In between binge-watching cable drama series, we’ve been catching up on CNN’s “Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy” (on demand) as well as the new “José Andrés and Family In Spain.” Both series are personal, charming and educational. The renowned actor and the celebrity chef go behind the scenes to show the sourcing and preparation of their traditional regional foods.
It isn’t possible to view these shows and not get excited about traveling to these same places. Watching how bluefin tuna are caught once a year as they pass between the Atlantic and Mediterranean, how fresh tuna is prepared in Spain versus Italy, how Mediterranean seafood is prepared in Sicily and Sardinia… is fascinating. It isn’t possible to capture that level of freshness or obtain local farm- or wild- or sea-to-table Mediterranean ingredients of Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon and Turkey.
Nevertheless, more and more dining spots here in America, from “fast” food like Olive U to fine dining venues, are dubbing themselves “Mediterranean.” The harmonious ingredients in these varied cuisines offer an easy mix-and-match, enabling restaurateurs to cater to diners with varying taste and whim. It’s a great catch-all. We’d like to share La Cigale, a landmark on Federal Highway in Delray, and in the near future, Le Pistache on N. Clematis St. just off Flagler Dr. in West Palm.
