I’m a Georgia-boy turned New Yorker.  I love downtown living, cooking at home and I’d like to think I’m a damn good host. My name is Ryan Smith.

I’m a thirty-something guy living in my Lower East Side apartment since 2002.  Over time, I’ve met some passionate food people who introduced me to new ingredients and inspired me to become a better cook.  Many are now close friends I entertain when they’re able to drop in for good food and a boozy cocktail.  Sometimes, I make dishes from cookbooks or magazines.  Other times, I try to recreate dishes I’ve learned from working or eating in restaurants.  Many times, I play with ingredients until I’ve created my own dish.  This is the place where I’ll share those experiences and introduce the people who pop in for supper.

I have a major sweet tooth, but I try to balance it with lighter dishes – even better when a dish is simple and has big flavor.  I won’t lie, I love to cook and will spend the time to do it.  But I’m also practical.  It’s easy to spend your ass living in this city.  So, I like to prep on Sundays, making sauces, spreads and sides that make weekday dishes gourmet.  When I prep at the beginning of the week, I’m more likely to eat at home and save money for a cocktail excursion or dinners at places that are truly a treat.

I hate spending money on food experiences that fall flat.

I love tequila.  Even better if we can drink it in a pool.  Or in the ocean (if I can see my feet).

You’ll catch me wandering in food shops, obsessing over iPhone apps and frequently daydreaming about the next meal I’m going to cook for my partner, Fabio.

My parents are high school sweethearts and I’m the oldest of three.  Everyone cooks, though not professionally, and there are sure to be a few nostalgic tales along the way.

Donuts are my kryptonite (some of the best come from sidewalk vendors).

I love new restaurant and bar previews, but I hate reviews.  You will not read restaurant reviews here.  Its better to try them on your own.

I’m a helpless romantic.  Forgive me if there are times when I get sappy.

As for site details, I’m working on an FAQ, but here’s what I can share now:

You’re going to laugh, but most of my photos are taken with my iPhone 4 or a Canon Powershot S95.  Sometimes I use apps to make snaps more snappy.  If you would like to use any of these pictures, please ask.

I’m also self-hosting my site and using WordPress software with a few plug ins to make it more enjoyable for all of us to read.

I’m not a true recipe writer, but I enjoy it and welcome feedback.  So print them, try them and let me know if you love em or think they suck.

If you have a comment or question, feel free to ask.  I will get back to you as soon as I can.

If you’re wondering, I chased a job to NYC, but ended up working in nightlife for several years.   During that time, I was exposed to new music, fashion, and the restaurants and bars where New Yorkers meet to socialize.  Let’s not beat around the bush, if there’s a good party, we’re going.  And this is where I may introduce you to some of those kids.  If you don’t have time to meet them, have a look around here.  I’ve tried to capture highlights over the years and give you a snippet of the people who have made an impact on me in a major way.