My name is Yvette and I’m a full-time interior designer and 24/7 food enthusiast in Northeast Ohio.  While I don’t proclaim to be an expert on all things culinary, people do seem to value my input when it comes to the best places around town to dine.  My dad says there is nothing I won’t eat – which I might add is completely untrue (wasabi, some mushrooms, and (gasp), you call yourself a Californian?) avocado most days – but apparently I give the impression that I’ll try anything.  And most things I do like.  While I love talking about restaurants, searching for the next great place, and frequenting the locally owned establishments in town, I am not disillusioned to think that the cuisine in Canton Ohio (and surrounding areas) is the best food in the country.  I know better.  For one thing, Canton Ohio is absolutely plagued with chains, which for some reason thrive to the point that the little guys (particularly downtown) are hard put to make it, even if their food is infinitely better than these themed giants.  Another reason I know Canton is not the mecca of culinary innovation is that I’ve lived almost half my life (so far) in Southern California, so you’ll hear me talking about that a lot.  But don’t get me wrong, there are some memorable Midwest eats, otherwise, I wouldn’t be bothered with dwelling on the details.

So, why am I blogging again?  Well, again I’m no professional foodie, but I do love to eat (especially out) and am fortunate enough to do a lot of that with my husband, Dave (DZ), who appreciates a good meal just about as much as I do.  I consider myself lucky to have a man who will cater to my food whims by trying almost anything, trekking for miles (sometimes on foot, in unfamiliar territory) to check out a restaurant I read about once online.  When we travel, food is always at the forefront of the itinerary.  Also, as a designer I enjoy taking in the scenery, absorbing the ambiance; its always a particularly great meal when you can please a few more of the senses.  To give you a preview of some of my favorites, for you NE Ohioans: Lola in Cleveland, Gasoline Alley, Luigis, and Bricco in Akron, and Bombay Sitar in Canton.  Then for San Diego, there are so many, but I’ll take Old Gallery for a chorizo burrito or the best shrimp tacos in town, Extraordinary Desserts (oh so much eye candy) in Hillcrest,  and Hash House, also in Hillcrest.  I can enjoy a $6 meal from a food cart in Midtown as much as a $100 meal in the latest place-to-be-seen.  Just depends on the experience, the company, and well, the food.  This blog is to share my food experiences with Northeast Ohio locals, people visiting the area looking for some good eats, and anybody who like me, loves food and searches out the absolute greatest no matter where they go.