A few weeks late, I present my 2-cents worth on “Relationships” and “Etiquette”. Chapters; expertly dissected by our guest editors in Episodes 52, and 53. Where to begin? In 28ish minutes of radio air time, we barely scratched the surface of these multifaceted, mega-layered themes. The fact that our gifted writers (thank you VERY much, Duo, Gerry, Mary and Bob), were able to tackle these ginormous topics with such wit, dexterity and empathy –is in itself a praise-worthy accomplishment. I invite listeners (I’m nagging really), to absorb the full-on RLSG experience—not only by enjoying the show on the radio, but to go “deep”– by reading (and sharing) these excellent posts by our writers. Please take a few minutes to do so–here, here, here, and here. Like a good meal and fine wine, their wise words are meant to be savored.
Yeah– I’ve mentioned this before: We record at THE BEST restaurants, where we get treated to all sorts of goodies. Can I say “greaties”? Well, I just did. Take Zinc for example, in Episode 52. Moments after being seated, we covetously sipped samples of their fruit-infused artisanal ‘Market-menu” cocktails. Then, we shared a few of their smaller plates: the Smoked Duck Nachos, Saigon Beef Lettuce Wraps, Fra Diavolo Shrimp and a few more dishes that featured seafood and veggies. Co-Owners Donna Curran and Chef Denise Appel have been creating sustainable farm-to table cuisine long before any of us realized that “locavore” had nothing to do with Metro North or extinct reptiles. Zinc’s seasonal menus continue to dazzle.
The following week, we ventured into the wilds of Woodbridge, to sample Conley Taylor’s ”global cuisine with a Frontier kick” at The Winchester. Meatloaf cupcakes, anyone? When co-owner Ralph Ferrucci brought those, plus two heaping plates of addictively spiced chicken wings to our table, we did not resist. This is a perfect place to bring the family for juicy burgers (with hand cut fries), meet friends for lunch, choose from an amazing selection of “Libations” for happy (or any) hour, enjoy brunch with the in-laws, or drop by on Monday evenings for their “Acoustic Round Table.”
Breaking bread with a group of talented, knowledgeable, inspiring chefs at Park Central Tavern in Episode 54 was an unparalleled experience. There aren’t enough hokey food superlatives to describe the merriment and deliciousness that ensued when Jason Sobicinski (Caseus and PCT), Bun Lai (Miyas), Tom Schultz (PCT’s Executive Chef ), Avi Szapiro (Exec. Chef at ROIA, coming soon to New Haven) and Rob Oliver (accomplished home cook), assembled to dispense some culinary wisdom. We knew we were in for something extraordinary when bowls of Chef Schulz’s heavenly Seafood Cioppino (mussels, clams, prawns and local bass with a giant sourdough crouton), were presented before our hungry eyes. Dare I mention that things ramped up from there? Way, way up!! I can’t possibly explain why the vibe ‘round that table was so amazing. Hard to say if it was food (simply to die for), the drink (likewise deadly), or just crazy magical spell cast upon us by the Gods of Gustatory Goodness. Our recording time flew by at warp speed, no one wanted to leave, and some of us didn’t leave. (You know who you are.)
We are so doing this again.
Until next time,
CPG
—
Cindy is currently the producer for The Real Life Survival Guide, a radio program on The Connecticut Broadcasting Network (WNPR). Her experience in performing and literary arts involved stints as an actress, house manager, filmmaker and PR consultant. A decade of employment with ABC-TV allowed her to work on numerous news, sports and entertainment programs; including the 1984 Winter/Summer Olympic Games. An Emmy Award for that broadcast sits upon a mantelpiece in her CT home. Cindy’s freelance writing portfolio includes pieces on history, politics, entertainment, travel, business, religion, food and weddings.Restaurants