Billy Joel Was on the Right Track

Recently I read an article stating that Italian is the most popular ethnic food in the US. Whether this is true or not is up for debate. What is a fact is that Italian cuisine is one of the most enjoyed throughout the world.

True Italian food has a life of its own. Wonderful flavors bring forth emotions and enhance our lives. The atmosphere in Italian restaurants also enhances the emotional appeal and in many of the establishments, exudes a presence of family and some romance.

Billy Joel’s “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant” tells a story of life. The joys, the sorrows, the reminiscing and reconciliation. Perhaps he chose the Italian restaurant as a backdrop due to the sense of family which is inherent in many Italian restaurants.

Recently my wife and I had the opportunity to visit a local Italian restaurant which we haven’t been to in many years. A friend suggested we go there together and I’m glad he did. The atmosphere was that of Italian restaurants I recall from my youth. Our server was from Italy and the food, was spectacular. Sharing the experience with good friends made for an enjoyable evening.

There are so many wonderful experiences revolving around Italian restaurants. Dinners with friends, (some who are no longer with us) and holiday parties for employees when I had a company up north. The food envokes the emotion which enhances the occasion.

During Irma a hurricane from several years past, my wife and I were staying with some friends in the Orlando area. There was one restaurant open. It was Italian and they couldn’t make enough pizzas to keep up. The atmosphere inside was that of people enjoying themselves, even through challenging conditions.

To me, true Italian food is about the expression of love and that of family. I have been blessed with having friends of Italian descent and all have a passion for life. Some are exceptional cooks and the warmth and joy they exude comes through the food they prepare for those fortunate enough to have them as friends.

Life is short and full of challenges. Enjoying an Italian meal has the ability to stop time and allow us to enjoy conversation and fellowship with those who enhance our lives. 

Take some time and find an Italian restaurant that you can call yours. Invite some friends for an evening of camaraderie and it will enhance your life.

Godspeed and buon appetito!