Drink Review: Hot Chocolate

Well, readers, the oppressive summer heat has loosened it's grip and tell-tale evidence of Father Christmas' fast approach is in the air. Coolness has descended outside, and the time is nigh for snow! Doesn't the cold air just make you think of things such as cozy blankets, warm ginger bread men, crackling fireplaces, roaring camp fires, scarves, hats, mittens, coats, and Christmas! Yes, my friends, these are a few of my favorite things. :)

While playing Christmas music is obviously forbidden until the day after Thanksgiving, Hot chocolate made from real cocoa is welcomed for as many months as you can drink it enjoyably. I took the opportunity and wrapped my hands around a steaming cup of hot chocolate today and, typing and tasting, I recorded my thoughts...

The chocolate-laden steam and semi-sweet drink had a rejuvenating and heavenly warmth to it. It is recommended for dipping cookies in if that's how you like to dance, or for having with a side of Turkish Delights for those of you who've seen The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. And as a personal preference, I suggest it being made with steamed almond milk.

For keeping cozy, and for the sake of a wonderful winter experience, I recommend this delicious drink by furnishing it with adjectives such as: warm, sweet calming, satisfying, and dark.

~The Harvest Crier~

Saturday Night's Oktoberfest

Well, I can honestly say that if you weren't here on Saturday night, you missed out on one heck of a party. The cold of October gave way to an Indian summer, causing Harvest Moon to throw open its doors and let the perfect evening temperatures aerate the cafe. The sound of a skilled live musician and grown-up laughter enchanted the night and drew the crowds in to see what the hubbub and hullabaloo was all about.

What an outsider would have walked into was a gathering of people spilling out of a trendy, quality, and classy brick building. Behind the counter one would find black-clad staff working like bees in a hive, and Mr. Brian himself humoring those at the bar with his Brian-like-antics and impeccable conversational skills. All around would be a mix of old and young enjoying samples from the various vendors as well as some house-made hors d'oeuvres straight from the kitchen, not to mention Harvest Moon classics like the Bison Burger or the Hummus and Olives Appetizer.

Even with an OSU game going on at 9pm, the turnout was exceptional. It seemed from my standpoint that not many ordered their tickets in advance; rather, most strolled in and bought their tickets at the event itself. The draw seemed to be the people enjoying themselves on our awesome patio; credit also should be given to the live-musician, who will receive a shout-out on our Facebook.

The laughter and samples poured out abundantly and everyone seemed to have enjoyed themselves. Even Art Studio 7.5 was open during the event. I would say that this Oktoberfest played itself out very well, and I would implore you to check out the Moon's next wine-tasting event, lest you be square.

~The Harvest Crier~