I will get straight to the point--I'm cheap when it comes to food. At the same time, I am passionate about food! A friend once told me that she loved watching me eat because she could tell how much I enjoyed it--it made her smile, she says. Sometimes I wonder how I'm not morbidly obese. I guess it's because I eat raw/organic whenever I can, I don't like "junk" food, and I drink mostly water (I'm too cheap to buy alcohol). However, I do allow myself to have dessert once in a while because I love dessert!!! Nothing's better than something sinful and sweet after a delicious meal!
What I love about New York City is the fact that you can find just about any type of food available. Nowhere else in the world could you find the widest diversity of local and ethnic cuisines in one city. I often say: If you want to taste the world, just come to New York City! I'm very, very fortunate to be surrounded by good food. What do I consider "good food"? Well, my definiton of "good food" is anything that tastes good, looks good, and/or is good for you--but not "junk" food. At the same time, I don't believe that good food should cost an arm and a leg! Most of the time, we pay extra just for the decor and presentation. Food should just be clean, simple, fresh, and full of flavor. I have a very picky palette, so I do set a high standard for what I consider "good food". I'm willing to admit that I have a few idiosyncracies. Unless you're an exceptional cook, I won't let you cook for me. I refuse to eat warm food that's supposed to be cold. I hate eating leftovers because it never tastes the same--I only enjoy food when it's fresh. My mother's side of the family is the exact same way, so I guess it runs in the family. I take pride knowing "good food" when I taste it, which is why my friends always take my advice!
What I hate about New York City is the fact that food is so darn expensive! Groceries cost just as much as eating out, so I find it easier and more cost-effective to just eat out. I guess it's safe to say that I dine out a lot like most New Yorkers--we have to because kitchens are almost non-existent in most apartments. I've eaten at some of the worst places and some mediocre--it's so annoying when food costs so much here! But once in awhile, I do come acoss a restaurant with exceptional food and affordable prices, either by referrals or by accident. And after experiencing some "good food" revelation, I add it to my good food list (my bible). Mainly, to help keep my favorite restaurants in business and to help others eat well without going broke. Although we're facing tough economic times right now, no one should have to skimp on good tasting food.
Some people eat to live, but I truly live to eat! If you're like me and have good but cheap food suggestions, please share them with me! As much as I love to give suggestions, I love to receive them as well. Rest assured, your information will never be shared/sold to marketing companies! I hope you enjoy reading my blog and bon appetit!