Food & Drink All you can eat

Thu, Aug 4, 2005 at 12:00 am

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News and notes from the San Antonio food scene

Green thumbs

Gardening Volunteers of South Texas presents a free class on fall gardening at the San Antonio Garden Center, 3310 N. New Braunfels, from noon-3:15 p.m. Monday, August 8. Tom Harris, certified Texas master gardener, will discuss "Fall Vegetable Gardening" and "square-foot gardening," a planting technique wherein, unlike traditional "row" gardens, a raised bed is created and divided into 1-foot squares, each of which is then planted with a concentration of the same seeds. The method is ideal for small yards and conserves water. Landscaper Charles Bartlett will also present "Fall Blooming Perennials for Sun and Shade. " Each class includes a plant sale and hand-tool sharpening for a $2 donation. $5 donation suggested. For more information call 522-9220.

Garlic heads

Chefs on the Food Network often display their seasonings in tiny glass bowls, aesthetically perfect, but sans labels, and by the time the show is over the viewer has forgotten the names and flavors of the herbs and spices. But here's your chance to see it in slow motion, or at least ask questions later. The San Antonio Herb Society, 3310 N. New Braunfels, hosts Chef Rene Fernandez, co-owner of the Nuevo Latino restaurant Azúca, as its featured guest speaker at 7 p.m. Thursday, August 11. Chef Fernandez, who uses fresh herbs and local ingredients in his cooking, will share recipes and tips with Herb Society members and guests. The meeting is open to the public and free, but bring a pen and writing pad to jot down all Fernandez' secrets. For more information call 641-8166.

Winey feet

When was the last time you stomped barefoot in a puddle? What's better than mud between the toes? Grapes. From July 23-August 21 wine enthusiasts and their bacchanalian offspring can take part in the harvest at Messina Hof vineyards, 4545 Old Reliance Road in Bryan. The event lasts from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and includes picking and stomping grapes, making juice-print T-shirts, vineyard and winery tours, and a harvest feast in the Vintage House Restaurant. $60 for the entire package. Call 800-736-9463 for more information.

Compiled by Heather Holmes and Melissa Santos