Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo Cook-Off & Carnivale Parade
We’re just at the end of the President’s Day holiday but I think it’s time to plan for next weekend. The gumbo starts cooking at 8am, February 21, 2009 in Manitou Springs. After the judges complete their tasting at 10:45 the public digs in – 2 tastings for a dollar. Competition is limited to 18 entries; winners receive cash prizes & trophies. Head to Soda Springs Park for a mumbo jumbo gumbo splurge.
Carnivale Parade sets off through downtown Manitou at 1pm. I’ve never attended this event but this is the same community that brings us Coffin Races in October and the Great Fruitcake Toss in January. I’m pretty sure they know how to have a good time with gumbo and carnivale.
When You Go: Manitou Springs is encompassed by Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods.
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After a tour of a nearby wildlife refuge we tried the Northfield Ling & Louie’s for lunch. A friendly greeting and immediate seating started everything off on a pleasant note. Our booth was against the wall separating the dining room from the kitchen; the top half was a frosted glass water wall. The gentle flowing water sound hid any kitchen noise. The west wall was all windows looking onto the patio and landscaped grounds.
diced pineapple, red peppers and a sweet citrus sauce. Brown or jasmine rice accompanied both dishes. The orange flavor was very evident in my chicken nicely blended with the mild chilies, a little zip but certainly not spicy hot. I liked that the waitress brought two plates when she first approached the table, we were prepared to share. We enjoyed generous servings of both entrees and still boxed some to go.
In addition to bar seating there are a dozen tables and booths – today filled with families, teens, Harley bikers and gray-haired geezers. Nancy was working behind the bar this afternoon. The local sitting next to Bob informed us, “She’s been my therapist for years.”
Our first day in Jupiter usually finds us at Schooner’s Restaurant for a late lunch. The casual, relaxed atmosphere proves to be a necessary respite after several hours at Mother’s assisted living facility. The patio beckons us to sit back and enjoy an icy drink while lunch is prepared.
Service is almost always friendly and attentive. During our last visit on Martin Luther King Day they were obviously slammed but the staff worked together to get everyone served and keep drinks refreshed. Our only complaint over the years has been that they don’t automatically serve a roll, crackers or bread with our favorite salad. We’ve learned to ask for a roll when we order and the request is always met.
Colterra Restaurant
The risotto with mushrooms and Parmesan was topped with a grilled chicken breast. The rice the perfect texture and balance of flavors. I’m easily bored with chicken breast, however this was excellent quality, cooked just right. I soon decided I was eating the entire entree, nothing was going home for later. Pat reported her bolognese delightful, “I could go in the kitchen and lick the pan.”
A recent brunch visit withfamily and friends satisfied appetites. Several of us ordered Eggs Mazatlan. The large flour tortilla stuffed withthree scrambled eggs and guacamole and topped with white cheddar cheese and green chilepleased hungry tummies without feeling heavy. Salsa, sour cream and tortilla chips – thin, crisp and warm – served on the side.
Where To Go - Travel USA 