The Oxbow Public Market, scheduled to open in the fall of 2007 in Napa’s burgeoning Oxbow District, has announced the addition of the Model Bakery, which will bake fresh artisan breads on the premises, along with morning pastries, sandwiches/panini, pizza, prepared foods and coffee drinks.

Mohammed Daftari could be an ambassador for pomegranates.

Although Mohammed Daftari can recall the time when he had to search through the East Bay looking for pomegranates, the fruit is now turning up everywhere from salads to martinis, and now has a book of its own, “Pomegranates,” by Ann Kleinberg (Tenspeed Press).

Each Tuesday The Register reviews an area restaurant, with an emphasis on establishments where a couple can dine for $30 or less. Reader suggestions are welcomed.

Texture can make a world of difference when it comes to making low-fat food appealing.

Napa Valley College is launching a Hospitality Tourism Management Program with an introductory class that begins Jan. 17. Registration is now in progress.

I recently had the chance to visit Porto in Portugal for the second time, as well as Jerez in Spain for the first.