A Piper's Peck of Peppers

Local Food: Steven loves peppers more than almost anything else, so he brings an aficionado's sensibilities to their use on the plate. Warm with a hint of sweet spice, crisp and a bite of heat, or that dash of energy. Right now, Steven is using the large and earthy green peppers from Pete's Greens as an edible bowl. He fills the hollow of the pepper with wheatberries and groats for some texture, then adds fennel, onions and tofu from Vermont Soy to round out the stuffing. Mozzarella from Maplebrook Farm is baked on top of the pepper, and the plate is served with dragon tongue beans from Mystic Morning Farm, cauliflower, and lacinato kale from Harvest Hill, with a dash of pesto.

Around the Galaxy: Thanks to everyone who came to welcome Rowan Jacobsen and his new book American Terroir to the bookshelves. The Galaxy still has some autographed copies of this fascinating book. If you missed Rowan in Hardwick, catch him at Bear Pond in Montpelier before he heads across the country on his tour. And for those of you busy preserving your own terroir, come browse the shelves at Galaxy to discover many books on canning and preserving.

Music Notes: Blue Fox returns this Thursday at 7:30. Don't miss what Pamela Polston of Seven Days calls his "deep-lazy-growly-sexy" vocals and his ultra-strength guitar playing.

Local Events: Celebrate Buffalo Mountain Co-op's 35th Anniversary on Saturday, September 18 at Atkins Field in Hardwick. The clothing swap will be from 2-5; make cider, hear poets, storytellers and musicians and play old-time games from 3-6. The potluck begins at 6- bring a dish to share, and your garden surplus for the community-wide stone soup. Following dinner, dance to local favorites the Butterbeans. For more information or to volunteer, stop by the Co-op or call 472-6020

Reminders: We are open daily after 2:30 for coffee, bar service, and baked goods, and free WiFi, with dinner reservations available from 5-9. Please note we have extended our Summer Sunday dinner hours and will seat guests until 9:00 pm. We serve our special Blunch menu Sundays from 11-2. Claire's is closed every Wednesday.

We appreciate it when you reserve a table with us, as it helps us plan a relaxed and hospitable experience for you and all our guests. To show our appreciation, when you call, email, or stop by to make a reservation, you will be entered into our weekly drawing for a $20 gift card for your next visit.