About Me

My name is Shakira. I am your Chief Foodie Officer and your expert in dreamy eats!

☁️What makes me an expert? ☁️

My love for exceptional food starts very young.

My dad told me a story about when I was a toddler; I was the official food taster for the family. I was an extremely picky kid, and if I was willing to eat the food, then it was suitable for everyone else to eat (my parents and my older siblings).

I grew up in the old country (New Jersey), and my palate reflected that—I enjoyed a diet of Philly cheesesteaks, Italian food, and saltwater taffy. 

☁️ What changed my palate? ☁️

I did not express much interest in trying new foods until an opportunity came to visit the Washington, DC, area in November 2007. 

Eating in DC was love at first bite! I tried so many amazing foods for the first time: avocados, mangos, brunch, and cuisine from all different cultures (Ethiopian, Mediterranean, Irish, etc.). 

Since then, I have traveled to over a dozen countries and two dozen states with my stomach leading the way. Trying new food is my favorite way to learn a new culture.

While it is safe to eat at national chains in other countries (McDonald’s does taste the same no matter where you go), I think eating at big chain restaurants lacks originality and does not create a unique experience.