Italian Trattoria vs Pizzeria

What can you expect at a good Italian Trattoria…and what’s the difference between that and a Pizzeria? The Virtual Gourmet, John Mariani, explains not only the delicious distinctions but the changing social history of these two favorite types of Italian eating places. You’ll enjoy this! Buon Appetito!

What Defines A French Bistro?

Lots of restaurants in the US use the name, ‘Bistro’, but are they? Celebrating Act 2™’s knowledgeable Food & Travel expert, John Mariani, publisher of the online newsletter, The Virtual Gourmet, not only defines the true French Bistro by food but also by decor…and he throws in some culinary history as well! It’s a fun … Read more

Have Italian Wine Laws Become A Farce?

Have Italian Wine Laws Become A Farce? We all know that wine production in places like Italy and France are carefully regulated –at least in terms of accurate labeling for the public. It’s long been the case that you could expect the wine to match the description on the label, thanks to the authorities. But … Read more

Does Today’s Food MEDIA Demonize Food with P.C.?

Since Covid-19 has turned the world of dining upside down we wonder what the Food Media is doing! our expert Food and Travel writer, John Mariani, has the inside track on what’s happening in the restaurant industry as well as the media that report on it. Simultaneously there’s been a rush to political correctness by … Read more

How NOT to Get Sick while Traveling!

Who would know better how to avoid getting sick while abroad than world traveler, food and travel writer, John Mariani, publisher of The Virtual Gourmet newsletter? In this video John Addresses both the danger of COVID while traveling as well as the usual “Montezuma’s Revenge.” This is filled with good tips and solid information from … Read more

Irish Cuisine?

Why don’t we see Irish restaurants like we do Italian, Thai or other ethnic cuisines? Food and Travel writer and expert contributor to Celebrating Act 2 answers that question for us in detail. The answers involve food, libations and some fascinating history! For more on Food & Travel Writer, John Mariani, go to www.JohnMariani.com and … Read more

INSIDE the Virtual Gourmet Newsletter

Publisher and head writer for the popular newsletter on food and travel, The Virtual Gourmet, John Mariani shares the inside dope on its origins and magic formula which keeps thousands entertained and informed weekly. It’s a tale of serving the public, entrepreneurism and love of great cuisine, good food, fun restaurants and exciting travel.

All About Bolognese!…And Lasagna!

Maybe the most popular sauce in the well-loved repertoire of Italian cooking…respected Food and Travel writer, John Mariani, sets the record straight with details on the origins and ingredients for authentic bolognese. If you like Italian food you need to watch this entertaining conversation!

Favorite Destinations After the Pandemic

Always a mindful traveler, John Mariani still loves the adventure–maybe more so since being restricted by COVID-19. The famous food and travel writer shares his desires and goals for traveling after the Pandemic subsides. It might give you some good ideas!

All About Pizza

So you think you know about the ubiquitous American food, Pizza? Is it really Italian or was it created in NYC? What about all those variations, like deep dish pizza… is it Sicilian? and what is an authentic pizza ? You’ll get a kick out of this dive into everyone’s favorite food…it’s history and cultural … Read more