In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Elsie and Lee from Elsie's Bar and Grill in Caledonia for a deliciously engaging conversation about their beloved local eatery. With nearly 18 years of experience, Elsie shares the journey of transforming the bar and grill into a community staple known for its hearty home-style cooking and a diverse menu that caters to every meal of the day.

Listeners will be treated to insights about their extensive breakfast offerings, including the famed oversized pancakes and a mouthwatering omelet that ensures no one leaves hungry. The duo discusses their popular buffets, featuring everything from Asian cuisine to roasted chicken, and the delightful homemade bread that accompanies every meal. Lee, the self-proclaimed smoking king, reveals his passion for grilling and smoking meats, with tantalizing tales of ribs and brisket that keep patrons coming back for more.

As the conversation unfolds, they also highlight the inviting atmosphere of their patio, complete with live music during the summer and a pet-friendly vibe. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or planning a special event, Elsie's Bar and Grill has something for everyone. Don't miss this flavorful episode that showcases the heart of Caledonia's dining scene and the warm community spirit that makes Elsie's a must-visit destination!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Kyle from Smokey's Bar and Grill in Holman for a lively discussion about the beloved local eatery. Kyle shares his unique journey growing up in the restaurant, where his mother has been the owner for nearly two decades. The duo dives into the history of Smokey's, the community's connection to the bar, and the delicious food that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Listeners will get an insider's look at the mouthwatering menu, featuring everything from the best burgers in town to the famed cheese curds and daily specials that keep the locals buzzing. Kyle reveals the secrets behind their signature dishes, including the Smokehouse Burger and the popular taco day on Wednesdays. Throughout the episode, Courtney and Kyle share laughs and anecdotes about the vibrant atmosphere at Smokey's, including the fun of trivia nights and live music events.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Smokey's or a newcomer curious about what they have to offer, this episode is packed with insights that will surely whet your appetite. Don't miss this engaging conversation that showcases the heart and soul of one of the Coulee Region's favorite dining spots!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler catches up with Katie Glaze, the creative force behind Wild Child Homemade. Join them as they dive into the world of sourdough, exploring Katie's journey from baking at home to running a successful cottage bakery. With a focus on all things sourdough, Katie shares the story behind her popular cinnamon rolls, New York-style bagels, and her latest experimental flavors, including savory scones and a unique salsa loaf.

Listeners will be delighted by Katie's infectious passion for baking and her commitment to using local ingredients. The conversation flows with laughter and insights about the joy of farmers markets, the thrill of trying new recipes, and the importance of community connections. As they discuss Katie's upcoming participation in the Beer, Wine, and Cheese Festival, you’ll get a sneak peek at what delicious treats she’ll have on offer and the excitement of sharing her creations with the community.

Whether you're a baking enthusiast or just love delicious food, this episode is sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Don't miss this fun and engaging chat with one of the Coulee Region's most beloved bakers!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler sits down with the inspiring Mia from Mia's Kitchen, a vibrant food truck and catering business that Mia started at just 15 years old. Mia shares her journey of discovering her passion for cooking during the pandemic and how she transformed her love for food into a thriving business that brings diverse flavors to the La Crosse area.

Listeners will be captivated by Mia's heartfelt stories of cooking with her grandmother and the importance of food as a love language. As she recounts her experiences of catering events and the excitement of launching her hot pink food truck, Mia emphasizes the significance of community and the joy of sharing unique culinary creations. From her signature Mac and cheese to Caribbean-inspired dishes, Mia's passion shines through every word.

Join Courtney and Mia for an uplifting conversation filled with laughter, inspiration, and a glimpse into the future of Mia's Kitchen, including her upcoming cookbook dedicated to the beloved Mac and cheese. This episode is a testament to following your dreams, embracing creativity, and the power of food to connect us all. Don’t miss out on this delightful chat with one of the Coulee Region's most promising young chefs!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Deb from Bluff Top Vineyards in Winona County for a delightful exploration of the world of wine. Deb shares the journey of starting the vineyard in 2018, from growing grapes to opening a tasting room, and the inspiration that led them to make their own wines. With three different grape varieties, including the unique Itasca, listeners will learn about the fascinating process of winemaking, from harvesting to fermentation.

The conversation reveals the intricacies of grape cultivation, the therapeutic nature of vineyard work, and the joy of sharing their creations with the community. Courtney and Deb discuss the exciting events at Bluff Top Vineyards, including the upcoming Spring Great Makers Market and live music events that promise to enhance the summer experience. With anecdotes about the hard work that goes into each bottle of wine and the fun of engaging with customers, this episode is a celebration of local winemaking and community spirit.

Join Courtney and Deb for an engaging episode filled with laughter, insights, and a newfound appreciation for the art of winemaking. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just curious about the process, this episode will inspire you to visit Bluff Top Vineyards and experience the magic for yourself!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler dives into the beloved tradition of fish fries with the dedicated volunteer committee from St. Patrick's Church. Join Courtney as she chats with Jerry, Mary Jo, and Tim about the history and growth of their famous fish fry, which has been delighting the community for over 40 years, especially during Lent.

The committee shares the story behind the fish fry's inception, starting from humble beginnings in the church basement to serving over 600 meals each week. Listeners will learn about the efficient process that keeps the line moving, the delicious offerings including baked and fried cod, grilled cheese for the kids, and a mouthwatering salad and dessert bar. The episode highlights the importance of community involvement, featuring dedicated volunteers who help make the event a success, as well as the special contributions from local businesses.

As the conversation unfolds, the team discusses sourcing high-quality fish, the significance of their charitable efforts, and the fun of being a celebrity bartender. Whether you're a long-time fan of fish fries or curious about local food traditions, this episode is packed with insights, laughter, and a genuine appreciation for community spirit. Tune in and get inspired to join in on the fun at St. Patrick's Fish Fry!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler is joined by the talented Jena McGathy, a project manager and food enthusiast, who shares her culinary journey inspired by her mother and grandmother. As they chat about the joys of cooking and the importance of family meals, Jena reveals how cooking has become her love language, a way to show care for friends and family through delicious meals.

The duo dives into the world of meal prepping, with Jena providing invaluable tips on how to get started, including the importance of planning, investing in good containers, and buying in bulk. They discuss how meal prepping can save time and money, especially for busy young adults, and how it allows for healthier eating choices. Listeners will learn about the benefits of cooking at home versus eating out, including how it can improve overall health and wellness.

As the conversation unfolds, Jena shares her delicious Southwest Chili recipe, packed with flavor and the perfect comfort food for chilly days. With ingredients like ground turkey, a variety of peppers, and delicious spices, this chili is sure to become a favorite. Join Courtney and Jena for an engaging episode filled with laughter, practical cooking advice, and a mouthwatering recipe that will inspire you to get cooking in your own kitchen!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler is joined by the one and only Sy Fix from Saxon Hall in Brownsville, Wisconsin, who proudly embraces his new title as the "Pizza Emperor." Sy shares the exciting developments at Saxon Hall, including a brand-new beer garden and plans for live music events that promise to elevate the summer dining experience. The duo dives into the world of pizza, discussing popular toppings, the unique creations on the menu, and the beloved McSaxon pizza that’s about to make a comeback.

Listeners will be entertained by their light-hearted banter about food, fun, and community, as Sy recounts the support from loyal customers and local bands that keep the spirit of small-town America alive. They also touch on the delicious appetizers, including the crowd-favorite rangoons, and the introduction of growlers for craft beer enthusiasts. As the conversation flows, they explore the art of crafting the perfect Bloody Mary and the importance of keeping things simple yet satisfying.

Join Courtney and Sy for a delightful episode filled with culinary insights, laughter, and a taste of what’s brewing at Saxon Hall. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or just looking for a good time, this episode is sure to inspire you to visit and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Saxon Hall!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler welcomes Sherilyn Knoll, co-owner of the delightful Cookies and Cream Cafe in Melrose, Wisconsin. Just a few months into their journey, Sherilyn shares the inspiring story behind the cafe's inception, highlighting how a cottage food business blossomed into a beloved local coffee shop. The duo discusses the unique offerings of the cafe, including handcrafted coffee, delicious bakery items, and their commitment to sourcing quality ingredients from local vendors.

Listeners will be captivated by Sherilyn's passion for community engagement and her innovative approach to connecting with local families, from collaborating with schools to hosting fun events like cookie decorating classes. With a focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere, the cafe aims to be a hub for connection and creativity in the small town of Melrose.

Join Courtney and Sherilyn for a delightful conversation filled with laughter, culinary insights, and a sneak peek into the exciting plans for Valentine's Day treats, including heart-shaped cookie cakes and chocolate-dipped strawberries. Whether you're a coffee lover, a baking enthusiast, or simply curious about local food culture, this episode is sure to inspire you to visit Cookies and Cream Cafe and experience the warmth of small-town hospitality!

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In this episode of Coulee Region Cooks, host Courtney Vaaler invites the dynamic duo, Mad Dog and Merrill, from Midwest Grilling, to share their passion for grilling and their extensive journey in the grilling industry. With over 45 years of experience, they reminisce about their early days with charcoal grills and the evolution to modern pellet grills, discussing how technology has transformed outdoor cooking.

As they gear up for the upcoming La Crosse Sports Show, taking place from February 6th to 9th, Mad Dog and Merrill reveal their plans for exciting demonstrations and seminars. They highlight the importance of grilling techniques, the significance of quality cutlery, and their favorite grilling recipes, including delicious marinades and rubs that elevate any dish. Listeners will also get a sneak peek into their entertaining stage presentations, filled with humor and practical tips for both novice and experienced grillers.

Join Courtney and the grillologists for a lively conversation that promises laughter, culinary wisdom, and a deep appreciation for the art of grilling. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with inspiration to fire up your grill and have fun in the kitchen!

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