Openings

Tonight Beaker and Flask (727 SE Washington St.) opens with its full OLCC license. There was some speculation as to whether or not the anticipated bar and restaurant would be serving cocktails on opening night, but the OLCC came through yesterday afternoon ensuring that the pressure would rest equally on Kevin Ludwig’s bar staff and chef Ben Bettinger. The place will likely be packed.

Taste Unique, a new Italian café and take-out joint, has opened at 2134 SE Division Street today. Boasting hand rolled pastas and a variety of Italian specialties, Taste Unique offers dining in its small deli area as well as a take home containers filled with home-made Cannelloni and Lasagna. I was in this morning and was thrilled to hear a whole bunch of earnest, rapid-fire Italian being spoken.

Contest

Word reached the Mercury that Sassafras Catering company will be giving away four tomato pies at this weekend at the Montavilla Farmers market. All you have to do is comment on this blog post with your favorite Southern dish. They’re asking for folks to be creative. Me, I don’t go for “creative” Southern food. I go straight for the country ham.