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This French Quarter has boutique feel

Lorie Hutson

Don’t think New Orleans nightlife, imagine instead handmade truffles, local preserves, caramels and other goodies in a neighborhood boutique.

The French Quarter, at the edge of Browne’s Addition in Carnegie Square, recently opened adjacent to the Studio One salon. Owners Stacy Blowers and DeVerne Augustus wanted to bring the feel of a French neighborhood boutique to the shop.

Augustus, co-owner of Studio One, has lived in Spokane since 1991. Blowers is a Northwest native who recently moved to Spokane after 11 years in Dallas, where she owned a day spa and helped start a farmers’ market.

Augustus rolls melt-in-your-mouth truffles infused with the flavors of lavender, toasted chipotle, tawny port, fleur de sel, ginger and among other ingredients each week. They’re made with E. Guittard chocolate from the venerable San Francisco chocolatier.

Blowers uses seasonal, local ingredients, including produce and herbs grown in her backyard, to make preserves, chutney and pickled asparagus sold at The French Quarter. She also creates aprons from vintage fabrics (with a few modern fabrics she can’t resist).

Augustus says they plan to add cheese (including cheese curds) and wine to their offerings this month.

The French Quarter is at 1311 W. Sprague Ave., or online at www.MyFrenchQuarter.com. Reach the shop at (509) 624-5350, it is open Tuesday thru Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hot chocolate recipe contest

Although the wonderful fall weather has been holding, it’s never too early to start practicing for that inevitable blast of frigid air.

Warm up for winter weather by creating a hot chocolate milk recipe for a contest sponsored by the Dairy Farmers of Washington.

Judges will choose winners in each these two categories: hot chocolate milk recipes for all ages and “adult” hot chocolate milk drinks that contain alcohol as an ingredient. Each winner receives $500.

Entries will be judged on taste and innovation. Recipes are due Nov. 16.

Chocolate Raspberry Delight, Banana Mocha Hot Chocolate and Toasted Hazelnut and Sea Salt Hot Chocolate are some of the entries so far.

Go to www.hotchocolatemilk.net to see sample recipes or enter online. Entries may also be sent to: Hot Chocolate Milk Recipe Contest, 2033 Sixth Ave., Suite 333, Seattle, WA 98121.

We’re always looking for fresh food news. Contact Lorie Hutson at (509) 459-5446 or lorieh@spokesman.com.