Rouxster’s Summer Road Trip

Chad Kirtland might be on to something. Kirtland, who owns Fairhope’s Rouxster Cafe and Catering, offers culinary road trips to different parts of the country from inside his cafe on S Section St. No travel documents needed, just bring your appetite and an interest in the history of foods from around the region. The format is straightforward: Reserve a spot and show up on a designated evening to spend two hours learning about cuisine from different parts of the country and giving it your own taste test. As part of his Summer Road Trip series, Kirtland has already presented beef brisket, chili con carne and koblasneks during a visit to Texas. Clam chowder, lobster rolls and steak tips are among the treats diners enjoy during a visit to Boston. This week, it’s Carolina Lowcountry, featuring She crab soup, tomato pie, Hoppin’ John and more. Colleen and I join friends for a run through Carolina Wednesday. Our rating: Fun, delicious and educational.

The road trips–which Kirtland came up with to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary–are already such a hit that he’s having to add additional nights to meet demand. The travel series heads west in August: California, set for AUG 13th, features Baja fish tacos, cobb salad and grilled Tri-tip. A trip to the Southwest on AUG 27th offers stuffed hatch chilis, pozole and Denver green chili.

Kirtland is already drawing up a European food tour every Thursday during September, featuring Italy, Ireland, Spain, France and Greece (tickets go on sale starting JUL 31st).

Cost for each culinary destination is $50 per person plus tax and tip.

No walk-ins; reservations are a must. You can bring your own beverage. If you want to sign up, here’s where to do it:

https://www.rouxstercatering.com/usa250

Rouxster Cafe and Catering 209 S Section St. Fairhope AL 36532 251-237-3030

Hope you enjoy the video!