Josefinajoisey

Hubby and I finally had a night out and were lucky enough to spend it at Fortunato's. Service was excellent, and we enjoyed the food and Saturday night energy. I had focused on the Eggplant Tower after seeing the pictures and descriptions on egullet, and I was not disappointed. Salmon (hubby) and tilapia (me)entrees did not disappoint... I do not make my living in the food industry, so I am constantly impressed and thankful for the people that are willing to put their financial and creative lives on the line to serve me dinner on the night when I don't do it for myself (and my family). I am appreciative and a happy consumer when that meal is delicious and served to me as if I was a neighbor, but with complete professionalism. I wish them alot of luck, because this area could use an Italian restaurant that is a few steps above the usual red sauce fare.

As a flea markt devotee, but also an egullet subscriber, I would suggest that any successful food would have to be portable. Empanadas are filling, can be stuffed to the gills, and are portable. If you've never been to Union City, my suggestion is to go to La Gran Via, at 39th St and Bergenline Ave...they have the best empanadas.

I grew up on pot roast my mom cooked in the pressure cooker, but recently, when I see pressure cookers all I can think of is the episode of "A Cook's Tour", when Tony Bourdain practically ran out of a kitchen in fear of the pressure cooker being used to make the meal.

My church had a fish and chips dinner cooked on the premises by staff from the "Arglye" in Kearny. Great fish, hard work, lots of fun.

As with anything that is a passion, burnout not only makes you tired physically, but can also put out the (creative) flame. Make sure you have enough 'spark' to keep that flame going!

OK, Christine, since you are located in the great state of New Jersey, how about highlighting some Taylor Ham? Taylor Ham and goat cheese? Taylor Ham and mesclun? Taylor Ham and porcini mushrooms? Taylor Ham and uni?

Happy Anniversary Christine! Thanks for a great lunch last week when I came in with a devoted "Picnic" friend. I can plunk down the money, but have only a tiny inkling as to the incredible effort, skill, and devotion that it takes to run a business like "Picnic". Your enthusiasm is VERY clear, just by looking at the different menu every day, (a Herculean task), and from your great conversation at the Chinese New Year celebration at China 46. Congratulations! (I'll be off again at the end of April, so I hope to see you then!)

It's important to have a wide variety of spready knives and other kitchen utensils for each type of jar...I have a certain knife for the mayo jar, a thinner one for the horseradish jar, etc.

I once attended a conference in Baltimore (Inner Harbor) by myself. I asked someone at the desk for 'good, quick takeout'. I was directed to a 'questionable' block a few streets away. The grill/takeout place was downstairs, and the strip joint was upstairs. I stood there waiting for my order, getting more and more uncomfortable as it became apparent that I was the only woman not performing in the immediate vicinity. I grabbed my order and hightailed it back to the hotel. BUT...it was the greatest grilled chicken and fries I ever had!

I enjoy Daisy in video in order to see great Latin comfort food. In print there is "La Comida Del Barrio", by Aaron Sanchez (he supposedly had a show on the Food Network, but I never saw it...I do love his book). Yvonne Ortiz wrote "A Taste of Puerto Rico" and lives in Hudson County. She is writing from the real, traditional PR comida.

Great food, great conversation. Can't wait for the next fundraiser at Bobolink!

Having worked in a largely Latino area, I find it frustrating to watch her shows. Mostly....it brings back memories of INCREDIBLE foods from every type of Latin country.....but also....the INCREDIBLE frustration that I could never seem to get it right and replicate these recipes. I agree, she is perky to the point of complete annoyance, but part of the annoyance is the assurance that she gets it right, and I never will.

In addition to all of the wonderful selections I would add: The Ellis Island Immigrant Cookbook by Tom Bernardin Food...with all of its historical, emotional, cultural, and economical baggage. The 'recipes' are not to be taken literally, but enjoyed as memory.

Just RSVP'd. Have pity on a newbie, please.

In addition to the many wonderful books already suggested...I'd put in my two cents and add the "King Arthur Flour Baking Companion".

Right. Not paying attention.

American Bistro in Nutley has a 'Martini of the Day'. Crowded, friendly bar. Small dining room. Food is good, plenitful, but pricey.

I live in Rutherford, and am stuck in Chinese food/Italian food take out hell. Does anyone have any ideas in the area that I haven't explored? (I have a teenager, so unfortunately take out is a must sometimes)

One part of the book that sticks in my mind is the fact that McDonald's spends thousands on marketing studies that delineate the different types of whines that kids use to get what they want, and how long it takes parents to cave in to their demands. My son never had a chance after I read that.

Twice a year we would have to go to the cemetaries of my ancestors, and the 'carrot' my parents would dangle in front of me and my brother would be a trip to Rutt's Hut. I don't know what the deep psychological implications this has in relation to death and rippers (get it..RIP....)...but I'll leave it to the posters here.

Rutherford Wine Shop on Park Ave. in Rutherford is great. Staff is extremely helpful. Owner has taken staff to Napa Valley for an up close wine education.

This is well covered territory in the book "Overcoming Overeating" by Munter and Hirschman. The approach is radical because it smacks of common sense and simplicity.

After I drop off homemade carrot cake cupcakes and a cheesecake at a Thanksgiving meal for the homeless in Hackensack, it will be off to the Village Inn in Wayne with my parents, husband and son. It's going to feel strange not cooking. Everyone be safe......the weather might not be cooperating!

Oakland, in northern Bergen County. Most of the population has to rely on a bagel shop, and ShopRite for their baked goods.

I called them and for December, they are open on the 3rd, the 10th and 17th. The woman I spoke to felt that 10am-2pm were the hours, but she wasn't certain. Can't wait!