While sitting at my desk prepping show notes for last Saturday’s radio program with Beau MacMillan and Lee Hillson, I decided to revisit the television segments we filmed together. Not only did I laugh a little and reminisce, it made me recall just how lucky I am.

In my wildest dreams, I would never have imagined doing what I do today.  In case you are not aware, I bounce around town, meet really groovy people, eat, drink, and write about it.  All the while hosting weekly radio and television shows.  HOLY $#!+.

Three years ago, I was trying to find a way to do what I love (reference above) and accidentally landed myself in food culture central. Don’t get me wrong, I worked my butt off and the ways and means of accomplishing it is a story in and of itself, such that we cannot officially provide an anniversary date for ITS. Suffice it to say, I am very grateful to be here and am even more grateful to call these folks my friends.

We’ve (me and the infamous intern entourage) taken to bouncing around town more and more which affords me an even greater opportunity to meet and learn about the chefs, restaurateurs and product that are making our State a dining destination. 

Among these is La Bocca Urban Pizzeria & Wine Bar in Tempe, AZ. Emily and I met up with John Ormond there the other night. I promptly ordered up a Grey Goose martini, and by the time we met the owner and restaurateur extraordinaire, Julian Wright, I was “Happy Heidi!”  It took Julian a while to realize that I wasn’t a restaurant critic, but a bouncy lover of all food, friends and frolic. He hunkered down with a glass of Russian Red and proceeded to entertain and educate. This dude is hilarious, creative and smart!

The medley plate was lovely with his signature flatbread and the best babaganoush ~ love that word~ I’ve ever had. The Queen Creek Olives were amazing along with tasty feta and smooth hummus. Whilst licking my lips and enjoying a glass of that red myself, Julian ordered up even more taste treats. My fave was the Mascarpone, Smoked Prosciutto, and Truffle Oil Bruschetta. Basically, Ecstasy without the pill, the pretty lights, or the urges.

From the 1500’s Raphael Portrait behind the bar, to the sexy corner table with pillows and room for 10, La Bocca is, well, really cool. I asked Julian what he thought made his place special and he gave me the rote quote  “quality products, great atmosphere blah blah blah.” Since we were heading over to his “Canteen” for some after snack tequila tasting, I asked him to roll it around for awhile and try again. 

45 minutes later, the non-rote Quote; “There’s a human element here – influenced by a strong personality from the top down.  A sense of community and of family makes you feel comfortable and at home; the fact that I’ve created so much of it from me: every song, every wine, every bite, makes it special and real.  There’s a ‘no drama’ policy when you sign on as staff and, um… we have chairs!” 

I love it when creative people take the credit for their creativity, especially when they are right.  The chairs quote may have been the effect of a lengthy bout of tequila tasting, but who cares? My La Bocca was sore from the chatter and the laughter.

We bade farewell with hugs, warm feelings and the promise to meet up again. With any luck, Julian will come to play with me on the show where I can share him with you.  Thanks for listening/watching/reading.

On a final note: I’d like to offer humungous appreciation to my sponsors and those that helped so much along the way. Please help us support them to keep the dream alive:

And most of all, our wonderful friends, followers, members and fans (some 30,000 of you) who make it worth the effort. We hope we entertain, educate, and engage you.

We love you all and I LOVE MY JOB!!!!