I hate being sick

Once again I find myself sick and unable to do much of anything. I’ve basically been in bed for the past couple of days trying to get better for what will amount to a 2-day work week thanks to the President’s day break. I will be eating at Annisa on Monday night, The Little Owl on Wednesday night (for my birthday) and either Caracas or New Green Bo later in the week.

Here is a picture of what I made for Valentine’s Day Dinner—Filet Mignon, butternut squash cubes, cider braised endives and honey roasted chanterelles. After taking this picture and looking back at the other ones I have on this site (and seeing how dark they all are) I came to a realization…I need a new camera.

This is a really great series of photos and descriptions of all the work that goes into one dish at Alinea in Chicago. I have a friend eating there in April and I’m extremely jealous.

I also happened to stumble on an amazing video walk through of Alinea which can be viewed from the technology review website. If you dont bother reading any more of this post please click on the link and watch the video exploring the ideas behind Alinea and Grant Achatz' unique approach to food.

For all my friends out there who are never really sure how much to tip, maybe this entry in the diner’s journal can help shed some light on the process. I can write a whole column on this, but I for one, after working summers on a job where tips make up a percentage of income, will always leave 20 percent.

Anyone who loves wings should try this place. It was mentioned in a Times article two weeks ago and the chicken is fantastic. It has all the flavor and crispiness of a delicious wing without any of the mess.

Although I never read the Daily News, someone mentioned this article to me. Apparently cooking is the new masculine.

I thought I’d put up a link to this previous posting on eater. I guess its becoming increasingly difficult to eat at The Little Owl and some people are pissed off. To their credit, they probably didn't need to send out a response but they took the time to do so. I made my reservation for February 21st in late January and even then it was difficult to get a table for four at a decent time.

For the first time in my life I have friends/co-workers who are pregnant. This article is for them.