Today's Chat

        Pam Sturkey, pastry chef and co-owner of Sturkey's in Wyoming and Encore Cafe in West Chester Township, makes suggestions for last-minute Valentine's Day desserts, 12:30-1 p.m. today at Cincinnati.Com.

Just In

        Cincinnati's International Wine Festival toasts its 12th anniversary this year with more than 600 wines from 125 wineries, special dinners, cooking seminars and other events that begin Feb. 23. The Grand Tastings will be March 1-2 at the Albert B. Sabin Convention Center, downtown. Tasting tickets are $50 for Friday night and $60 for Saturday night.. For more information and to buy tickets: 723-9463 or www.winefestival.com.

Market Scan

        Oysters are one of the most recognized aphrodisiacs, but let's say you can't make it to the fish store before Valentine's Day or you just can't handle swallowing those slippery bivalves. Oyster mushrooms may be the best substitute. Available in an array of colors, with a velvety texture, the mushrooms have a delicate, oyster-like flavor. Keep these and other fresh mushrooms loosely covered with a damp paper towel in the fridge up to three days. Wipe clean before cooking. Saute with diced shallots in butter, or stir into soups and other vegetable dishes.

— Temptations (Fireside; $14)

Sip It

        Augustinian Ale ($3): Here's something different: An English pale ale, spiced with coriander in the Belgian manner. Initial citrus aroma, then malty, with spice and hops combining nicely, and not at all overdone. From Nethergate Brewery in England.

— Ed Westemeier

Tube Food

        Emeril Lagasse does Three Chocolate Bark, Hello Dollie Ice Cream Sandwich and more decadent desserts on Emeril Live, 8 p.m. tonight on the Food Network.

Hot Date

        Chef Henry Warman of Cafe Cin-Cin prepares Saffron Shrimp, Fragrant Chicken in Creamy Almond Sauce and Strawberry Souffle during a cooking class 11:30 a.m., Saturday, at Restaurant Equipment Outlet in Northside. $25. 542-5900.

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