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SLF Executive Director – Job Announcement

Apr 20 11:09 am

(Ed. Note – We are very excited to announce this opening at SLF. I”ll be posting some thoughts to the blog about my time over the past few years at SLF. I will be staying on as a board member at SLF, chairing the communications committee. – Joe Grafton, Soon to be former Executive Director, SLF)

Announcement

Somerville Local First, a four-year-old, established non-profit driven by strong community, artist, and business membership, seeks an Executive Director to guide staff and volunteers along a strategic direction established by the Board of Directors. The position opens July 1st, 2012.

Summary
The Executive Director for Somerville Local First is a part-time, entrepreneurially-spirited professional who shares the Somerville Local First vision, mission and values. The Executive Director is accountable to the Board of Directors and is responsible for creating and implementing the organization’s goals and objectives with the Board. The Executive Director will provide leadership in program management; work cooperatively with the Board, local businesses and local community; and manage the daily operations and finances of Somerville Local First. The Executive Director has primary responsibility for the development and implementation of Somerville Local First programs, fundraising, and communications.
Background

Somerville Local First is a fiscally sponsored non-profit, 501(c)3 tax exempt, grassroots organization led by its membership, working together to educate and engage local residents, governments, business and non-profits to build an economy that is local, green and fair.

SLF changes the way people think about and behave in the economy through programs, events and awareness campaigns. Somerville Local First encourages customers, public officials and local businesses to value the wide range of benefits and contributions local businesses provide and the importance of buying local, first. Our Executive Director must not only know how to gather and synthesize important information to raise this awareness, they must be able to connect, communicate, organize and lead people towards change.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Fundraising
• In conjunction with the Board, develop and implement annual fundraising goals to ensure the sustainability of the organization.
• Identify prospects for funding.
• Approach, cultivate and solicit major donors and sponsors.
• Oversee the fundraising plan. This includes researching, tracking and writing funding proposals to businesses, foundations, individuals, and government agencies.
• Establish and maintain relationships with funders and donors at all contribution levels.

Program Management
• Work in collaboration with the Board and Program Steering Committees to execute, evaluate and deliver quality programs that fulfill the organizational mission and strategic plan.
• Recruit, retain and grow the organization’s membership in all categories.
• Develop and maintain external relationships with other local-first networks and affiliated organizations, including New England Local Business Forum, AMIBA and BALLE.

Administration and Financial Management
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts in collaboration with the Board.
• In conjunction with the Board Treasurer, develop and implement a balanced annual budget for Board approval.
• In conjunction with the Board Treasurer, oversee financial management of the organization through daily bookkeeping and adhering to financial policies and procedures to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Ensure compliance with grant/funding requirements and manage related relationships.
• Ensure all non-profit requirements are met with fiscal agent, state, and federal agencies.
• Ensure all business- related filings are submitted annually.

Communication and Outreach Management
• Be the face of Somerville Local First and act as representative in all public settings
• Capitalize on personal networks to further the mission of the organization.
• Serve as the liaison with the local community, businesses and related constituencies.
• In collaboration with the Communications Committee, oversee all public relations.
• Oversee all media contacts and communication with members and the public to ensure the organization and its mission, programs, products and services are consistently presented in a strong, relevant and positive image.
• Work with Communications Committee to implement social media campaigns.
• Develop and implement the marketing plan, with an eye towards internal fundraising goals, in collaboration with the Communication Committee.
• Oversee the publication of newsletters, materials, website and events.
• Integrate the fundraising and communications plans

Board Administration and Support
• Support the operation and administration of the organization by advising and informing Board members and developing needed workplans, policies and procedures.
• Participate in all Executive Committee meetings.
• Support the Executive Committee.
• Produce monthly Executive Director Reports.
• Ensure compliance with the by-laws, and all other Board-documents, in collaboration with the Executive Committee.

QUALIFICATIONS
Somerville Local First seeks an executive with proven experience in organizational management and/or business formation and development. We seek an individual to continue the successful growth of this dynamic organization in conjunction with the Board of Directors and, eventually, a stellar team of staff and volunteers. The successful candidate should have a bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience, in a relevant field and demonstrate strong communication and organizational skills. Prior background in fundraising, nonprofit management and/or business management with a locally owned and independent business is helpful, as is a demonstrated knowledge of and commitment to strengthening local, living economies. The successful candidate will have an entrepreneurial spirit, be creative, vibrant, social, outgoing, and a proven networker. The job will require some travel around Somerville, occasional travel around New England, and attendance at the annual BALLE conference.

LOCATION
Somerville, MA

COMPENSATION
This is a part-time, salaried position, with the opportunity to grow into full-time with benefits in 6-12 months.

TO APPLY
All interested applicants are requested to submit a letter of interest and resume detailing their skills, experience and training that are relevant for this position, as well as three professional references. Please click here to apply. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until finalists are identified.

About Somerville Local First: www.somervillelocalfirst.org

Due Date: May 31st; interviews scheduled upon receipt of application.

Filed under: Local First

Local Business, Global Food.

Apr 16 9:30 am

By Sarah Shugars

For me, YUM: A Taste of Immigrant City is like a dream come true.

Local, immigrant-owned restaurants from across Somerville in
the same place at the same time. Tastes from Turkey, Ethiopia,
Mexico, Thailand, Brazil, the Mediterranean, Italy, India and
Nepal. So. Much. Delicious. Food.

To put it simply, YUM is helping me eat my way to a better Somerville. Sounds fantastic, right?

To be held on Wednesday, April 25 at Arts at the Armory from 6:30 – 9:30, YUM is a
benefit for the great SLF non-profit The Welcome Project. Promoting the cultural richness of
Somerville, YUM raises awareness about Somerville’s many delicious immigrant-owned food
establishments while raising funds for The Welcome Project’s core programs supporting our
diverse community.

YUM will feature food from participating restaurants, live entertainment, a silent auction and an
appearance from Somerville’s Mayor Joseph

Tastes from Sabur at YUM 2011

Curtatone. Additionally, YUM has partnered with the City of
Somerville’s Shape Up Approved restaurant campaign. As
part of the evening’s tastings, you’ll have the chance to
sample Shape Up Approved healthy menu items from all the
current YUM restaurants.

To purchase tickets or to learn about the YUM discount card,
visit yumsomerville.org. Tickets are $35 in advance or $40
at the door and individual sponsorships start at $100. A great
deal and a great way to support our diverse, local community.
Happy local eating!

**Comment on this post by Sunday, April 22 for a chance to win 2 free tickets!**

Participating restaurants:
Aguacate Verde – Mexican, Porter Square
Fill out Aquacate’s healthy eating survey and get a free taco
or drink!

Amelia’s Kitchen- Italian, Teele Square

Part of the buffet line at Churrasco

Yummm, artichoke pizza.

Churrasco Buffet & Grill – Brazilian, Magoun Square
The buffet line stretches around the room offering an

assortment of food from plantains to salad ingredients.

Fasika – Ethiopian, East Somerville
In the mood for Ethiopian food? Fasika has great vegetarian options, which are full of protein!

Istanbul’lu – Turkish, Teele Square
Enjoy Turkish breakfast all day long and mouth-watering Turkish Tapas for your lunch and
dinner dining pleasure!

Masala – Nepali and Indian, Teele Square
Try the Indian take on lentils at Masala

Maya Sol – Mexican, East Somerville
Lovers of Mexican cuisine love Maya Sol’s burritos, tacos and quesadillas!

Ronnarong Thai Tapas Bar – Thai, Union Square
While tapas originated in Spain, you can try them Thai-style at Ronnarong

Sabur – Mediterranean, Teele Square
Carnivores: Must try braised short ribs at Sabur

Yak & Yeti – Nepali and Indian, Ball Square
Check out their lunch buffet!

Filed under: Local First, Our Members
Tags: Amelia, Churrasco, Fasika, First, Istanbul'lu, Local, Masala, Maya Sol, Ronnarong, Sabur, Shugars, Somerville, Welcome Project, Yak, Yak & Yeti, Yeti, YUM

SLF Audio Clip – What about Podcasts?

Apr 13 1:13 pm

Our co-op this semester, Lawrence Aronoff, came up with the idea to start offering audio on our website. He’s smart and it’s a good idea.

SLF via Spoken Words from KyAnn Anderson!

So, along those lines, here’s a short audio clip describing SLF, featuring the one and only KyAnn Anderson of Greater Somerville and TEDxSomerville fame.

The 411 on Somerville Local First

We plan to have this on our site so folks can get a quick blast about us and what we do, but are also thinking about a podcast series. So, that’s where you come in.

If we did podcasts, what would you want to hear/listen to? We’d love your thoughts/ideas in the comments section. Let us know!

Filed under: Local First, Our Members

Ball Square Fine Wines & TW Foods

Mar 15 12:54 pm

Wine and Food + Incredible Knowledge + Free = You Win!

Calling all wine loving locavores!

Ball Square Fine Wines is teaming up with TW Food’s Jillian Marini to host a special wine/food tasting on March 15. They’ve invited the ever-erudite T.W. Food Sommelier, Jillian Marini, to host a special tasting at their fine shop on March 15th.

Chef Wiechmann has whipped up some delicious, fresh, local-ingredient-inspired finger foods – and Jillian has taken a look at Ball Square Fine Wine’s shelves to discover the perfect pairings. Come by Ball Square on this mid-month, Thursday ‘eve to taste wine and food in tandem – and learn from one of Cambridge’s best Sommeliers!

This is sure to showcase Camberville at its best!

5:30-7:30pm @ Ball Square Fine Wines

This event is FREE (!!) and open to all 21+ years of age.

Filed under: Local First

Local is a Two-Way Street

Feb 21 2:15 pm

Shopping locally can have its benefits!

A friend of mine approached me the other day and asked, “‘I’ve been getting into biking lately, and I want to support my local bike shop. But when I check prices online, it’s usually cheaper. Why should I pay the higher prices just to shop local?”

I took this as a teaching moment and talked to him about how spending his money locally is better for the economy and how price shouldn’t be the only determining factor. A local bike shop could add a lot of value to his shopping experience in ways an online retailer could not. But something concerned me about his situation. What if his particular local bike shop wasn’t giving him a reason to shop locally?

We often put the success of the local movement on the customer. We use slogans like “Shift Your Shopping” and “Buy Local”. But I believe the small, local business is just as responsible for the success of the local movement and the local economy as the customer.

The big online retailers have two main advantages over the small local business: Price and Convenience. They know this and do whatever they can to promote it. The lure of shopping during your lunch hour without leaving your desk, or taking advantage of a special on-line only sale can be very seductive. In tough economic times, these are compelling features. But this doesn’t mean that the small, local business can’t compete.

Make It Personal:

The big retailers, whether online or a physical location, aren’t able to foster personal relationships with their customers like a local business can. Getting personal service from a national retailer is often rare for a variety of reasons, and sadly, it’s something many of us have gotten used to in exchange for low prices.People prefer to buy from people they like and can relate to. The local store can take advantage of this by providing personal service, before, during and after the sale. Don’t sell people stuff, help them buy it. Listen to what the customer’s needs are and find solutions that are unique to them. Never miss an opportunity to communicate with them. Social media like Facebook and Twitter can help as well as email newsletters and blogs. Let them know when you have something you think they would like. Make the customer feel like you are their personal store.

Educate:

Chances are that you started your business because you are extremely passionate about it. You wouldn’t open a camera store, for example, and not love cameras and photography. Use that passion and knowledge to be the local, go-to expert for your customers. Use social media, your website or blog to post useful tips and information. A camera store could host free photography classes or give out a beginner’s guide to taking good pictures with every new camera purchase. Customers who respect your knowledge will be much more likely to return when they need advice and will trust your judgement on future purchases. Plus, people will enjoy their purchase more if they know how to get the most out of it. You already have all this knowledge, so put it to good use.

Offer Items Not Available at the Big Retailers:

The big retailers are able to offer low prices because they purchase in volume. As a result, they don’t carry some items because the supplier can’t produce the volume they demand. This provides you an opportunity to carry those items that a big retailer can’t or won’t carry. Usually items that are “green”, natural, organic, hand-made, or locally, independently produced or manufactured, are created on a small scale and are not attractive to the big retailers. Seek out those hard-to-find unique products and be their local source. Not only will you be helping other local companies, but it could help you carve a unique niche in the marketplace.

Just telling people to “shop local” isn’t enough. Local businesses need to do their part, too. It is too easy for customers to be lured into the seduction of low prices and convenience shopping. As local businesses, we need to find ways to add value to the goods and services we provide in ways that big national retailers can’t. Whether it’s through developing personal relationships with your customers, providing help and information, or just offering what the big guys can’t, we need to give customers a reason to “buy local”.

Filed under: 10% Shift, Community Bloggers, Local First, Our Members, Shift Your Shopping
Tags: Blog, buy local, Community, First, Local, online retailer, online shopping, shift, shift your shopping, shop local, shopping, SLF, Somerville, Somerville Local First

Why Good Design Really Does Matter!

Jan 23 1:27 pm

By Kelsey Roth, of The Management

Design matters!

It’s a new year, and that often gets us thinking of ways we can spruce up our business. Maybe it’s getting some new business cards or brochures, placing a new ad in a local magazine, updating the logo, or even giving the website a much needed make-over. It’s often tempting to go to one of those big online printers, easy website builders, or a design or logo contest site. They are cheap and fast, and some of those designs aren’t half bad. But clicking that “Place Order” button could actually be losing you money.

Does design really make that much of a difference that it could be losing me money? Absolutely! We like to say things like, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” but the truth is that we all do. And it’s certainly true in the world of design. The quality of your design is often the first impression that people get of your business, and if you give a bad first impression, you usually don’t get a chance at a second. A 2011 study found that 70 percent of people claimed they would not buy from a company with a poorly designed website. Another study done by Stanford in 2002, showed that the “appeal of the overall visual design of a site, including layout, typography, font size, and color schemes,” is the number one factor we use to judge a site’s credibility. This applies to all forms of media. People make value judgements in the blink of an eye, 50 milliseconds to be exact, so there is very little time to make an impression. A bad or outdated design tells the customer that you don’t care, even if it’s on a subconscious level, which could indicate a lack of company credibility. While most people haven’t studied principles of good design, they will react emotionally to a good or bad design. Imagery that is out of balance, has mismatched colors, conflicting messages, or mistakes and typos can cause confusion and mistrust. When people don’t trust a design, they tend not to trust the company as well.

But what about those big online printers or pre-made template sites? Clearly, those were created by designers, why can’t I just get something from them for cheap? While it may be tempting to get your website made for $5 or use a free template for your business cards, those designs weren’t actually created specifically for you or your business. The relationship between a company and a designer is more important than people think. A good designer will understand the company, its goals and motivations, its owners and employees, its customers and clients, and most importantly, the company’s philosophy and personality. How could a pre-made template or an anonymous designer ever properly understand all those things?

Logo and design contest sites seem like a good way to get a lot of designs to choose from for little cost. Aside from often being unethical and damaging to the design industry, contests and spec work sites suffer from the same lack of intimacy with the client. The client may be able to submit some guidelines, but it usually is the bare minimum a designer should know about a company or brand. You may save some money initially, but if the design isn’t representing your business as well as it should, that money you saved could be costing you more in lost revenue and a tarnished brand.

Like everything else, when it comes to finding a designer, it pays to stay local. Having a face-to-face relationship with your designer ensures that they are creating designs that communicate effectively with your target audience by understanding your business, your customers, and your products. If you live in Somerville, look here first (Ed Note: check out SLF website designer Andy Pyman at Truly Good Design). Somerville has a thriving artist community which means there are a lot of good local designers. Will it cost a lot? Certainly more than $5, but a good designer will know how to work within a budget and where you can save money, while still delivering designs that produce results.

Filed under: Local First

New Year’s Resolutions: Skip the Diet, Take a Class!

Jan 20 10:57 am

By Elise Ramsay

Every January, people make grandiose promises to themselves and are then smothered by “resolution” content on the Internet. This post seeks to inflict neither upon you!

Ignore the “R word” for a moment and simply reflect on your experience in the local community last year. Perhaps you Shifted Your Shopping and supported Somerville businesses in the traditional sense: buying goods. However, there are many more businesses in the community than just those that peddle scarves, booze, or muffins (mind you, those still remain January essentials). This year, consider supporting local businesses in another, unique way.

Many Somerville businesses offer workshops and classes on everything from risotto to acrobatics (though perhaps a bad idea in that order). By taking one of several great classes around the area, you can learn a new skill as well as have some quality interaction with the members of your community. Support businesses while learning a bit about the people behind each one. So much learning! It’s good for you, unlike that boring diet you abandoned last year. Here are some great classes to get you started:

Eat and Drink:

Cooking Classes at Dave's Fresh Pasta. Photo Cred: agirlandhermutt.com

Dave’s Fresh Pasta is offering a gluttonous lineup in 2012, including method or dish-specific classes such as Deep Fried Cooking, Pasta Making, Sauce Making, Risotto & Gnocchi, and Mozzarella Cheese Making with the owner of Fiore di Nonno! In addition, they’re offering edible tours of various regions of Italy, such as Tuscany, Campania, Emilia-Romagna, and Piedmont. Classes range from $50-$60, while wine tastings paired with food, such as Italian Wine and Pasta Night, Spicy Beer Night, and Wine & Pizza Night, range from $40-$50. Call 617-623-0867 or visit their website for details.

The Boston Shaker is offering Craft Cocktail Techniques classes, the first of which is 1/18 from 7:30-9:30pm. With each class ($70, taught by Adam, the owner) you’ll also get a Basic Shaker Kit to take home with you! See their Facebook page for more information.

ArtEpicure has a packed schedule of cooking classes, including options for private or semi-private classes for your own group of people. A traditional class ends by eating the meal you’ve made, so go hungry! You can even tailor a class to your own specific foodie interests, if you wish. The variety of options is vast, so check out their website for detailed information.

Get Physical:

Broga is the brilliant synthesis of yoga and traditionally male-friendly exercise. In their words, it’s male-oriented yoga “where it’s okay if you can’t touch your toes.” If you’re a guy who has been interested in yoga but apprehensive about venturing into a Lululemon-clad room, try a Broga class ($15 drop-in, $100 for 10) at 10am or 12pm Saturdays at the Somerville Armory. While Broga is geared toward men, women are welcome to attend as well. Read more about the idea here.

Broga at the Somerville Armory. Photo Cred: brogayoga.com

Aircraft Aerial Arts offers “taster” classes for those interested in learning the basics of aerial silks, static trapeze, and hoop. These classes are only $25, which seems more than worth it for the amazing story you’ll have of trying your hand at circus artistry. Check their website for updated taster classes.

Hone Skills:

Camera Eye Workshops offers classes in both photography and photo editing for all levels. Do you know the basics of photography but want to take your work to the next level? The Camera Eye Seminar I is a unique and creative approach, “where students will explore photographic seeing and visual thinking.” Other classes focus on contemporary portraits, Photoshop, lighting, and more. More information can be found here.

Union Press offers letterpress workshops that several designer friends swear by. They are planning one for late January and several in February, so keep an eye on their Facebook page and website!

Union Press Letterpress Workshops. Photo Cred: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Union-Press/113886751976393

In 2012, take the opportunity to become even more connected to your community by taking some of these classes and exercising your brain!

Filed under: Local First, Shift Your Shopping

Not Your Generic Gift Guide: Last Minute Gifts for Everyone Else!

Dec 22 10:02 am

By Elise Ramsay

One of the potential stressors of the holidays is the dilemma of finding gifts for people you might not know so well. From in-laws and distant relatives to bosses and coworkers—you don’t always know their taste, and you don’t want your gift to bore or offend. No need for anxiety! These options are safe bets for just about anyone:

Ornaments are a great option for those who celebrate Christmas, especially if the recipient is someone who might appreciate a memento of you for years to come (parents of a significant other, for example). These leaf ornaments are each made from a real leaf that is preserved in gold, silver, or copper.

Still Life leaf ornaments, Davis Squared - $24-31

Another nice neutral choice is this set of 12 snowflakes laser cut from birch.

Roost snowflake ornaments, Davis Squared - $17

For a slightly more personal touch, this sweet “Bird in Love” glass ball and felted acorns (miniature ones too!) will add sweetness to any tree.

Glāk Love “Bird in Love” ornament, Magpie - $17

Felt acorns, Davis Squared - $8 large, $4 small

Let’s face it—you should probably also pick up some miniature acorns for yourself, just because.

Felt acorns, Davis Squared - $8 large, $4 small

Candles? Trust! When done right, they add instant coziness and holiday atmosphere. Plus, scent is closely tied to memory, so you’re also giving them the gift of nostalgia. This “Frasier Fir” variation smells just like a Christmas tree and comes in a variety of sizes.

Frasier Fir candle, Davis Squared - $12-$17

As good as trees and wreaths smell, there’s nothing like the warm spicy comfort of more edible holiday treats. You’ll have to resist nibbling on this “Quince Spice” candle, though, no matter how tempting!

Quince Spice candle, Davis Squared - $22

For a neutral scent, these natural beeswax owls, pinecones, and twigs are whimsical yet classic.

GreenTree candles, Magpie $8-$26

GreenTree candles, Magpie - $8-$26

This time of year, calendars are everywhere. Many stores in the area offer beautiful editions by artists and designers—calendars that are no longer boring gifts, but pieces of art! Some favorite finds include:

“Boots On & Ready” by Atherton Lin, which offers an illustrated trip through England in each month’s design;

Boots On & Ready calendar, Magpie - $18

Julianna Swaney’s “Bird Children,” which is delicate and refined;

"Bird Children" calendar by Julianna Swaney, Magpie - $15

and APAK’s “Space Garden,” which is somehow surreal, pretty, and cute at the same time.

"Space Garden" calendar by APAK, Magpie - $14

Do you know anyone who recently had a baby? If so, you’re very lucky to have an excuse to shop around for miniature booties and furry things (betraying some personal jealousy here). Local Somerville shops have an abundance of cute baby items. This clever one from Egg-A-Go-Go (made in Boston) just scratches the surface of the adorable onesies.

Egg-A-Go-Go onesies, Magpie - $18-$24

One of these animal spoons from Beehive Kitchenware (in Fall River, MA) would make a very special baby gift—plus, there is something so endearing about the back side of the spoons showing the “backside” of the featured critter!

Beehive Kitchenware baby spoons, Magpie - $28 each. Photo cred: http://www.etsy.com/shop/beehivekitchenware

Beehive Kitchenware baby spoons (backside), Magpie - $28 each. Photo cred: http://www.etsy.com/shop/beehivekitchenware

It’s never too early to begin unicorn education, so why not include this print to kick-start the kid’s imagination?

"U is for Unicorn" by Matthew Porter Art, Magpie - $18

Finally, there is no better snuggle buddy than these stuffed animals by Jelly Cat—they come in a variety of species and are so soft, you just might buy one for yourself (no judgment).

Jelly Cat stuffed pig, Davis Squared - $20

Some other unique items for anyone and everyone include these wonderful locally made terrariums by Amanda Sawitzky. The miniature environments need very little maintenance and provide a desperately needed burst of green life in the winter months.

Terrariums by Amanda Sawitzky, Magpie - $10-$40

Another nice housewarming or host/hostess gift is this pair of glasses that are festive but not over the top.

Glasses, Consignment Galleries - $6

Grand has prints from several local artists like these clever messages on creativity from Union Press and this seasonal photo by Erik Dasque.

Union Press prints, Grand - $15 small, $25 large

Erik Dasque photograph, Grand - $50. Photo cred: http://www.frenchguys.com

For the final touch, local Albertine Press holiday cards in a variety of minimalist designs that can be found at several shops around the area – double the local!

Albertine Press set of 6 cards, Grand, Blue Cloud Gallery, Magpie - $15. Photo cred: http://www.etsy.com/shop/albertinepress

This set by Julianna Swaney is a unique alternative to classic holiday cards; it celebrates the spirit of giving among all kinds.

Holiday card set by Julianna Swaney, Magpie - $15

Always a great “when in doubt” gift option? Food! Don’t worry, local deliciousness got its own post – check out the food gift guide post here!

Magpie

416 Highland Ave

Somerville, MA 02144

www.magpie-store.com

Grand

374 Somerville Ave

Somerville, MA 02143

www.grandthestore.com

Davis Squared

418 Highland Ave

Somerville, MA 02144

www.davissquared.com

Blue Cloud Gallery

713 Broadway

Somerville, MA 02144

www.bluecloudgallery.com

Consignment Galleries

363 Highland Ave

Somerville, MA 02144

www.theconsignmentgalleries.com

Filed under: Local First, Shift Your Shopping

Two for Tuesdays: Eat Outside the Box!

Dec 20 1:31 pm

What’s for dinner tonight? Whether you don’t feel like cooking or you just want to try something new to spice up a boring Tuesday night, head over to the East Broadway Business District for some delicious chow on the cheap. For the perfect way to feed and impress your family in town for the holidays, East Broadway restaurants have partnered with East Somerville Main Streets (ESMS) to offer you Two for Tuesdays specials.

two-for-tuesdays-east-broadway-somerville

Two for Tuesdays on East Broadway!

Every Tuesday through March 15, participating restaurants, marked by the Two for Tuesdays poster in the window, will be offering two-for-one deals and other specials each week. Sample culinary traditions from around the world at East Somerville’s diverse eateries – without putting even a dent in your wallet.

But how do I get in on such a fantastic deal?, you are probably asking yourself right now. Well, you simply grab a friend, head down to any participating restaurant after 4pm, check out the whiteboard inside for their current special, and ask for the Two for Tuesdays deal. The offer, of course, is available for eat-in only, but come on, this time of winter, you need a motivator to get out of the house.

In its third run, this promotion gets more popular each year. ESMS is thrilled to experience how it encourages the East Broadway restaurants to collaborate.

So stick your favorite each Tuesday or try a new cuisine every week! But if you see something you like, don’t hesitate – offers can change from week to week, so don’t miss out on your favorite dishes!

This week’s offerings include:

Mount Vernon Restaurant (14 Broadway): Pork chops or Baked scrod with salad, potato & vegetable (2 for $20.99)
Taco Loco (44 Broadway): Pupusas (any kind)
Los Paisanos Restaurant (62 Broadway): Tortas, and burritos for $9.99 and pupusas for $1 each
Vinny’s Ristorante (76 Broadway): TBA – Last week was pasta dishes, so stop by tonight to find out what’s in store!
Tapatio Mexican Grille (82 Broadway): Tacos
Gauchao (102 Broadway): TBA – Last Tuesday’s offering was 2-for-1 desserts – yum!
Brasil Steakhouse (129 Broadway): 2 all-you-can-eat buffets (BBQ included) for $15.99
Taqueria Montecristo (146 Broadway): Enchiladas and tacos
Fasika (145-147 Broadway): Buy one vegetable combo and get another entree free
Casey’s Tavern (173 Broadway): Appetizers
Maya Sol (179 Broadway): Tacos

For an up-to-date list of weekly specials, visit the ESMS blog for more info.

Filed under: Local First

Not Your Generic Gift Guide: Foodie Edition

Dec 19 10:07 am

By Elise Ramsay

They say that experiences are the gifts that really stick with people, and there are few better experiences than devouring some amazing local food! Whether you’re looking to contribute to a holiday party or find an exceptional gift, Somerville’s food purveyors have delicious edible options. Here are some of the many offerings by local bakeries, markets, and more:

3 Little Figs

One of the most exciting new additions to the Somerville food scene is the “Mediterranean-inspired” 3 Little Figs on Highland Ave. They focus on locally sourced and natural ingredients to create treats both traditional (Spinach Pie, “Greek Candy” farina cake, Galaktoboureko, Kookla) and creative (Apple Cider Donut Muffins, Avocado Tea Cake).

Mini donut muffins, $4

Granola, $6

3 Little Figs is a family owned business that couldn’t be friendlier or more welcoming—it is abundantly clear that each item is made with care. Support them and spread some of that warmth to your own family and friends this holiday by picking up some treats, big and small. Their holiday ordering menu includes large-scale items like a pan of Spinach Pie ($50) or a whole Frosted Squash, Maple & Yogurt Bundt Cake ($25), but you can easily add some “figgy” goodness to any gift arrangement by picking up some of their assorted scones, muffins, and cookies. Check out their catering menu for more options, which also includes vegan items.

3 Little Figs Holiday Menu. Photo Cred: 3littlefigs.com

Ginger bombs, $5

Petsi Pies

Petsi Pies is the ultimate stop for real—as in, no fillers, no mixes, all natural—pies of every kind imaginable. They of course have incredible sweet pies, with holiday specials such as Eggnog Custard ($22), Salted Caramel Apple ($22) and Chocolate Peppermint Cream ($25). The Plum Gingerbread ($15) also sounds deliciously festive, and is available in individual sizes as well ($2.50). On the other hand, Petsi Pies offers savory pies like Spinach Ricotta, Roasted Vegetable & Goat Cheese, Mushrooms with Potatoes and Gruyere and more, all for $22 and perfect for brunch. Consult their holiday ordering menu for more details, or stop in to pick your own assortment of pastries and other delights.

Petsi Pies. Photo Cred: Andrew McFarland at http://www.flickr.com/photos/7314673@N06/5641593 883/in/photostream/

When Pigs Fly

Stumped about what to bring to the holiday feast, and don’t want to add yet another dessert? Creative breads from When Pigs Fly are always a wild hit. With flavors like Veggie Potato Latke, Sicilian Green Olive & Hot Cherry Pepper, and the addictive seasonal special Savory Cranberry (tastes like stuffing!), this bread can change an entire meal.

Savory Cranberry Bread, $6

If you’re looking for a sweeter holiday option, the Jingle Bread (rum-soaked raisins, almond paste, hazelnuts, cran-raspberries) makes for a very decadent breakfast. But seriously, you must try that Savory Cranberry. Go!

Jingle Bread, $6

Sherman Market

A great gift option is an arrangement of local edibles. At Sherman Market, throw together a post-Christmas breakfast basket with maple syrup, pancake mix, and granola, all local.

Maple syrup, $8

Pancake mix, $4

Granola, $8.75/lb

On the savory side of things, they have fancy salts, ravioli, and the most amazing pasta sauce you’ll ever try: Red Gravy by Valicenti Organico (really, get this immediately). Their prepared food also offers some delicious and unusual dips such as green hummus and roasted red pepper with feta that would bring flavor and personality to any appetizer spread.

Valicenti Organico ravioli (frozen), $10 approx

Valicenti Organico Red Gravy, $9.75

Salts, $12/lb & $20/lb

Dave’s Fresh Pasta

Get a basket, walk into Dave’s Fresh Pasta, and you’re pretty much good to go with a plethora of items to impress even your snobbiest foodie friend. Grab some handmade fresh or frozen pasta and sauce for a personalized meal-in-a-gift. For something a little easier to transport to a party, get some local cheeses (burrata by Fiore di Nonno!), cured meats, and olives. Preserved figs and some of Dave’s famous holiday panforte are special sweet accompaniments. Some of Dave’s holiday specials are truly decadent: roasted duck tortelloni, butternut squash and ricotta gnocchi, caviar, and more. While you’re there, pick up some wine to serve with your platter, utilizing the expert advice of the friendly staff.

Panforte. Photo Cred: davesfreshpasta.com

ArtEpicure

For a food related option that isn’t perishable, give a cooking class! ArtEpicure offers many different varieties, including private couple’s classes. Class topics include everything from Authentic German Cooking to Italian Vegan, and the focus can also be customized to a specific theme or requested dish. Look to their list of classes for details. Know someone who prefers to stick to eating and would rather just watch their meal prepared? ArtEpicure also offers demonstration dinners, which are educational without requiring participation until it comes time to eat. Each class and demo is about three to four hours, with a final meal afterwards.

Classes: $85/person

Couples classes: $200

Taza Chocolate

Taza is already featured on many other lists, but deserves a mention! The perfect gift for a Taza novice is the Taste of Taza ($50), sampling some of their signature products. Mix and match individual goodies to throw into any holiday basket or stocking, including tickets to a factory tour ($5 per person). If you can’t make it to their factory store, Taza products are sold at many shops in the area, including Dave’s Fresh Pasta and Sherman Market.

Taste of Taza, $50

Savoring East Somerville

This book is a wonderful collection of the community’s food and the faces behind it. Savoring East Somerville features local restaurant owners and employees alongside signature recipes–it perfectly captures the vibrancy and warmth of the local food culture.