Author extraordinaire Virginia Woolf got it right when she said, “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one not has not dined well.” Indeed, there’s nothing quite as blissful as enjoying a delicious meal, whether it’s an upscale, Michelin-starred experience or a casual late-night bite with family around the kitchen table. Food is so much more than fuel for the body: it brings us together, creates memories and encourages us to explore new cultures through its flavors.
This month’s Food + Drink Issue serves up a hearty portion of delectable stories (pun intended). We begin with our celebrity cover star, Eva Longoria, whose relentless pursuit for excellence extends beyond her illustrious career into the food and beverage industry. Our feature “Flavor Empire” (page 62) delves into her incredible achievements.
We also take this opportunity to explore one of the world’s most cherished indulgences: chocolate, and the alarming impact climate change is having on its production. “Chocolate Crisis” (page 68) provides an in-depth look at this critical issue.
If you grew up in an American Jewish household, your family likely had at least one Joan Nathan cookbook. The prolific author has been dubbed “The Jewish Julia Child” by many — and for good reason! In “A Recipe For Life” (page 74) we chat with the octogenarian about her new memoir, her flavorful life and what she is cooking up for the future.
We end on a fun note with “As American As Apple Pie” (page 80). Whether it is your go-to dessert or comfort dish, we uncover the multicultural roots of foods many assume originated in the United States. After all, we pride ourselves on being one big melting pot, so it makes sense that this would extend to our favorite foods as well.
Lastly, we would like to offer a heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in our Readers’ Choice Awards this year. Congratulations to all the winners, finalists and runners-up! We’re honored to celebrate you and your delicious restaurants and look forward to another year of recognizing South Florida’s best!
As we enter the Jewish holidays, this year holds extra weight for many in our community, as it marks the one-year anniversary of the tragic events in Israel on Oct. 7. Our thoughts are with all those affected, and we join in the collective hope for the safe return of those still in captivity. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and sweet 5785 New Year. L’Shana Tovah!
Bon Appetit!
Linda L. Behmoiras
linda@bocaratonobserver.com