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Welcome to the latest episode of the Port City Plate Podcast, where today we're delving into the craft of brewing with David Nelson, founder and owner of Braided River Brewing Co. Born from a blend of passion, knowledge, and a sense of community, Braided River is now the premier brewery in Mobile, taking home FOUR Nappie Awards to prove it. From Nelson's roots in home brewing to his adventure into starting his own brewery in Mobile, this episode is a deep dive into his fascinating journey.

We explore the origins of Braided River Brewing Co., inspired by the unique eco-system of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta and the thriving craft beer community in Mobile. Nelson shares insights into the brewing process, explaining the vital role of four main ingredients – malt, hops, water, and yeast – and how different combinations create a myriad of flavors and beer types. He provides a quick primer on the differences between ales, lagers, stouts, IPAs, and more, allowing listeners to get a better understanding of the world of beer.

This episode also gives a nod to their location in the historic Wheeler Lofts building, home to Braided River Brewing Co. This former Chevy dealership and later, the Mobile Press Register office, now sits at the heart of the revitalization along St. Louis Street. But it wasn't all smooth sailing - Nelson candidly shares some challenges he faced while starting his business, including financing, navigating strict brewing laws, and building connections. Despite these hurdles, he is grateful for the tremendous support from the Mobile community.

Finally, we discuss some unique aspects of Braided River Brewing Co., including their commitment to community-building collaborations and themed beers that change with the seasons. Nelson emphasizes the importance of having a family-friendly atmosphere and being more than just a place to enjoy a beer. Listen as he shares his vision for the future of Mobile's craft beer scene, along with his excitement for new brews, and alternatives like their seltzer, and hop water. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned beer connoisseur, this episode is an entertaining, informative journey through the art and science of craft brewing.


Beers Tasted On-Air:
Del Golfo
Hang Loose
Hoppy By Nature
New Wave

Local Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:
Dropout Bakery and Co.
Los Rollin Bros
Callaghan’s 
Mac and Cheesery 
BoxOwt
The Hummingbird Way
Haberdasher
BlueGill
Slurp Society
Squid Ink
The Noble South
Blind Mule
Manci’s
Sunset Pointe
Dragonfly
Wintzell’s Oyster House
Moe’s BBQ

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In this episode, we dive deep into the rich culinary and cultural history of Mobile with our special guest, Cart Blackwell. Cart is the talented curator of the Mobile Carnival Museum and an architectural historian. With degrees in art history, historic preservation, and architectural history, he brings an unparalleled perspective to the show. His knack for storytelling has captivated many, as he weaves tales of our city's past, bringing history to life in the most enlightening and entertaining ways.

In our conversation, Cart shares intriguing insights on Mobile's food history, drawing from his deep knowledge and research. We traverse through the times of Native American life, the French, British, and Spanish colonial periods, and up to the modern era. He explains the importance of the city's strategic location, how it's influenced by these various cultures, and how Mobile became a gumbo of traditions, tastes, and people. 

The late 1800s to early 1900s heralded the arrival of modern restaurants and iconic Mardi Gras societies in Mobile. Blackwell provides insight into the changing food trends of the time, reflecting the waves of immigration and burgeoning sense of hospitality in the city. He details the grandeur of early Mardi Gras banquets and balls, and how they contributed to Mobile's culinary identity. 

We also discuss some of the iconic restaurants that have shaped Mobile's food scene, the unique culinary experiences of Mardi Gras, and more. Tune in to this episode to experience an enlightening journey through the food, history, and people that make Mobile, Alabama an extraordinary city.

Local restaurants mentioned in this episode:
Bay Gourmet
Noble South
Callaghan's
Wintzell's Oyster House
Dew Drop Inn
NoJa
Bluegill
Felix's Fish Camp
Reney's Honey Butter
Grace on Dauphin

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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
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This week, we're uncovering a special piece of Mobile's rich food history with our guest, Deborah Hodges, the heart and soul behind the beloved family-run business, Hall's Sausage. Dive into the fascinating journey of Hall's Sausage, a local favorite that has graced Mobile's dining tables since 1945. Hear Deborah's riveting anecdotes from her upbringing in Mobile to inheriting this iconic business, and the secret of their resilience, especially during the devastating fire in 2012.

Every food lover knows that the secret to a great dish often lies in the ingredients, and Hall's Sausage is no exception. Discover the secret sausage making process that has been refined over decades to ensure clean, high-quality products. This episode reveals the fascinating process of creating authentic Southern smoked sausage, the unique recipes, and the traditional smoking techniques that give Hall's Sausage its distinctive taste.

Have you ever wondered how top chefs keep their menu fresh and exciting? In this episode, we delve into the innovative culinary applications of Hall's Sausages. From contributing to delicious gumbo at local restaurants to being a key ingredient in winning chef challenges, Hall's Sausage continues to inspire and delight food lovers everywhere. You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Deborah's triumph at the Chef's Challenge and the creation of her award-winning Andouille Jalapeno Popper Dip.

Join us as we explore Hall's Sausage's ambitious plans for the future, their deep community ties, and their successful navigation through the Covid-19 pandemic. This episode is a testament to the resilience, innovation, and unwavering community spirit embodied by Hall's Sausage. Tune in for a celebration of quality local produce, and a generous helping of mouthwatering sausage discussions. Whether you're a local food enthusiast, a history buff, or just love a great success story, this episode is one you wouldn't want to miss!

Non-Profit Events Mentioned in this Episode:
Bourbon by the Bay
Bras Across the Causeway
Feeding the Gulf Coast
The Cookery Project 
Vivian's Door
UCP Food and Folly
Fuse Project
Impact 100

Local Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:
Guncles
Cammie's Old Dutch
The Hope Farm
The Grand Mariner
Butch Cassidy's
Heroes Sports Bar and Grille
The Hummingbird Way

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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
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Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
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In this episode of the Port City Plate Podcast, we have the honor of hosting Chef Jim Smith, renowned owner and Executive Chef at The Hummingbird Way in Mobile, Alabama. As the former Executive Chef for the state of Alabama and a well-regarded contender on Bravo's Top Chef, Jim opens up about his culinary journey, his deep-rooted passion for food, and his steadfast commitment to promoting Alabama Gulf Seafood. We take a deep dive into his early life, influences, culinary education, and his evolution in the restaurant industry.

Chef Jim shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories of his time as Alabama's Executive Chef, from cooking for local celebrities and politicians to managing events at the Governor's Mansion. Jim's fascinating account of the Great American Seafood Cook-Off, which catapulted him into national fame, and his engaging experiences on Top Chef are highlights of this conversation. We delve into his decision to open The Hummingbird Way, the name behind it, and how he navigated the challenges of starting a restaurant amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

We also explore the creative process behind The Hummingbird Way's unique menu. Chef Jim shares his dedication to sourcing local and regional ingredients to create standout dishes like their signature biscuits and oysters. He provides intriguing insight into the oyster reef restoration in Alabama and the importance of supporting local farmers and producers. If you've ever wondered about the story behind your food, this part of our conversation will be particularly enlightening.

Finally, we discuss how Chef Jim deals with customer feedback and his vision for the future of The Hummingbird Way.  Join us for an immersive conversation that celebrates the unique blend of heritage, talent, and local produce that makes Alabama's culinary scene so exceptional. Don't miss this episode with Chef Jim Smith.

Local Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:
The Hummingbird Way
Squid Ink 
San Jose #1
Taqueria Mexico
Shubam
Pot Au Pho
Slurp Society
Roosters
El Papi

If you enjoy the Port City Plate Podcast, consider buying Chris a coffee. (Locally owned, of course!)
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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
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Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
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In this episode, we delve into the story behind the name 'Judge Roy Bean', a nod to a once-popular bar in Daphne, and its mascot, Billy the Goat, now a prominent figure on the bourbon’s label. David shares his background in marketing and branding, having worked with notable clients in this area.

David takes us on a tour of his bourbon-making process and the inspiration behind its unique ingredient – pecan smoked wood. He explains the meticulous process of aging and how pecan wood impacts the flavor profile of the bourbon. We also discuss the concept of small batch production and why each batch tastes subtly different from the last.

We cover the journey from the first idea to the first sale and the challenges he encountered navigating the distillery business in Alabama. Despite the competition, he speaks warmly about the support from other local distilleries and how they view themselves more as comrades than rivals.

David walks us through a flavor description of Judge Roy Bean bourbon, his strategy for appealing to both hardcore bourbon enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. We discuss how his bourbon is finding its place in the market and the potential growth paths for his brand.

In this episode, you'll also learn some of David’s favorite bourbon cocktails and how you can create them at home using local ingredients. David also provides insights into where you can buy these and the bourbon locally in Mobile and Baldwin County. 

Finally, we discuss the future of Judge Roy Bean Spirits, including the forthcoming Batch 4, a Texas bourbon, potential ventures into rum production, and dreams of a local distillery or tasting room.

Grab a glass and join us for this in-depth conversation about bourbon, branding, and being a part of the local Alabama community. Get ready to #DrinkWithTheGoat!


Local Restaurants Mentioned:
Bill E’s
Dragonfly
Squid Ink
The Hope Farm
Ravenite Pizzeria
Dauphin's
Bay Breeze Cafe
Gambino's
Section Street Pizza

Product Links:

1. Judge Roy Bean Spirits
2. Merchandise
3. Bienville Bites BBBQ Tour
4. Taste of Fairhope Tour

If you enjoy the Port City Plate Podcast, consider buying Chris a coffee. (Locally owned, of course!)
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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
Book a Bienville Bites Food Tour

Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
Book a Taste of Fairhope Food Tour

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In this episode of Port City Plate Podcast, we are thrilled to introduce ShaMyra Sylvester, the inspiring force behind Ginger and Spice, an innovative new juice bar and vegan cafe located in the heart of Downtown Mobile. More than just a juice bar, Ginger and Spice is a hub for health-conscious foodies in Mobile, offering an array of delicious bowls, toasts, and wraps.

ShaMyra's journey is one marked by resilience and determination. Growing up in Maysville, she witnessed her family struggle with chronic illness and diet-related diseases, which later helped sparked her interest in health and nutrition. She moved from Mobile to Atlanta post-college, gaining confidence and seizing opportunities that came her way. Her career path led her to Washington DC, where she worked in roles from home loans to hospitality, even landing a position at the White House through the Presidential Management Fellowship.

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted ShaMyra's return to Mobile, where she noted a glaring absence of the juice bars that she had grown accustomed to in DC. Capitalizing on her connections with DC juice bar owners, she was inspired to open Ginger and Spice, filling this void and promoting plant-based eating and healthy food choices.

In this episode, we delve into what sets Ginger and Spice apart, her journey to the location on Dauphin Street and their use of cold-pressed juicing, which preserves the produce and packs two pounds of produce into each bottle! ShaMyra also shares the story behind the name "Ginger and Spice", the health benefits of their products, and all of the great stories behind her menu items. 

Lastly, we discuss the future of Ginger and Spice, and ShaMyra's vision to  keep Mobile healthy! Join us on this journey with ShaMyra Sylvester,  don't miss out on her story and the amazing Ginger and Spice!

Local Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:
Dropout Bakery & Company
A&M Peanut Shop
NoJa
Noble South
Roosters
Front Yard Tacos
The Royal Scam

If you enjoy the Port City Plate Podcast, consider buying Chris a coffee. (Locally owned, of course!)
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Share the best dish you've had in Mobile!
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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
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Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
Book a Taste of Fairhope Food Tour

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In this episode of Port City Plate Podcast, we sit down with Lacey Evans, the owner and master baker at Dropout Bakery & Company in Downtown Mobile. Lacey shares her journey from fashion school "dropout" to becoming one of the most sought-after bakers in town. We discuss her unique croissant dough king cakes, the bakery's ever-changing menu based on weekly themes, and her commitment to using quality and sustainable ingredients.

Lacey opens up about her transition from a home-based bakery to a brick-and-mortar location inside Innovation Portal and how they've managed to consistently sell out of their delicious treats. She also highlights the importance of supporting local businesses, their collaboration with other establishments, and her plans to expand in the future and even share her baking skills with aspiring bakers one day.  

Join us as we dive into Lacey's inspiring story and learn more about her passion for creating mouth-watering bakery items that have garnered rave reviews from locals and international travelers alike. Don't miss this tasty episode!

Local Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode: 

Knucklebones Coffee
Chicken District 
Kind Cafe
Flying Pig
NoJa
Noble South
Squid Ink
The Cheese Cottage

If you enjoy the Port City Plate Podcast, consider buying Chris a coffee. (Locally owned, of course!)
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Share the best dish you've had in Mobile!
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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
Book a Bienville Bites Food Tour

Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
Book a Taste of Fairhope Food Tour

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Join us in this episode of the Port City Plate Podcast as we dive into the world of cheese with Stephenie Funaro, the new owner of The Cheese Cottage in Mobile, Alabama. A local favorite known for its incredible cheese selection, charcuterie boards, and delightful atmosphere, The Cheese Cottage continues to evolve under Stephenie's leadership.

Discover her passion for cheese, the historic building that houses The Cheese Cottage, and the unique ideas she's bringing to elevate the experience for patrons. Plus, get insider tips on creating the perfect cheese board and learn about upcoming events and promotions at The Cheese Cottage.

From seasonal cheese selections to striking a balance between preserving the legacy of the previous owners and infusing her own unique touch, Stephenie's journey is one you won't want to miss!

Local restaurants mentioned in this episode:
The Cheese Cottage
Old Majestic
Wasabi 
Dragonfly
Haberdasher
Knucklebones Coffee

If you enjoy the Port City Plate Podcast, consider buying Chris a coffee. (Locally owned, of course!)
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Share the best dish you've had in Mobile!
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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
Book a Bienville Bites Food Tour

Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
Book a Taste of Fairhope Food Tour

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In this mouthwatering episode of the Port City Plate Podcast, host Chris Andrews sits down with Adam Womack, owner and operator of HammeredCow in Mobile, Alabama. With a rapidly growing reputation for serving one of the best burgers in town, Adam shares the story behind the name, the unique smash burger concept, and his journey in the restaurant industry.

Get an inside look at how HammeredCow crafted their menu through backyard experiments, trial and error, and the support of fellow food hall vendors at The Insider Food Hall. Adam reveals some of his favorite burgers along with some fan favorites, like the behemoth Hammer Burger, the Moo-Shroom, and the Moo-Uau Burger, which are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.

Find out how the local community has embraced HammeredCow. (Hint: They won the People's Choice Award during 2022 Mobtown Burger Week after being open for only a couple of months!) Also hear about the challenges and rewards of running a restaurant with your spouse. Plus, get a glimpse into the future of HammeredCow and the potential for expansion.

Tune in to hear Adam's story, the evolution of HammeredCow, and why their burgers are causing such a buzz in Mobile, Alabama. Don't miss this juicy episode of the Port City Plate Podcast!

Local restaurants mentioned in this episode:

WeMo’s Wings
Chicken District
Callaghan’s Irish Social Club
The Outsider
Pizzeria Delphina
Butch Cassidy’s
Squid Ink
NoJa
Debris
Ed’s Seafood Shed
Slurp Society
PS Taco
Poke Bowl
Creekbank Restaurant (Wagarville, Alabama)

Other Port City Plate Episodes Mentioned:

Episode 2 - Matt Lemond
Episode 11 - Wade Price
Episode 12 - Roosevelt Patterson

If you enjoy the Port City Plate Podcast, consider buying Chris a coffee. (Locally owned, of course!)
Support the Show

Share the best dish you've had in Mobile!
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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
Book a Bienville Bites Food Tour

Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
Book a Taste of Fairhope Food Tour

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In this captivating episode, we sit down with expert historian George Moore at the iconic Battle House Hotel in Mobile, Alabama. George shares his rich and vivid memories of growing up in Mobile and the fascinating history of the Battle House Hotel, dating back to its inception in 1852. He recounts tales of a thriving downtown Mobile during the 1950s, the evolution of the Battle House Hotel, and the various jobs he held over the years, including his first job at Constantine's and working banquets at the hotel.

George also delves into the unique features that made the Battle House Hotel a popular destination for visitors in the 1800s, such as hot water and private bathing facilities. Throughout the episode, George shares stories of famous guests like Woodrow Wilson and Elvis Presley, the mystic societies and their grand balls, and even ghost stories that have become a part of the hotel's folklore.

Our conversation with George Moore touches on the many changes Mobile and the Battle House Hotel have experienced over the years, including race relations and the hotel's role in the local economy. He discusses the hotel's beautiful architecture, its world-class spa, and his favorite dishes from the hotel's Trellis Room restaurant.

Join us for this engaging and informative episode that takes you on a journey through time, exploring the history and charm of Mobile, Alabama, and the Battle House Hotel.

If you enjoy the Port City Plate Podcast, consider buying Chris a coffee. (Locally owned, of course!)
Support the Show

Share the best dish you've had in Mobile!
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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
Book a Bienville Bites Food Tour

Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
Book a Taste of Fairhope Food Tour