There are so many factors on my mind these days when it comes to food. Cost is number one. Quickly after that come questions, such as is it sustainably caught/grown, humanely produced, locally or regionally sourced and so many more details that threaten to overwhelm the enjoyment of a perfect bite.
I love to eat. I love to cook. I think you probably love one or both of those if you are reading our annual Eats special section from Growing Community Media. Our region is blessed with more high-quality restaurants than I’ll ever get around to eating at. But not for lack of trying! As I have interviewed owners and chefs over the past year, I’ve witnessed the passion that goes into these locally run establishments. Their dedication to doing the right thing by their ingredients and their diners is staggeringly beautiful.
As you peruse these pages, I feel confident that your mouth will start watering. While I hope you will be inspired to revisit old favorites, I also challenge you to venture to new ones. Not just for the culinary adventure, but to support the vibrant dining scene that we are so lucky to have and to have sustained thus far.
To paraphrase the bible (is that a wise thing to do?) where your money is, there also is your heart. We have been a community that has very consciously preserved our restaurants through the trauma of the pandemic, let’s keep it going. I say, put your mouth where your mind, heart and wallet are. Eat local!
Rise covers food and restaurants for Wednesday Journal, Austin Weekly News, Forest Park Review and Riverside-Brookfield Landmark.