I was born in New Orleans, so I've always had an affinity for food.  After a short time my family moved to Illinois, where I grew up.  There was a family statute to have dinner together, at a table, and without TV.  This is one of the few reasons I've always adored how food brings people together.  As Tony says-

"Meals make the society, hold the fabric together in lots of ways that were charming and interesting and intoxicating to me. The perfect meal, or the best meals, occur in a context that frequently has very little to do with the food itself."

Now, I travel for a living as an IT consultant, and taste regional cuisine coast to coast as I go.  Still, and will always, love Chicago the best.  We have the best relationship with our farmers, the most inspired chefs, the most amazing patrons--the ultimate food community.  

I may not be a 'qualified' expert, but I am smart enough to put up one of those www things.  Feel free to send me any feedback or stalk me on facebook.