TGIF. Thanks for checking out our interview series, where we’re highlighting vendors to shed some light on small businesses and individuals during COVID-19. See how the situation at hand is affecting our community, how they’re responding, how you can support…and what to eat! (recipes!) BOTTOMS UP.

(Each interviewee was asked to submit 3 photos: one food, one written recipe, and one current selfie!)

Pine Box Rock Shop

Brooklyn, NY

Heather Rush

HOW ARE YOU IN ONE WORD?

Hustling

ONE WAY YOU ARE COPING..

We’re staying focused on the things we can do: for our family, for our community, for our business. We stopped reading every little news article and stopped worrying about the long term as much as we can.

I’ve been contacting a friend every day to check in. It’s too easy to retreat into isolation. Force yourself to stay connected and stay creative.

ONE TIP FOR THOSE IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY RIGHT NOW..

Try everything! Explore every option! Chances are there isn’t going to be one thing that keeps you going but a raft of several little things that work out for you.

Remember why you got into this business and draw your gumption from a place of love. Love for what you do and love for the people who support you.

FAVE COMFORT FOOD..

Black Coffee!

ONE FOOD YOU CAN’T GET RIGHT NOW AND MISS..

Freakin’ Vegan Mac N’ Cheese!

YOUR SILVER LINING..

Spending more time with my son.

HOW CAN THE PUBLIC SUPPORT YOU RIGHT NOW? (OR if you’d prefer, your favorite charity to support!)

Please order take out and delivery from Pine Box. We put daily specials up on our instagram, our full menu is posted on our Facebook. If you’re not in a delivery zone, please consider donating to our staff Go Fund Me.

A FAVORITE RECIPE..

Rose Sunshine Sangria –

We’ve been making a ton of these for take out and delivery.

In a 24 oz pitcher, add three shots of brandy. (If you don’t have brandy on hand, any fruit liqueur will do.) the juice from two lemons and a 1/2 cup of berry puree. (Easy recipe below). Add a cup of ginger ale, then pop in your ‘fridge to chill. Don’t worry, the soda is supposed to go a flat. The citric acid in the soft drink “mixes” the cocktail by breaking it down while it chills. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon. I usually halve this with club soda but it’s a wonderful cordial at full strength. Cheers!

Berry Puree: In a sauce pan, bring equal parts raw sugar and water to a simmer, stirring occasionally. When the sugar is dissolved add one equal part of your favorite berry (we use strawberries) and bring to a boil. Boil until fruit is soft – watch it! It boils over easy! Pull from the heat and cover. Once its cool blend it together until no chunks remain. You can store it in the fridge for one week.) Pro tip: Freeze the puree in your ice cube tray then store in a batch in your freezer!

THANKS, HEATHER!

Stay cool!

VSU