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Now that's what I'm talking about! What a great idea. I love it. And Jimmy0x52, thanks for the tip on soaking them over night. That's a smashing good idea. ;-)

Baking Pumpkin seeds is one of of my favorite childhood memories with my mom.

Re: camdon: now that is a great recommendation of the talent at Esca!

As to the louvar, that sounds really interesting! It must be a pretty sizable fish too. Great photos of the dish, Erin. Has my mouth watering.

I'm all for doubles! Got to tell you though, looking at that mouth watering burger before dinner is changing my plans!!

I think that the higher end restaurants and wineries are indeed seeing a downturn. More and more families and single folk are looking for less expensive but tasty fair in my area here in the Tampa Bay area. At least that's my experience.

But opportunity abounds for restaurant owners. I know of a Mediterranean restaurant, Zeko's, that just opened up in the last 6months up the street from me. It cost over a Million dollars for the owner to get it going. But the place is frequently busy whenever I go there because the atmosphere is family and the food is really good. They pride themselves on the quality of food for a decent price. The typical meal is $8 with a drink for me (generally a really good gyro).

That isn't to say that other restaurants aren't seeing a down turn. Some are. But I think the ones that are willing to work hard at gaining a relationship with the customer are the ones that will survive.