Food Guides

Nothing is more basic to human life than food. Beyond the bread-and-butter basics is a world of gourmet goodies waiting to be explored. Food is something that should be enjoyed with good company. Food can make a great gift for any occasion - why not treat someone special with some caviar and Champagne, just because you can? Don't be afraid to spice up your everyday meal with some flavored oils or exotic spices -- the taste possibilities are endless. Bon appétit!

Luxury Items 

Does your local gourmet shop have you in a tizzy? Can you barely tell fois gras  from fondue,  truffle oil  from tomme de savoie?  Do tasting menus make you run the other way? Start with a few of these and let your tastebuds experience new delights!

Chocolate

If you think that all there is to chocolate are Hershey's bars  and M&Ms,  think again! Chocolate, the finest candy in the world, has gone gourmet. Dark chocolate is popping up everywhere and organic,  fair-trade,  vegan,  biodynamic,  and other varieties are available. Gone are the days when your only flavor choice was whether you wanted peanuts  or almonds ; today, you can get chocolate flavored with lavender,  curry powder,  cinnamon and hot pepper,  or even bacon!   (And if you must have Hershey  or M&Ms,  you can try some of their new luxury lines!) Read the chocolate guide for more information.

Seasonings 

Spice up your cooking with a few items off this list. Don't be afraid to experiment with new flavors or flavor combinations. Sprinkle cinnamon  into savory dishes for a new flavor twist or toss your popcorn  with a splash of rosemary-flavored olive oil.  (Or try the reverse!) Delicious!

Cheese

What is more utterly satisfying for lunch than a hunk of "gouda"  cheese, a crusty baguette, and a piece of fruit? Indulge yourself with some of the favorites listed below, or go out on a "Limburger"  and try something new!

Meat Guide

Whether you just like to indulge in a steak  from time to time or meat is the be-all and end-all of your dining habits, you'll find information about the most popular meats here. (There's even something here for the vegetarians!)