One of the most endearing aspects of the Boyle Street and McCauley area is the food. There are few places in the city where there is such a high concentration of restaurants featuring dishes from different cultures. The fare that these establishments cook up tends to be the best of anywhere in the city. I got hooked on pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) from hanging out in Chinatown, and although I have had the dish at places elsewhere, it just doesn’t taste the same as my favourite haunts on 97 and 98 street.

My culinary adventures have included foods from other parts of the world I had never tried, because I decided to check out local restaurants serving African, Thai, and Latin American food. While I used to be a regular visitor to fast food and chain restaurants, I now prefer to give my support to places that are independently owned.

Food is a subject that brings people together, because we all have a basic need for nutritional sustenance. As well, when people eat together, it gives them the opportunity to talk and bond.

In fact, I would go so far as to say that food and peace can go hand in hand. One of my favourite summer events is the annual Heritage Festival. All of the countries and cultures coming together in one location in harmony makes me think of what an ideal world could be like. Trying foods from these places is a major part of the fun and every year I discover something new. McCauley’s own East Meets West festival is an opportunity to enjoy the best of some of the cultures represented here, including the food.

So the next time you have the chance, try something new on your plate. Your stomach – and the world – may thank you.