A long time ago I saw an episode of Julie Child's TV show that I never forgot although I don't remember it that well either. What I got from it, though, that I've never forgotten was that Julia put a lot of time and many ingredients into what ended up being about a half pint of … [Read more...]
Homemade Mediterranean, including cheeses
I'm in the kitchen at To Dine For, the new gourmet Mediterranean takeout shop in Hull, watching a large pot of scalded milk turn into cheese right before my eyes. I can't believe how quickly it happened. While a gallon of milk warmed on the stove, Rafca Cardoos, who co-owns the … [Read more...]
Well-trained team serves up fine food
Thinking about the dinner I had at Chiara Bistro recently, I keep picturing the Los Angeles Lakers' coach (sorry Boston) Phil Jackson running things in the restaurant's open kitchen, not the real chef Steven LaCount. Seated at a table with a clear view of the cooks, I had … [Read more...]
Italian dishes are better outdoors in Scituate
I'm starting a list: South Shore restaurants that have outdoor dining. I don't think it's going to be very long. So far, Riva in Scituate is number one because although it's sheltered from zooming traffic it's open to village street life. On the mid-week early evening I had … [Read more...]
Chef’s star power prevails in Hull
They had me at the olive oil. One dip of crusty Italian bread in the fine extra-virgin liquid, and I was in. After that, each of four courses had their way with me, igniting childhood memories, a reverie on food alchemy, and a longing to be back at my family's simple Italian … [Read more...]