Friendly Foodie
He likes to “dine,” and eat, and grill, and, you know, eat. Here are the cool places and cooking tools he can’t resist any more than he can turn down the balsamic vinegar on 2-for-1 sale—or a slice of pecan turtle cheesecake.
Lodge Cast-Iron Skillet
MAST GENERAL STORE 402 South Gay St., 546-1336, mastgeneralstore.com
The aroma of homemade scrambled eggs and cornbread can inspire numerous minutes of mouth-watering anticipation, especially when they are cooked especially for you in the time-honored, Southern tradition. Let him indulge both of you, or the whole family, in a Big Breakfast with the gift of an 8-inch pre-seasoned cast-iron skillet. It heats evenly and wears very, very well—plus it’s small enough to come with you when you camp, so the fish get fried correctly, as well. $12.99.
Dining at the Orangery
THE ORANGERY 5412 Kingston Pike, 588-2964, orangeryknoxville.com
If the guy you’re gifting doesn’t mind donning a collared shirt for dinner, The Orangery experience is a must. Named after Marie Antoinette’s greenhouse at Versailles, the newly-reopened Orangery offers “classic French and inspired international cuisine” under the new leadership of David Kiger and Executive Chef John Bryant. Treat your favorite foodie guy to extensive wine offerings and a menu representing a fusion of classical French and Southern flair with dishes like the Sweet Tea Lacquered Duck Breast.
CAO Cuban Press Cigar Sampler
SMOKE PIT CIGARS 7316 Norris Fwy., 922-0951, smokepitcigars.com
Ooh, a civilized taste sensation that’s perfect after a sophisticated meal—and these are such a hot new concept, even a trend-obsessed fellow might not know about them yet. The Cuban Press is the most recent creation from CAO International—cigars with a squared-off shape from going through the traditional Cuban wooden trunk press after they’re rolled. The sampler includes three each LX2, MX2, Italia and Brazilia Cuban Press cigars, all CAO, of course ($71.99).
An Occasion at Regas Restaurant
REGAS RESTAURANT 318 North Gay St., 637-3427, regassquare.com
Celebrating 90 years with no signs of slowing, Regas Restaurant defines classic fine dining. Baked scrod, prime rib, and lobster are mainstays, and it’d be a shame not to sample the signature classic, red velvet cake. Lunch, early-bird specials, and the “sharing plate” menu in the lively, casual Gathering Place are all options, too. Maybe you should tag along.
