Each week, we put together a sampler plate of the most interesting links from both local and national food blogs. Know a blog we should be paying particular attention to? Leave the address in the comments section below.

Food Republic: Remember that trio of Pilot Light dinners from Seth Siegel-Gardner and Terrence Gallivan that sold out not so long ago? Siegel-Gardner is now writing for Food Republic every week, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the struggle of two chefs to open a restaurant in Houston, against many odds.

Delicious Mischief: Radio host and author John DeMers pays a visit to an old friend of his, Aldo el Sharif, up in Spring, where el Sharif is opening Aldo's Cucina Italiana. You may remember el Sharif from his old restaurant, Aldo's Dining con Amore, which used to occupy the same little house as Feast on lower Westheimer.

Cheap Eats in Houston: Who doesn't love Blue Bell ice cream? And who doesn't love free Blue Bell ice cream? Cheap Eats clues us in to a sweet treat this summer that's sweet for everyone involved: Donate a pint of blood, and you'll receive a coupon for a free pint of Blue Bell, throughout the month of August.

My Table: It's that time of year again! The Houston Culinary Awards nominees have been announced in 25 different categories and voting is now open. Eating Our Words has been nominated once again this year for Best Food Blog, and we'd certainly appreciate your consideration. The annual awards ceremony will take place on October 2; tickets are on sale now.

Houston Food Adventures: In this older post from Phaedra Cook, she interviews a longtime Vic & Anthony's waiter who shall remain unnamed about the importance of service in a restaurant and why service has seemingly become de-emphasized over the last decade or so.

Food In Houston: It's like Christmas come early once again, as Anonymous Eater popped back up with another post after allowing it to lay dormant for quite some time. AE (who's also on the Fearless Critic panel) gives us a rundown of the places he's been especially impressed with lately, including Sorrel Urban Bistro and Radical Eats.

CultureMap: Lastly, Haven and Cafe Japon will have to start preparing to welcome new neighbors Twin Peaks to the block, as the "breastaurant" is planning to open its first Inner Loop location soon at Kirby and 59. Steven Thomson has the breakdown on the restaurant that promises "'scenic views' of girls with low self-esteem."