What’s Cookin’? - Smithtown
By Nancy Vallarella
Local Foodie Finds for the Holiday
Throughout the country, communities struggle with our current economy. When you make a local purchase it contributes to a chain reaction from that cash register right to your street. Studies have shown that for every $100 spent at a locally-owned business anywhere from 45 – 70% goes back to our community and our tax base.
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Sweet Lucille’s DessertLocal businesses invest in our community. They help sustain the community and contribute to local causes. During this busy time of the year; buying local may even help you multitask. You have a much greater chance of bumping into a neighbor giving you the opportunity to catch up and wish them a Merry Christmas while squeezing in an errand or two. Shopping local is an opportunity to spend your time and money wisely.
Open just in time for your holiday wine buying is Whisper Vineyards located on
Edgewood Road in Saint James. This is a product that is grown and sold locally making it an extra special quality gift. Take the time to visit with Pascal Zugmeyer, Whisper’s Certified Sommelier in their beautiful new tasting room. Wine flights (tastings) are available as are other alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. If you are feeling a little peckish, cheese and charcuterie (smoked and cured meats) platters are also available.
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In addition to Chardonnay, Merlot and Red Cape Blend ($24-$40/bottle); Rose and Pinot Grigio will be offered sometime over the next two weeks. Other gift items: Artist Karen Didion’s handcrafted wine and cork holders, tapenades, preserves, sauces, chillis, soups, cookies, chocolate bars and premade gift baskets. For more information call Whisper Vineyards direct at 631-257-5222.
Another perfect gift for anyone who drinks or serves wine - Pampered Chef’s bottle 
opener ($34). It comes with a foil cutter and storage pouch. Orders can be made by shopping local resident/Pampered Chef Consultant, Tina Femia’s web site www.pamperedchef.biz/tinafemia . Guaranteed holiday delivery if ordered before Dec. 17th. One of Tina’s customers recently sent me an e-mail regarding this product and declared, “No twisting or turning, just flip the handle over and the cork pulls right out!” – Sounds perfect for those who have been known to be cork removal challenged.
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Looking to bring a sweet treat along on your holiday visit to friends and family? Visit Sweet Lucille’s 
Desserts first! They are located at 264 West Main Street, Smithtown. Their unique and delicious baked holiday treats will have everyone saying “WOW!” Seasonal goodies include Raspberry Cheesecake Stuffed Cone with a buttercream frosting, Mint Chocolate Brownie Christmas Trees and Mini Cake and Mini Bite Chocolate Cakes with peppermint infused buttercream topped with candy cane pieces.
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Another local business where the elves have been particularly busy is Elegant Eating, 739 Smithtown Bypass (Route 347), Smithtown. Stop by this culinary version of Santa’s workshop and browse the largest variety of handpicked and hand-wrapped gift baskets and bags filled with an assortment of mouthwatering gourmet treats. Something for everyone wrapped and ready to go! Gift bags - $30 & up; gift baskets - $50 & up. Custom gift baskets and delivery service are also available. For holiday hours call 631-360-2211.