tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29045840652368610462024-02-08T11:20:09.733-05:00J. Razzo's Italian Restaurant & Wine BarJ. Razzo's is a new Italian restaurant located in Carmel, Indiana, with an emphasis on quality food at a reasonable price with friendly, attentive service.
Our sauces, dressings, and some of the pasta and breads are made fresh daily in our kitchen. We offer over 80 varieties of wines, reasonably priced and carefully chosen to complement the food.
J. Razzo's has a private room that can seat up to 40
for meetings and parties. We also offer catering and carry out.J. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.comBlogger9125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2904584065236861046.post-35628598911101702252017-09-17T23:42:00.004-04:002017-09-17T23:42:44.119-04:00THE TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS OF A RESTAURANT OWNER<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Seven years
ago I was excited to open my own Italian restaurant in Hamilton Crossing in
Carmel. It took me approximately a year to build the restaurant, buying the
best kitchen equipment and excellent furnishings. I was very proud of the restaurant. The
clientele responded and business was great.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> Then disaster struck and nothing I can do
except watch as our sales declined. First
was the closing of Meridian St to U S 31. This lasted for two years and was the
main approach to the restaurant. This included the bridge over U S 31 going East to West. This is the neighborhood
we usually draw from. It made it
almost impossible to get to the restaurant. All of this was done to drive to
South Bend faster . People ended up bypassing local establishments. I was not
going to stand still. I called every television station - they understood and aired my griefs. When US 31 was finally open I had to wait another 6 months for Carmel drive to
open. When the construction for the highway was finished I finally was drawing
my customers back. Then the ridiculous round a bout nightmare began. Slowly one
at a time they were built. As people finally figured how to get here they were
detoured again. This wasteful construction is still going on. The city of Carmel does not care for the
local independent restaurant. Their answer was to hand out bracelets- what a
joke!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I have seen many local businesses close and
I am saddened. We live here, support other local business, pay taxes and our
children even go to local schools. Through no fault of my own, my dream to own
a restaurant where an enjoyable meal is enjoyed by neighbors and friends has
been destroyed!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
J. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2904584065236861046.post-11389986167116972282016-12-23T00:46:00.004-05:002016-12-23T00:48:15.265-05:00Christmas Dinner Food and Wine<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It has been
awhile since I have posted to the blog. Today’s post is about food and wine – my
two favorite subjects. S</span><span style="font-size: 18pt;">pecifically,</span><span style="font-size: 18pt;"> what wine to serve with Christmas
dinner </span><span style="font-size: 24px;">–</span><span style="font-size: 18pt;"> in particular Turkey and Ham. The wines are suggestions. You can always
serve your favorite wine. Without going into detail, here are the wines I
suggest. All of them are medium or lower priced.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 107%;">With appetizers, I suggest either a Prosecco
and for the sweeter palate a Moscato. All are very drinkable and less expensive
then Champagne.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18pt;">For white wines,</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack" style="font-size: 18pt;"></a><span style="font-size: 18pt;"> I suggest three. In simple terms, I chose these because of the acidity and sweetness.</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Riesling –
Semi sweet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Sauvignon Blanc – California not New Zealand</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Pinot Grigio – Goes with all foods</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: 24px;">Red wines:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Pinot Noir – My favorite and I prefer Oregon, it has more body.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Zinfandel – Adds a little spice. Make sure it is Old Vine.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Barbera di Asti (Italy) – Light tannin and high acidity.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 107%;">MERRY
CHRISTMAS !!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
J. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2904584065236861046.post-6779423176339714352015-12-16T19:41:00.002-05:002015-12-16T19:42:42.077-05:00Perfect Appetizer for the Holidays<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Risotto Balls or Arancini di Riso</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">INGREDIENTS</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">½ cup Sweet
Butter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 22.8266677856445px;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 21.3333339691162px; line-height: 22.8266677856445px;">3 garlic cloves</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 22.8266677856445px;">½ onion diced</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">1 quart
Arborio rice (Italian Rice)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">1 cup white
Wine</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">1 quart
chicken stock</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">½ quart
tomato juice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">Sweet peas
(as needed about 3 ozs.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">Shredded
mozzarella cheese (about 3 ozs.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">2 ozs.
Parmesan Cheese</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">Dash of salt
and pepper</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">SAUCE</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">2 ozs. garlic
butter</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">2 ozs. heavy
whipping cream</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">2 ozs. grated
romano cheese</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">2 ozs. marinara sauce (Homemade is the best, but store bought is acceptable - just add
basil, oregano, and garlic)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">2 tablespoons Imported Italian plum tomatoes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">Pinch of
crushed red pepper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">Dash of salt
and pepper</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">DIRECTIONS<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In a large, shallow stock pot, melt the butter, add the garlic, then add the onions at
medium heat. Add rice and cook slightly while stirring. Slowly add white wine,
chicken stock, tomato juice while constantly stirring. Turn heat down to medium. CONSTANTLY STIRRING. THIS IS A MUST! Cook for approximately 20 minutes o</span><span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%;">r until the
rice has soaked up all the liquid. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the rice. Spread
the rice on a pan to let cool quickly</span></div>
J. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2904584065236861046.post-302918348942224282014-11-20T19:03:00.000-05:002014-11-20T19:05:22.447-05:00Sunday GravyThe aroma of the sauce cooking is almost as good as the sauce itself.<br />
<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>1/2 CUP OLIVE OIL</li>
<li>1/2 CUP DICED YELLOW ONION</li>
<li>1/2 CUP SLICED FRESH GARLIC</li>
<li>1.5 LBS OF BONE IN PORK SHOULDER</li>
<li>1 LINK SPICEY Italian Sausage - sliced</li>
<li>2 cans whole Imported Italian plum tomatoes</li>
<li>2 small cans tomato paste</li>
<li>1 cup red wine</li>
<li>1 tablespoon basil</li>
<li>4 bay leaves</li>
<li>1 teaspoon Oregano</li>
<li>1 teaspoon crushed. Red Pepper</li>
<li>1 teaspoon parsley</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon rosemary</li>
<li>Pinch of salt and pepper</li>
<li>For this sauce all spices will be dried spices</li>
<li>4 Pre-cooked Meatballs</li>
<li>(optional - 2 slices of bacon or 1 pigs foot)</li>
</ul>
<br />
DIRECTIONS<br />
<br />
Heat olive oil in large pot. Add sweet onions till they sweat. Add garlic for 2 minutes. Add pork- brown on both sides. Add Sliced Italian sausage. Add 2 cans of plum tomatoes (first chop for 1 minute in blender). Add 2 cans of tomato paste. Add 2 cups water. Add 8 ounces of red wine and stir well. Add Spices. Stir. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 2 hours. Add meatballs and simmer for another hour.<br />
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This is the dinner where families sit down together and share stories for hours.J. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2904584065236861046.post-75359261087748422822014-08-21T22:51:00.001-04:002014-11-20T19:06:55.853-05:00Homemade Italian Recipe for Stuffed Dates<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<ul>
<li>4 Medjool Dates - must be Medjool (Large and Juicy)</li>
<li>1 Hot Italian Sausage link - remove skin</li>
<li>2 strips raw bacon - cut in half</li>
<li>2 Roasted Red peppers</li>
<li>1/2 Large Plum Tomato - coarsely chopped</li>
<li>2 cups Stale Bread- must be stale</li>
<li>2 Tbls. Toasted Pine Nuts - to toast , saute in frying pan over medium flame</li>
<li>1 garlic clove - diced</li>
<li>1 Tbls. fresh parsley - chopped</li>
<li>3 Tbls. Aged Balsamic vinegar</li>
<li>1 teaspoon Sriracha</li>
<li>1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>HOW TO ROAST A RED PEPPER</b><br />
<br />
Place peppers on grill. Roast over open flame for approximately 15 minutes, constantly turning. When they are charred and soft, put them in a pan and cover with aluminum foil. Remove after 15 minutes - cut in half and remove stem. Peel skin - it should come off easily.<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Put a slit in each date and remove pit.
Stuff with raw Italian Sausage. Wrap with bacon. Cook in oven for 20 minutes at 350 or until bacon is crispy.<br />
<br />
<b>Romesco Sauce</b><br />
<br />
Place roasted red peppers, plum tomato, bread, pine nuts, garlic clove, parsley, balsamic vinegar, and Sriracha in food processor. Slowly add extra virgin olive oil. Sauce will be thick.<br />
<br />
<b>COOKING</b><br />
<br />
Heat 2 tbls. of olive oil in saute pan, add Romesco sauce. Heat until hot. Place cooked stuffed dates on top of Romesco sauce.
Garnish with chopped parsley.J. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2904584065236861046.post-21391412611864187682013-07-24T18:56:00.000-04:002013-07-24T19:13:43.810-04:00J. Razzo's Local Artist: Julie Joy
If you've ever been inside J. Razzo's, it's hard to miss the
bright and colorful artwork on the walls. What you might not know is that the
art is local and also for sale!
<br />
<br />
Artist Julie Joy is an explorative, versatile impressionist
and abstract painter that utilizes oil and acrylic mediums. She likes to get
out of her studio and convey the emotion of her subject matter by traveling and
painting outside, giving fresh emotion in the lighting and color that is always
in a constant state of change. You can see this in her pieces depicting
landscapes, flowers and local Carmel landmarks that are hanging on the walls
inside the restaurant.<br />
<br />
"My art is a balance between the emotion of the subject
matter and my own heart," Julie Joy said. "I am lucky enough to be able to
transcend time, loosing myself in my passion to create. Walking in nature
prepares me for the day's painting session. Each day, my subject matter varies
from a loose interpretation of a landscape to an abstract vision that I have
glimpsed in my sleep state. My goal is to bring the depths of my soul and the
joy of living to emanate from each painting. May it bring healing and peace to
those who interact with it."<br />
<br />
Julie Joy was born in a small farming community in Ohio with
four siblings. With her parents struggling to survive and seeking work in
different places across the United States, Julie Joy learned to adapt to change
and relate to many cultures. This sense of versatility has spilled over into
her paintings.<br />
<br />
Open-hearted and passionate, Julie Joy strives to create art
that depicts a strong depth of emotion. Her world of expressiveness through a
deft brush stroke tells stories that vibrate in color and light. It's easy to
fall in love with her passion, creativity and ability to create a visual
experience that leads to art that collectors say they can feel.<br />
<br />
"It is a joy to hang my artwork and be a part of the J.
Razzo's family," said Julie Joy. "It is our goal to bring Carmel together where
you will have a warm and welcoming experience with good food and the flavors of
local art that tells a community story. I am excited to say that I have
envisioned bringing downtown Carmel to J. Razzo's. That dream has now turned
into a reality."<br />
<br />
You can not only see Julie Joy's artwork of local Carmel
landmarks on the walls of J. Razzo's, but it is available for purchase as
greeting cards. Each card tells a story of the historical significance of that
landmark. "I have signed the front of each card, so it is very special and a
gift from my heart to the beautiful city of Carmel."<br />
<br />
Julie Joy is now an artist, teacher, writer and leader in
the community. She has resided in Carmel, Indiana for the past 15 years being a busy
single mom of her three children, Dylan, Cassidy and Morgen. Come in for dinner
and a look at her work on our walls, or you can visit her website at <a href="http://www.juliejoy.org/" target="_blank">www.juliejoy.org</a>.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2904584065236861046" name="_GoBack"></a>J. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2904584065236861046.post-55940548863314197282011-11-17T10:08:00.002-05:002013-07-24T19:02:10.842-04:00J. Razzo's Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar<a href="http://www.jrazzos.com/">What's the best Thanksgiving wine? </a><br />
It is that time of year again when we dine with friends and family. The first big holiday is Thanksgiving Day and you ask yourself what wine should I serve or bring? Here are my tips:<br />
<br />
The first rule of thumb is that there are no rules. There are no certain wines to drink with certain food. Buy and enjoy the wines that you like, especially for the holidays -- buy the wine that you are familiar with. This is not the day to experiment or try different wines. Go to your favorite liquor store or to a wine tasting bar and give your taste buds a treat- at a reasonable price.<br />
<br />
For the whites, I like wines with a fruit taste to go with turkey. Franciscan Cardonnay is full bodied yet fruity. You cannot go wrong with Conundrum- everyone loves this wine which is a blend of 5 white grapes from California. Finally I like a Riesling to serve before dinner and during dinner if you like. I prefer Pacific Rim Riesling . It has just been voted as the #1 Best Wine for the Money.<br />
<br />
With Turkey dinner I believe a red is better suited than white. Again I prefer a spicy red. A pinot noir or zinfandel are perfect. For Zinfandel I enjoy Seghesio or Klicker Brick both are "OLd Vine" Zinfandels.For Pinot Noirs I like Oregon Pinot Noirs.Willamette Valley is terrific. Also Cheery Hill Winery , which is owned by the Sweeneys from Indianapolis is an excellent choice.Spanish wines are less expensive and most are spicy like I want. For traditionalists try Cru Beaujolais from France. These wines are bold and fruity.Finally an Indiana Winery is making wine similar to the great wines of Europe and California. For Thanksgiving try Rettig Hill Chambourcin-tasted and liked by my wait staff.<br />
<br />
Happy Thanksgiving<br />
<br />
<b></b>J. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2904584065236861046.post-9533624179279711202011-09-13T14:03:00.000-04:002011-09-13T14:03:08.307-04:00Whew what a wild 2 weeksWe have been open for 2 weeks now and things are going well. Business keeps on increasing daily and we are hearing great reviews.<br />
It is wonderful seeing old friends and meeting new ones. Remmeber if you have any suggestions I would love to hear them.<br />
Everyday brings a new adventure. What was once a large kitchen is now filled with equipment and workers. Seems everyday I need to add new tables or new storage containers.:) I am also having trouble getting some product in so please bear with me.<br />
Beginning next week we will have daily lunch specials at a more than reasonable price.<br />
Thanks<br />
JohnJ. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2904584065236861046.post-56976320898263681292011-08-09T22:07:00.002-04:002011-08-19T21:06:35.597-04:00Welcome to J. Razzo's BlogJ. Razzo's Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar will be opening Friday, August 26th, 2011 for dinner. J. Razzo's is located at 12501 N. Meridian St., in Carmel, Indiana. J. Razzo's can best be described as "Old World flavors in New World decor." Our emphasis is on quality, from buying only the best ingredients - domestic and imported - to serving you the best food at a reasonable price with friendly, attentive service.<br />
<br />
Our sauces, dressings, and some of the pasta and breads are made fresh daily in our kitchen. We serve over 80 varieties of wines, many by the glass. Our wines are reasonably priced and are carefully chosen to complement the food. <br />
<br />
We are especially proud of our private room. The room can seat up to 40 and is ideal for business meetings, birthday parties, rehearsal dinners and the like. J. Razzo's offers carry out and catering for your special event.J. Razzo'shttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17649669327907933474noreply@blogger.com0