Do we really eat with our eyes? Is bigger always better?

Last June 2010 I took a trip to New York City, where I'm from. It is exciting because it is always an opportunity to try some great food. I do my research but being with my family plans go awry. You see my parents are from Italy and they make some great tasting food. My partner, on the other hand, told me stories of ketchup and Wonder Bread and stewed tomatoes that I can't even mention here. Anyway, we enjoyed the copius meals they prepared but when we had some breathing space we went to the local deli.

Steve loves a New York style deli. Mountains of food on display and so many varieties. How do they keep all this fresh I wondered. The display of food now looks very excessive to me and unappetizing. And I've lived here for most of my 40 some years. I found myself beginning to miss my meals in Madison. I've always enjoyed cooking and also taught cooking classes here in Madison at places like Dean Clinic and Whole Foods. Anyway, the products I get here are the freshest I've found anywhere. The famed farmer's market(s) goes from May to November - a nice long stretch. Anyway, I've made some great tasting meals, just ask Steve. Besides missing my own meals; I missed the wonderful food in restaurants we go to.

Our tastes are as simple as a burger at the North Street Pub to Osteria Papavero's menu, classic homestyle Tuscan food. I crave the variety and quality of products used in restaurants here where you don't have to go far to get a great meal.