Hi Neighbor,

I’m a pretty basic cook who tends to repeat the menu fairly often. Lately I’ve decided to break out of my winter repeat-a-meal routine.

When occasionally teased with spring-like weather, I start looking forward to outdoor barbeques and packing up picnics. Instead of waiting for the weather to change, I’m discovering ways to climb out of a late winter meal rut.

I read an article recently that discussed how most people order the same item time after time. That’s me alright. I’m working on shaking up takeout as well as trying new, easy dishes at home.

A friend of mine who loves to cook is directing me.  I’ll suggest foods I have no experience cooking like tofu or eggplant and she’ll find an easy recipe. Then she walks me through preparation on zoom. It’s led to discovering some quick, terrific new dinners. It’s been fun and thankfully my friend loves doing it.

Getting take-out is great too, knowing I’m supporting local businesses while simultaneously taking a night off from planning/shopping/cooking/cleaning up. Lately, though, I’ve also fallen into the same old take-out routines. When I place the order for a new dish and the server says, “Oh, that’s not your usual,” it’s pretty clear I’m way too predictable. So, I’m actively exploring options. It’s been surprising to discover something new instead of an often-repeated culinary experience. And this seemingly simple step has led me to begin seeking out new experiences in other ways, seeing new art shows, joining new book clubs and taking new walking paths.

These are some great, local restaurants I’ve tried that offer tons of take-out options for experimenting: Dan Dan Ardmore,  Kuma Wynnewood,   and Pietro’s Radnor.  Maybe these will start a culinary exploration of your own. Want to share your favorites? Leave a comment below, or email ja**@ma***************.com

Breaking the routine,

Jane

PS: Here’s a dining experience that’s 4 stars even without the food! 

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