0000

When shopping for fresh produce, whether for juicing, cooking or just plain noshing, we believe it’s best to buy it directly from the farmer at a local farmers market. Remember, Stacy Atkinson explained why that’s important in her recent column. If you can’t do that however, you should at least be conscious of the following [...]

Local in the Lowcountry: The Charleston Wine + Food Festival 2013

Amy Scott-Lundy — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:18 +0000

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival is one of the top five festivals of its kind in the United States. Both local and celebrity chefs prepare and host cooking demonstrations, meals, wine tastings, and seminars. This year Amy Scott-Lundy attended representing our blog. Here she tells us what she found.

PDFS 047 – Food Storage with SC Real Foods

Kevin Barron — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 12:00:06 +0000

Join us as we talk about the practical side to food storage, including why to get started and how to get started. Val and Andrew own and operate SC Real Foods and have the knowledge to demystify what can be - for many of us - an intimidating topic.

Lindsey Tayara: Local “Matters”

Lindsey Tayara — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 23:00:44 +0000

My husband and I own a local seafood business, Our Local Catch, and I can always count on about 1 out of every 10 customers telling me a lovely memory of them fishing as a child. It was a clean and pure experience that has formed our thoughts on seafood as adults. We go grocery [...]

Cashua Cafe & Grill Opens in a Familiar Location in Florence

Kevin Barron — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:00:37 +0000

Guess what? In a world filled with chains, Florence now has another locally-owned and operated restaurant. I’d say that’s good news. What about you? Cashua Cafe & Grill (914 South Cashua) is in soft opening while ramping up to full service. What we’ve heard is that the menu consists of meat and three for now, [...]

WBTW News13 Profiles Jackie and Bill Travis about their Entrepreneurial Spirit

Kevin Barron — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 01:58:53 +0000

When friends do well, you just want to help them celebrate. In this case two of our friends, who happen to be married to each other and sponsors, were featured on WBTW News13 in a Special Report called "The Entrepreneurial Spirit." Watch now.

SCNow.com Launches Pee Dee’s Best Recipe Challenge – Sandwich Edition!

Kevin Barron — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 17:00:45 +0000

Today, I noted that SCNow.com and the Morning News have launched a brand new original recipe contest. This time it’s all about finding your most creative recipe for a great sandwich. That’s my kind of contest, folks. Below are some key excerpts from the online announcement written by Kimberly Ginfrida. Be sure to go read [...]

Abingdon Manor: Almond Pear Tart

Kevin Barron — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 01:04:52 +0000

Sous Chef Jeffrey's love is baking and he is always developing new pastry creations for the restaurant. He recently adapted his apple tart recipe into an almond and pear concoction which is elegantly delicious.

Abingdon Manor: Asian Chicken Lettuce Wrap

Kevin Barron — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:58:11 +0000

Light, refreshing and easy to prepare these lettuce wraps makes an appetizing starter for a meal or great as a party pickup. We think Benton Henry did a terrific job photographing this delectable little treat. View lots of other food shots and samples of Benton’s photography at www.bentonhenry.com. Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. At the Inn, [...]

Brent Tiller: Red Wine Lovers Rejoice — It’s Good for You!

Brent Tiller — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:49:52 +0000

We've all heard the adage, "A glass of red wine a day is good for your heart." I'll tell you what the Mayo Clinic says about that and provide my wine recommendation for March 2013.

Visit and Follow the #FBFORL 2013 Food Bloggers

Kevin Barron — Sat, 23 Feb 2013 17:27:20 +0000

Check out these Food Blog Forum 2013 blogs and follow them on Twitter. I will be doing both!

Disney to Welcome Food Blog Forum Orlando 2013 … and PeeDeeFoodie.com

Kevin Barron — Sat, 23 Feb 2013 16:36:52 +0000

Guess what? We're booked to attend FOOD BLOG FORUM 2013 in Orlando! To say that we're excited is a gross understatement. Buzzing with anticipation is probably a more apt description.