Hudson's Grocery

Closing Time

2010-09-15T09:58:00.000-07:00

Don't forget, Hudson's is closing this Saturday the 18th at 1:00 p.m. for our yearly maintenance, and will not reopen until Tuesday, the 28th at 8:00 a.m. We look forward to seeing everyone then!

How About Lunch?

2010-08-16T18:50:00.000-07:00

These yummy goodies can be found in the cooler with the sandwiches in the back of Hudson's.

A ready made grilled chicken caesar salad complete with fresh parmesan cheese and croutons. It even includes dressing!

Spotlight On...

2010-07-28T04:45:00.000-07:00

Judy! This friendly, neighborhood cashier is sure to help you find what you're looking for at Hudson's.

This is her fourth year at Hudson's Grocery Store, and it's such a pleasure to have her around! Get to know her face so you can recognizer her the next time you visit. Spotlight on Judy!

Smitty's Meatloaf

2010-07-20T06:10:00.000-07:00

Looking for a quick fix for dinner? Try Smitty's Meatloaf in the freezer section of the store. He makes it from scratch and it tastes like the kind mom makes- the perfect family meal after a busy day. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy!

Meatloaf, in the freezer section at Hudson's.

Smitty

Happenings Around Hudson's

2010-07-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

I thought you might like to get a glimpse into the daily comings and goings of those folks that work in the store. Here are a few pictures of the gang hard at work. Enjoy!

Theresa checking out a customer.

Smitty and Jodi working behind the meat counter.

Karen slicing deli meat.

Peek-a-boo!

Fourth of July Party

2010-07-07T06:17:00.000-07:00

The Hudson's Crew kicked back after a hard day's work and enjoyed a Fourth of July party with their co-workers. It looks like everyone is having a great time doesn't it?

Quite the spread!

The Steel Drummer, Vincent.

Theresa enjoying the festivities.

John with Howard and his grandson, Raughley.

Smitty, in the background, checking out all the food.

Happy Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day

2010-06-30T05:42:00.000-07:00

Here are Hudson's 4th of July hours. Be sure to stop by to stock up on your Independence Day goodies!

Here is a sample menu from What's Cooking America

Old-Fashioned Lemonade
So refreshing and delicious! Taste just like the lemonade Grandma used to make. The secret to perfect lemonade is to start by making a sugar syrup. Dissolving the sugar in hot water effectively disperses the sugar in the lemonade, instead of having the sugar sink to the bottom.

Andra's Sweet Tea
Southerners swear by their traditional sweet ice tea and drink it by the gallons. In the South, ice tea is not just a summertime drink, it is served year round with most meals. When people order tea in a Southern restaurant, chances are they will get sweet ice tea. You will definitely love this sweet tea!

Andra's Barbecued Beans
My friend, Andra Cook of Raleigh, NC is famous for her delicious North Carolina barbecue bean recipe. These wonderful tasting beans are always a favorite at any gathering she brings them. They especially seem to be a favorite of men!

Favorite Potato Salad
This is my family's favorite potato salad recipe. A family gathering would not be complete without this salad. I've tried many other potato salads, and as far as I am concerned, this is the best!

Chunky Avocado Salad - Guacamole Salad
This version of guacamole was shared with me by Marisela Reyna of Hillsboro, Oregon. I really like this chunky version of guacamole over the mashed ones. It can be served as an appetizer or a salad with either corn or flour tortillas.

Great American Hamburger
The elements of the perfect hamburger are a patty of ground beef in a soft round bun, served with ketchup, pickles, and onions. You may add other condiments, whatever you like, but the meat itself must be of prime quality or it’s not worth the effort. What people prefer on their hamburger can vary from region to region in the United States.

Southern Fried Chicken The quintessential southern dish is fried chicken. There are as many recipes for fried chicken as there are southern cooks, with most being passed down through generations.

Grandma Hagerman's Apple Pie
This is my Mother's, Dorothy Hagerman, apple pie recipe. It is so good!

Strawberry Shortcake Nothing could be a more typical, totally American, dessert than strawberry shortcake. Plus what could taste better during your local strawberry season?

A Little More Info...

2010-06-29T07:39:00.000-07:00

On a Gluten Free Diet. Here is some information I gathered from this website. His blog includes recipes, information, and support for those trying to live a gluten free lifestyle.

Basic Gluten Free Information

Defining gluten free starts with defining gluten. Gluten (from Latin gluten “glue”) is a combination of the proteins gliadin and glutenin. It exists in some grass-related grains, notably wheat, rye, spelt and barley. Gliadin and glutenin comprise about 80% of the protein contained in wheat seed. There is a lot of information available on gluten free, we are trying to offer information that is brief and concise. Being gluten intolerant means the loss of the ability to break down the protein in gluten. Because the protein can not be broken down, it ends up in the intestines as a toxin that damages the lining of the intestinal walls. The result is a wide range of symptoms.

I also watched an interview with Elana Amsterdam, who uses almond flour in all of her cooking. Even though I don't personally eat gluten free, her cookbook looks both delicious and easy to use. Plus her story is interesting to watch. She was determined to avoid cooking separate meals for her and her children, so as a result she developed recipes that the whole family could enjoy. Take a look!

Gluten Free

2010-06-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

Hudson's has a unique variety of gluten-free and organic products that many small markets cannot claim. I've posted a sampling here for your benefit.

These cookies are my favorite. They make up like mom's home made cookies do... yumm!

New Product!

2010-06-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

Visors! Perfect for sunny Florida days.

Love the pink, of course, but here is a nice denim as well.

Rainbow Bright

2010-06-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

If this isn't a reason to head down to Boca right now, I don't know what is.

Phyllis is 70!!!!!

2010-05-27T09:48:00.000-07:00

Here are some snapshots of Phyllis' Birthday Weekend Extravaganza!

Enjoying cocktails at PJ's

Howard, Phyllis and Emily

Phyllis with her family and friends.

Opening a birthday gift!

Phyllis' family surprised her by coming down for a visit on this special occasion!

Are there 70 candles on that cake?

Happy Birthday Phyllis, we love you!

Happy Birthday Phyllis!!!

2010-05-25T06:16:00.000-07:00

Today is a huge day for Hudson's Grocery. It is Phyllis' 70th Birthday! Her family has surprised her and come into town to celebrate. Last night she even had a celebration at PJ's Seagrille. Be sure to stop by the store and wish her a Happy Day! We all hope you have a wonderful birthday Phyllis!

Stay Tuned...

2010-05-24T11:09:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is a really big day, so stay tuned to see what all the fuss is about!

Spotlight On...

2010-05-12T08:32:00.001-07:00

Jodi!
Meet Jodi, who started working at Hudson's as a cashier, and now serves your needs as a member of the meat department. Jodi works the rotisserie and helps give you fresh fish, deli meat and poultry. She is sure to brighten the customer's day with her warm personality and friendly face. Here's your chance to see for yourself!

Ladies Day!

2010-05-07T07:04:00.000-07:00

Hudson's will close at four this Saturday in honor of the Ladies Day Fishing Tournament. We have four members of the Hudson's family fishing- Phyllis, Jodi, Theresa and Judy. Good Luck Ladies!!!!

The festivities begin tonight with the Captain's Party and continue tomorrow with the tournament. Don't forget to come by and stock up on goodies for your boat!

Coolers

Huggers

and of course, beverages.

April Showers bring May Flowers

2010-05-03T05:57:00.000-07:00

From time to time Hudson's will have wonderful blooms from Native Gardens at the front of the store available for purchase. A bouquet from Hudson's will perk up any table setting in a flash, especially these beauties.

Remember, these shown are seasonal, and may not be the exact type available for purchase. Stop by and see what we have for sale today!

Easy Bake Fish

2010-04-29T06:10:00.000-07:00

Easy and fish, two words I like to hear. Now I haven't gotten to cook this one myself, but have eaten it before and this recipe is delicious folks. The honey mustard flavor is what helps set this apart. Try it on grouper or snapper as well if you're not a salmon person.

EASY BAKE FISH

3 TABLESPOONS HONEY

3 TABLESPOONS DIJON MUSTARD

1 TEASPOON LEMON JUICE

4 SALMON STEAKS (or your choice of fish)

1/2 TEASPOON PEPPER

PREHEAT OVEN 350 degrees

MIX HONEY, MUSTARD & LEMON JUICE. SPREAD MIXTURE OVER FISH AND SEASON WITH PEPPER. PLACE IN DISH THAT HAS BEEN SPRAYED WITH COOKING SPRAY.

BAKE IN PREHEATED OVEN FOR 20 MINUTES OR UNTIL FISH EASILY FLAKES WITH FORK !!

April is Earth Month!

2010-04-26T08:48:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to use your reusable totes while grocery shopping to help cut back on waste! Hudson's has some great ones that hold a ton- I can usually get my entire grocery order home in two of these great, sturdy totes. A good tip- keep them in your car or golf cart to help you remember to grab them before you head to the store. When I kept mine inside my house I never could remember to bring them with me while grocery shopping. Keeping them in my car helps me think to bring them in the store.

Happy Belated Earth Day!

Fresh Fish

2010-04-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

One thing I love about Hudson's Grocery is their selection of fresh fish. I've never eaten such fresh, yummy fillet's from any other grocery store- especially the chains. Hudson's has quite an array for being such a small market as well. Check out those stone crab claws, and up front in the small packages are scallops and or grouper cheeks. They are also known for their thick grouper and snapper fillets, as well as having salmon, flounder, pompano, and of course shrimp. The possibilities are endless for your dinner options when you have this wonderful of a selection to choose from!

But hurry- fresh fish never stays at Hudson's for long!

Recipe Time- Easy Healthy Chicken Layers

2010-04-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

Here is our first official Hudson's blog recipe- taken from the cookbook "Paws to Celebrate; Presented by the Greater Birmingham Humane Society Auxiliary."\

This is the perfect recipe for a warm spring or summer night, because it is light, easy and healthy. I paired it here with a hash brown casserole and (my favorite) a yummy fruit salad. Perfect for eating out on the patio and enjoying the sunset!

Preheat Oven to 350

Ingredients:

1 9 oz bag of fresh baby spinach

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

salt and pepper to taste

tomatoes, sliced, fresh

1 packet Italian Dressing

balsamic vinegar

2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated

angel hair pasta or orzo

mushrooms, optional

Such a colorful meal!

In a 9x13 dish, layer in order: spinach, chicken, salt, pepper, tomatoes and mushrooms. To make dressing, replace regular vinegar with balsamic and mix with Italian dressing. Pour over chicken and cover with cheese. Bake for 40 minutes or until chicken is done. Serve over pasta or rice.

Simple and Delicious!!!

Spotlight On...

2010-04-09T12:04:00.001-07:00

Theresa!!!!! This happy go lucky member of the team is always waiting on you with a smile on her face. Theresa works behind the cash register, and helps cook in the back- check out those yummy sandwiches she makes! The great thing about Theresa is that she knows everyone, a result of having worked on the island for so many years. since you can count on her to know your face when you walk in the door, here's your chance to get to know Theresa!

Artwork at Hudson's

2010-04-05T07:06:00.000-07:00

I thought you might enjoy a view of some of the artwork inside the store, especially if you have never been to Hudson's before! We've got pictures of tarpon,

the marina and more.

The lighthouse,

and of course, pink gas tanks galore!

Hudson's has food, drinks and lunches in the store, but we wanted you to see that we are so much more!

These are a few of my favorite things...

2010-03-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

When I walk into Hudson's Grocery, I know almost immediately what I will end up getting myself for lunch, or even just a yummy snack. I thought I would share my absolute favs for you this morning, just to get you thinking about food!

Wasabi Peas- for a good snack with a bite!

Egg Salad Sandwich- I love egg salad and this one is the best I've had.

There aren't words to describe how incredible this pimento cheese is. You just have to take my word for it and make it your next purchase immediately.

Nothing is better in the summer than PB and J, but this jelly is a must if you are preparing this American classic.

And finally to compliment these sandwich choices, there is nothing better than Cape Cod kettle cooked potato chips.

This is a new flavor, five cheese. Not shown are the classic, reduced fat classic, barbeque, and sea salt and vinegar.

But these are my absolute favorite- cheddar jack and sour cream, but mind you, they are so flavorful you often can't finish the bag. Yum!

So pack your picnic basket this afternoon and head to the beach with some sandwiches and chips and soak up the sun!

Caffeine High

2010-03-29T08:09:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love a little caffeine in the morning? There's nothing like that smell of coffee brewing to wake you up and get you going. Hudson's carries many of your classic brands of coffee (Maxwell House, Folgers, etc), but look how good these imported coffees look! Plus, with a price like that you can't go wrong.

Keep the Candle Burning

2010-03-23T07:47:00.000-07:00

Hudson's carries the most delicious smelling candles for your home. They come in four yummy scents: Boca Vanilla, Pina Colada at Sunset, Island Spice, and Pirate Butter Crunch. I have the Pirate Butter Crunch in my kitchen, and no joke, it smells just like a freshly baked cake- the smell is exquisite. These candles are great in that their smell fills up a whole room in minutes, not too strong, but not too weak either. The bonus factor? A sticker with the pink gas tank logo on the lid of the candle's glass jar! You can find them right behind the cash registers in the front of the store- stop by for one today!

Spotlight On...

2010-03-18T05:30:00.000-07:00

John, one of Hudson's Assistant Managers! John has been working at Hudson's for the past decade, so he really knows the ins and outs of the store. You will most certainly notice John around Hudson's because he is the brave soul who works in the freezers, so you're sure to see him in long sleeves. John works all over the store, stocking shelves, cutting meat, and helping customers- and always with a smile on his face. So meet John, and look for him next time you visit!

Easter Orders!

2010-03-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

Easter is April 4th this year, not too far away! If you are planning on a special Easter meal, make sure to get your orders into Hudson's soon. We will be happy to have your special cut of meat ready for you and your family! Also, please note we will be closed Easter Sunday.

Take Hudson's Home

2010-03-09T08:40:00.000-08:00

Whether you are a visitor to Boca Grande, or a resident, you may find that you want to take a little piece of Hudson's home with you at the end of the day. Well, the answer is simple; purchase some Hudson's paraphernalia! We have T-shirts: (shown in green, but may also be purchased in white, blue, or light green).

Coolers: (perfect for a day on the beach, they hold so much!)

Huggers: (these are the good kind that keep your drinks really cold.)

We also have hats with the pink gas tank logo embroidered on the front, and yummy smelling candles (more on these another day). A perfect souvenir or gift to take home from your trip to Boca!

Spotlight On...

2010-03-05T06:42:00.000-08:00

Karen, longtime employee at Hudson's Grocery and wonderful cook! Chances are, if you've come into Hudson's to grab a sandwich or lunch plate, you've eaten Karen's delicious food. Along with being a whiz in the kitchen, Karen Co-Manages the store with Phyllis and sees to the everyday processes of running a grocery store. Her latest accomplishment has been creating yummy soups to put in the freezer section of the store. Be sure to try these out along with her specialty- Friday's lunch of turkey and dressing made from a fresh cooked turkey. It's a little taste of Thanksgiving throughout the year.

The Wonderful World of Rotisserie

2010-02-26T05:28:00.000-08:00

What falls off the bone with ease, melts in your mouth on taste, and can be used for endless recipe's and meals? Why, it's rotisserie chicken, which if you are like me, and your attempts at boiling, baking, or barbecuing chicken leave you with dry overcooked poultry, then rotisserie is the answer for you! The best part is- it's cooked for you, ready to be picked up at Hudson's Grocery meat counter. Here is a link to ten family friendly meals (from Disney's website) that you can try at home with your fresh, warm rotisserie chicken, or just serve it right up with steamed veggies for a heart healthy dinner.

Chicken Recipe's

Spotlight On...

2010-02-23T05:39:00.001-08:00

Phyllis, the fearless leader of Hudson's Grocery Store! Phyllis is the store's manager, in charge making sure everything runs smoothly on a day to day basis. She purchases food and wine for Hudson's, keeping track of what sells and making sure Hudson's has what people want. She's your woman when it comes to special orders, questions or concerns. Check out this video to hear a little bit more about the lady in charge!

Wine Not?

2010-02-19T13:06:00.000-08:00

Hudson's has a great selection of wines to offer those vacationing on Boca Grande, or "Boca" as it is affectionately called. For such a small market, I am always impressed by the selection of various labels that the store manager, Phyllis, picks out. Some favorites include the Francis Ford Coppola wines from California, and the Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. I can't think of a better way to wind down the week than with a glass of vino and a beautiful Boca sunset. It makes me thirsty just thinking about it. Happy Friday everyone!

One of the shelves of wine in Hudson's

A little champagne for a special occasion?

And finally, a gorgeous Boca sunset!

Spotlight On...

2010-02-15T17:29:00.001-08:00

As one of the goals of this sight is to let the reader get to know those that work at Hudson's, we're going to start to spotlight a staff member each week. The wonderful people that work at Hudson's Grocery are some of the most down to earth, friendly and helpful people I have ever met, and it will be my pleasure to introduce them to you. This week, we will start with Smitty. The butcher at Hudson's, "Smitty" can help you with any questions you have regarding fish, meat, or poultry, as well as whip you up an incredible meatloaf. His most recent accomplishment is his work at the Bar-B-Que Grill, bringing Hudson's a second place win for best BBQ in Boca!

Fresh Produce

2010-02-12T12:16:00.000-08:00

Not like the clothing store, (although there is one around the corner :) ) but delicious, seasonally fresh fruits and vegetables to color up any meal. Be sure to try the sweet potatoes or pick up a pineapple, or my personal favorite, the kiwi fruit. One kiwi is packed with your daily value of vitamin C! Hudson's fruits and vegetables are delivered daily, and I love to pick an array of colorful fruits and make a huge fruit salad, put it in tupperware and snack on it all week. (See picture above)

Be sure to check the organic fridge near the produce for local and organic produce as well! Hudson's has a great selection of organic produce, and other products- but more on that later. Enjoy these pictures as just a sampling of what this market has to offer.

Welcome to Hudson's!

2010-02-08T17:14:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the official blog of Hudson's Grocery! Located on Park Avenue in the gorgeous and tropical Boca Grande, Florida, Hudson's is the place to go for fresh produce, fine wine, sumptuous meat and fish, or a yummy hot lunch plate. Tune in to this blog to keep up with the goings on at this local market, and to learn more about the people who work and shop at this favorite Island spot.