NYE Celebration + Food Resolutions

Typically, I don’t make plans for NYE. I tell people it’s just another day for me. Deep down, I don’t anticipate that the new year will be much different. Perhaps I avoid self-reflection in fear of disappointment (remember my birthday?). I am also reluctant to set goals I don’t intend to keep.

Nevertheless, I did celebrate this year and I did make a resolution.

Photo: Rachelle J. Icasiano
But first, the meal.

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My mopey bum did not want to venture far so I kept all festivities within walking distance. Making reservations at Boneta Restaurant in Gastown was a no brainer; it is one of my favourite spots in Vancouver where I’m often found sipping cocktails concocted by a wonderful bartender. They present seasonal, local and organic ingredients in a modern and artistic fashion.

There’s also comfort in dining where the staff knows me by name. I was greeted wholeheartedly by the owner and the headchef. After warm exchanges, I was led to my table with a glass of bubbly in hand. Rodney, the manager assured that I must try Jeremy’s latest creation: a labour intensive pheasant dish.

Here was the evening’s menu:

Amuse Bouche: Butternut Squash Arancini, Mushroom Soup, Leek Fondue

Appetizer: Grilled & Crispy Squid, Warm Curried Lentils, Cilantro, Coconut Froth & Yogurt

Entrée: Pheasant Ballotine, Carrots, Brussel Sprouts, Mitake Mushrooms, Spaetzle, Thyme & Lemon Jus

Entrée: Pork Loin, Cabbage Roll, Apple, Cippolini Onion, Oyster Mushrooms, Cider Sauce

Dessert: Caramel Cake, Coconut Cream, Banana Puree, Peanut Butter Crunch Ice Cream

Mignardises: House-Made Salty & Sweet Soft Caramel, Catalan Cakes

Following a fantastic meal with expertly paired wine, I slipped off to a loft-crawl nearby. Naturally, what happens during NYE stays where it occurred.

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The morning after.

Resolutions, goals, and plans bombarded me from all directions; self-improvement promises were all the buzz in the media and my social network. I resisted.

Until now.

This year, I resolve to improve my relationship with food.

In other words, I resolve not to abuse my food and not let it abuse me. Still a bit vague? I desire to make conscious, relevant, and sustainable goals that will incorporate into a healthier lifestyle.

Here’s what I mean.

I will NOT:

• feel guilty after treating myself or indulging occasionally.
• obsess over fat content, but focus on the type.
• over-consume.
• count calories.
• be lured by miracle foods, trends, and fad diets.
• drink too much coffee.
• … ok, and liquor.

Instead, I WILL:

• source local and sustainable ingredients but not obsess or judge others that don’t.
• share the kitchen with other that desire to cook (so I’m a little protective…)
• focus on portion size and break up my meals.
• eat slower and savour every bite.
• drink slower and appreciate every sip.
• find healthier dessert alternatives (I have an untamable sweet-tooth).
• kill my own food more often.
• eat from all food groups, including carbs and meat.
• eat butter… and bacon.
• continue to drink lots of water, eat lots of whole fruits, vegetables, and grains.
• continue to avoid processed or genetically modified foods and soda pop.

That’s all I can think of at the moment.

What are your food resolutions for 2010?

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