Ask and Ye Shall Receive...

I'm feeling very grateful to you for reading this column and for those who have stopped to say a quick "hello" or share their own foodie favorites when they see me in the community. You are my people (insert fist-bump). I like to think I walk around quite anonymously and under the radar so I must look like a deer in the headlights each time it happens. I assure you, after the initial surprise, I'm always excited about the experience. This week I'm taking a moment to answer questions I receive the most, so here goes...

What qualifies you to be a foodie?

I don't know. I've been eating food my whole life. Well, I may have exaggerated my qualifications just a bit. I admit, there was a short pre-food period. I started my life on breast milk and formula, but once I got teeth and started solid food I never looked back. I learned quickly there were things my mom cooked that I loved and dishes to avoid. I follow that strategy today. Growing up an Army "brat" I experienced much cultural diversity in the school lunchroom. Sauerkraut and I did not become friends. My first taste of kimchi was from a classmate's lunchbox. Adulthood brought with it the freedom of choice. I could eat whatever I wanted. Well, kind of. When I was young I ate everything and anything I wanted, however, with each year of adulthood my body has demanded input on the matter and quality over quantity has become a consideration. In the words of Forrest Gump, "That's all I've got to say about that."

Where is the "critic" part? You never say anything bad about the food or restaurants.

I believe I may have asked the same question when I was initially approached about writing the column. I breathed a sigh of relief when I was told the Southeast Missourian wasn't looking for the negative. Perfect. I'm a foodie, not a critic. I enjoy food, meeting people, and exploring right here in my own backyard. Do I enjoy everything I eat? No. If I don't like something I simply don't write about it. There are so many differing opinions and palates it is refreshing to have license to focus on the positive.

Mary Jane strawberry lemonade.Submitted by Mary Castillo

"Do you get free food?"

Sometimes. Most people are surprised to learn I am literally writing about what I ordered for dinner (or lunch) that day. There is no real method to my madness. Sometimes I'm satisfying a craving, other times I have a friend choose for me. In most cases, I show up and leave the restaurant unannounced. Occasionally, the opportunity to speak to an owner or chef turns into a mutual love-fest about food and an impromptu sample of a few of their favorites. Food bonding is a wonderful thing.

How did you get picked to be a foodie?

I responded to an article in the Southeast Missourian. I was known in my friend circle for my love of food. I often read "Ask A Foodie" and feigned offense that no one contacted me for input. When the opportunity presented, it sounded like fun so I jumped on it. Lucky for me, I was selected. I also wanted my picture in the paper. Momma is proud.

On to the food. This week I am putting a quick spotlight on one of my favorites: Mary Jane Burgers & Brew. I am a huge fan of their burgers. HUGE. If you enjoy a great burger and a comprehensive beer list, you will want to take a drive to Perryville, Missouri.

Strawberry lemonade and a drink menu is seen at Mary Jane Burgers & Brew in Perryville, Missouri.Submitted by Mary Ann Castillo

I was in town recently for work and excited about stopping in for lunch. Unfortunately, I couldn't afford the food coma that would inevitably happen if I consumed an entire burger, so I tried their "other grub": The Krabby Patty. I admit, I partly ordered this because it reminded me of SpongeBob SquarePants. The Krabby Patty is a hand formed crab cake that is flash-fried and served with fresh tomato, mixed greens, and delta sauce on a ciabatta bun along with hand-cut fries and their delicious smoked ketchup. My server, Austin, was cheerful and kept my strawberry lemonade topped off. The Krabby Patty was a taste sensation perfect for the warmer temperatures and sunny days. If you still aren't convinced, check out their menu online. The photos alone will have you salivating all the way there.