100 & Inspiring People: Alice Waters

Well, this will be my 100 post in this little corner of the internet and I wanted to make it special by dedicating it to a inspiring person (this little series started here). And who better than a woman that single handedly changed the way we look at food and restaurants, Ms. Alice Waters. 

- A young Alice Waters at her iconic restaurant-

As a Berkeley graduate, I am so proud that this community is the home of Chez Panisse, one of the first restaurants to advocate for seasonal and locally grown ingredients. The restaurant is celebrating its 40th year anniversary and Water's commitment to food education and social responsibility is shinning more than ever through the Chez Panisse foundation. The foundation helps bring healthy and backyard-grown food menus to schools around the area through the Edible Schoolyard Project. 

-Artichokes being prepared at Chez Panisse-

So as a celebration of 100 posts, 40 years of Chez Panisse and 1 truly inspiring woman, here are some great articles, delicious recipes and beautiful pictures from the restaurant's anniversary celebrations.

- Chez Panisse celebration at the U.C Berkeley Art Museum- 

The New York Times Magazine and Edible Shelby coupled up to offer a series of articles on the 40 year anniversary celebrations you can find them here, here and here!

For more information about the woman behind the delicious food check out this NPR piece.

-Alice Waters answering questions for children in Berkeley-

And if you are wondering what Ms. Waters' favorite food is here is her simple answer:

"A grilled cheese sandwich. It's been that way my whole life. It's a grilled cheese sandwich with some great sharp cheese and it's on a whole wheat loaf of bread ... and I always serve it with pickled vegetables. I love my grilled cheese sandwich and I probably eat it with a glass of wine."

If all this talk about food is making you hungry, I suggest watching this lovely video and following its simple instructions for a mouth-watering treat and a thirst-quenching drink!

So cheers to healthy food and supporting local farmers. Happy hump day everyone!

xoxo,

Pilar