Martha Stewart is 'in love' with this classic French cooking staple

Jennifer Lopez's Beverly Hills home, valued at $135 million, deviates from typical opulent Los Angeles mansions by embracing a cozy, French country farmhouse aesthetic. The design draws inspiration from Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette's neoclassical chateau at Versailles, lending a distinctly warm and rustic charm to the interiors, particularly in her kitchen. This approach incorporates rustic elements such as a pot rail adorned with copper pots, wooden cutting boards lining the countertops, and a woven basket placed against the wall. A knife block and a black pepper mill provide contrasting accents, while a marble cup filled with spoons elevates the overall sophisticated look. The article highlights that achieving Jennifer Lopez's elevated kitchen aesthetic is surprisingly accessible, primarily requiring the selection of appropriate design pieces. The Homes & Gardens team has curated a selection of items to help readers replicate this French country decor in their own homes. Featured products include the Peugeot Paris u-Select Pepper Mill, a highly-rated and precise pepper grinder known for its six consistent settings and lifetime warranty, available for $51.95 at Walmart. Another recommended item is the WÜSTHOF Gourmet 10-Piece Knife Block Set, priced at $270.00 on Amazon, which features laser-cut blades and durable, triple-riveted synthetic polypropylene handles resistant to fading, discoloration, heat, and impact. For a touch of rustic charm, the Boylan Bread Board, available from $36 at McGee & Co., offers an aged wood look in both square and round constructions, adding character to any kitchen. To complete the cookware aspect, the Gotham Steel Nonstick Cookware set, originally $399.99 and now $199.00 at Wayfair, provides a hammered copper collection that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, being oven and dishwasher-safe. A functional element for hanging storage, reminiscent of JLo's kitchen, is the Cucina Steel Mounted Pot Rack, reduced from $54.99 to $42.99 at Wayfair. This rack serves a dual purpose as kitchen wall decor and a convenient storage solution for cooking supplies. Lastly, to emulate the sophisticated countertop accessory, the Marble Large Utensil Holder, starting from $159.95 at Williams Sonoma, offers a stylish way to house kitchen utensils, mirroring the one in Jennifer Lopez's space. The key to styling this French country look lies in effective layering, combining various textures such as copper, wood, wicker, metallics, and marble. Hanging storage, particularly a pot rail, is identified as a crucial detail for this style. The article concludes by emphasizing that adopting French country style is straightforward, and Jennifer Lopez's kitchen serves as an excellent starting point. By investing in a few beloved accessories, individuals can curate a home that feels timeless and personal. Readers are encouraged to sign up for the Homes & Gardens newsletter for further design expertise, decorating ideas, celebrity home insights, gardening advice, and shopping recommendations. #JenniferLopez #FrenchCountryKitchen #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #RusticCharm #CelebrityHomes #InteriorDesign #Cookware #HomeStyling

The French Gazebo, formerly Kathy’s Gazebo, has recently undergone a renovation and welcomed new ownership while maintaining its tradition of classic French cuisine. The restaurant, a forty-year fixture in the community, was acquired by Boca resident Anthony Crupi and Northeast restaurateur Steve Botta. The updated interior design features a prominent Tiffany blue color scheme, replacing the previous crimson and tufted booths. The dated wood accents have been removed, giving way to modern lines and new chandeliers, enhancing the establishment's elegant atmosphere. The removal of carpeting also contributes to the refreshed aesthetic. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by tuxedoed staff who assist with seating. A notable feature of the dining experience is the swiveling tables, designed to facilitate ease of access to the banquettes. An aperitif or glass of Champagne is offered, followed by a warm baguette. The culinary journey often begins with classic French appetizers, such as the escargot Bourguignone, priced at $18.95. This dish is presented with six spiraling shells, each filled with garlic butter, and is typically enjoyed with pieces of baguette to soak up the sauce. Another appetizer option, the crêpes royale, consists of thin crepes filled with crab, shrimp, scallops, and mushrooms, all served in a rich cream sauce. Despite its generous portion size, it is described as not overly filling, though a desire for warmer crepes was noted. The restaurant preserves its heritage by continuing to offer popular dishes like the Dover sole, a staple for decades, priced at $58.95. This dish is ceremoniously filleted tableside from a gueridon, with guests choosing between a brown butter meunière or a frothy amandine sauce. The amandine sauce, chosen in this review, is characterized by its buttery and delicate flavor profile, complemented by the slight crunch of sliced almonds. It is accompanied by mashed potatoes, described as indulgent. Another main course highlighted is the duckling, priced at $38.95, served with a daily changing sauce; on this occasion, it was an aromatic orange sauce infused with orange liqueur. The duckling's crispy skin and tender, moist meat were appreciated, though the proportion of bone to meat was a minor drawback. To conclude the meal, the dessert menu offers a range of traditional selections, including crème brulée and profiteroles, alongside more contemporary choices like Key lime pie and the housemade bread pudding. These desserts are presented as a fitting end to the dining experience, reinforcing the restaurant's commitment to classic French culinary offerings within its newly updated setting. The overall experience underscores the successful blending of traditional menu items with a modernized environment, aiming to continue the restaurant’s legacy in the community. #RestaurantReview #FrenchCuisine #FineDining #BocaRaton #Escargot #DoverSole #CrêpesRoyale #DiningExperience #InteriorDesign

This article explores the enduring appeal of French country kitchens, a style celebrated for its blend of lived-in charm, impressive functionality, and timeless aesthetics. The article features 22 distinct kitchen designs by various interior designers, showcasing how this style can be adapted to different homes, from bucolic châteaux to modern city apartments. The core elements of French country kitchen design involve a careful selection of materials such as rough-hewn woods, limestone, and terracotta. These natural textures are complemented by a neutral color palette, often accented with touches of muted greens or soft blues, and the inclusion of vintage copper cookware and other antique treasures. Greenery, often brought in from the garden, is another essential component, enhancing the connection to nature and adding a fresh, lively spirit to the space. Several examples illustrate these principles. One design highlights the importance of detailed touches, such as custom slipcovers made from French linen tea towels for light pendants and cabinetry painted in Farrow & Ball's 'French Gray,' a hue that subtly changes throughout the day. Another kitchen draws inspiration from Claude Monet's Giverny, utilizing a radiant blue-and-yellow palette to infuse youthful gusto into architectural details like fireplace mantels and cabinetry, demonstrating that French country style can incorporate vibrant colors. The article also showcases kitchens that radiate a rustic style typical of the Loire Valley, featuring natural wood flooring and vintage pieces. Other designs achieve a French country feel even when located far from France, such as a Connecticut Colonial home with hanging copper cookware or a California mansion employing dark wood floors, natural colors, and a limestone oven surround. A Los Angeles kitchen emphasizes timeless aesthetics with neutral hues, aged brass, and vintage-inspired lanterns within a villa featuring a limestone exterior. Further examples include a San Francisco kitchen with traditional cabinetry, textural baskets, and a culinary cart, as well as an 18th-century cottage with a charming French country butler's pantry featuring a rustic countertop and floral details. A Tennessee log cabin kitchen adopts French country elements through country-perfect colors, pastoral oil paintings, and a stone countertop. An intimate galley kitchen by an Atlanta designer incorporates natural stone flooring, wrought iron details, and garden greenery, evoking a Nancy Meyers film aesthetic. The article also presents more opulent interpretations, such as a Montreal kitchen in a historic chapel, featuring a chandelier and vintage-inspired patterned fabrics. A Provence farmhouse kitchen emphasizes its connection to the outdoors with copper cookware, antique tables, and a garden-facing door. Even an English home pays homage to French style with natural wood and stone, a large island, and idyllic outdoor views. A Virginia farmhouse incorporates fieldstone walls, antique lanterns, and cozy colors, while a Portofino farmhouse utilizes Parisian flea market sconces and terracotta floors. A modern take on the French country kitchen is also featured in a 1920s Georgian home, combining natural wood floors and hanging lanterns with black cabinetry and polished nickel finishes for a contemporary touch. Finally, a rustic California kitchen designed by Ken Fulk incorporates reclaimed wood, brick flooring, and oak countertops, emphasizing raw, natural materials. Each example underscores the versatility and enduring appeal of the French country kitchen, demonstrating its ability to create warm, inviting, and functionally elegant spaces in diverse settings. #FrenchCountryKitchen #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #EuropeanCharm #InteriorDesign #RusticKitchen #VintageDecor #NaturalMaterials #TimelessAesthetics

Jennifer Lopez's Beverly Hills mansion, despite its $135 million valuation, defies expectations of a typical ultra-modern Los Angeles estate, instead embracing a cozy, cocooning farmhouse elegance. This design choice is influenced by the home's model: Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette's neoclassical chateau at Versailles. Consequently, Lopez's kitchen features a distinct warm countryside charm, characterized by rustic details and luxurious materials. The article highlights key elements of her kitchen, including a pot rail adorned with copper pots, countertops lined with wooden cutting boards, and a woven basket positioned against the wall. A knife block and black pepper mill add contrasting touches, while a marble cup filled with spoons elevates the overall aesthetic. The article emphasizes that this elevated look is surprisingly achievable for readers. The Homes & Gardens team has curated a selection of items to help replicate Lopez's French country decor. These include a Peugeot Paris u-Select Pepper Mill, praised for its sleek design, precise settings, and durability, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks. For cutting tools, the WÜSTHOF Gourmet 10-Piece Knife Block Set is recommended, featuring knives with triple-riveted synthetic polypropylene handles resistant to fading, discoloration, heat, and impact, and blades that are precisely laser-cut and stamped for quality. To achieve the rustic appeal, the Boylan Bread Board is suggested, available in square and round options, noted for its slightly aged wood look that brings character to any kitchen. For cookware, the Gotham Steel Hammered Copper 15 Piece Nonstick Cookware and Bakeware Set is highlighted as a beautiful and functional collection, safe for both oven and dishwasher use. Functional yet decorative, the Cucina Steel Mounted Pot Rack serves as both a kitchen wall decor piece and a practical storage solution, keeping cooking supplies easily accessible. Finally, the Marble Large Utensil Holder from Williams Sonoma is presented as an accessory to house kitchen utensils in style, mirroring the one found in Lopez's kitchen. The article advises that layering different textures is crucial for styling a French country kitchen, encouraging the combination of copper, wood, wicker, metallics, and marble. It also underscores the importance of hanging storage, exemplified by the pot rail in Lopez's space, as a key detail of this style. The piece concludes by asserting that adopting French country style is more accessible than it appears, with Jennifer Lopez's kitchen serving as an excellent starting point for curating a timeless and personalized home environment by beginning with a few cherished accessories. #JenniferLopez #FrenchCountryKitchen #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #CelebrityHomes #InteriorDesign #RusticElegance #CopperCookware #MarbleAccents

The Calanques National Park, stretching between Marseille and Cassis, is renowned for its turquoise coves and dramatic limestone cliffs, attracting significant tourist attention. However, north of Marseille, the less-explored Côte Bleue offers a more intimate coastal experience with its charming fishing villages and picturesque coves carved into the limestone hills. This region, also known as the "Blue Coast," features hiking trails connecting secluded ports and a scenic commuter train, the Train de Côte Bleue, which traverses 18 viaducts between seven villages. Despite the arrival of the commuter train in 1915, marked by heritage-tiled stations, the Côte Bleue largely remained a hidden gem, frequented primarily by local fishermen and residents, while other Marseillais often favored the more popular Cassis and Bandol. Interest in the Côte Bleue has grown, with some attributing this to Marseille's designation as the European Capital of Culture in 2013. A significant draw is La Pergola, a restaurant situated in Niolon, a cove on the Côte Bleue offering panoramic views of Marseille. Established in 1958, La Pergola was once a clandestine retreat but had, in recent years, become known for its stunning location rather than its cuisine. This changed in 2016 when Joaquim and Beatrice Piedade took ownership. The couple, experienced restaurateurs, revitalized the establishment while preserving its relaxed atmosphere. They refurbished the interior and the shaded terrace, from which the restaurant derives its name, and Chef Joaquim crafted a menu focused on fresh fish and local ingredients, prioritizing flavor over elaborate culinary techniques. La Pergola is distinguished by its customer-centric service, including all-day operating hours, a rarity in France. This approach has cultivated a loyal clientele of locals and visitors from Marseille and Aix. Chef Joaquim Piedade, who initially pursued accounting, transitioned to the culinary world, driven by a desire for the camaraderie he observed in local eateries. His extensive career spans three decades, encompassing training with a Michelin-starred chef, opening several restaurants in France, Île de Maurice, and Portugal, and working for major French culinary conglomerates. These diverse experiences provided him with comprehensive knowledge of both kitchen operations and front-of-house management. Drawing on his heritage as the descendant of Portuguese fishermen, Joaquim is dedicated to sourcing high-quality fish. He collaborates with Le Chalutier, a father-son fish merchant in Martigues, for a variety of fresh seafood, including sea bass, sea bream, John Dory, and flounder, and also purchases smaller catches from independent fishermen. The restaurant processes approximately 600 kg of fish weekly. Such fresh ingredients necessitate simple preparation, typically involving olive oil, salt, and fennel seeds, cooked on lava-rock grills. Seasonal specialties include swordfish, which Joaquim sources from larger, older specimens to support sustainable fishing practices. This swordfish is prepared either seared or smoked gravlax-style with beech wood, served with olive oil, grapefruit, and cornflower petals. Other menu highlights include meticulously prepared cuttlefish (sepia), frozen, cooked sous-vide, and seared on a plancha to achieve exceptional tenderness, served whole rather than in chopped pieces. Traditional Marseille dishes such as panisses (chickpea fritters), pieds et pacquets (stewed lamb's feet and tripe), and bourride (aioli-scented seafood stew) are also featured. A creative dessert, the savon de Marseille, offers edible “soaps” made from olive oil, butter, sugar, and hazelnuts, resembling decadent raw sugar cookie dough. Joaquim's accras (salt-cod fritters), based on his Portuguese mother’s recipe, are a nod to his family history and are served in generous portions, reflecting his upbringing. His three-part restaurant philosophy emphasizes prioritizing the client, maintaining meticulous organization and food safety, and fostering a passion for the work. His son, Max, manages the wine and spirits, and his daughter, Cassandre, assists with service, both embodying the family’s dedication to hospitality. Visitors to La Pergola can enhance their experience with a pre- or post-meal swim in Niolon's port or a walk along the Sentier de Douanier to the Calanque du Jonquier. #MarseilleCuisine #CôteBleue #LaPergolaRestaurant #FrenchSeafood #CulinaryTravel #MediterraneanCoast #SustainableFishing #FamilyBusiness