About the Emporium
The process of from-scratch cooking enables us to connect more deeply with our food and to express our creativity. I turn to my kitchen not only to nourish my body, but to fortify my soul. I learn something new every time I pick up a knife or turn on my stove, and I hope very much that you will, too.
The Eating Emporium
The Eating Emporium is a food blog named after my family’s restaurant, an institution for decades in my hometown famous for its soulful homemade breads, soups, and Middle Eastern specialties.
I created this blog because like my grandparents before me, I believe in taking the time to create food from scratch. Coaxing deep, complex flavor from a saucepan brimming with bones and fresh vegetables, or layering flavors in a thick, rich tomato sauce, yields more rewarding results than any can, box, or frozen product ever could.
I’m Rachel. In addition to being the author of this blog, I am the owner of far too many cookbooks, and a collection of heirloom vegetable seeds that borders on hoarding. I have spent the past 20 years working in the nonprofit sector, but I most look forward to coming home at the end of the day, tending to my garden, and cooking for my husband and our friends and family. My favorite things include asparagus, mushrooms, poached eggs, very rich sauces (and not in moderation), filled pastas, layer cakes, milkshakes, and a good Old Fashioned. Dislikes include olives (but not olive oil), blue cheese, capers, and popcorn.
Olivia is The Eating Emporium’s wine expert on loan from Violet Wine in Minneapolis, MN. Olivia has her aunt and uncle to thank for introducing her to the world of wine: when, as a youngster, she was granted small sips at family dinners. While she is a racial and social justice community action researcher by trade, 2020 provided her the opportunity to turn a wine hobby into a developing career! You might spot her dancing on a stage, caring for an ailing plant, reading some dense sci-fi/fantasy or studying for WSET level 2. Ask her about her favorite wine today, and she might say Riesling. Tomorrow…it could be a whole different story!