Where is the little health conscious cafe that serves really good vegetarian food?  Today, with so little opportunity to choose, it is really great when we have the opportunity to select something that is delicious and healthy. A number of food crafters are opting to specialize in gluten free, sugar free, preservative, additive and artificial flavor free foods; and that’s a good thing. Years ago I had the opportunity to meet Julie Jordan, author of the Cabbage Town Cafe Cookbook; and if you do not have a copy of this unique cookbook, you are missing out on some wonderful recipes that were purely delicious.  Julie was the owner of Cabbage Town Cafe in Ithaca, New York and if there is anyone still around that dined in that little cafe, you are sure to remember how delicious the food was there. I was a food stylist and caterer at the time Julie strolled across the metro Detroit area, promoting her book; the recipes were heavenly to make and eat. Seriously, this is the kind of food we need today, flavorful, filling and a welcome change from the artificial.

Where can we get a simple slice of homemade bread with cheese and perhaps a cup of vegetable soup? Is that just too much to ask? I once spoke to a young woman who wanted to open a lunch van that served fresh organic sandwiches, soups and cookies. She thought the community was just not ready and talked herself out of the idea. This was over ten years ago. Today, with all the processed food that crosses our daily paths I honestly wish someone would come up with healthy restaurant alternatives. Yes, people would eat there! And if there is one thing I know for certain, it will be the brain child of a food crafter, a purist, someone who takes pride in “designing” the food they serve the public. Great food is created by design, with purpose, care and to make the culinary experience better for all who consume it.

…email me when you open Cabbage Town Cafe II