Drink to Your Health in Brooklyn!

Back to the Land truly lives up to the name. This natural foods grocery store sits right in the heart of Park Slope at 142-7th Avenue. Although it is not a small store, as it actually takes up the space of three stores in a row, there is a uniquely warm atmosphere upon entering this establishment. It gives me a "do the right thing" feeling which I think we all need now and then when we are grocery shopping and tend to stock up on way too many of the processed items.

Back to the Land has the finest quality fresh, natural, organic and whole foods. They also offer nutritional products, body care products and health information in a comfortable and clean environment. I know when this information-seeking patron is asking dozens of questions on herbs and supplements, the helpers are welcoming and seem to know their thing. So for those who are health-oriented, and we should ALL be so, this establishment is truly the yellow brick road to a better mind, body and spirit.

Now as to my magic find. Here goes.. organic juice smoothies! After I purchase everything that I need, I like to treat myself to their health bar which is stationed at the front of the store. The bar offers smoothies and fresh organic juices that truly allow one to enjoy a wholesome and crisp quality when drinking this cup of nature. All natural, no pesticides and a tremendous boost. My favorites are the citrus juices but you can pick from a variety of fruits to be juiced out on the machine and presto! An instant drink to your health! The best part is that there is no guilt factor involved. That bonus really wins my favor. A bit pricey, but I am still proud of myself as I drive away with my organic juice-smoothie-cocktail in my car cup holder. It especially feels good as I pass Starbucks down the block which houses my fattening mocha cappuccino with heavy syrup and triple spoons of sugar.

So next time you are in the Park Slope section of Brooklyn, stop by Back to the Land, for the real drinking thing!

Next Stop.. Hispanic Food!

For those who enjoy true Spanish fare, well there is nothing like pasteles! I was first introduced to pasteles, also known as "meat pockets," by my dear friend Carlos Sanchez. Carlos and I shared our Wall Street years together and we would talk "food" for hours, comparing the differences and joys between Italian and Hispanic edibles. Carlos had a sister who made these delicious treats that originated in Puerto Rico and to the pleasure of our co-workers, pasteles always landed a place of honor at our office parties.

For those who are not familiar with Pasteles, they are a very time-consuming dish that Puerto Ricans prepare for holidays and special occasions. The term "meat pocket" describes them pretty well as they are actually a meat pie encased in a banana leaf. The whole family usually gets together assembly-line-style to make large numbers of them. They are put in the freezer and then placed in boiling water when ready to eat. The filling of meat combined with spices and potatoes is a culinary adventure. I am happy to report that Taino Cafe, located at 611-86th Street in Bay Ridge, sells divine Pasteles at an affordable price of 2.50 each. Taino sells them frozen and ready to take home. Of course, I could not wait to boil them so they never reached the inside of my freezer. And I am happy to report that they were as good as that of Carlos' sister and brought back great memories.

A visit to Taino Cafe will also allow you an opportunity to sample true Latin meals for breakfast, lunch or dinner. A typical breakfast includes Cassava, Mangu and Dominican Sausage. Lunch and dinner orders offer such specialties as fresh fried plantains or paella. So treat you taste buds to Taino Cafe! I guarantee satisfaction!