Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Happy New Year

I am sitting here at the keypad eating Haribo Gummy Bears and counting the days to a new year. This is alway a fun time of the year for me not just because of the holidays, but it is the end of year and that means data!. More data to review and look at. I am a numbers nerd and love looking at the "final" run of sales data, sales by flavor and everything. It is like looking back on a project or paint job that is completed and saying "wow can you believe we did that?" That feeling of accomplishment. Reviewing the numbers is like that for small business owners or for me at least. With January eveything is a clean slate. Everything is fresh.
I wrote earlier about new flavors for the new year and I just finished two more today in the gelato lab. I do wish I could say what they are but I should wait until everything is set. I can tell you that I made an Earl Grey Tea Gelato for Via Vite and will deliver that on Thursday. It is quite good. I was thinking of making some sandwiches using some McVities' Digestives for the cookie part and filling it with the gelato. If you have never had a McVitie digestive I suggest you try them. They are available at Jungle Jims in the England section. The new flavor offerings are going to give you a chance to explore some great new combinations and flavors. I hope you all have a great new year and thank you all for your support of Madisonos
Matt

Saturday, November 28, 2009

New Flavors are coming New Flavors are coming!

It is hard to believe that there is one month left in this most memorable year. Good riddens (sp?). Even though this year has been hard for many of my restaurant customers many are optimistic for 2010 and through careful planning have managed to stay in business. This past year I decided not to introduce any new flavors to the mix. Why? I wanted to refine my process from start to finish. I looked at everything and built models that would allow me to focus on the prinicples of Madisono's. Introducing new flavors disrupts that process. Madisono's is moving in a positive direction with respect to ingredients and process. It is my goal to offer the most natural product possible. I am please to say that this years work is paying off. I have some great new flavors that are moving out of the R&D mode and into production very soon.
What are they? Well I can not say right now but I can tell you that they are going to rock your taste buds! Look for them at Findlay Market as that is where I will make their debut.
I also wanted to mention that this year Madisono's will be at the Ballet for the sweet shop on Dec 20th. My friend Jay Kalagayan from The Know Theatre, is now the Director of Development for the Ballet. Congrats Jay. I should also note that in the most recent issue of Express, Jay includes Madisono's and Coffee Emporium as his guilty pleasurs. I will be at the sweet shop serving up all kinds of flavors and should have a sneak peak of some of those new flavors. I hope all of you had a good turkey or tofu day and enjoyed some Madisono's gelato with your meal.
Matt

Monday, November 23, 2009

Spiced Chai for the holidays

Once again I am making the spiced chai gelato. It is a combination of cinnamon, clove and cardamom spices mixed with my cream gelato base. It is a great compliment to any apple dish, pumpkin or coffee. I always feel like warming up with a hot cup of coffee and a scoop of spiced chai gelato regardless of the temperature in my house. There is something about the flavors that is warming. Look for it at College Hill Coffee Company, Whole Foods Mason, and Madison's at Findaly Market.
I also want to let you know about a new place that just opened. It is called Meals to Go. They are located on Winton Road Finneytown, 8592. The telphone number is 521-meal and everything is made from scratch. They focus on family dinners and corporate lunches. Madisono's has a freezer there with 11 flavors so you can get some good food to go and some gelato as well. Thanksgiving us fast approaching and soon the new year. I hope you all have a great holiday and try some cinnamon gelato on your pumpkin pie.
Thanks
Matt

Monday, November 9, 2009

November 9th already!!!

Yikes,
I just sat down to do my blog entry and realized that it was September 25th since my last entry. It is not that we have not been busy at Madisono's. Spice Chai is now available at Madison's at Findlay, Whole Foods and College Hill Coffee Shop. This is a great winter time favorite. I use my own blend of cinnamon, clove and cardamom to create this sweet delivery that actually warms me up. Yes sit down and warm up to an ice cold bowl of spiced chai gelato. I thinnk it has to do with the seasons. I always had hot chai made with milk over the years around the holidays and durring the cold weather. This is that memory in a bowl. Last Thursday I took part in the Dorothy Lane Market Fall Wine show and got to sample out some great flavors for all of the DLM customers. I also had the chance to meet Jenni and her husband Charles from Jeni's ice cream in Columbus. Her brother who is also in the business was there as well. They were very nice and we had lots to talk about. I love Jeni's ice cream and respect what she does in a big way. I have been eating her creations for some time now and have always loved her combinations.
Madisono's is starting at the Bean House in Covington on Tuesday. They will offer pints and pre scooped cups for eating on site. The end of October marked my one year with Bigg's and we are pleased at the response so far. I hope to have our products in the Colrain store in the next week or so. Thanks for all of your support over the last few years. We would not be here if it was not fro all of you guys.
Thanks
Matt

Friday, September 25, 2009

Make A Wish

This weekend is action packed for Madisono's Gelato. I need to tell you about a really cool thing that has happend. Madisono's is now packaging our gelato and sorbet under the Sustain Brand Label. This is a very unique concept started by Matt Kennedy of Kennedy Creative. Please see the links for more information. The concept is this Sustain Brands works with in a designated food web and sells the products only within 300 miles of the production location. They helpt cottage producers who are looking to build their business but find it hard to do so as a small vendor. The package not only tells the sustain brand story but it also tells about the producer of the food product. Madisono's does not loose any identity in the process. It is now being sold in the grocery department at Jungle Jims and at the New Richmond IGA. Sustain Brand will be at the Covington Food Fair this weekend with samples.
Madisono's is also proud to be a part of the Make A Wish Foundation fund raiser this weekend at ShakerRun Golf Club in Lebanon, Ohio. This is a great organization that has made a big difference in many peoples lives. We are offering our Madagascar Vanilla, Belgian Chocolate, and Lemon sorbet. These are going to be paired with a hand painted cookie that is shaped like a maple leaf. There is a person that makes these cookies and paints each one by hand! She is making 300 of them. Is is an honor to have been asked to participate. Thanks to all of you who took part in that very special event. I hope you enjoyed the gelato and sorbet.
What else? Well Midpoint music festival is going on and you can find Madisono's being served at Coffee Emporium and at their mobile gelato cart as well. I know the weather is not the best for cold treats on a rainy cool night but just think about that with a hot cup of espresso. Yum.
Matt

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Lunch on the Land



I added these photos from the Findlay Market site. Check out the link for more info and pictures.
This past weekend I spent in the country. Not far from city lights but in Indian Hill on Turner Farm for the first Lunch on the Land fundraiser for Findlay Market. I felt as though I was back in Adams County. For those of you who do not know I lived there for 5 years farming small fruits, shiitake mushrooms and vegetables. I could go on for hours about this event. I will look for a link to share. It was documented by a real production company and it will be aired on Channel 5 in a few weeks. I will get up as well. I had a great time with all of the chefs. The food was spectacular and the attendance was sold out. 160 people at one long table eating family style. I can not say enough about the organization and the spirits of all involved even while it rained. I partered with Summer Gimanetti from the Palace. We did a sudae with sweet corn gelato, homemade toffee popcorn, blueberry compote, and fresh whipped cream from Snowville Creamery. It was paired with a blueberry wine. Thanks to all of you who attended. I would write more but I have to get the kids from the bus. More to come later.
Matt

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Local 127

Tonight marks the opening of the new Local 127 on 4th Street. Chef Steven Geddes from Las Vegas has been shopping at my parents store working on recipes for the last month or so. Today Madisono's delivered 3 custom flavors for the gran opening. Bourbon, made with Woodford Reserve, Malted Milk, and a French Vanilla with cracked black pepper. They are also serving my Lemon Basil sorbet. I am eager to get there soon to try out many of the local ingredients they will be serving at Local 127. It is the dedication of chef's like Steve that make a food community work. Good luck to everyone at Local 127.
Matt

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Whispering Beard Festival




Shhhhhhh...... Quiet...........I think I hear a whispering beard!


Madisono's will be offering gelato and sorbet at the Whispering Beard Fesival.


Matt Williams a buddy of mine, he is the produce manager at Whole Foods Rookwood, is one of the founders of the Whispering Beard Folk Festival. Madisono's is excited to offer our all natural vanilla and chocolate gelato along with the lime cilantro sorbet and lemon basil sorbet. Both of which are vegan. I will be there Friday Saturday and Sunday. It is a three day event with camping, a lake and much more. Please check out the website for more information. I am sure this is going to be a big festival in years to come. This is the first year it is open to the public so come on down to the farm and say you were at the first ever Whispering Beard Folk Festival and had some of Cincinnati's First Gelato Company, Madisono's while taking in the sounds of Peter Rowan, Rumke Mtn. Boys and many more.

Cool Nights


I have been enjoying the cool nights. On Sunday my family enjoyed a fire pit in our back yard. the temperature and breeze was just perfect. Over the summer Madisono's has been using local basil for my lemon basil sorbet. These cooler nights and shorter days are beginning to show on the basil that is coming in. The leaves are no longer big, bold and meaty. There are more flowers on the tops, which have to be dicarded, the leaves are 1/1o the size of the early pickings. I farmed for my parents 5 years in West Union Ohio. The farm was certified organic through OEFFA and basil was one of my crops. We sold to several restaurants and to QueensGate Foods. At the peak of the season we would harvest 100 pounds a day. Observing the basil now it brings back fond memories of those days and also anxiety for my local basil farmer. I know and she knows that the first frost day is just around the corner. These cool nights are a tease for that and when it hits the basil is the first to go. It will not take even a nip. When that happens the harvest and cash flow stops. I tried covering with remay cloth but we had so much it was next to impossible.
When the basil stops I will seek out basil from the south and at some point it will be coming from California. We are all connected to these cycles some more than others. Many have lost their jobs from the current depression but farmers always lose their jobs when Jack Frost rolls around. I hope that you have had a chance to enjoy my lemon basil this summer. I expect the outlying areas will see one sometime late September or early Ocotober if we are lucky.
Matt

Friday, August 14, 2009

College Hill Coffee Company

College Hill Coffee Company is going strong. It may be that Tina is charged with espresso or maybe she just likes to share good things with her customers. We placed a freezer there about 4 weeks ago and she is doing a great job. They have a great lunch/ dinner menu and have some great music on Fridays and Saturday's. Chris Collier is playing tonight. Please see the link for more information.
If you have not been to the shop it is located at the corner of Hamilton and Northbend.
Matt

Room For Gelato

Congratulations to all of the gelato businesses featured in Polly Cambell's article on Wednesday! I was not aware of the location in Dayton KY. I can not wait to go for a gelato there. I have included the link for you to visit the site and read the article. Click here to go. This week has been a busy one. I will be delivering 3 new flavors to Oxford Ohio on Monday. 45 East and Tonic Sushi Bar will be serving Madisono's. The new flavors are Ginger Gelato, Bourbon Vanilla with Cherries and Tea with Lemon Sorbet. This one is really good. It tastes just like sweet tea with lemon but creamy and smooth. We brew the tea, add the lemon and use Madisono's sorbet science to create a remarkable textured sorbet. They are going to use it at the bar. I would like to thank Chef Paul Sturkey for helping out with this. He has been consulting and contacted me about flavor development for 45 East. I have always respected Paula and Pam for their contributions to our great city. I used to sell him mushrooms from the farm as well as blackberries when they were in Wyoming. That was a few years ago and we are still connected through food. Some bonds are hard to break. I will be doing a demo at Findlay Market on Saturday and one at Bigg's Hyde Park on Sunday. If you are in the neigborhood stop buy.
Matt

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Whole Foods and Local

Yesterday I had the oppertunity to smile for the camera. No one asked me to "work it" but Joe and I had a great time. Did you know tha Whole Foods has person that goes around and interviews their local vendors and takes pictures of them for display in the store. In about a month or so pictures and a brief bio will be displayed in the Whole Foods locations that serve Madisono's. Kate was a joy to work with. The two hours she was here went by very fast. I know she also met with Kinkaid Ridge Wines, Five Star Foodies and Snowville Creamery. It means alot to a small company that they are taking the time to do this at their cost and on their time. When people buy local products they are buying someone's passion and dream. Not to say that large brands do not have a place but local food products serve the local market. I buy from a local label company. I use local milk from a local dairy and so on. This helps to support other small businesses here in Cincinnati and in the surrounding area.
I am always impressed with Whole Foods at every level. I thought you might want to know that.
Matt

Sunday, August 2, 2009

City Beat and Madison's @ Findlay

A quick announcement. Please go to the link at this City Beat link for a great interview with Bryan Madison, my dad, on local foods available at their store. Check out the article in this week's City Beat on the use of the "local" link big business is trying to use on consumers. As a side note many of you may or may not know but in 2003 I came up with the Madison's Ridgeview Farm slogan. It was "Madison's Your Source for Local Flavor" I even had T-shirts made up. I had a nice quote from Ghandi on the back "To forget how to dig the earth and to tend the soil is to forget ourselves" That was done when I ran the certified organic farm in Adams County.
It was not long after we started wearing and selling those shirts at Findlay Market that Cincinnati Magazine ran a cover story called Local Flavor. They have been on the cutting edge of promoting local for years and so has City Beat. Keep supporting local products, local music and shopping in places where the owner is also working in the store. It makes a difference.
Matt

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Siverglades

Madisono's is now being sold in pints at SilverGlades on 8ths St. I will get the flavors on this blog early next week. Stop in and tell Craig thanks for supporting local.
Matt

Madisons at Findlay Market


My parents shop, Madison's at Findlay Market, 110 W. Elder St. continues to be our number one selling retail independent location. Madison's Shoppers buy more gelato and sorbet than any other retail location! As a big thank you to all of you Madisono's is providing a discount price to my parents so they can offer all of our flavors at $5.00. This is a $0.50 savings! I will be doing two demos this month and durring those demos we will be offering double stamps on our Pint Passport program. If you are not familiar with this program here it is. Buy a pint of gelat and get a stamp on your card. As soon as you buy 12 pints the 13th one is Free when you redeem your card!!!!!! I have some other extras for you that you will just have to see when you come down to Findlay Market. I hope to see you there. I will twee you all for the dates of the demos. If you are not following Madisono's on Twitter please consider it. I will only send you information that is important. Have great day. Also, my children are growing some great tomatoes in our back yard which my parents are selling for them. We are harvesting each week so ask for them.
Matt

Fleet Feet Lady Distance Classic


I do not know about many of you, but as an independant business owner long hours are just part of the gig. Today my alarm was set for 5:30 am and as usual I always spontaneously awaken a few minutes before it goes off. My wife is greatful. Saturdays are still an early to rise day for me but today was the Lady Distance Classic 5K and 10K race in Blue Ash sponsored by Fleet Feet. Vendors were to be set up by 6:45. Last year I had a summer time employee do it for me as I was out of town. I can say that I will not pass that job on to anyone else as long as I am in town. I had a great time! The morning was beautiful, the walkers and their families were a delight to serve. I have can not express how excited I was to be there. The energy just kept getting better and better as more people came to the tent to sample my gelato and sorbet. I started with Lime Cilantro Sorbet, Maple Wanut, Strawberry, Lemon Basil, Chocolate P-nut Butter Chunk, Lemon Sorbet, and finished with Banana Caramel Praline.
There were at least 75 other booths at the festival, food, fashion and information. The festival was held at the Blue Ash Civic Center on Cooper Rd. The walk raises money for womens health and fitness. Please consider stopping in to Fleet Feet for some great gear. Thanks to all of you who stopped by today. I hope you will consider purchasing a pint or two of Madisono's gelato and sorbet at a location near you. I will see you next year!
Matt

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

College Hill Coffee Company

I have never seen a customer get so excited about selling Madisono's! Tina has done a great job in merchandising and letting her customers know about Madisono's. Tina is selling pints, making some money for her store and bringing smiles to her customers. I am going to get some photos to share with all of you. If you have not been to the shop it is located at the corner of Hamilton and Northbend. Stop in and see for yourself.
Matt

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Back from some time off

I just returned from some time away. No internet connection. So no blog entries. A couple of announcements. Madisono's will start selling to the Front Stree Cafe in New Richmond on Thursday. They will offer pints and scoops. Check out thier web page for more information. It is not far away and has a great view of the Ohio River.
I am also pleased to announce that Andy's Mediterranean Grille will be serving our Pistachio gelato and an exclusive flavor, Pistachio Baklava. Made with Andy's Baklava. The new menu is being printed and we expect to start serving in two weeks.
Pistachio and Lime Cilantro are now available at all of our Bigg's locations so stop in and pick one up, tell your friends and neighbors. I have had many comments as to the application of the Lime Cilantro and Margaritas. Try it.
Matt

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

College Hill Coffee Company

Madisono's Gelato is excicted to announce that College Hill Coffee Company will now carry a fine selection of gelato and sorbet. I think they are going to offer it on the menu. I am excited about this development for many reasons. I grew up in College Hill and since Piazza Wines closed no one else could carry it. I think the concept of gelato and coffee is one that is a perfect match. Coffee shops here have not realized this. I am planning on installing the freezer today and pints should be available for sale tonight. So stop in to the coffee house and take in a slow cup and on the way out grab a pint and tell your friends and family if they live in the area. Your support will help two small owners who are passionate about what we do.
Matt

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Where to find Madisono's near you?

I am working on getting a fixed location on the web for the store list, but in the meantime travel to my website Madisonogelato.com for the link to the list of customers. You are just a few clicks away. Thanks
Matt

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Take the Cake

Madisono's Gelato is now offered at Take the Cake. I would encourage you to visit their website for more information. They are in a new location, still in Northside, and have a unique space. They now offer sandwiches as well as pastry and cakes to be eaten on site. Madisono's is kept behind the counter so you have to ask for it. We have 11 of our best flavors there. The next time you are there pick up a pint to go or ask for a spoon and eat it there.
Matt

Market Wine Tasting With Info

I had a great time yesterday! As you know I did tasting with Mike from Market Wines. The response was great. We had around 45 patrons. I had a great oppetunity to talk with everyone which is something that I do not get to do. What did we do?
Here it is. The first tasting was a Prosecco with Lemon Basil Sorbet. Many people enjoyed the two mixed into their glass, others just had the sorbet on the side. The second was St. Germaine liquor. This is unique in that it is made with Elderflowers. The partnering whith these two flavors was very well recieved. The last offering was Frambois Lambic with chocolate gelato. A beer float! It sounds, well a little strange, but this by far was the favorite. Mike and I are going to plan another tasting for August and his next tasting on Tuesday is going to be french. It is Bastille Day. Thanks to all who came, and tell your friends about market wines. All of Madisono's sorbets and gelatos are available at Madison's at Findlay. 110 W. Elder St.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Market Wine Tasting

Today from 3 to 6 I will be at Findlay Market. There is a great wine store there called Market Wines. It is a new additon to the Market. It is located on W. Elder St. just a few doors down from my parents store, Madison's at Findlay. Many people have been mixing our sorbet with different prosecco and alcoholic beverages and sharing these pairings with my parents. My Dad was talking with the owner, Mike, about putting together a tasting and here it is. I will be sampling lemon basil sorbet, pink grapefruit sorbet and chocolate gelato with a combination of beverages. Tuesday is also the farmer's market day at Findlay so if you are not doing anything you might want to stop by. Please check in at Market Wines for there wine tastings. I believe they do them on Saturday from 11 on and durring the week. I will post the exact mixes used today after the event so stay tuned.
Matt

Monday, June 29, 2009

Twitter

Madisono's Gelato and Sorbet is now on Twitter. I have to say that I am not realy sure exactly what that means. I think it is a way for me to bother a bunch of people at the same time or for them to bother me. I like being bothered so pleas follow Madisono's and send me tweets. I have to say that I quite like the name too. Summer is in full swing and so is our production. We have two new flavors going into Bigg's on July 13th. They are Pistachio and Lime Cilantro sorbet. The professional staff at Margot Madison Creative Stationarery has designed another set of labels for the full wrap around pint. They contain the nutrional labels, bar codes and two new factoids. If you have not noticed it each of our dedicated labels for a flavor contain a cool factoid about the flavor inside. Check them out sometime, you may learn something like cocoa pods only grow 15 degrees north or south of the equator!
I want to share a cool site with you. Robert Zins, who is part of the Madisono's team has a new project with his wife Julie. It is called Food Fight. It is a full blown production(you thought I was going to say food fight didn't you.) Check it out and let them know what you think.
In the next day or so I will let you all in on a special flavor that we have been working on for a great restaurant here in Cincinati. You will have to go there to get it. The chef and I also have plans to develop a few more flavors that will be unique. Stay tuned.
MAtt

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Destiny Cruise and Gelato

Last night I had the oppertunity to board the Destiny Cruise Yacht and tour with 75 friends of Public Radio. WVXU and WGUC had their thank you to many of the contributors of the stations. I am a public radio patron myself. Echoes on 91.7 has been part of my nocturn ritual every night. WGUC is background at home and what would life be like without NPR news? Anyway, I offered to donate gelato to the station durring the fund drive and Naomi said she had a better idea. How about serving on the Yacht Destiny? How could I resist? Everyone was a joy to talk to and it was a beautiful night. If you have not heard of Destiney Yachts please check out the link. The owners Mike and Sean are great. Their mom's help out as well as Mike's wife. The food was fantastic. The Wine Merchant provided wine and everyone had a good time. If you need a unique place for an event consider the Destiny.
I want all of you to know that Bigg's is offering a $0.50 off all pints of Madisono's until July 6th.
Matt

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Ride Cincinnati


Sunday June 14th was a beautiful day for a bike ride. That is what 1800 people did in an effort to raise money for breast cancer research. Cincinnati Ride was started by Allison Gordon who was a good friend of mine in high school. She lost her mother to breast cancer a few years ago and she was also diagnosed with the cancer as well. The event was at Sawyer Point/Yeatman's Cove on the river. They had many food companies there providing food for the riders and their families when done with the ride. Madisono's gelato set up and sampled gelato and sorbet to the delight of everyone there. I had some much needed help from another rider who helped me keep up with the demand. Thanks Karen! She is also involved in the Tour de Montgomery so if you want more information check out the link. Thanks to all who stopped by I hope to see you next year.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Bigg's Discounts for June

Bigg's offers Madisono's at 7 stores. They are Hyde Park, Mason, Highland, Florence, West Chester, Delhi, and Sky Top. Madisono's is offering $0.50 off the purchase of any flavor pint of gelato and sorbet starting June 6th and running through July 5th. The discount will scan at the register. If you find yourself at Bigg's pick up a pint or three and tak advantage of the savings.
Matt

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Gelato King

The City Beat "Hot" issue is out and they have given me the noble title of Gelato King! Thank you City Beat and thank you to all of the City Beat readers. If you have not had a chance to check out the issue pick one up today. It is loaded with good stuff.
This weekend is loaded with cool Gelato and Sorbet news. Let me first review last week. On Saturday I traveled to Colombus Ohio to Hills Market for the Annual Salmon Roast. Wow! what an event. I have no iedea how many pounds of salmon they had but it was much. I had the great pleasure of sampling over 500 portions of Dark Chocolate Orange, Mocha Chip and Lemon Basil Sorbet to all who waited in line. I also met a really cool owner of a comapany out of Colombus called Little Rosie's dressings and marinades. http://www.littlerosies.com. Pam was serving her dressings on a mini salad. Very cool.
This week we are sending some gelato and sorbet down to the Know Theatre. The Fringe Festival is in full swing this week. Madisono's has been a proud partner of The Know Theatre. For each opening we donate gelato and sorbet so people can have a sweet treat at the end of the show. It is a great way for people to taste my products and it also allows the theatre to offer something with out additional expenses. I am delivering a fine selection today, so if you are down there be sure to get a scoop.
Sunday night I am providing gelato and sorbet to the annual meeting of Maiytres Cuisiniers De France. This is a delagation of chefs, pastry chefs and food professionals from Canada and France. Every year they meet and this year it is Cincinnati. I have been asked to speak at the meeting and I am looking forward to it. I will let you know more about after the event.
Matt

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Eclectic Curio Coffee House

Friday is fast approaching thank goodness. This has been one busy week. I want to let all of you know about a great coffee shop in the Eastgate area. It is the Eclectic Curio Coffee House. It is owned by Sherri and Brian. They love the shop and it offers some unique items including furniture. Please see the link for more information. I dropped off a tub of French Vanilla, Lemon Basil Sorbet, Mocha Chip and Chocolate Gelato. They will be offering it to their customers for free as a way to introduce it to them. They will also start with pints in the next week or so. I am excited to work with them. If you get a chance stop in for a cup. From State Rt 32 going East turn right on Glen Este and then turn left into the strip just past the Golden Coral.
This Saturday I will be in Columbus for the Hill's Market Salmon Roast. I will be sampling Gelato and Sorbet. This is the first year for me and they say that the crowds are huge. If you are in Columbus stop by for some free salmon. Check out the link for more information.
Matt

Saturday, May 16, 2009

Findlay Market


Did you know that Madisono's is available at Findlay Market? My parents Bryan and Carolyn own and operate Madison's at Findlay Market. It is a small specialty food store featuring many local products, organic produce, all kinds of fresh and dried mushrooms and the only source for Lookout Joe Coffee. I stuck in this photo of some blackberries from the farm. They should be available in July. I started working with my parents at Findlay 12 years ago. The beginning was with a 3 x 3 cardboard table. I sold organic produce from the farm and the business has grown since then. The store was firebombed in the riots. The Current location is 110 W. Elder St. This was the new location as the old one was toasted. Madison's at Findlay offers the larges selection of Madisono's Gelato and Sorbet in the City! They also offer small individual cups ready to eat. I would like to invite you to visit my parents store and Findlay Market as well. With the farm season is full swing you are sure to find a local farmer, or cheese maker that will have a great story about the products they sell. My mom always says to customers that Madisono's is made by her son. I hope to get to Findlay for a demo as soon as the soccer season is over. I hope to meet you there some day.
Matt

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Dorothy Lane Markets Dayton Ohio in Full Swing!

Dorothy Lane is running a special on the gelato and sorbet. They are moving alot of product which means that we are making alot. We have been very busy keeping up with the orders. All of us have enjoyed the extra pressure and excitement of serving a great customer. Just when you think you have everything figured out it always changes. That is why I love my job and my business. Everyday is an adventure!
Matt

Sunday, May 10, 2009

Dorothy Lane Pastry Show 2009


In April I had a great oppertunity to participate in the Springtime in Paris Pastry Show at Dorothy Lane Market in Springboro. This was the 2nd year participating in the show. We debuted the private label DLM Gelato in April of 2008 at the show! Since that time we have added three new flavors and very soon we will be adding Pistachio. I must direct you to the web site for DLM and check out the pastry show information as well as the wine show. If you love food and wine you must consider attending. The Dorothy Lane team is incredible. They are a one of a kind organization. Customers, quality and service are there priority and it shows. One step in any of their stores and you will know what I am talking about. It would be worth a trip to Dayton for the experience.
Matt

Martha Stewart Ice Cream


Saturday May 9th, I had the pleasure of working with Rita Heikenfeld, Macy's Culinary Coordinator, Chef Deb Goulding from Chef's Choice Catering and two very special guests Marissa and Vickie from Martha Stewart Magazine. Marissa and Vickie flew in from New York to talk about the great products available from Marthat Stewart. They featured several table settings, picnic options and many fine products available at Macy's from the Marthat Stewart line.

I have worked with Rita many times in the past and have done three of these Macy's events to date. All of them are great fun. The first was with Chef Rick Bayless last year. I prepared Horchata gelato for his audience. Horchata is a Mexican inspired cocept of cinnamon and lime zest. In April I provided Dark Chocolate Gelat for Andrea Robinson. She was in town discussing wine parings and foods. This brings me to the title. In the spirit of keeping everythin Martha, I used her recipe from the web site and magazine for her Vanilla Ice Cream. I prepared the ingredients exactly they way the recipe called for and wound up with a very smoothe and creamy rich ice cream. I used Nielsen Massey two fold bourbon vanilla. I have to say that this flavor brought back many memories for me. This basic recipe is one that we all have had as kids whenever there has been a salt and ice ice cream maker used at family gatherings and picnics.

We served the ice cream in cups with mini cones to the delight of everyone there. I will get some fo the links over the next few days and add them to the post.
The picture is of Marissa, Chef Deb Goulding, Me, Vickie

Matt

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Cincinnati Magazine Favorites

In this month't issue of Cincinnati Magazine, Madisono's is listed under the Ice Cream Box. It states that in addition to several other brands of local ice cream there are pints of Madisono's Pink Grapefruit sorbe and Lemon Basil sorbet in the freezer as well. Choice is a good thing. I feel greatful that Madisono's is listed and excited about the fact that this is becoming a recognized brand! I would also like to share with all of you the excitement about Madisono's 3 year anniversary. Yes on April 20th of last year, some of the first pints of gelato and sorbet were made. It seems like not that long ago. It feels good to be Cincinnati's first gelato company.
Matt

Sunday, April 19, 2009

WVXU

Wow,
I had the great oppertunity to be a guest on Cincinnati Edition this morning. I had a great time doing the interview with Naomi. She had some great questions and I hope you all enjoyed the interview. I have an updated list of retail accounts for your review. Enjoy
Matt
Where to find Madisono’s Gelato & Sorbet
Retail locations
Madison’s at Findlay Market
Whole Foods Rookwood Plaza
Whole Foods Mason
Whole Foods Columbus Upper Arlington
Whole Foods Columbus Dublin-Granville
Whole Foods Louisville KY
Amazing Grace Whole Foods Louisville KY
Raisen Rack Columbus
Weilands Columbus
Hills Market Columbus
Carfagna’s Columbus
Keller’s IGA Clifton
Dillonvale IGA Amberly Village
Carl’s Deli Hyde Park
Sunshine Foods Hyde Park
Wyoming Wines Wyoming
Wyoming Meat Market Wyoming
The Wine Store Montgomery
Lookout Joe Mt. Lookout
Dilly Deli Mariemont
Meiner’s Meats Bridgetown
Pipkins Blue Ash
Luiggi’s Olde World Market, Pisgah
Keegan’s Seafood Anderson
Piazza Discepoli Wine Merchants Glendale
Ferarri’s Little Italy
The Party Source Belleview Kentucky
Jungle Jim’s
Kremers’ Market Crescent Springs Ketucky
Cork and Bottle Crescent Springs Kentucky
Pitrellis Mason
Dorothy Lane Markets (Private Label)Dayton Ohio
Inspiring Kind, Anderson Twp
Beacon Foods Clough Pike Anderson
Bigg’s Mason
Bigg’s Anderson
Bigg’s Highland
Bigg’s Hyde Park
Bigg’s Delhi
Bigg’s West Chester
Bigg’s Florence
Hilton Netherland Plaza (room service menu)
Remke Market Buttermilk Pike
Restaurant locations
Baressis Deer Park Iron Horse Inn
Boca Oakley Stone Creek Montgomery
Nicola’s Downtown Rue Du Maine Dayton
Via Vite Downtown Hyde Park Tavern
Nectar Mt. Lookout Quarter Bistro Mariemont
Ferarris Little Italy Madeira Lavomatic OTR
Embers Montgomery Nada Downtown
Pitrellis Mason L Auberge Dayton
Kokka Coffee Mt. Adams
Cincinnati Country Club Otto Covington KY
Essencha Tea House Oakley
Manor House Pompillio’s
Edge Cliff Room Prima Vista Price Hill
Nada Downtown Madison’s Bistro Dayton

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Whewwwww!!!!!

It is hard to believe that one week has gone by and not one blog entry. For those of you who have been checking sorry for the busy signal. I really mean busy signal. With three kids in soccer and all kinds of things going on I sometimes just forget to update so here it goes.
In the last week we did a great demo at Hyde Park Bigg's for Earth Day. There were at least 15 local vendors sampling thier products among other attractions. Even a milk cow. A real cow! I debuted the Lime Cilantro sorbet at Findlay Market this past weekend to rave reviews. I also sent some to Kellers IGA in Clifton. If you want to try it stop in and pick up a pint. We also have individual servings at Findlay Market to eat on the go. We had our first demo at Whole Foods Dublin. Which if you have not been there is just an awsome store. I delivered some gelato to the store and stopped by The North Market to Pick up some Jeni's Ice Cream. I do like Jeni's. I have written about her before so look in the archive. The rest of the week we have been working on maintaining production as the weather gets warmer the sales go up. Yea. Stop by your local retailer for Madisono's and if anyone wants to try our new Pinenut gelato you can get it at Boca.
Matt

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Concertnova

Sunday nights are reserved for a relaxing night infront of the Television watching Masterpiece theatre sipping tea. I watch very little programmed television. I am a Masterpiece Theatre nerd. Little Dorrit is playin in 5 parts which means that for the next 4 weeks I am booked on Sunday. I broke from that tradition this past Sunday to serve gelato at the most recet Concertnova perfomance at the Metaphore building in OTR. The performance was a blend of theatre and music that was facinating. I am not going to dicuss the content but encourage you to go to Concertnova's website and find out for yourself. You will be amazed! I hope you would consider attending a performance in the future. Madisono's is going to partner with Concertnova for future events to serve gelato and sorbet at the end of the show. This past Sunday, many people lingered and talked while spooning Dark Chocolate Orange, Hazelnut, French Vanill and Pink Grapefruit Sorbet. I saw some friends I had not seen in a while and recognized many from Findlay Market. Please check their site for upcoming performances I beleive that there is one in May.
I missed Little Dorrit part 2 but the great thing about PBS and Masterpiece is that I can view on line and catch up for the next part. I just love PBS!

Friday, April 3, 2009

Best of The City City Beat 2009!!!!!!

Thanks to everyone who voted in the 2009 Best of Cincinnati for City Beat. It is an honor. I know that Madisono's is valued by the readers and this proves it. It realy feels good to have something be recognized and I want to say congratulations to all of the other winners in this years Best of Cincinnati. Keep up the good work.
Matt

Thursday, April 2, 2009

To Chip or not to Chip

I have been working on a new flavor that I hope to debut sometime very soon. The issue is to include chocolate chips or not. I temper my own chocolate for all of our chips and they are mixed into the gelato by hand. This allows us to get the flake style chips that are unique to Madisono's. In my focus groups many people have said that they prefer a chip inclusion and other have said that it is better with out. What to do? It is not possible to offer both. I thought I would share that with all of you and I guess that when it is time to debut the new flavors only then will we know what it will contain. If you have any input please share.
Matt

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Pistachio Recall

I want to let all of you know that the pistachio recall from California does note effect Madisono's Pistachio flavor. Our ingredints are sourced from Italy and are tested. Thanks
Matt

A Whole Week

Well, if you have been reading the blog I appologize for not posting for an entire week. A long weekend spen in the country un plugged from everything but a radio was nice. No gelato shops though. The best we got was UDF ice cream. The kids went for cotton candy. Do not expect a Madisono's cotton candy gelato anytime soon. We have been busy at work here working on catching up on production. Yesterday I had a visit from Chef Owen Mass and the bartender from Chalk. We talked gelato and sampled some. Chef Owen is at Cumin preparing all of the desserts. I think there will be some oppertunity to get creative. Owen has been known to serve pop rocks as well as deconstructed anything. I have much to do today so I will keep this short.
Matt

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Hills Market


I have just returned from one of the best sample days I have had in a long time. Late in October I ventured out to Columbus Ohio to meet with some unique stores in an attempt to grow my gelato business. One such place was Hills Market located on Olentangey Road just north of 270. I met with Preston, one of the managers there, and I knew this was a great place for Madisono's. The ice cream section has one of the largest selections of Ohio products I have ever seen. Throughout the entire store they had signs showing off local products. Needless to say they ordered 12 flavors on the first order!
Today I sampled several gelato and sorbet flavors for the annual Ohio Market Day. There were many vendors there sampling all kinds of products. I also had the oppertunity to share some recipes and tips on making gelato at home to a very attentive audience. Thank you all who took the time to learn today. (if you are looking for the recipes please contact me at this link and put Hills Market in the title mattmadison80@hotmail.com )
Demos are the only way I can meet customers and intoduce my products to new ones. So many people had a positive response to tasting Madisono's that I am sure we will be able to build the line. We offer many more flavors that what they stock currently. If you had a chance to sample and made a purchase, Grazie! and please tell your friends about us. I love to share a new find with friends. Madisono's is available at these Columbus locations as well. Whole Foods Dublin and Arlington Heights, Weilands, Carfanga's and Raisen Rack. I want to express my grattitude and appreciation to Hills Market for the invitation. We will be back for the Salmon Roast as well as The Wild Goose Event.
If you are new to my blog please go to madisonogelato.com for a complete list of all our customers in Cincinnati, Columbus and Louisville. See you soon.
Matt

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Relationships

Madisono's has had a long standing relationship with Chef David Faulk of Boca and Nada restaurants. Much of his culinary talent have been with him since the early days when Boca was located in Northside. I used to sell to Chef David at the Northside Farmers Market. He would shop the market with his crew and go back with some of the freshest ingredients in town. I used to provide them with squash blossoms for a dish they made there. They were filled with ricotta cheese, battered and fried. Now that I am in the gelato and sorbet business I always jump at a chance of creating a real flavor for my long time customers. I have been asked to create for other chefs and I am sad to say that their enthusiasm for unique flavors wanes when it comes time to purchasing their requested flavors. In my eagerness to please I am proud to say that I have been able to dicern who is for real and who is not. We do not do this for just anyone. So.... when Chef Mitch asked me to work on a new flavor for Nada I took the challege because I know they are serious. I can not disclose what the flavor is at this time but it is very good and quite uniqe.
In the same week another great customer, Chef Chris from Prima Vista called and asked for a new flavor. Chef Chris has been a great supporter of Madisono's. When I first went to talk to him about Madisono's he was already using a gelato supplier from out of state. He said he would consider my products if I would consider making a banana caramel praline. This is paired with their bread pudding and is quite famous there. At the time I did not make such a flavor but in my desire to please I did and Chef Chris agreed to use 100% Madisono's after that. So his request for a new flavor is sincere and I know he will use it. The flavor we are making for Prima Vista is Pinoccate or pine nut. I make my own paste for this flavor and all I can say is that it is a wonderful flavor. If eats like dream. Sorry there are no plans to package this flavor into pints so if you want to try it you will have to go to Prima Vista. It is not on the menu until some time in April.
I value my relationships with my chefs and my customers. It is my hope that you, my customers, will read this and know how much your support of Madisono's is valued. If we ever leat you down please let me know.
Matt

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Garnish Catering

Madisono's is proud to announce our first delivery of gelato and sorbet to Garnish Catering in Blue Ash. I have been looking forward to this for some time. Chef Kim Baretta has used our products over the last year for classes and events. Much of what they do at Garnish is to provide take out meals. The ability to compliment a dessert with Madisono's is now possible! I provided Kim a freezer with a decal on top and bottom. The pints are merchandised upright. This is my first attempt to use energy efficient freezers. They do not have glass tops or stand upright, but as long as people can see what is inside I believe it will work. If you have not ever been to Garinsh I encourage you to stop in. They are located at 9468 Kenwood Rd. Also check out their web page. Chef Kim has spent time abroad and has an impressive resume.
Matt

Friday, March 13, 2009

Art Work


This week marked one of the busiest weeks this year. Actually it maks the one of the busiest weeks this year and a good part of last year. In Februrary I made a decision to raise prices on gelato and sobet pints. The cost increase was minor to the cost increases I have seen over the last year. This is the first cost increase to my customers since the Madisono's was founded in April of 2006! I always agonize over these kinds of decisions. When I started I could buy a 50 Lbs. bag of sugar for $14.50. They now cost $22.50. That is a 55% cost increase for an ingredient that we use in large amounts. Everything from paper pints, vanilla, milk, cream and our imported ingredients from Italy have all taken huge cost increases. I still have vendors that charge fuel surcharges despite the decrease in fuel prices.

Back to being busy. We are all very excited about the increase in sales in the retail and restaurarnt part of the business. I believe in my customers and I feel that they believe in me. I have always tried to deliver the best gelato and sorbet. The repeat business affirms that in some way that what we make is good and worth a repeat purchase. I find hope in this that despite the economic crisis people are still making purchasing decisions that support a local economy. I often wonder if people are buying more Graeter's instead of Hagen Daaz or Ben and Jerry's because the local economy needs it. The linkages to my business reach Ohio dairy farmers and many other small business right here in Cincinnati.

I started out to tell you about our new artwork so here it is. Look for the Madisono's Van on the road and if you see us honk 2x


Matt

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Five Star Foodies

As I continue to develop my business and my blog, I want to share other local food companies located right here in Cincinnati. I see this blog as not only your view into the Madisono's Gelato and Sorbet Company, but a window into the life of small food business. They are Five Star Foodies. They produce by hand, vegan and vegetarian foods that are sold locally and abroad. They can be found at Whole Foods and many other store in Cincinnati, Louisville, Columbus and now Washington DC. We are both frozen food producers so we have teamed up to partner on deliveries in an attempt to reduce our carbon footprints and create economies for our small businesses. We both sell to many of the same out of town store and Valerie Williams has been very helpful in providing leads for Madisono's. If you have not had thier products I suggest you go to the website for more information.
Matt

The perfect Peach


As I develop my blog I want to include some photos and videos of what we are doing at Madisono's. My wife alsways seems to have the camera at her store, Margot Madison Creative Stationery. She also has a blog. Check it out. I think she wants to keep it so she can add photos on her blog. Maybe we need another camera. In these times of economic consolidation I don't think so. Why spend $150.00 on another digital camera? I just need to remind her to bring it home. With the weather getting warmer I though I would post these photos of the peaches we used last year. They were sweet and juicey peaches from South Carolina. We processed them and then used them in our peach proseccco sorbet and peach gelato. Tty not to drool. My mouth yearns for peaches like this.

Matt

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Indiana Live

Today and yesterday were spent producing gelato and sorbet for the Indiana Live! Casino in Indanapolis. They have placed another order with Madisono's and all of us at the plant are very excited about this. Joe has been doing an incredible job running the prodution while Robert tends to deliveries and inventory. We delivered to Columbus on Tuesday, Whole Foods Dublin and Whole Foods Arlington Heights. I should also mention that The Hills Market, Carfanga's, Weilands and The Raisen Rack also stock Madisono's Gelato. I will be at The Hills Market on March 21st from 12 to 2 participating in their Spring Demo Day. It is hard to believe that we are selling in Columbus. I can not wait to share more of our fine gelato and sorbet flavors with the people of Columbus. They have a great appreciation for ice cream. Check out Jeni's if you do not know about it. She does some incredible things with ice cream. I love her style. Today we delivered to Dorothy Lane Market in Springboro Ohio. I would also like to share with you my excitement about our magnetic decals for the delivery van. I will post a photo ASAP. Now everyone will know what is inside! Today also provided an oppertunity to make an old time favorite, ginger gelato for Embers. They are serving it with their pineapple upsidedown cake at the Wine Festival on Thursday. There are many cool things happening in the coming days so I will keep you informed. I was asked by Chef Henry Warman from the Savanah Center to provide our lemon thyme sorbet for the meeting of the American Culinary Federation this Sunday and Barrisis wants to use some of our flavor on the 12 chefs 12 kitchens event coming up in April. Thusday is chocolate and more chocolate
Matt

Monday, March 9, 2009

The Art of Food

I spent Saturday night in the company of friends, foodies and some of Cincinnati's best culinary talent. The Art of Food was held once again at the Carnagie Arts Center in Covington. This event showcases local artist who make unique art from food as well as local chefs and organizations. At the invitation of Chef Cristian Pietoso from Via Vite, I came ready to serve the award winning Scroppino drink. This is the signature drink at Via Vite and Nicola's. It is made with Madisono's Ruby Red Grapfruit Sorbet (made exclusively for Chef) prosecco, and grapefruit vodka. In addition to the Scroppino Chef Cristian also served sushi grade scallops with a light olive oil, onion, carrot and parsley delivery. Many people commented on the fact that the scallops were the best dish of the night. They also thought the Scroppino was excellent.
Chef Chris Burns from Jean Ro was next to us as was Chef Gregg Gimanetti and his wife Summer. Lavomatic served up some home made cracklings with rabbit and Quarter Bistro had a great short rib. One highlight of the night was meeting the host of the Midnight Gourmet show on WCIN Chef Keith Tolbert. He was featured in this weeks CitiBeat. He has a realy cool story and is working on a cooking show at WCET. It is set to go national. He interviewed many of the chefs at the event and myself. It was a good time I encourage you to look for it next year. It is a great event.
Matt

The Art of Food

Saturday night was spent in the company of friends, foodies and chefs. At the request of Chef Cristian Pietoso from Via Vite and Nicola's, I joined him at their table to help serve. They were serving sushi grade scallops with olive oil, onions, carrots and parsley. Many people said that this was the best dish at the event. We also served samples of the award winning Scrapino

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Dorothy Lane Markets Dayton Ohio

Dorothy Lane Markets in Dayton and Springboro Ohio have been selling gelato and sorbetto under the Dorothly Lane Market label. Madisono's is the proud producer of these great produts. It even says so on the side of every pint. Calvin Mayne and the team at DLM wanted their customers to know that they were using the highest quality gelato and sorbetto avaialable and that it was made locally. At the present time Madisono's produces 11 flavors for the DLM label. We are proud to announce two more that will be available in April. They are Pistachio and Straccaitella.
The Pistachio is made with 100% all natura pistachio paste and our all natural cream gelato base. We are mixing in large pieces of pistachios for a unique taste experience.
The Staccaitella (chocolate chip) is made with our all natural gelato base and pure vanilla. We then add, by hand, our secret mix of chocolate to the frozen gelato for the perfect delivery of vanailla and chocolate. If you are in Dayton please stop in and pick up a pint of Dorothy Lane Gelato and Sorbetto.
Matt

Friday, February 27, 2009

New Flavors

Today we finished a few deliveries and production runs of coconut chip gelato and pistachio. We delivered the coconut chip to Nada and packed pistachio into pints for our retail customers. When that was done Joe and I had a chance to get our samples into action. We are working on developing an espresso flavored gelato. So our mission is to produce the best espresso gelato we can. We put together 4 batch runs with different formulas for each. We now get to sample these finished gelato to friends and family and get their opinion on each one. Using that data I can then continue to formulate new blends until we the right one. The fun is all of this is the sampling. At some point it would be great to have some of you be a part of this process. Would you like to? Please contact me at 772-3920. I am not at liberty to disclose all of my formulas or intentions with this new flavor as this is an open forum for all to see. I expect to continue working on this for several more weeks until we get it where we want it. And when we do......hold on to your hat!
Matt

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Samples and More Good Samples

Today is a good day at Madisono's. We have just received many new samples. We are always looking to make better gelato and sorbet, and that means sourcing the best ingredients. As the brand develops it is difficult or impossible to make changes to existing products. We have not made any changes to existing flavors, but the new flavor research has allowed me to get creative. I am able to start with or basic base and then build a flavor on that foundation. The most important element now is to do it as clean as possible. The imported ingredients come with some color additives. If I can make a new flavor without that then why not do it? We have several new flavors in development that I would love to share with my customers. When they are ready I will release them. As I seek to understand the science behind flavor and texture I find myself deconstructing and rebuilding to my own blueprint, Madisono's blueprint.
Matt

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Cincinnati Magazine Summer Issue

Here is a link to Madisono's mention in Cincinnati Magazine. Enjoy it.
Matt

Tuesday February 24th

Today Joe returned from vacation and it was nice to have him back. WOXY continues to play some great music and how fortunate are we that get to listen all day with out any interuptions. When the batch freezer and other equipment is running it can be quite loud so we just turn up the volume. Our discussion today was how web sites may not be as important as we think. Madiosono's needs a web page, that is for sure. I feel like we can get more information on a medium such as this blog than a page that needs to be updated. The problem for me is that I do not know how to do that. In the life of running a business and family there are just some items that can not be mastered. The cost of updating the page on a weekly basis does not justify the return. I may change my opinion on that but for every dollar that I spend on something like a web site I have to be able to get that back. The question is how. When we seek to sell off the web there will be an oppertunity to develop that aspect of the business and the ROI.
Matt

Monday, February 23, 2009

Indiana Live Casino

I am pleased to announce that Madisono's recieved our first PO# from Indy Live Cansino. We will be featured in 4 restaurants and the cafe. The cafe has allowed us to package bulk gelato and sorbet into 5 liter pans. This is the same way it is done in Italy. They have a 12 flavor case. I am sure it is going to look very inviting. This is a great oppertunity for Madisono's as it now allows us to penetrate the Indianapolis market for pints and other restaurants. Our first order will be delivered next week some time. We are working this week on building the initial order.
Matt

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Jean Ro Bistro

Executive Chef Chris Burns asked me to produce a smoked honey gelato. Chef Chris is smoking many ingredients in house using an alto sham smoker. Chris provided a bold honey infused with smoke. The honey is from local hives. The gelato was smooth and creamy. The honey and smoke are neck and neck in delivery. The honey is forward in flavor only in that the time it takes for the smoke to register as "is that realy smoke?" in the brain. I recal the experience in taking a drink from a coke can that has been filled with water. The intial reaction is to spit out the unknown content not recognizing the familiar taste of water. I think the unexpected taste of smoke is one that would come as a surprise. Chef Chris and I will be working together on many projects. His passion for molecular gastronomy is unique. Chef Chris is the first chef that I have met that knows what I want to do with Madisono's and can see the oppertunities to explore. I sold gelato to Jean Ro Bistro over a year ago and at that time we did not disclose our passion for this science. This may be a recent development for him. I look forward to working with Chef Chris in the future. We now have a court so let's play ball.
Matt

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Cincinnati Magazine Restaurant Issue

The Cincinnti Magazine Restaurant Edition is out and Madisono's is proud to announce that 6 of the top 10 serve Madisono's!
They are in order of rank.
1. Orchids at Palm Court: Chef Todd Kelly. Spiced Chai and Lemon Basil available on the room ervice menu. New flavors will be added durring the year.
2. Nicola's: Chef Cristian Pietoso serves Dark Chocolate Orange, Zabione, Apricot, Mocha Chip, French Vanill, Passion Fruit Sorbet, Red Ruby Grapefruit Sorbet (made only for Chef Cristian) and Hazelnut Gelato.
3. Boca: Chef David Faulk serves Mocha Chip, Passion Fruit Sorbet, Hazelnut, Red Raspberry Sorbet and Pink Grapefruit Sorbet
4. Via Vite: Chef Cristian Pietoso serves Dark Chocolate, Ruby Red Grapefruit, French Vanilla, Lemon Sobet, and Mocha Chip
6. Nectar: Chef Julie Francis serves Dark Chocolate Orange
7. Cumin: Chef Yajan serves Pear Cardamom Sorbet and Pink Grapefruit Sorbet with Lavender. Chef Yajan wants to work with Madisono's to develop some custom flavors for the restaurant that will be nothing less than inspiring.
Via Vite and Nicolas make a great drink called a Sccrapino (sp?) and Boca make a mean grapefruit martini.
Matt

Madisono's Gelato is Blogging!



Welcome to the official Madisono's Gelato Blogsite! This is where we will update you on current accounts and what we are doing! Subscribe and visit often!! It has been almost a year since my good friend Lisa Hazen (lisahazendesign.com) put together a rough draft for the Madisono's web page. It is still in the rough draft stage a year later. I hope to have some content for that soon. The biggest barrier is time. I have decided to enter into the world of bloging with the help of Margot Madison (margotmadisonstationery.com) to keep you updated on new locations, tastings and other developments within Madisono's. I hope to hear from you. What do you like about Madisono's? What don't you like about Madisono's? Please feel free to share your experience. Your input will be part of the wind that sails this ship. Every day Robert and Joe, my two employees, have a great time listening to WOXY or Radio Paradise via the internet. One of the best parts about my job is that we all get to listen to music all the time! WGUC is great as well as WNKU. The Friday all request is unbeatable. We are always talking about ideas or marketing plans. How can we make Madisono's the best? What should we put on the T-shirts? Now we can hear from you. I love making gelato and sorbet. It has been almost three years and I still wake up ealy to get to work because I love it so much. Welcome and spead the word and eat pick up a pint of Madisono's .
Matt