I recently began cooking again. After moving out to New York, I quickly fell into the routine of ordering out. Or grabbing something from the corner deli on my way to and from class. It was just so simple. Since discovering the convenience and cost effectiveness of a little company called FreshDirect.com I am excited to cook for myself again. Even if that means something as simple as pouring a bowl of cereal in the morning instead of grabbing a bagel - I love it. Since New York is an expensive city as it is, anything to save money makes me smile! I've also cut back to ordering out only once per week. It seems I have quite a bit of "planned" traveling this year so I need to start saving ASAP.
On the occasion that Lucy and I go out and enjoy the New York food scene, I have noticed a couple trends among the menus. First, despite the classiness or shoddiness of the venue the menu will inevitably feature some variation of fired mac n cheese. I'm not quite sure when the low budget college treat became the go-to for fine dining appetizers, but Kraft must be pissed.
The other highlight on most menus is the wonderful, mouthwatering buffalo wing. In most cases three varieties are listed. In California these delectable little treats are reserved for the local neighborhood bar. Or Domino's. Not in New York! And the funny thing is never in my life have I craved these fiery poultry wings. So much so, I have some in our freezer in case of an emergency.
Since I'm on the topic of junky, fatty, fried foods - let me mention my strange obsession with shoe string fries. I don't know what it is, but they are like crack for me. And to up the weirdness factor - most New Yorkers eat them with a fork! Really?! Come on. Every time I witness this strange behavior I'm reminded of the Seinfeld episode where people eat Snickers with a knife and fork or M&Ms with a spoon. And people think Californians are odd. Think again.
Last but not least, I have to say I'm not impressed with the pizza out here. And neither is Lucy. Not sure what it is - perhaps the extra thin crust, the dripping grease, or lack of topping options. Maybe it's because you have to fold it in half to take a bite. I know I have a big mouth, but even some of the slices out here are hard to handle.
It's safe to say that my eating habits have changed ever so slightly. Luckily I walk everywhere and have started hitting the gym at least four days a week. And to my surprise I have even taken a liking to running! Go figure - it took me moving from sunny, warm California to cold, snowy New York to take an interest in running. I don't question it, I just go with it. After all, I have to get in shape for all the cute Summer clothes! Even if it's still four months away.
xoxo
Victoria
