It doesn’t matter what language you speak, a nice, cold beer is the perfect remedy for a muggy, looks-like-it’s-going-to-rain-for-the-thousandth-time kind of day. Instead of cursing Mother Nature, swing by Eagle Provisions in Brooklyn’s South Slope and pick up one of the 1,500 brews in stock. Then sit back, prop your feet up, pop open that can/bottle/keg and let the cool, bubbly liquid take you away to a happier climate.

Known to many as “The Old White Eagle Market,” this grocery and delicatessen offers an impressive stash of imported European goods, fresh baked breads and kielbasa, but in the summertime I just can’t get past the beer. Everyone–from die-hard beer connoisseurs to those drawn to bottles with cute labels–can find what they’re looking for here. And don’t be mislead by the small offering of beer up by the front registers–there’s a whole beer room to your right! The selection can be a bit daunting, but friendly owner John Zawisny will eagerly help you navigate the stock and point out his current favorites. John and his brother Richard have been at the business for 30 years and watched the clientele (and their requests) change dramatically. more…

Rebecca Currie writes the blog Less Is Enough and was recently featured in the NY Daily News.  This North Carolina woman’s mission is to eat fresh food on $1/day.  On March 7th she made a nice helping of yakisoba, Japanese fried noodles.  The recipe she said came from a friend and she walks the reader through the whole process of making the dish.  In these economic times it is important to watch the wallet, but not necessary to skimp on taste and health.  Check out more of Currie’s posts to see how you can not only eat healthy and cheaply, but also explore other food cultures in the process.