Wherever you plan to watch the Seattle Seahawks soar to victory over the Denver Broncos in the NFL Super Bowl XLVIII, you’re probably already thinking about the day’s menu. Whether having a tailgating party or celebrating with a potluck party from the comfort of your living room, finger food, hearty appetizers and an easy super bowl dish always make my list of favorites.

For an inspired Super Bowl menu, who better to ask than a legendary former NFL football player, now reinvented restaurant entrepreneur? After playing college football for the University of Alabama, Bob Baumhower went on to play nose tackle (middle guard) for the Miami Dolphins in the late ’70s through mid-’80s.

Despite the fierce rivalry between the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets at the time, Baumhower joined forces with the New York Jets quarterbacks, Joe Namath and Richard Todd, to open Bachelors III Restaurant in Ft. Lauderdale which became a favorite celebrity hangout.

Since then, Baumhower has developed his own restaurant empire that includes the Compleat Angler Seafood Bar & Grille in Orange Beach, Alabama. Named in tribute to the classic tale about fly fishing by Izaak Walston, the location combines fresh seafood with Southern Hospitality, a term capitalized in Baumhower’s style of hosting.

Thanks to sponsor Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, I  had the honor of meeting Baumhower at his restaurant where I  sampled several dipping sauces for Buffalo chicken wings, a meal as legendary as the man himself. To spice up your own Super Bowl festivities, how about trying your hand at Alabama BBQ Shrimp & Smoked Gouda Grits or Caribbean Cocktail Sauce? And don’t forget the Bimini Bread Pudding for dessert.

Be sure and check out Baumhower’s Tailgating Tips for complete information. With record cold temperatures predicted for Super Bowl Sunday in New York and New Jersey, a little hot sauce could go a long way – especially when you top your Bimini Bread Pudding with the Compleat Angler rum sauce.

Wander on!

Nancy

Who’s ready for Super Bowl kickoff, wanderboomers?