The Virtual Gourmet: The Cost of Dining In Paris

Today Is Paris affordable? Today? After Covid? Is the haute cuisine of this food mecca worth it? Time change as food and travel writer John Mariani explains…which is why you need to watch this update on eating in Paris in 2024! For more on John Mariani go to www.JohnMariani.com And Listen to John’s radio show, … Read more

The Virtual Gourmet: An Honest Look at Spiced Rum

Are “Spiced” Rums new? Innovative? Or a rip-off? Food and travel author, John Mariani address not only Spiced Rum but Rums in general –including some historical perspective you’ll find fascinating! For more on John Mariani go to www.JohnMariani.com And Listen to John’s radio show, ‘Almost Golden’ on WVOX-AM at https://wvox.com/shows/almost-golden/ Visit our website www.CelebratingAct2.com ​ … Read more

The Story Behind Swans, Capote & Le Cote Basque

Behind the popularity of a hit TV Series “FEUD: Capote vs the Swans” lies the real story of high society doyennes set in a top NY restaurant of the 1960s. As a writer and food critic, John Mariani gives a historical perspective to both the characters and the prevailing social atmosphere. An interesting look at … Read more

La Grenouille closes! The End of Haute Cuisine?

La Grenouille closes! The End of Haute Cuisine? When the vaunted La Grenouille restaurant closed in NYC in 2023 many culinary savants thought it was the end of fine dining in America. Food and travel writer, John Mariani, editor of the weekly newsletter, The Virtual Gourmet, explains why that is not the case. For more … Read more

The TRUTH about Tequila and Mezcal

What’s the difference between Tequila and Mezcal…and WHY to some of these spirits COST so much $$$ ? Food and travel writer John Mariani gives you a down to earth explanation with very useful information and some fascinating history on these South-of-The -Border Spirits For more on John Mariani go to www.JohnMariani.com And Listen to … Read more

Delmonico’s, the OLDEST Restaurant in USA

Is there a reason Delmonico’s in NY has remained the oldest restaurant in the US? The answer lies not only lies in the history of the institution according to food and travel writer, John Mariani. You’ll be impressed with his first-hand knowledge and appreciate his reasoning! For more on John Mariani go to www.JohnMariani.com And … Read more

Old Wines Are RISKY!

Yes, some wines do better with age…but Which ones?…and how old ? John Mariani addresses the question from a practical point of view while putting to rest some old myths about aging wine! This is a frank discussion all wine lovers should listen to! For more on John Mariani go to www.JohnMariani.com And Listen to … Read more

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: San Antonio – A Great Destination!

World Traveler and Gourmand, John Mariani recently returned to a place he had not seen for a number of years–San Antonio, Texas. He was pleasantly surprised to see how the city has grown and improved in every way. He not only discusses the wonderful food and culture but also how the “Border Crisis” has affected … Read more

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: Try Europe AFTER the Holidays!

Noted Food and Travel Writer, John Mariani, talks about traveling to Europe in the Off-Season. He points out that while the off-season gets smaller –and there is good reason for that –it may not offer balmy weather but avoiding crowds and enjoying the winter can have its rewards. It will also help the traveler’s budget! … Read more

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: Is TOURISM RUINING Italy?

As a world traveler, John Mariani, editor and publisher of his weekly newsletter, the Virtual Gourmet, has many favorite destinations. ITALY is one of his favorites. However, he’s been disappointed by how its popularity with tourists has made it impossible to enjoy the true joys of Italy’s largest cities –especially ROME! While he cautions visitors … Read more