The TRUTH about Tequila and Mezcal

What’s the difference between Tequila and Mezcal…and WHY to some of these spirits COST so much $$$ ? Food and travel writer John Mariani gives you a down to earth explanation with very useful information and some fascinating history on these South-of-The -Border Spirits For more on John Mariani go to www.JohnMariani.com And Listen to … Read more

Delmonico’s, the OLDEST Restaurant in USA

Is there a reason Delmonico’s in NY has remained the oldest restaurant in the US? The answer lies not only lies in the history of the institution according to food and travel writer, John Mariani. You’ll be impressed with his first-hand knowledge and appreciate his reasoning! For more on John Mariani go to www.JohnMariani.com And … Read more

Old Wines Are RISKY!

Yes, some wines do better with age…but Which ones?…and how old ? John Mariani addresses the question from a practical point of view while putting to rest some old myths about aging wine! This is a frank discussion all wine lovers should listen to! For more on John Mariani go to www.JohnMariani.com And Listen to … Read more

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: San Antonio – A Great Destination!

World Traveler and Gourmand, John Mariani recently returned to a place he had not seen for a number of years–San Antonio, Texas. He was pleasantly surprised to see how the city has grown and improved in every way. He not only discusses the wonderful food and culture but also how the “Border Crisis” has affected … Read more

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: Try Europe AFTER the Holidays!

Noted Food and Travel Writer, John Mariani, talks about traveling to Europe in the Off-Season. He points out that while the off-season gets smaller –and there is good reason for that –it may not offer balmy weather but avoiding crowds and enjoying the winter can have its rewards. It will also help the traveler’s budget! … Read more

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: Is TOURISM RUINING Italy?

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

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: TRAVEL UPDATE: Going Abroad in ’24

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

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: Tour BROOKLYN’s CLASSIC CUISINE

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

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: A look at LONG ISLAND and Regional Wines

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

John Mariani The Virtual Gourmet: You Got MEATBALLS!

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