Gather a pile of napkins, wear clothes that won’t show a dribble or miss-hit, and let go of lurking childhood fears. These are all necessary preparations for an elegant, three-course... Read more >>

The other night I met up with a group of girls at a finer restaurant to celebrate the birthday of a dear friend. I was invited by another of her friends (don’t worry if you aren’t keeping... Read more >>

Before the Meal: Once we’ve arrived inside a restaurant, we face a whole new world: one where anything can happen—and typically does. Having a “bag of tricks” that includes... Read more >>

Dear Fashionable Single Girl, I know you and your friends love to blather on about those awful parents who bring their wild animals small children to restaurants and let them squawk and sling food... Read more >>

I’m not a big fan of eating alone in public. I can’t even bring myself to hit a drive thru with no one else in the car. I blame it on Oprah and all those women she has on her show crying... Read more >>

We all know it well. That unsettling feeling when your stomach starts rumbling and the clock’s ticking reminds you it is time to eat, but you’re by yourself. Where to go, what to eat... Read more >>

I recently read an excellent article, written by Rebecca Brown, right here on DivineCaroline. The article was about manners and it got me thinking more about the topic. So, I’d like to list a... Read more >>

Ahh, dining with your mother-in-law! If it wasn’t already fraught with tension because you are a vegetarian and she has never heard of tofu, well, then, you must be prepared to follow a certain... Read more >>

It was my turn to stir. I dipped a spoon into the pot of strained tomatoes, beef, and sausage that had been simmering on the stove for two hours. Its deep red mahogany color and savory aroma zapped me... Read more >>

Throwing a party is not a challenge to your self-esteem. Yeah right! Nothing like throwing a party to reduce you back to being an eighth grader and wondering if anyone likes you and if... Read more >>