TV's "Sweet Genius" Winner is Lehigh Valley Pastry Chef

Alan Pitotti, who owns Dolce Patisserie in Hellertown, was the grand prize winner on the Jan. 17 episode of the hit reality TV series "Sweet Genius" on the Food Network.

A Hellertown pastry chef and business owner is $10,000 richer (and a lot more famous) thanks to his victory on the Food Network reality TV show "Sweet Genius" last night. Alan Pitotti, who appeared on the Jan. 17 "Samba Genius" episode of the competition show, defeated three other contestants to win the grand prize and garner some prized national publicity for the borough. Pitotti is the owner of Dolce Patisserie, a boutique pastry shop that specializes in high-end confections and desserts. Dolce Patisserie is located in the Shoppes at Hellertown on Main Street. Read more: Bethlehem Bakery Named One of World's 10 Best Pitotti is a Pen Argyl native who was educated at the Culinary Institute of America and worked at several high profile …

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Food Network Star Casting Call in Philly Nov. 8

Do you want to host your own TV show? Can you cook? This could be your chance.

The Food Network’s show Food Network Star is coming to Philadelphia Thursday to search for its next star. They’re holding an open casting call. “Essentially, we are looking for those with a captivating personality who believe they’re at the top of the culinary game and want to inspire a Food Network audience through their passion for food and cooking!” writes casting associate Kristen Damiani. Date: Nov. 8, 2012 Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Location: Loews Philadelphia Hotel                 1200 Market Street                 Philadelphia, PA 19107 Visit www.FoodNetworkStarCasting.com to apply online and for more information on casting events.

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Summer Cocktails

Summer Cocktails: Tokyo Tea

This favorite of reader Angela K. is a green version of Long Island Iced Tea.

Finally! One of our readers has treated us to a favorite of hers! Angela K. recently emailed to say, "My favorite drink is Tokyo Tea.  It is a green variation of the Long Island Ice Tea.  There are several variations…here are two." Ingredients Directions Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker.  Shake, strain into a small highball glass filled with ice. Serve. Angela also included a version from Food Network's Guy Fieri: Ingredients Directions Add to a pitcher or 1 large "fish" bowl, ice, lemon/lime soda, limes, melon liqueur, vodka, rum, gin and Triple Sec. Stir to combine. Pour drink over ice into chilled soda glasses and garnish with a slice of lime. Source: Food Network

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