So here we are

I'm wondering if the right place is out there. I'm not looking to buy a building. I don't want to be a landlord. I want to lease a property. What's wrong with that? People do it everyday. Almost every piece of real estate I've looked at is for sale with no option for a lease. Everyone, the realtors and sellers keep telling me what a good deal this property or that one is. Of course it's a good deal, you're all making money off of the sale. I need to have money to open and run a restaurant. Buying a building is not in the cards now, maybe down the road. The other issue I'm having is everyone is trying to SELL me on the properties. I keep telling them, I'll know it as soon as I walk in. Does anyone listen to what I want or is it all about the commission? It would seem to me that it's all about the percentage. Why else would I be dragged around town looking at buildings and restaurants that are nothing like I've described countless times?

I'm anxious to start cooking. I've been slowly working out recipes that will be featured on the menu. It's almost spring. I can't wait to start seeing local products and produce in the regional market again. A friend of mine sends me emails from his company regarding availability of fresh produce. What I read seals the deal completely about buying locally and seasonally. Freezing temps in Florida, California, Arizona and Mexico have all but obliterated certain items causing the price to skyrocket. The earthquake in Chile has had long term impact on the exporting of cash crops like table grapes and berries. If we went back to eating what was available seasonally and locally we would be better off. The local economy would benefit. There is an economic model that shows how every dollar spent with local businesses circulates through the local economy 3 times, whereas spending that dollar with a national chain, that dollar is there and gone. I don't know about you, but I like going to the regional market or a U-Pick field. You actually get to talk with the people growing your food.

Ok, enough of my soapbox stand. I hope everyone had a good time on Saturday, whether you went to the parade or out bar hopping. Me, I worked. It was alright. I wish I could've had a beverage or 20, but thems the breaks.

A few final thoughts, for those of you waiting for the next Cooking with Chef Paul, we have been having technical difficulties. It's done, but we can't upload it for some reason. Keep checking Facebook or Youtube.
If anyone has any ideas on where I can find a good restaurant location, send them over.