I run an orientation that happens every other month for work. With work residing across from Panera on Franklin Street, you would think that they would be perfect for catering--and they were, but about a year to two years ago the service went downhill fast (I'm sure they are better now that I have complained, but I still have no desire to go back).
When they started to go South, I decided to check out Foster's as I had enjoyed them before and they deliver. Elana, the catering manager for the Chapel Hill store, is excellent. Whether I called the day before or a week before; whether I call to add to the order or cancel part of an order, she swings with the punches, and I don't think I'd order lunch with anyone else anymore. There is something to be said for great service. I even got a hand-written Christmas card this past December--I was impressed (maybe easily), but a hand-written card? That is kind of impressive (I know, I have ordered pre-printed cards for work).
I have tried a bunch of their stuff, and here are my favorites:
1. BLT Chicken Caesar wrap: The stuff dreams are made of. I like it hot or cold. I've even tried to recreate it, and it just isn't that amazing. With every bite, the crispness of the lettuce, the smokiness of the bacon, the creaminess of the Caesar dressing, and the tanginess of the Parmesan all mingle together in a perfect blend of flavor. I crave this sandwich for at least a week before and a week after orientation. So good.
2. The brown sugar cookies: I don't know what they put in these, but I am addicted. Sometimes they only put one in a cookie tray, and I snag it before anyone even knows it is there. A blend of the lighter sugar cookies you remember in all of your perfect Christmas memories, with a deeper caramelized flavor. They melt in your mouth, and you try to figure out excuses to get more (for others--really). I would share as a testament to their greatness, but then there wouldn't be enough for me.
3. The Spinach Mac & Cheese: Mouthwatering? Divine? I think the picture describes it best (even better, they also have the plain version and a spicy one with a kick of chipotle peppers).
4. Roasted Pork Loin with Foster's applesauce: a delicately roasted pork loin--juicy and succulent, the flavors seduce you into a perfect dizziness of taste and delight as the sweet and tart of the applesauce emphasize the flavor of the pork.
5. Hot Chocolate: A mix of Ghirardelli chocolate syrup and steamed milk, mixed together in a perfectly creamy, frothy concoction of loveliness. A perfect end to a lovely meal.
The website has some mouth-watering pictures (whomever their photographer is, he or she is very gifted with food), and I also love that they have Sara Foster's recipes available (for free!--though her cookbook is also amazing--though a little pricey at the store itself). The store also has a bunch of foodie lovers delights--imported chocolate, gourmet sauces, nifty cake & cupcake mixes, and 80s candy that I adore (pop rocks & fun dip!). They also serve smoothies, pies, various salads by the pound, platters for parties, and great breakfast & brunch options.
Maybe the Caesar dressing is the element I don't have right in the BLT Chicken Caesar. . . hmmm. Sorry, where was I? Ah, yes. We'll try out the Durham restaurant and store for July's dining out (easier parking than Chapel Hill) --Wednesday, July 29th, 7:30 pm. See you then!
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