We weren't thrilled with the Dining Section in the NY Times today; perhaps it's the rain, or maybe some flu-ish feelings creeping in, but the section is heavy on dining out, and the dining in end of things rather turned my stomach.
Trader Joe's to Open in New York: This is the best news we've heard in a while. Words, not even Florence's, can not express the joy this native California feels.
In Winter, It's Scallops: Bittman clears up the difference between Nantucket Bay Scallops and Calico Scallops and urges us to spring for the Bays. With a recipe for Bay Scallops with Sesame Seeds and Scallops.
The Fifth Taste Emerges From the Brine: Dana Bowen visits with Chef David Burke, who loves the flavor sensation that is neither sweet, sour, salty or bitter... it's called "umami." With recipes for Seaweed-Soaked Chicken with Roasted Root Vegetables and Jasmine Tea-Soaked Fruit.
Making Wine in a Hostile Climate on Sonoma's Coast: Asimov gets a cover story and covers the Sonoma coastline, where he claims the soils and climates offer the possibility of both "prospect for greatness" and "potential for disaster" to the dozens of vineyards that have opened up.
I can relate to the Trader Joe's happiness. I lived in CA for 10 years, then moved to Chicago.
When TJ's arrived in Chicago a few years after I did I was there the first week. I commuted to the first store on the el for a year, and then, like a miracle, they opened a store a few blocks from my apartment. I can never move now.
You can get organic everything at TJ, I love it!
Curious to see how TJ's will handle all the prepared food options in NYC. I'm assuming they'll have a central kitchen facility for all that food prep... Me, I can't live without TJ's!
I shopped at TJ about 3-4 times a week when living in SF and have literally prayed for it to open one here in NYC. I emailed the NY Times story to friends like me and all of us are so jazzed by the news that our jaws are still open. I knew they were coming at some point but now it's official and I am counting the days and making out my shopping list for opening day!
I presume New Yorkers know about the new Dean & Delucca "super store" at corner of Eighth Avenue and 14th Street....It's nice to see this old-guard gourmet shop competing with the ingenues.