Let me explain why I'm doing this

I am not a Chef. I do not own a restaurant. I did not go to culinary school. I simply have a passion for food. On the biological level it is essential for us to live, but culture has defined it in so many different ways. I find the relationship between the food we create and our bodies fascinating.I grew in the suburbs of Detroit, but my home could have been situated in the country side of Italy. My parents were born and raised in Italy. They moved to America, but did not leave behind their culture. I grew up with good food…no let me rephrase…I grew up with great food. My father was passionate about gardening, wine making, and hunting (mushroom and animal). My mother made everything from scatch. What I learned from them was the importance of that relationship between you and the food you eat. It’s not that Italians know how to make food better, they simply are aware of that relationship.Another thing that was taught to me was loyalty to where you grow up. I have tremendous pride in the fact that I grew up in the greater Detroit area. I am saddened to see many people move away because of the economic challenges that we are encountering. I understand that it will take time and healing to get Detroit to where it has the potential to be, and know that we can get there. Part of the reason why I am writing about food and Detroit is because I feel that part of that healing is to focus on the good that is already in place.I work in the food industry at a non-profit organization that is passionate about the Slow Food Movement, as well as, makes an effort to support local farmers and companies. It’s a big part of who I am. On a personal level I try not to eat at chain restaurants. I think it is important to support independent restaurants. Because of that, I frequent new and old eateries in the area.So why am I writing this blog? I want this blog to be a place where people can reference to find a new place to eat. I want this blog to remind people of the relationship they have with the food that they put in their body. I want this blog to remind people of some of the great things that Detroit has to offer through its restaurants.

Posted on May 20, 2008