IMG_1218I’m a born and bred Southern California girl. I was raised in the San Gabriel Valley and went to college at USC. I now live in the wonderful OC (Orange County, California-for those of you not familiar with this vernacular) the City of Newport Beach to be exact.

My passion is traveling the world and experiencing different cultures and cuisine. I’m no Andrew Zimmerman or Anthony Bourdain. Not sure I would stick a worm in my mouth, well maybe, after many, many adult beverages! I am not a trained chef, although I do think I’m an above average home cook. I watch all of the cooking shows on television and am inspired by them to try new things.

My palate is maturing with age; I can’t understand how super young chefs and young food critics can have a discerning, complex palate. I believe that your taste in food develops and with time, becomes distinguishable. I am a savory loving person, an umami searching fool. Sweet has its place, but I do not crave it.

I have traveled to many places and what I have discovered is that food is truly a way people connect. I try and search out where locals eat. If I’m shelling out money to eat, why not put something good in your mouth? I love to eat anywhere that has good food. It could be a cheap hole- in –the- wall joint or a Michelin Star restaurant.

I do a lot of research when choosing a restaurant. I read many, many reviews, look up the restaurant on their website, and scour the menu and galleries. This is how I choose. Most of the time it’s a hit, but sometimes it’s a miss.

I spend so much care choosing a restaurant, especially when I travel; my friends and family suggested I keep a record, a log of sorts to share

So dear friends, I will blog about my food, my travels and my lifestyle. Come with me, on my journey!