Most of you probably don’t know this but, I am actually a full time virtual health and fitness coach. I began creating my Foodie Turned Fit brand about four and a half years ago and one of 
the most popular questions I get is, “what sparked your love of food?” To some of you, that’s a silly question because, who doesn’t love food, right? But I’ve been told that I sort of geek out when it comes to all things related to the kitchen or anything gourmet, so I get the question. Anyway, I figured I’d share where my love of food came from with all of you since it IS McKinney & Doyle related.
⠀
When I was little, I was actually a really picky eater. If it wasn’t chicken or mashed potatoes, I didn’t want it. I even remember a few instances where I’d claim that I would instantly throw up if I had to take even one bite. However, I’ve always loved going out to eat. The whole restaurant experience just puts me in a good mood, every time. It feels like a special event! Anyway, my dad, being a chef and all, definitely feels the same way and often says that when we go out to eat, it’s kind of like “research and development.”
⠀
To be fair, it IS the best way to get inspired but sometimes I wonder if it’s just an excuse to try as much as the menu as possible. I’m not complaining, I’m just saying. But I digress, let’s get back to my love of food.
⠀
Because going out to eat with a picky child is definitely LESS fun than anybody would like it to be, my dad made up a fun rule to help me get over it. FIRST, I had to order whatever I thought looked the strangest on the menu and take one single bite. If I absolutely hated it, I could order the chicken fingers and fries or spaghetti with butter and cheese (my go to’s back then).
⠀
This led to me trying things like foie gras ravioli, beef cheek, raw oysters, liver mousse and things of that sort. The crazy thing though is that I liked every single bit of it. Even at a young age I was amazed by the things that could be done with food. I fell in love with the idea of food as expression and creativity and story telling and I would sit, and still do sit, in awe as my father could share information about every ingredient I’d ask him about.
⠀
Don’t get me wrong, there will ALWAYS be a time and a place for good old chicken fingers and fries but my love of food for sure stemmed from these father-daughter date nights in restaurants across New York. We may live far apart now but if you were to browse our texts and emails to each other, they’d be littered with food photos and descriptions of what we tried and how much we loved it.
⠀
What about you fellow foodie? Where did your love of food come from?
Rebecca McKinney
I wanted to create this blog for a few reasons. First and foremost, to share tips, tricks, and knowledge about the food and beverage industry in general but also to help people see a different side of the restaurant world. Every restaurant has a totally unique culture and world within it. I want to help open people’s eyes to more than how fast the service is or how easy or hard it is to secure a reservation.
So, thanks for stopping by! I welcome your ideas, input, and feedback and hope you enjoy!
Eat well & travel often,
Becky McKinney
Latest posts by Rebecca McKinney (see all)
- Why Food Makes the Best Gift for a New Mom - April 12, 2023
- 5 Ingredients to Cook With This Spring - March 15, 2023
- 10 Reasons to Dine Out on Valentine’s Day - February 2, 2023
Leave a Reply