Sunday, February 10, 2008

The Food Networks Newest Addition - The Neelys


I am a fan of The Food Network. From Giada De laurentiis to Rachelle Ray to Bobby Flay, I watch in awe of their culinary skills. The closest an African American ever got to possibly hosting a show on the network was when Reggie Southerland was runner-up in the second season of “The Next Food Network Star”. Well that is all about to change with the introduction of the Neelys.

When it comes to food, few couples are more familiar around the kitchen that Patrick and Gina. This Memphis couple is co-owners of Neelys Bar-B-Q, one of the most successful restaurants in the South. Simply known as The Neelys, they have a long tradition of cooking on both sides of their family and integrate a variety of different and unique recipes in their menus.

These high school sweethearts share a remarkable chemistry in and out the kitchen which has translated into numerous television appearances. I first saw them on “Paula’s Party”, a show on the Food Network hosted by Paula Deen. On their show, 'Down Home with the Neelys' -- which premiered Feb. 2 on the Food Network -- the energetic duo plan to share many of their most delicious family recipes for viewing pleasure.

But they won't be alone as they will often feature different members of their large clan in what can be aptly titled a family affair. In a show full of family and laughter, the Neelys will make you feel right at home. The show airs on Saturday at 11:00 AM EST/PST and 10:00 AM CST.


6 comments:

Lori said...

Hey, you're trying to bait me, aren't you?! (LOL) Believe it or not, I was eating a barbecue sandwich when I first ran across your post earlier in the the evening (smile). Had I been in Memphis, it just might have been something from Neely's.

I'm shocked my Mom hasn't mentioned show. She's mentioned Gina Neely before. They attend the same church in Memphis.

Yes, I've had the pleasure of buying and eating barbecue from the Neely's. The hubby loves their barbecue bologna. Have you ever heard of such? (LOL) Generally, I try to avoid pork, but I do eat Neely's barbecued sausage every now and then. What I really go to Neely's for when I'm home is the POUND CAKE. Yup! Yup!

THANKS for posting this PJ. I'll have to remember to watch. I'm sure it will only make me homesick and hungry . . .

pjazzypar said...

When I get to Memphis, that will be one of the first places I hit up. Barbecued bologna? I don't think so, but the pound cake sounds good. I am glad the Food Channel got a little color. They are such a cute couple and they seem to know their way around the kitchen.

X. Dell said...

I used to watch cooking shows, back in the days when I used to have a kitchen. If fortune smiles on me, I might be dialing up the Neelys. So thanx for the heads up.

pjazzypar said...

x. dell, I always find these type of shows relaxing. They don't require you to think (not too much anyway) and you may just have an idea for a good meal after it's done.

Malcolm said...

While channel surfing, I occas. stop on The Food Network. I agree that the addition of some color to FN is a good thing. In the clip you provided, the love the Neely's share for both each other and cooking really comes through.

pjazzypar said...

Malcolm, I liked them right away when I saw them on Paula Deen's cooking show. Everybody that I talk who are familiar with Neely' Barbeque say these folks can really "burn".