In “A Room of One’s Own,” Virginia Woolf wrote, “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” It’s a sentiment that feels especially fitting for our October Food + Drink Issue, in which we celebrate not only what we eat, but the stories, traditions and pleasures that make food such an important part of our lives.
Our cover story, “Spring Forward” (page 64), introduces Michael Solomonov, a James Beard Award–winning chef who has brought his deeply personal approach to Israeli cuisine to South Florida. His path to success has been anything but straightforward, but through it all, cooking has remained a way for Solomonov to explore his heritage and bring people together. I’ve enjoyed dining at Zahav in Philadelphia and cooking from his cookbooks, and I can’t wait to visit Aviv in Miami Beach.
Certain foods inspire fascination for their rarity, meticulous production and sheer extravagance. “The Price Of Indulgence” (page 70) explores some of the world’s most expensive ingredients and why they’re so coveted. Whether it’s truffles, caviar, saffron or cheese made with donkey milk, there’s plenty here to satisfy your curiosity.
Family traditions are at the heart of “A Full Plate” (page 76), our story on chef Lauren Covas. Long before she won “Chopped” and “Supermarket Stakeout,” Covas was peeling potatoes and washing greens in her grandmother’s kitchen. Her Portuguese roots continue to influence the way she cooks today, and her journey even includes a chapter right here in Boca Raton.
There are few things I love more than finding a package at my front door — especially when there’s something delicious inside. In “Club Scene” (page 82), we showcase food and drink subscriptions worth joining, including ones for artisanal butter, chocolate and wine. I promise, by the time you finish reading, you’ll be tempted to sign up for more than one.
Anyone who knows me knows how much I love a great meal, which is one reason our October issue is one of my favorites. But there’s another reason I look forward to this month: the results of our annual Readers’ Choice poll, beginning on page 88. Once again, our readers told us which local businesses have earned their loyalty, from the places where they love to dine and shop to the professionals and services they trust. We’re always excited to see the winners, and we’re grateful to everyone who took the time to vote. These selections offer a wonderful snapshot of the businesses that help make our community what it is. Have a great October, and enjoy the start of fall in South Florida!
Buon appetito, Buen provecho and Bon appétit,
Linda L. Behmoiras
linda@bocaratonobserver.com