As the weather starts to warm and we're able to come out of hibernation a bit, we're reminded that there's a difference between living and living well. This past winter has had some stereotypical Ohio weather—cold and miserable—and we haven't been able to get out and socialize as much as we would have liked to here at Deupree.
If you're tired of being stuck indoors and want to greet spring with some fantastic activities, the Cincinnati area has some fabulous culinary events coming up that you won't want to miss.
1. Enjoy the Tastes of the Queen City on a Cincinnati Food Tour
Cincinnati Food Tours are a fantastic way to explore Findlay Market, and the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, while sampling wonderful treats.
Each of these tours is about 90 minutes and allows you the time to shop, sample delicacies, and learn the history of the neighborhood while socializing with fellow tour mates. Find some new dishes you'll love or purchase some of your old favorites while enjoying the weather and a wonderful afternoon.
Tour prices start at only $20 and include the samples at various eateries.
2. Indulge Yourself at the Oyster Festival at Washington Platform
The 29th Annual Oyster Festival of 2015 runs from March 27 through May 2 and features more than 40 items on the fresh oyster menu.
There's something new for even the most die hard shell fish fan, as well as some of your old favorites. Events include popular contests, such as the "Pearl Count" and "Pearls of Wisdom" and don't forget to check your oyster shell for the lucky "Big Red 29" to see if you've won a Washington Platform prize!
3. Practice Your Sushi Rolling at Sushi Cincinnati
Every Saturday evening, starting at 6:30PM, Sushi Cincinnati hosts a BYOB sushi rolling party where participants are encouraged to bring their own favorite wine to enjoy during the event. The night begins with a 45 minute demonstration—Sushi Cincinnati chefs show you how to make the rolls! After the demonstration, you're invited up to the table where chefs can work with you to help you roll your own sushi and enjoy your final dishes. Not only is this a fun, active evening, but you'll be able to make your own sushi at home after the event!
Ticket prices are $25.00 a person.
4. Expand Your Palate on a Wine Tasting at StoneBrook Winery
StoneBrook Winery, located in Camp Springs, KY, only a short drive from Cincinnati, is an ideal afternoon or evening trip for wine lovers. The Winery itself is located on a 140 year old farm, complete with a lovely farmhouse renovated that houses its tasting rooms.
Events to choose from include B&B Cruises where you can sample your favorite wines while enjoying the Cincinnati skyline, the Northern Kentucky Back Roads Wine Tours which include 5 wineries and a discussion of the history of the beautiful area, or dinner and wine tasting at the wonderfully refurbished StoneBrook Winery farmhouse. The StoneBrook Winery offers many fantastic events for wine aficionados to share with friends.
5. Improve Your Kitchen Skills with a class at the Midwest Culinary Institute
For the enthusiastic home cook, taking a class at the Midwest Culinary Institute can be both fun and productive. There are classes available for a wide range of cuisines where you can learn new dishes from some fantastic chefs. You might like something fun, like baking new treats for the holidays, or something a little more intricate, like French or Chinese dishes that you've always wanted to master.
Classes can range in price and new classes are offered frequently, so you might learn cake decorating this month and come back again to dabble in Mediterranean cuisine and wine tasting. There's always something new and exciting to explore at the Midwest Culinary Institute.
