Q: I am looking for a special paprika called pimenton de la Vera (dulce). It is a smoked sweet paprika from Spain, and I use it whenever I make paella or arroz con pollo. I used to buy it at Harry’s Whole Foods in Marietta, but the store stopped carrying it. I’ve looked all over town, without success. I can get it online, but the shipping is twice the cost of the paprika. I hope you can help me find it in Atlanta. — David Termotto, Marietta
A: While there are plenty of good smoked sweet and spicy paprika brands from Spain, pimenton de la Vera comes from a specific region of the same name, located west of Madrid. The chilies grown in this area are harvested in the fall and dried on racks over fires made of Spanish oak, resulting in an earthy vermilion powder that has nothing in common with the stuff your grandmother sprinkled on her deviled eggs. You can find vivid red cans of El Rey de la Vera dulce paprika at Sur La Table, 1000 North Point Circle, Alpharetta, 678-280-0086. Each 2.6-ounce can costs $4.95.
Q: Many years ago, my mother used to always serve Merrimints, which were little discs that had slightly crisp exteriors and creamy melty centers. I remember that one side had ridges, similar to potato chips. And they came in pretty pastel colors. I would love to have these again. Can you find out if these are still made? I haven’t seen them in ages. Thank you. — A. Bentley, email
A: For years, Delson Candy produced these creamy mints that included wintergreen, peppermint, orange and lemon flavors. In the late 1960s, the family business was bought by the Sara Lee Corporation and, eventually, was once again, sold. Merrimints simply disappeared. However, they’re back thanks to the Vermont Country Store. Made by hand, using the original recipe, the candy with the crystal outside and creamy inside comes in the original flavors. They’re available in 1-pound boxes for $24.95 each. You can order online at www.vermontcountrystore.com or call call 800-547-7849.
Q: I read your column every week and I always enjoy it. I need your help. I have a wool coat that is about 22 years old. It is a great coat — right weight, length, very colorful — so I hope to keep it even longer. But the buttonholes are beginning to fray, and there are one or two holes that have developed from wear. Where can I go to have the coat repaired? I hesitate to go to a seamstress, I think this requires more substantial intervention. Thanks. — Rachael Takei
A: I have two suggestions for you, Rachael. First, Finest Reweavers, 44 Broad St., Atlanta, 404-525-1352. This establishment has been in the Atlanta area for decades. The second is Saul’s Reweavers and Alterations, 3655 Roswell Road, Atlanta, 404-266-8611.
Q: My husband and I have enjoyed Domino Light for over a year now. It is a combination of stevia and sugar with only five calories. Publix carried this product, however, it is no longer on their shelves. Can you tell me where I can purchase Domino Light now? Thank you. — Marie Cole, email
A: Marie, Domino Sugar no longer makes Domino Light Sugar and Stevia Blend. However, if you check the Domino website, you’ll find that it suggests that consumers check out the new Born Sweet Zing Baking Blend, which offers the same combination of sugar and stevia at 5 calories per serving. Not all of the Publix stores carry the product, but I did find it at Publix, 4279 Roswell Road, Atlanta, 404-843-4353. Born Sweet Zing in a 20-ounce canister costs $3.59.
