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
The ease of travel changes with forces such as COVID, economic trends and more. Expert writer and professional traveler, John Mariani shares his important travel experiences from the end of 2023 as an update for travelers in 2024. …And they’re not good! If you plan ANY travel outside the US – Or even domestically– this … Read more
When 3 native New Yorker’s get together to talk food –even if 2 of them are on the West Coast — you gotta believe they will eventually talk about old time great restaurants in BROOKLYN! John Mariani, internationally well-known restaurant reviewer shares not only some famous eating places in the 4th largest city on the … Read more
When the subject turned to explore the wineries of Long Island NY our expert food and travel contributor, John Mariani, publisher of the Virtual Gourmet Newsletter, included his wealth of knowledge about the history of regional wines in the USA. Lots of fascinating history —who knew there were native American grapes?– and great commentary about … Read more
Ubiquitous as they are, meatballs were not always considered socially acceptable for upper crust cuisine! John Mariani takes us through the culinary history of meatballs and social attitudes. It’s a delicious conversation and fascinating as well! For more on John Mariani go to www.JohnMariani.com And Listen to John’s radio show, ‘Almost Golden’ on WVOX-AM at … Read more
The virtual Gourmet, John Mariani takes us for a review of a vaunted old NYC club which has been reopened after a long hiatus — The famous Theatrical and Literary club in Manhattan’s Theater District; The LAMB’S CLUB! Besides a review of the restaurant he shares the history of the club which includes a personal … Read more
Just because a large hotel has a good reputation and is well known, does that somehow convince you their main restaurant is top quality? When we’re looking for fine dining and great food can we count on these large hotels who tout the best of everything? Food and Travel writer, John Mariani, publisher of The … Read more
Italian food may be the most common cuisine in the US but how much of it is REAL Italian? Food and Travel expert, John Mariani, addresses the quality and recipes that comprise Old School Italian food –the original cuisine! Separating the popular chains restaurants from the restaurants who cater to the original ethnic choices of … Read more
While it’s the most popular time to travel, SUMMER can also be the worst time. world traveler, travel and food writer John Mariani –publisher of the VIrtual Gourmet newsletter– has lots of important advice about summer travel. There’s also information about dealing with security and long lines which you may not have heard before. …this … Read more
Are all the good restaurants to be found ONLY ‘downtown’ in the heart of a large city? Food and Travel writer John Mariani, also the publisher of The Virtual Gourmet newsletter, explains why most suburbs have their share of great restaurants including fine dining. He mostly discusses NY and LA but as he tell it, … Read more