“Food is life:” a saying I love to hear and that rings true for me. I love to eat, and there’s no doubt about it.
When we visit new places or even explore cities we are familiar with, like Boston, we will always experience the setting in a new light, especially when we open up to new discoveries. So, if you’re looking for ways to renew your experience in a city, I have two words for you: food hopping.
The wonderful experience of food hopping can include doing a tour or trying out new places on a whim; the latter is my favorite. Food hopping is special to me because it signifies the idea of firsts.
Firsts are a unique and exciting experience where, the more you eat it the more you fall in love, savoring to the point of even licking the last bites on your plate, and indulging in the tastes of that delicious meal or dessert. You become drawn to it. You remember it. A memory that will last you a lifetime and is engraved in your heart and mind, be it good or bad. You are acquiring your palette a bit more, learning what cuisines or food suits your taste.
On top of that, food is not without culture. From the ingredients and cooking to how the food is served represents someone’s story or culture, whether generational or a newfound passion from a few years back. In short, there’s always a story behind every recipe, even if we are unaware of it. We may not see or hear it, but we can taste it through the flavors and love they put into their creations.
Everyone’s creation is uniquely theirs with their own little flair you can’t get anywhere else no matter the dish.
Experiencing something new can be exhilarating. From the moment you wait in line to sit at the table, opening the menu to look at the variety of selections in front of you. What is attracting you and making your stomach grumble? Then, when it arrives, the scent wafts through the air, causing you to salivate at the sight of the meal. You take one bite, and you’re hooked until the last remaining bites of the dish. You want more, even if you’re full. You leave happy, hearts and stomach full, wanting to go back for another round. If not today, then tomorrow, or the week after that.
However, the experience is not complete without good company. I believe what marks a truly memorable food hopping experience is whom you choose to surround yourself with at that time. I believe in the magic involved in sitting down at a table, and discussing the meal you and your company shared because it is a memory that both of you will hold close to your heart. Best of all, it gives you a bonding activity to do once in a while. If you’re meeting a new person for the first time, this is a great way to break the ice. More importantly, it is a fun and relaxing activity to learn and feel more connected to the city.
At the same time, we are still in a pandemic. and I know and understand the hesitations of in-door dining. If you don’t feel completely comfortable just yet, take-out is always a good option. Maybe you and your friends can sit down on a bench or the grass and soak up the sun in the Boston Common (personally, that’s always a good idea, especially when the breeze is just right).
Apart from that, as a college student on a budget, I know that as much as we would like to go to a restaurant every weekend, that it is not feasible. At the end of the day, it is about the quality time we spend immersing ourselves in the atmosphere of the city, appreciating the food. At times, we may have to order less, but that’s okay. Nevertheless, while we are in Boston, I think it is important to experience all its different and unique treats, just like we would when traveling to a different country.
Think of this experience as a gift to yourself. If you’re a picky eater, like me, this is an opportunity to let loose and keep an open mind. If you feel hesitant, ask yourself what your eyes gravitate towards on the menu.
Be adventurous. Don’t be afraid. Try something new, and don’t forget to capture those memories both in your mind and heart. So, if you desire to venture out into the city with a friend or two, pick a restaurant and treat yourself to good food, be it in the North End, South End, Downtown Crossing, or even in nearby Chinatown.
Go! It is calling for you.