Tuesday, March 17, 2009

March 20: Traveling to Eat!

This week Talkin' Tourism explores the phenomena of Food Tourism.

USA Today reported on a study that indicated of the 160 million U.S. residents who travel for leisure, about 1 in 6 have taken a food tour, enrolled in a cooking class, toured a winery or otherwise participated in culinary activities as part of a vacation. Nearly half took a trip or chose a destination because of the food and wine activities they would find there.

According to the TIA study, New York state is one of the most popular destinations for food travel, outdone only by California and Florida.

The Treasure Coast has some great dining options. This week's show will give listeners an insider's look into how food, wine and eating have a role in tourism.

Guests this week include:

Paul Daley, the owner/operator of The Flagler Grill and co-owner of the Pelican Cafe.

Katherine Lynch, editor and publisher of Dine Magazine, an upscale dining, luxury lifestyle publication covering the best of South Florida. You can also find Katy blogging on The South Florida Traveler (http://www.thesouthfloridatraveler.com/) and Dine Magazine (http://www.dinemag.net/), or planning events for Dine Magazine's Wine and Dine Club.


Chef Mark Muller, executive chef of Harborage Yacht Club and Marina's Harborage Grille. Chef Muller has maintained a standard of excellence in the Treasure Coast area since 1986, having worked with many of the area’s five-star chefs, including Howard Felch at Sailfish Point, Michael Polonieck at No Anchovies, Keith Crandall at CafĂ© La Ronde, and Mark Walton at Loblolly Pines.

Prior to Harbor Grille, Chef Muller and his wife, Melissa, owned and operated The Limelight, in Fort Pierce. His mouth-watering recipes and cutting-edge presentation earned a loyal following among Treasure Coast diners, while winning four-star ratings and numerous People’s Choice awards from local newspapers. Chef Muller gained expert knowledge in creating private in-house events, such as wine tastings and jazz dinners that he will share with Harbor Grille.

Aside from years in the kitchen, Chef Muller received a stellar education, earning his Professional Chef’s Degree at the Florida Culinary Institute, and after graduating from Martin County High School, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy.

Like grocery shopping, don't listen to the show hungry! Tune in on WPSL 1590 AM this Friday at 10 a.m. to hear the show broadcast live from the Captain's Lounge of Harborage Yacht Club and Marina.
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