Who am I? I feel very existential being asked to write a bio on, who I am and what my “voice” is. I’ve been writing my blog on ChicagoNow for a little over a year. I never intended my writing to be an outlet for fame or fortune. I approach my blog as a fun way to express my experiences of dining out and it is a nice to have free “food” therapy. I also write with the expectation that each post may be my last and you’re only as good as today. Very much, the attitude I had while cooking.
What sets me apart from most bloggers and food writers is that I actually worked at a high level in the restaurant industry from all angles for a 10 year period. I’ve cooked with some of the best Chef’s in the country and personally opened 2 restaurants. Not only have I cooked and run my own kitchen, but I’ve also served and managed the dining room. I’ve stood in the line of fire and been yelled at/talked to with the tone of – you’re lucky to have your GED. Personally, I have a double major in Political Economics and Theory from the Univ. of Wisconsin at Madison.
My stories and perspective come from real world, restaurant experience. I learned by doing how food should taste. I see the oxymoron and poorly written menu descriptions. I get why service is good or bad on a given night or time. As a writer, I’m expected to be honest. That honesty from me is often times brash, unforgiving and sarcastic. You may notice, I can be found in a post asking myself – why? WHY? I genuinely want the restaurants I eat in to do well and be good.
I’ll help you understand why a chef made the choice to add “that” ingredient or perhaps when the dish would be better served by taking something away. Understanding a great bite comes from sweet, sour and salt with a dash of texture. We’ll explore why ingredients are cut a certain way or why we braise the pork instead of sautéing it.
I’ve been blessed to eat and work with some of the best ingredients on the planet. I’ve eaten a lot of food in many countries. Whether it’s a late night bite at a diner or a multi-course meal, the joy of eating can be found in both. You don’t have to spend a month’s rent when your local bodega makes the best tacos on the planet. I hope my past experiences and approachable writing excites you about food as much as I enjoy eating and writing about it.
I live to eat!
Joe – Flavor Tourist