<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Dining Archives - Bob's Blog</title> <atom:link href="https://www.mybobs.com/tag/dining/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.mybobs.com/blog/tag/dining/</link> <description></description> <lastBuildDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 21:17:30 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4</generator> <image> <url>https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/cropped-B-icon-32x32.png</url> <title>Dining Archives - Bob's Blog</title> <link>https://www.mybobs.com/blog/tag/dining/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>How to Create a Spring Tablescape</title> <link>https://www.mybobs.com/blog/spring-tablescape/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Bob]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 16:27:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[DIY Tips]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ideas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dining]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Spring]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Tablescape]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://blog.mybobs.com/?p=4773</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Festive Brunch Season is in full bloom — and if you’ve been tasked with hosting a get-together, I’ve got all the tablescape-spiration you need to impress your guests and kick off your next party with a flourish! Read on for all of my spring-tastic design tips… What You’ll Need… Setting the Scene… We’ll start with […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/spring-tablescape/">How to Create a Spring Tablescape</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.mybobs.com/blog">Bob's Blog</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <p>Festive Brunch Season is in full bloom — and if you’ve been tasked with hosting a get-together, I’ve got all the tablescape-spiration you need to impress your guests and kick off your next party with a flourish! Read on for all of my spring-tastic design tips…</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What You’ll Need…</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Runner</li> <li>Plates</li> <li>Bowls </li> <li>Napkins</li> <li>Flatware</li> <li>Fun Glassware</li> <li>Tall Candlesticks</li> <li>Tea Lights</li> <li>Greenery</li> <li>Flowers</li> <li>Scissors</li> <li>Lighter</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Setting the Scene…</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4776" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-2.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-2-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-2-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>We’ll start with the runner as well as a fun set of plates, bowls, and cloth napkins. Place your runner down the centerline of the table, and set your plates accordingly. Then add a (neatly) folded cloth napkin on top of the plate — cotton and linen napkins have a light, spring-like quality. Follow with a matching bowl on top of your napkins. I like to use a matching set of plates and bowls with a contrasting napkin so the setting really pops!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Next, add your flatware…</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4777" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-3.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-3-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-3-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>Consider your color combinations — you want your tablescape to complement and exaggerate your current theme. Because we’re doing a spring look, I’ve gone with greens, golds, and neutrals. The gold flatware pulls the gold undertones in the plates and bowls, while the neutral linens provide a canvas to display the pieces on!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Set your glassware…</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-4.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4778" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-4.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-4-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-4-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>I LOVE this stemware. Glassware often gets overlooked, but there are a lot of fun options out there if you know where to look—and you don’t have to break the bank! Check out local flea markets, vintage, and antique stores for fun glassware sets to enhance your settings. </p> <p>Pro-Tip: stay away from anything opaque. Color glass is great, so long as you can see through it!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Let there be light…</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-5.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4779" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-5.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-5-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-5-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>Let’s add a little DRAMA —<strong> </strong>cluster two sets of three tall candles on either end of your table, or place one set of three down the center of the table. For continuity, match your candle holders to your flatware, and stay away from anything too chunky — you want to make sure you can see your guests! </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-6.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4780" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-6.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-6-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-6-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>For some extra twinkle, scatter tea lights and votives throughout. Feel free to mix and match your holders — I’ve used mercury glass and a petal style.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Time for the Centerpiece…</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-7.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4781" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-7.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-7-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-7-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>Showcase a floral arrangement in your color scheme with a low-profile vase.<strong> </strong>Avoid anything too tall, so you can still see everyone! I like to use seasonal fresh-cut flowers, but a faux arrangement will work as well.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Go Green…</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-8.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4782" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-8.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-8-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-8-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>Scatter fresh eucalyptus between the candles and centerpiece. I like to use several kinds—Silver Dollar (big round leaves), Baby Blue (many small blue leaves), and Willow (long narrow leaves) eucalyptus all work nicely to add depth and dimension. Don’t worry about getting it perfect, you’ll be layering other greens and flowers on top.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Layer in Florals…</h2> <p>Start with White Stock — these are delicate white ruffled flowers on a long leafy stalk. They add an element of romance and whimsy to your table. Who doesn’t love whimsy?!</p> <p>Next, add in Baby’s Breath for a delicate accent.</p> <figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" data-id="4784" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-10.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4784" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-10.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-10-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-10-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" data-id="4786" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-11.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4786" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-11.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-11-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-11-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" data-id="4787" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-12.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4787" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-12.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-12-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-12-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" data-id="4783" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-9.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4783" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-9.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-9-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-9-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> </figure> <p>Finish with an array of flowers — you can cut the stems fairly close to the head (2-3 inches) so they tuck into the greenery easily. To add intrigue, feature different colors, textures, and scents. I went with Magnum Chrysanthemums, Santini Maverick Chrysanthemums, and La Perla Peach Roses, but have fun and pick your favorites!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Final Touches…</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-13.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4788" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-13.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-13-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-13-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>Light the candles about 10 minutes before your guests arrive so they don’t get too drippy. </p> <p>Take one final look! Trim any loose ends, tuck in any wayward greenery, then pour yourself a glass and admire your beautiful work! Seriously, you’re a tablescape prodigy.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-14.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4789" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-14.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-14-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-14-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>Thanks for joining me on my hosting journey. Make sure to tag @mybobs or #mybobs on social with your beautiful masterpieces, and don’t forget to stop and smell the roses!</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-15.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4790" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-15.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-15-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-15-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p></p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/spring-tablescape/">How to Create a Spring Tablescape</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.mybobs.com/blog">Bob's Blog</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>How to Make a Grapefruit Gimlet</title> <link>https://www.mybobs.com/blog/spring-cocktail/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Bob]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 28 Mar 2022 14:19:32 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ideas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[bars]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cocktail]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dining]]></category> <category><![CDATA[feature]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Spring]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://blog.mybobs.com/?p=4807</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Who doesn’t love a seasonal bev? I know I come across as a simple guy, but I have to say, winding down at the end of the day with a refreshing cocktail is just the kind of sophistication I need—plus it gives me a great excuse to put my bar cart to good use! As […]</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/spring-cocktail/">How to Make a Grapefruit Gimlet</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.mybobs.com/blog">Bob's Blog</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-1-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4809" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-1-2.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-1-2-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-1-2-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <p>Who doesn’t love a seasonal bev? I know I come across as a simple guy, but I have to say, winding down at the end of the day with a refreshing cocktail is just the kind of sophistication I need—plus it gives me a great excuse to put my bar cart to good use!</p> <p>As the weather warms I find myself craving light refreshment and this Grapefruit Gimlet really does the trick! It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart. The gin gives it that springy botanical flavor, while the elderflower liqueur keeps it from being too bitter. </p> <p>Follow the step-by-step guide to mix one up for yourself!</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-2-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4810" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-2-2.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-2-2-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-2-2-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">What You’ll Need…</h2> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Gin</li> <li>Elderflower Liqueur</li> <li>Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice</li> <li>Ruby Red Grapefruit</li> <li>Rosemary Sprigs</li> <li>Rocks Glass</li> <li>Ice</li> <li>Cutting board</li> <li>Knife</li> <li>Cocktail Shaker</li> </ul> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-3-3.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4812" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-3-3.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-3-3-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-3-3-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Instructions:</h2> <p><strong>Serving Size:</strong> 1 Cocktail</p> <p>In a cocktail shaker pour:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>1 ¾ oz gin — check out my tips below for gin selection! Or if you’re not big on gin, vodka will absolutely work in this cocktail as a substitute!</li> <li>1 oz elderflower liqueur — has a sweet and lightly floral flavor (you can substitute simple syrup for a less boozy option)</li> <li>1 oz ruby red grapefruit juice — you can buy bottled grapefruit juice at the store, but fresh-squeezed will always give you the best flavor and is often sweeter! Plus the Ruby Red color is beautiful in the glass!</li> </ul> <p>Add a generous portion of ice and shake what your mamma gave ya (the cocktail shaker).</p> <p>Strain over ice into a rocks glass.</p> <p>Garnish with a grapefruit slice and a sprig of rosemary!</p> <p>Simple as that! Cheers!</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1000" height="700" src="https://blog.mybobs.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-4-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-4813" srcset="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-4-2.jpg 1000w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-4-2-300x210.jpg 300w, https://www.mybobs.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Artboard-4-2-768x538.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tips for Picking Your Gin…</h2> <p>I am a lot of things, but a mixology expert is not one of them, so I find the liquor store overwhelming! So many choices, how do you know which to go with?! </p> <p> When it comes to picking the right liquor (in this case gin) for a cocktail, it helps to know a few basics about what each variety offers. Then you can choose your gin based on what flavors you want to enhance in your drink!</p> <p><strong>There are four main types of gin:</strong></p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li><span style="text-decoration: underline;">London Dry:</span> Classic gin, juniper-forward, no added flavor (hence <em>dry</em>) — perfect for martinis and classic G+T’s</li> <li><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Plymouth:</span> Drier than London gin, citrus-forward, earthy finish — great with bitter pairings like Negronis</li> <li><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Old Tom:</span> Sweeter, rich in flavor compared to London Dry, botanical forward — can bring citrus down a notch, good in a Tom Collins</li> <li><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Genever:</span> Malted, no botanicals or citrus — best in rich cocktails like a gin Old Fashioned</li> </ul> <p>For our Grapefruit Gimlet, I’d recommend either London Dry or Plymouth Gin. Because we’re mixing the gin with elderflower liqueur we don’t need the added sweetness of Old Tom gin, and a malted genever gin would upset the balance.</p> <p>Need a bar cart for your new found cocktail passion? Check out our bar selection <a href="https://blog.mybobs.com/furniture/c/bar-furniture?q=%3AavailabilityScore%3ApdpPresent%3Atrue%3AallCategories%3Abar-furniture%3AProductCategoryCode%3Abar-carts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>!</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.mybobs.com/blog/spring-cocktail/">How to Make a Grapefruit Gimlet</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.mybobs.com/blog">Bob's Blog</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> </channel> </rss>