About My Blog

“I am a decent cook. I am an outstanding eater.”

 (Steven Brust, “Dzur”)

I came across the expression “come due maiali” thanks to my Rosetta Stone coach Monica. During one of the studio sessions, as students were professing their love for hockey, basketball, and golf, she announced that her favorite sport was, in fact, eating. Gesturing wildly, she lamented her temporary inability to eat “come due maiali” for a good ten minutes (as she was on a diet).

I have always been an athlete of sorts, but at that moment I realized that, over the years, eating has become my favorite sport, as well (much more so than judo or yoga). Her expression appealed to me, as it was clearly exaggerated and very Italian; most of you know that I am quite fond of the grotesque and a huge italophile, to boot. To me, it emphasizes not so much the quantity consumed, but the piglets’ sheer enthusiasm for food.

My goal with food exploration is simple: it is to maximize my eating pleasure. I have also discovered that the only way to do that is by not eating alone. Therefore, especially on days when I am unable to master enthusiasm worthy of two piglets, I always try to have a dinner companion to supplement my joy of discovery.

P.S. I am currently residing in Washington D.C., with a very spoilt orange tabby Kuzya: