After all the votes were counted, one sandwich stood above all others as Panama City Beach’s number #1 sandwich. By your vote, the resounding winner isLiza’s Kitchen’s Hippy Chick, a filling, delicious panini-baked treat that if you haven’t tried yet, you’re behind the times, my friend. Here’s the low down on this tasty dish.

While the Hippy Chick may be Liza’s Kitchen’s signature and most beloved sandwich, it wasn’t the first sandwich on the menu. “When we we’re making the switch from fine dining to lunches, we spent a lot of time thinking about what sandwiches we wanted to make.” Says, Mike Meek, head chef and one of Liza’s owners. “We knew we wanted the portebello and the roast beef pimento. In fact, the sandwich we thought was going to be the most popular was the turkey brie. But it’s the Hippy Chick. By far the favorite.”

An absolutely dynamite sandwich, the Hippy Chick’s ingredients consist of a carefully chosen array of flavors; freshly made focaccia bread, goat cheese, roasted chicken, roasted red pepper, spinach and a spicy mustard made in-house. All of it is pressed together in a panini-press and heated all the way through. What you have then is perfectly seasoned meat, zesty spice and melted goat cheese to smooth the whole thing over, giving you a spicy kick in a creamy first bite.

Head over to Liza’s and have a Hippy Chick. It’s not only a tasty sandwich, it is the undisputed, BEST sandwich on Panama City Beach.

see the vote: click here

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[polldaddy poll=2085685]

Voting will end October 14 and the winner will be named in next week’s newsletter. Happy Voting!
Voting is Closed: See the final winner by clicking here

This month’s class was based on the upcoming movie, “Julie and Julia,” and Mike prepared a feast based on French recipes from Julia Child’s famous book. Each recipe was carefully chosen, prepared in detail and absolutely delicious. So, here is the run down:

The Courses:
Before I get into the food, let me set the scene for you. Tables draped in white, glasses filled with wine, tables prepped for a true dining experience. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming as though you were in a friend’s home. There is laughter amongst everyone, the wine is flowing and, as the sun goes down, an intimacy fills the entire restaurant.

Appetizer:

Amuse Bouche (Quiche Lorraine) – This little dish came before the first course. The name, “Amuse Bouche” actually means amusement for the mouth, and boy was it that. About the size of a mini-cupcake and equal parts flaky and chewy, the quiche dish really set the pallet for the meal to come.

Course 1: Potage Parmentier (Leek and Potato Soup)

Wine: Le Chat Rouge Sauvignon Blanc 2008

This dish came as a total surprise to me because I never knew a potato could be so tasty. This simple recipe used sliced leeks, potatoes and cream to make delightful starter. In fact, the aftertaste proved more flavorful than the initial bite as it ran circles around my taste buds long after bowl was empty. But what ignited the soup’s flavor was the pairing of the sauvignon blanc. Light enough to not overwhelm the soup, but tuned just enough to enhance the leeks, the soup/blanc pairing was nothing short of absolute perfection. My palette was whet and ready for the next course.

Course 2: Moules A La Mariniere (Mussels Steamed with Wine)

Wine: Chateau Bonnet 2008

I’ve never had mussels before. Suffice it to say me and clams never clicked. But, man-oh-man, I nearly became a Neanderthal after the first bite and charged into those shells to get the luscious white wine steamed morsels. A recipe that called for minced shallots, thyme and bay leaves fused in a near poetic way with the glass of chateau bonnet. The wine had just enough effervescence to make the whole course sing.

Course 3: Bifteck au Poivre (Pepper Steak with Brandy Sauce)

Wine: Chateau Samonac 2005

I’ve eaten many steaks in my life. I love steak in all its forms. But I will tell you, without equivocation, that the steak I prepared at Liza’s Kitchen was the best steak I’ve ever eaten. Ever. Period. The steak was so tender I cut it with a butter knife and was so flavorful I literally sighed after each bite.

The steak, sautéed to perfection was rubbed over with crushed peppercorns giving it a raging, but not smothering, spiciness. Seasoned just right, sided with a creamy garlic mash potatoes and covered over in the light brandy sauce, it was almost too good to be true. And the wine pairing lifted that succulent cut of meat to transcendent heights. There are just not enough superlatives in the English language to describe how amazing the peppercorn steak turned out to be.

Course 4: Crème Brulee

Wine: Rosenblum “Ripken Ranch Lot 34” Late Harvest

To top of what was an amazing meal, Mike served up an ultra-creamy crème brulee. His version, creamier than that which I’m accustomed, crowned the night. Caramelized just enough for a subtle crisp, and touched with strawberries, the crème brulee caused contented languishing throughout the restaurant.

The Final Outcome:

This was the absolute best dining experience I’ve ever had. The atmosphere was relaxing and welcoming and the food was out of this world. By the end of the night, laughter and smiles filled the restaurant, strangers became friends and we all left with a great night to retell. I would recommend to everyone the experience. If you love Liza’s as the gourmet sandwich shop for lunch, the dinner will blow you away.

The next cooking class will be held Friday August 21st. To reserve your seat call the restaurant at 850.233.9000.
Liza’s is located at 7328 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach, FL 32408

More Pics:

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Weather Report

Things to Do

Thursday

$30 on the 30th – Boost the economy by going out and spending $30.00. Discounts everywhere!

Pier Park Summer Concert Series: The Donnie Sundal Project

Friday

Club La Vela Live Concert – Ying Yang Twins –7PM

Club Oxygen – 2-4-1 Everything 7-9 – Ladies Drink FREE 10-1

Liza’s Kitchen – Cooking Class Inspired by the movie “Julia and Julia”

Marina Civic Center – Backstage Pass Summer Concert Series: Leading Edge

Visual Arts Center – In Search of Norman Rockwell’s America

Willy’s Pier Bar – JOEY GILMORE BAND Live in Concert

Spinnakers – Latin Night w/ DJ VLADI

Saturday

Club La Vela – The Frontier’s “Journey Tribute Band” Live Concert

Willy’s Pier Bar – JOEY GILMORE BAND Live in Concert

Betsy Ann Riverboat – Dockside Comedy Show

Spinnaker’s – Ladies Night – Free Cover

Sunday

Willy’s Pier Bar – JOEY GILMORE BAND Live in Concert

Our Suggestions

Possible rain expected: Family’s might want to try heading out to the Grande to catch a movie or over to RockIt Lanes for skating and bowling. For couples, this might be a perfect weekend for dinner on the Lady Anderson or a concert at Pineapple Willy’s Pier Bar. For you club-goers Club La Vela has two great concerts this weekend and Oxygen has two-for-one Friday night.

One the outside, by name and exterior, one might think Flamingo Joe’s transplanted right out of Key West. But the second you bite into one of their signature Grouper sandwiches, you’ll know the flavor’s all Panama City Beach. Loved for great food, laid-back atmosphere and the tastiest salsa West of the Mississippi, Flamingo Joe’s is basically a residential right-of-passage for beach lovers.

Flamingo Joe’s is located at 2304 Thomas Dr Panama City, FL 32408. Call ahead at (850) 233-0600

9. Ms. Newby’s

Every city has a local bar to which locals, after a night of fun or dinner, just gravitate. No matter what new bar opens, or what spot becomes a summer trend, Newby’s, for lots of PCB locals, is like home. What began as a liquor store has, over the years, transformed into PCB’s #1 good-times tavern. Bikers, breakers and locals all hanging out under one roof, that’s Ms. Newby’s.

Ms. Newby’s is located at 711 Thomas Dr Panama City, FL 32408. Call ahead at (850) 234-0030

8. Half Hitch Tackle

Half Hitch is the local destination for all things fishing. Whether you’re a tournament-tested fisherman or a guy who just likes to throw a line every now and then, Half Hitch Tackle has had the beach covered for years. With the most knowledgeable staff practically anywhere, locals go to Half Hitch to get all the gear, the bait and information on what’s biting where.

Half Hitch Tackle is located at 2206 Thomas Dr Panama City, FL 32408. Call ahead at (850) 234-2621

7. RockIt Lanes

Few places on Panama City Beach have more than enough space to include the locals and the tourists, but one place does and does so with style: RockIt Lanes. 50,000 square ft worth of absolute fun, PCB locals love RockIt Lanes because of the rows of billard tables, the bowling, the arcades but mostly because of Thursday night Bar Wars where locals get well drinks and domestic beer for $1.50.

RockIt Lanes is located at 513 Beckrich Rd Panama City Bch, FL 32407. Call Ahead at (850) 249-2695

6. J. Micheal’s

If you walk into J. Micheal’s you’re likely to see city officials, hotel GMs and even restaurant owners hanging out in the same place they’ve been frequenting for years. Although the location has changed, the great food and chilled atmosphere has not. If you’re in PCB, you have to go to J. Micheal’s and order the red beans and rice; it’s a world famous dish that can tell you all you need to know about PCB in one bite.

J. Michael’s is located at 3210 Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach, FL. Call ahead at (850) 233-2055

5. S. Rick Seltzer Park

Locals have several secret beach spots where they get away from the crowds of tourists. I can’t give away all those locations, but one of the most popular of those locations is S. Rick Seltzer Park.This 4.7 acre cut of gulf is absolutely impeccable, one of the best places to get your “tan on”. With lots of restaurants and shopping nearby, and no high-rises on either side, you really feel like you have the whole beach to yourself. So grab a swimsuit, a bite to eat and just lounge like the locals do.

S. Rick Seltzer Park is located at 7419 Thomas Drive

4. Pineapple Willy’s Pier Bar

Pineapple Willy’s Pier Bar is the season/off-season locals hangout simple because you get great food, live music, awesome drinks and sports on 360 degrees worth of HDTV. While tourists spend their time in the adjacent Pineapple Willy’s restaurant, locals are kicking back with a Fat Tuesday drink, listening to a great band rip the stage all the while watching their favorite sports team kick some butt. It’s the life, and it’s why we’re locals.

Pineapple Willy’s Pier Bar is located at 9875 S Thomas Dr Panama City, FL 32408

3. Mr. Surf’s Surf Shop

If you were to go into Mr. Surf’s Surf Shop, you’ll know you’re in a PCB landmark the moment you see the wall of fame. Years of PCB residents and tourists are plastered on the wall, images of boys buying their first board only to, years later, take a photo with their son and his first board. Serving up the surf since 1980, Mr. Surf’s is the local stop for all things beach from surf and skim lessons to boards and bikinis. Surf’s is more than just a store.

Mr. Surf’s Surf Shop is located at 7220 Thomas DR Panama City, FL 32408. Call ahead at 850-235-2217

2. Spinnaker’s

When locals want to get out and party and don’t want to be mobbed by the crowds, they head to one spot and that’s Spinnaker’s Beach Club. During the day it’s an amazing restaurant, serving up treats at the Paradise Grill or the beachside Cantina taco & tequila bar. At night it transforms into one of the most exciting club experiences in NW Florida. The Groove Room, The VIP Lounge and the Rock Arena provide enough room to get your dance on all night long.

Spinnaker’s Beach Club is located at 8795 Thomas Dr Panama City, FL 32408. Call ahead at (850) 234-7882

1. Liza’s Kitchen

Over a relatively short period of time, Liza’s Kitchen has become Panama City Beach local’s favorite place. This eccentric gourmet sandwich spot on Panama City Beach makes  the most original and tasty sandwiches on the entire beach. Everything is homemade down to the mayonnaise and everyday the delicious foccacia bread is freshly made. Serving lunch all week long, breakfast and tapas on the weekend, Liza’s is without a doubt, the local’s number one place. Oh, and did I mention the magical wine machine? Visit Panama City Beach and go to Liza’s. Thank us later.

Liza’s Kitchen is located at 7328 Thomas Dr # L Panama City, FL 32408. Call ahead at (850) 233-9000

Everyone Loves Liza’s

Liza’s Kitchen is, at first glance, a trendy gourmet sandwich spot on Panama City Beach. But before you bite into any of the awesome sandwiches, you’ll realize there’s much more to Liza’s than just sandwiches. Located on Thomas drive across the street from the beach, Liza’s Kitchen may very well be the hippest restaurant in town.

The Vibe: A

Liza’s nicely blends a 70’s spirit with modern trendiness. Walking into the restaurant, bright colors and loads of sunlight welcome you just before the aroma of freshly baked Focaccia bread curls your toes.  A hipster’s dream, Liza’s Kitchen makes everything from scratch, including the soups, salads and even the mayonnaise, and that dedication radiates throughout the place. From the servers in T-shirts that read, “wake and bake” to the outdoor, palm-tree-shaded deck seating, Liza’s defines “laid back.”

The Food: A+

When I think of Liza’s food a few words come to mind that, in order to express properly, require a channeling of my best Homer Simpson impersonation. Here goes: “MMMMMMmmmmm…Hummus.” Serving lunch, weekend brunch, and Thursday-Friday night tapas, everything on the menu is startlingly fresh. Get there early for brunch and enjoy baguette French toast or Eggs Benedict: poached eggs with sliced ham piled on focaccia, finished with Hollandaise. Or for lunch have the immensely popular Hippie Chick: roasted chicken, goat cheese, spinach, roasted red pepper and spicy mayo on focaccia. Vegetarians will love the range of Liza’s menu, diving right into the Portebello sandwich with eggplant, red onion, avocado, cucumber and goat cheese.

What will surprise you most about Liza’s is the wine selection. Liza’s owns one of the most sophisticated wine dispensers in the world. Made by Napa Technology, the innovative Winestation, or as Liza’s owners Mike and Kat Meek like to call it, “the magical wine machine,” allows patrons to automatically purchase and pour wines from one of the four choices offered from each machine. You get a smart debit card which slides into the machine like an ATM. But instead of money, you get delicious wine…this just in; there is a God. And the wines are not your corner store wines. Glasses range in cost from $7 to $50, the most expensive of them a magnificent Cotes De Bourg. On Thursday and Friday night enjoy awesome tapas and wine from the magical wine machine.

If you’re in town or a local, stop by Liza’s and enjoy a delicious sandwich. Thank us later…with a nice glass of wine hopefully.

Liza’s Kitchen is located at 7328 Thomas Dr # L Panama City, FL 32408 or call ahead at 850-233-9000

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