One of my earliest memories is of my father hiding a menu under my sweater, lifting me into his arms and carrying me out of a restaurant. I was little more than a toddler, but that’s what we did—we traveled up and down the East coast tasting wonderful dishes all the way and “borrowing” menus from the best restaurants en route.
We did it because my parents were in the restaurant, resort and catering business—in Canada and in Florida. Traveling up and down the coast from one hotel to another made for an unusual childhood I admit, but I learned early about good food, elegant presentation and easy recipes.
Wherever we went, my father would wrangle an invitation into the kitchen and I’d tag along. Mile after mile, meal after meal, I watched skillful chefs in gleaming kitchens. They chopped, they pummeled, they sliced and they whipped, they pounded and folded and puréed and dipped. FromToronto to Miami Beach, we rolled from one gourmet meal to the next.
As soon as I saw those talented chefs making magic in their puffy white hats, I knew I would have a lifelong love affair with food. And so it is.
This blog is just the latest twist—another way to lavish my affections on food and family and friends.
Now, I am not a classically trained professional chef—but I learned to love food early. Equally important, I discovered that gourmet dishes need hours of prep, talented hands, and lots of help—unless you knew the secrets revealed in those gleaming kitchens. I was convinced there must be an easier way—and I found it! You’ll find it here too.
So welcome!
Please post your comments, questions and tips in the comment boxes. I’m eager to hear what you have to say and how I can help make this blog really helpful for you.
And come back often for fabulous recipes—with tips, tactics and short-cuts that make entertaining both elegant and easy.
