Avocado green

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved avocados.  I am a California boy after all.  There were not too many things that I missed while traveling in Kenya, but for some reason avocados topped the list.  This was the first one that I opened when I returned.  The gradation of greens around the edge […]

A moment

Sometimes taking a break in the middle of a busy day to meet a friend for a cup of coffee makes everything better. I love the way the latte designs contrast with the pattern of the black and white marble table top.  Check out Jane on Fillmore the next time you are looking for a […]

Something sweet

Rock sugar on sticks.  I recently found a packet of these.  I love the look of the crystalized sugar on the sticks.  A lovely way to sweeten up your morning caffeine routine or to add a little something special to your next tea or dinner party!

Blood oranges

I love blood oranges.  They make me think of my travels in Italy.  I love the stunning color and the beautiful taste.   Squeezing them into fresh juice in the morning or mixing them for an evening cocktail makes for a delightful treat!  Try adding to a margarita for an interesting variation on the classic!

Zen

I have been drinking green tea lately.  But sometimes I wonder when the “zen” kicks in!

Winter salad

I love big bowls of salads with nearly every meal.  As a side to a bowl of soup, or even as a meal in its own right, I love finding fresh seasonal produce and creating something that is tasty and good for you all at the same time. I love the way that the fennel […]

Panna Cotta with Roasted Grapes

A few weeks back, when friends were visiting for Thanksgiving week, I decided to make a few of my favorite things.  One of the items on my list was panna cotta. As you can see from the photo that I took (just before presenting them to the table – and yes, I am one of […]

Mushroom Bourguignon

When did eating get so complicated?  I recently threw a dinner party with a long list of food issues or lifestyle preferences – which included everything from gluten- free to vegetarian and no dairy.  Low carb still seems to still be a big trend.  Then there is local buying and organic.  With all of the options and what we […]

Kale salad

Last week, I was in New York – celebrating a dear friend’s birthday, shopping for client projects and meeting with some of my New York clients. The meeting that topped them all was with my client, who invited me to her home in Short Hills and made me the most beautiful lunch.  We chatted for […]

Grilled Artichokes

I love vegetables.  I always have.  If I had to name one as my favorite, I think that the artichoke might top the list. This summer I have been making them a few times a week.  They grow in abundance in Castroville, not too far from San Francisco. Here is my new favorite way to serve them. Simple […]