Photo by Carlos Aristizabal
Orson Welles humorously remarked, “My doctor told me I had to stop throwing intimate dinners for four unless there are three other people.”
Who else can relate?
While I am tenacious in nearly every facet of my life, when it comes to food, I crumble as quickly as an Argentine alfajore cookie! The magic of food isn’t just in its taste. It bridges diverse cultures and strengthens familial bonds. It’s one of my favorite topics, which is why I am elated to share this October Food & Drink issue with you. And I’m proud to say our dedication to culinary storytelling has not gone unnoticed; last year’s October Food & Drink issue was honored with the Charlie Award for Best Special Theme or Show Issue at the prestigious Annual Charlie Awards presented by the esteemed Florida Magazine Association. Additionally, our editor Alona Abbady Martinez won the Silver award for Best Writing for her engaging story “The Mastery of Michy.”
This month, we dive in with “Chef Talk” (page 64), featuring the remarkable Chef Alex Guarnaschelli. She takes us on a journey, reminiscing about her first Food Network debut in 2007 and sharing the pivotal role her family plays in her culinary adventures. Wait until you see who’s following in her footsteps!
Speaking of talent, in “The Vision Of Van Aken” (page 76), Alona gets up close with Chef Norman Van Aken. Known as the pioneer of New World Cuisine, his roots may be in Illinois, but it’s clear Florida, especially the Keys, claims his heart and soul.
South Florida bursts with culinary talent, and our “Local Love” feature (page 70) sheds a light on the gems you absolutely should not miss. (Hint: Key lime pie aficionados, you’re in for a treat!).
Rounding up our issue is “Revolutionary Or Risky” (page 82), a deep dive into semaglutides. Popularly known by names like Ozempic or Mounjaro, you may be familiar with these through a diabetes diagnosis or because of the buzz they have caused among Hollywood celebrities. Either way, this is one captivating read you won’t want to miss.
Before I leave you to your culinary explorations, I must share with you a special event we’re honored to be a part of. This month, we’re once again serving as the exclusive media sponsor of Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation’s 19th Annual Go Pink Luncheon on Friday, Oct. 27 at The Boca Raton. It’s a joy to support such a meaningful cause, and we’re especially tickled pink this year as Jaclyn Smith, an actress, designer and breast cancer survivor who we profiled in our past April Women’s Issue in “Everlasting Angel,” serves as the keynote speaker. And to top it all, one of my sister friends, community philanthropist Carrie Rubin, is the luncheon chair. It promises to be an event filled with inspiration, community and support, and we hope to see many of you there.
Back to my food and cocktail (and pink!) dreams,
Linda L. Behmoiras
linda@bocaratonobserver.com