Sac Foodies

Favorite food:
Considering my Italian heritage, it probably comes as no surprise that I LOVE pasta. My favorite is risotto of any flavor.

Favorite local restaurants (formal dining, ethnic, neighborhood bistro):
Formal dining experience in Sacramento would have to be Biba’s for stuffed pastas and delectable sauces. My ethnic choice most definitely is Mikuni’s. And, my neighborhood bistro choice is a tie between 33rd Street and Cafe Bernardo. I’m a big fan of Bernardo’s breakfasts and 33rd Street for lunch and dinner.

Favorite dining experience of all time:
Hands down it has to be Emeril’s in New Orleans. Not only was the meal absolutely decadent, the service was nothing like I had ever experienced before – from the hostess to the water server, each guest was made to feel as if they were the only one in the restaurant.

Earliest food-related memory from childhood:
Making raviolis with my family in New York at Christmas. A tradition started by my great aunts and one that is still carried on to this day by my cousin Louise.

Most impressive dish you’ve whipped up using only ingredients on hand:
I’m not one for impromptu cooking because things never turn out as good as a planned meal! But, when I’m forced to whip up something on the fly, I go for breakfast food and whip up a mean Belgian waffle with any available fruit for compote in warm syrup for topping.

Favorite family recipe:

My favorite family recipe is probably polenta and chicken cacciatore. Though, sorry mom, I loved the way my great Aunt Annette made it best.