Serious Eats - seriouseats.com

Roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and gravy. I can still remember how good it made the whole house smell!

Lobster, handmade lemon-mayo, avocado, and a sprinkling of bacon lardon - all on a fresh croissant, please!

My burgers must come from a cow
not turkey nor tofu or sow
it should be grass-fed
center perfectly red
topped with cheddar and bacon - oh wow!

croque monsieur!
(Side of frites avec garlic aioli, please.)

grilled cheddar and bacon sandwiches with tomato soup!

Today I'm into the pumpkin cheescake!

I am always asked to bring scalloped potatoes and pie.

Egg fried in bacon fat, served on cheddar-covered english muffin, with bacon of course!

I would have to say Michael Ruhlman really got me to take cooking to the next level.

Michael Ruhlman:

Tell the truth - how many times have you had to slap Bourdain around?"

or Anthony Bourdain:

"How do you resist shaving Ruhlman's head ala Season 2 Top Chef?"

eggs benedict, fancy soft cheeses, or lobster salad in little puff pastry cups - it must be a rich and decadent complement to the bubbly!

Organize the menu. Plan the shopping ahead, make your first dish help with your second (ie roast chicken, then use leftover meat for enchiladas the next day). Just knowing what you're supposed to be cooking ahead of time gives huge time dividends!

carmelized onion, rare roast beef, thinly sliced marinated mushrooms, mayo, & gorgonzola!