casalbore spirit

Real Name:

Eva Cherry

Location:

Oakland,Ca

Best meal I ever ate:

Anything my mother or grandmother from Casalbore,Italy prepared for me.

My current drink of choice:

Italian,French,Chilean,Australian,South African(forgive me for supporting them) and East Indian dry,light white wines.

I really wish I could:

Eat my favorite foods that always revolve around seafood every day,prepared and cleaned up by someone.Except when I'm cooking which is a treat,but still need the clean up person.

My "Go-to" dinner party dish:

Seared ahi tuna,tossed with lemon zest,mint,roasted cherry tomatoes,carmelized onions,garlic,olive oil,and al dente garganelli pasta,salt and black pepper,served warm

My favorite comfort food:

Pasta is my soul food and the only thing that cures me when I'm not well or lonely.Soup also is comforting and a massage for my stomach.

My top 5 favorite restaurants:

As much as I like dining in I love great restaurants that do take out.In my Oakland hood the stars are Mezze,Soizic,Italian Colors,Prime Spot and Fat Lady.Boo to Pizzaiolo who refuses to do take out,and overcharges for what I grew up on eating,considered peasant food.In their defense this seems to be a trend for Bay area Italian restaurants e.g. Oliveto. Addendum:Southern Cafe and Gregoire for take out.

My most tattered cookbooks:

I have so many but I never open them.The ideas and flavors are in my head.Give thanks to the bay area for the abundant vegetables,fruits,fresh fish/seafood and spices to inspire.