Chicken and Waffles
Soul food has returned to Tucson, says Pat Freeman, one of the owners of Auntie Dora's Porch, which recently opened in the old Molly G.'s location at 903 E. Fort Lowell Road. The family-owned eatery specializes in Southern staples—catfish, ham hocks, fried chicken, corn muffins and greens, to name a few—and Auntie Dora's will soon be serving chicken and waffles, a quirky dish that, to our knowledge, has yet to grace a Tucson menu. Hours are 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday; and 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Call 888-2772 for more info.
Basil Celebration
Basil thrives here in the Old Pueblo. I planted some varietals several weeks back, and they're already producing beautiful, usable leaves. But you don't need to break out the gardening gear to enjoy the fragrance and flavor of fresh basil, because the Oro Valley Farmers' Market (in the Town Hall at the corner of La Cañada and Naranja drives) is hosting a celebration of basil, tomatoes and garlic from 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday, July 18. Iron Chef Tucson titleholder Ramiro Scavo will offer cooking tips and recipes at 10 a.m., and it's free. Call 918-9811 for more info.
Kernels for Colonels
Sorority Kappa Delta Phi sends kettle corn to troops deployed overseas, but they need some help to really get things popping. Anyone interested in donating cash for the cause should report for duty at Copper Kettle Popcorn (3701 W. Ina Road; 572-4846; www.copperkettlepopcorn.com) from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, July 18. A $5 donation buys three bags of kettle or butter-flavored popcorn; $10 buys three bags in cheddar-jalapeno or candy-flavored varieties.
Wines and Felines
The Hermitage Cat Shelter is going through some tough times and hopes to raise money with a wine-tasting fundraiser from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, July 24, at Pastiche Modern Eatery (3025 N. Campbell Ave.). Wines suitable for a variety of palates will be poured, and appetizers will be served; $25. Call 571-7839, ext. 3, for more information.
Farmers' Market Openings and Closings
A new farmers' market takes place from 8 a.m. to noon, every Saturday, at Cat Mountain Station (2740 S. Kinney Road; 578-8795). The Friday farmers' market at the University of Arizona has closed.
