the world at table

This blog was created to keep track of all the culinary adventures I go through, and to give inspiration and advice to anyone interested. “The World at Table” seems to be the only accurate title for it, since I do not limit myself to any one cuisine or type of food. The only thing that is important here is welcoming everyone to the table, sharing stories, and enjoying a comforting meal together.

Questions about the Author:

What is your name?

Silvia Patalano

Where are you from?

New York

What is your favorite food?

Lentil Soup and Rice….only because I’ve eaten it at least once a week since I was born and I never get tired of it.

Are you a REAL cook?

Not necessarily. I mean…who is a “real” cook anyway? Yes, there are those that are trained, and there are those that aren’t. I consider a person that can make a meal (successfully) a cook…a chef, rather. Because that person can create something for another that is unique and comforting and delicious. Not to say that I haven’t grown up in a restaurant family with a grandfather chef and homecooks all around me, but I’ve watched and learned and recreated what I liked and changed what I didn’t. So am I a “real” cook? Let’s just say I’m someone that wants to make you some good food.

How do you rate restaurants?

First off, a “restaurant” can be anything from a catering hall to a pizzeria to a vendor on the street. It does not matter where I can get good food from, just as long as it is…well…good.

So since I grew up in one, I have an eye for certain things when it comes to these places. Here is my checklist (it may vary based on each particular location):

1. Atmosphere (5 pts) – includes decor, lighting, and theme

2. Waitstaff (10 pts) – includes demeanor, ordering, attention to detail

3.  Table Setup (5 pts)- includes silverware, presentation, and condiments available

4. Menu Selections (10 pts)- includes variety of dishes

5. Food Presentation (10 pts)- includes how it is served and plated

6. Food Quality (20 pts)- includes taste and texture

7. Price – based on a two-person party and generally including one drink each, an appetizer for both, two entrees, dessert to share, and  gratuity of 15%.

$ (< 50), $$ (< 100), $$$ (< 150), $$$$ (< 200)

Where do you get your photos?

Unless otherwise noted, all photos are from Flickr under the Creative Commons Collection. All photos are attributed to the author. All other photos are mine and watermarked with “www.theworldattable.com.”

Any more questions, send them my way!

theworldattable@gmail.com