COULEE REGION COOKS

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with Kevin Millard, the news director for WISM News, who has recently returned from an exciting trip to London. Kevin shares his culinary adventures, debunking the myths surrounding British cuisine and highlighting the delightful dishes he discovered, from traditional full English breakfasts to the iconic fish and chips paired with mushy peas. Listeners will be intrigued as Kevin recounts his experiences navigating the bustling streets of London, sampling everything from sausage rolls to gourmet burgers. He reflects on the surprising variety of dining options available, including charming bakeries and vibrant food markets, and even shares a humorous story about his quest to try McDonald's across the pond. Throughout the episode, Kevin emphasizes the rich history and culture of London, discussing the unique dining experiences he encountered, including a memorable meal in the crypt of St. Paul's Cathedral and the stunning cafeteria at the Victoria and Albert Museum. He also touches on the differences in dining etiquette, including how the UK restaurant scene prioritizes food allergies and the absence of tipping culture. Join Courtney and Kevin for an entertaining and informative episode that will transport you to the heart of London and inspire your next culinary adventure. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, this episode is packed with tips and insights that will enhance your appreciation for British cuisine!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with the dynamic duo behind the Coulee Lemon Co., Gail and Michaela. Celebrating nearly a year in business, these two entrepreneurial moms share their journey from a TikTok-inspired idea to a thriving lemonade stand that offers fresh, dye-free drinks made from locally sourced ingredients. Listeners will be delighted as Gail and Michaela discuss their unique approach to lemonade, highlighting their commitment to clean ingredients and customer satisfaction. They share the story of how they quickly transitioned from a basic table setup to a fully equipped trailer that allows them to serve their refreshing beverages at various local events, including farmers markets and community gatherings. Throughout the episode, the pair reveals their delicious drink offerings, including fan favorites like the Strawberry Fields and Lemon Colada, and even some creative “dirty drinks” that blend sparkling water with fruity flavors. They also emphasize the importance of collaboration over competition in the local food scene, sharing insights on how they’ve built relationships with other food vendors. Join Courtney, Gail, and Michaela for an engaging and fun-filled episode that will leave you craving a cup of their refreshing lemonade! Be sure to catch them at local events this summer and support their mission to provide enjoyable, inclusive experiences for all.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler reunites with Kyle from Smokey's Bar and Grill for a lively conversation about the restaurant's mouthwatering menu and the exciting events happening in Holman. With a focus on the delicious offerings at Smokey's, Kyle shares updates on their famous homemade cheesecake and the ever-popular taco and burger specials that keep patrons coming back for more. Listeners will be intrigued as Kyle reveals the secrets behind their addictive cheesecake, the variety of toppings available, and the unique twist on taco day with the introduction of Mac tacos. The duo also dives into the bar's rotating tap selection, discussing the seasonal beers that complement the hearty menu, and the upcoming Super Bowl party that promises fun and festivities for all. As the conversation flows, Courtney and Kyle explore the art of crafting the perfect Bloody Mary, highlighting the extensive garnish options that make it a must-try. With plenty of laughter and insider tips, this episode is a treat for food lovers and anyone curious about the vibrant culinary scene at Smokey's Bar and Grill!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Deb from Bluff Top Vineyards for a deep dive into the world of winemaking. As the winter months settle in, Deb shares insights into the vineyard's seasonal activities, including the therapeutic process of pruning their 2,500 vines and the preparations they undertake during the quiet months of January.  Listeners will learn about the exciting upcoming wines, including the highly anticipated Liberty, a lightly oaked Petite Pearl infused with bourbon oak chips, set to debut just in time for summer celebrations. Deb also discusses the vineyard's unique fruit wines, such as the popular Summer Breeze, made from freshly harvested rhubarb and organic strawberry puree, and the meticulous process that goes into creating these delightful blends.  As the conversation flows, Courtney and Deb touch on the importance of community involvement, highlighting how guests can participate in the grape harvest and enjoy a day of camaraderie in the vineyard. With plenty of laughter and wine talk, this episode is a must-listen for wine enthusiasts and anyone looking to explore the flavors of Bluff Top Vineyards!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler is joined by the beloved Megan Larson, the mastermind behind the soon-to-be-opened The Vintage Kitchen. After years of dreaming, Megan shares the exciting news of her brick-and-mortar restaurant, set to open its doors on December 6th. The duo reflects on Megan's journey from private chef to restaurant owner, discussing the serendipitous path that led her to acquire the historic Restore Public House location. Megan reveals her vision for The Vintage Kitchen, which aims to elevate Midwestern comfort food while honoring family traditions. Listeners will be captivated by her plans to incorporate cherished recipes from her grandmothers, transforming classic dishes into modern culinary delights. From gluten-free options to a dedicated fish fry on Fridays, Megan's menu promises to cater to a variety of tastes while maintaining a warm, homey atmosphere. As they dive into the details of the restaurant's decor, Megan shares her intention to create a nostalgic experience, complete with a recipe wall featuring her grandmothers' handwritten recipes and fun touches like tomato-shaped soaps in the bathrooms. Join Courtney and Megan as they celebrate this new chapter in the Coulee Region's culinary scene, and get ready to reserve your spot for a delightful dining experience at The Vintage Kitchen!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes back Chef Charlie George from JavaVino, a beloved staple in the La Crosse area. With years of culinary experience and a deep-rooted family history in the food industry, Charlie shares insights into the eclectic menu at JavaVino, which surprises many with its diverse offerings beyond coffee and wine. Listeners will discover the unique dishes that make up JavaVino's menu, from the smoky loaded hash topped with pulled pork to the adventurous wild mushroom penne and the flavorful flank steak sauté. Charlie discusses the importance of local partnerships, featuring ingredients sourced from nearby farms, and the creative process behind the restaurant's ever-evolving menu. He also reveals details about the upcoming Wild Game Dinner, a seven-course event showcasing five types of wild game, including pheasant, elk, and bison, all prepared with care and creativity. Join Courtney and Charlie as they explore the vibrant culinary scene at JavaVino, the joy of cooking as a family tradition, and the community spirit that drives this beloved establishment. Whether you're a foodie or simply curious about local dining, this episode is packed with delicious insights and mouthwatering stories that will inspire your next meal!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.