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In this special 50th interview of the Port City Plate Podcast, host Chris Andrews sits down with Deborah DeGuire, the longtime owner of the A&M Peanut Shop in Downtown Mobile, a beloved institution that has been serving the community since 1947. Deborah shares the rich history of the shop, which was started as a Planters chain of stores. Her father managed the store in Mobile and purchased the franchise in 1963. Listeners will hear about the shop's origins, the transition from Planters to A&M, and the unique story behind its name, honoring her parents, Alfred and Mary.

Deborah takes us back to her childhood, growing up in a bustling Downtown Mobile in the 1950s and 60s, where she practically lived at the peanut shop. She reflects on the changes she’s seen in Mobile over the decades, from the heyday of downtown to the challenging times in the 80s and 90s when businesses moved out to West Mobile but the A&M Peanut Shop still thrived. Through the decades A&M has remained a fixture, drawing in customers along Dauphin Street with the irresistible aroma of freshly roasted peanuts from their historic roaster.

The episode also dives into the unique offerings of the A&M Peanut Shop, including their famous hot buttered cashews, peanut clusters, and the origins of their peanuts. Deborah shares delightful stories about the shop’s legendary Mr. Peanut and the memorable Peanut Man, Lamar Wilson, who sold peanuts at the Loop for years. This episode is full of nostalgic stories and is a testament to a true Mobile landmark, the A&M Peanut Shop.

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All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
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In this episode of the Port City Plate Podcast, host Chris Andrews heads to Midtown Mobile to chat with Christian Hollinghead, the new owner of Ashland Midtown Pub. This beloved local restaurant has been a staple in the community since 2008, renowned for its unique pizzas and exceptional Sunday brunches. Christian shares the inspiring story behind his family's decision to take on this long-standing favorite, the history of Ashland Midtown Pub, and how they’ve managed to balance maintaining loyal customers while making their own updates.

Christian dives into the delicious offerings that make Ashland Midtown Pub a must-visit destination. From unique pizzas like the Buffalo Chicken, Here Today Gone to Maui, and the Hey How You Doin, to classic Italian dishes like calzones and Strombolis, the menu has something for everyone. He highlights their famous Sunday brunch, featuring dishes such as shrimp and grits, and the Monte Cristo with Conecuh sausage and Gouda grits. The versatile atmosphere of Ashland Midtown Pub caters to a wide range of dining experiences, from family-friendly brunches to upscale dinners and late-night drinks.

Listeners will also hear about the exceptional staff that helps create a welcoming environment, including Chef KK Ollis, known for his culinary prowess in the area. Christian shares his philosophy on being hands-on in the business, ensuring a top-notch customer experience. He discusses the importance of their outdoor seating area and recounts memorable stories and feedback from patrons since taking over. This episode offers a delightful insight into the rich history and vibrant future of Ashland Midtown Pub.

Local Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:
Vandals Streek Kitchen
Taco Mama
Butch Cassidy’s
Cammie’s Old Dutch Ice Cream Shoppe
Bay Barbecue
Lost Pizza Co.

Fork in the Road Segment:
LeMoyne's Chophouse inside the Admiral Hotel

Chris's Dishes:
This week's dish is a cocktail! Check out the Japan from POST.

If you enjoy the Port City Plate Podcast, consider buying Chris a coffee. (Locally owned, of course!)
Support the Show

Share the best dish you've had in Mobile!
Join the Port City Plate Facebook Group

All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
Book a Bienville Bites Food Tour

Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
Book a Taste of Fairhope Food Tour

Send us a text

In this highly anticipated episode of the Port City Plate Podcast, host Chris Andrews welcomes Max Donaldson and Mackenzie Kylce, the dynamic duo behind Velvet Pig in Downtown Mobile, Alabama. Located inside the historic Ice Box on Monroe Street, Velvet Pig specializes in whole hog butchery, bringing a unique culinary experience to Mobile. Max and Mackenzie share their journey from working in restaurants in Oxford, Mississippi and New Orleans to opening Velvet Pig, and how those experiences have influenced their approach at Velvet Pig.

Max and Mackenzie discuss the philosophy and challenges of whole hog butchery, highlighting the importance of utilizing every part of the animal to create diverse and flavorful dishes. They also talk about their commitment to sourcing local, seasonal ingredients, and how their menu evolves based on what is fresh and available. From popular staples like boudin egg rolls and pork belly skewers to their dips, to creative specials, Velvet Pig offers something for everyone.

Listeners will hear about the incredible community support Velvet Pig has received, including their recent mention in Southern Living! They discuss their capability to cater special events and Max and Mackenzie share their vision for the future of Velvet Pig, including potential new concepts and locations. Tune in to discover the story behind one of Mobile’s favorite new dining spots and the delicious offerings that make Velvet Pig a must-visit right now!

Local Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:
Velvet Pig
Red or White
Haberdasher
Squid Ink
Box Owt
Big Whites Wings
Chuck's Fish

If you enjoy the Port City Plate Podcast, consider buying Chris a coffee. (Locally owned, of course!)
Support the Show

Share the best dish you've had in Mobile!
Join the Port City Plate Facebook Group

All episodes are presented by Bienville Bites Food Tour. Take a guided walking tour through Downtown Mobile while tasting your way through the best food and drink in town!
Book a Bienville Bites Food Tour

Book a tour with our sister tour company in beautiful, Fairhope, Alabama!
Book a Taste of Fairhope Food Tour