There’s a memo I didn’t receive before moving here (surely it’s just lost in the mail…right?): diet restrictions are in, in a big way.

Restaurants gleefully tout their vegetarian or vegan menus. Gluten free? Don’t worry, so are half the pizza joints. The more food groups you claim to scorn…well truly, the cooler you are.

While I can imagine the relief this offers those beset with food allergies (because there are many who are) or those choosing to live according to these practices (for many respectable reasons)…it’s certainly left me mulling over how to classify my own diet.

What have I come up with, after hours of consternation?

Thoughtfultarian.

That’s me.

I put a lot of thought into the way I consume food. If I eat meat, like that ohsoso enchanting spicy pork we tucked into earlier this summer, you can assume it comes from a good source (local, grass-fed, etc).

If I can’t be sure, which is often the case upon exiting my front door, my orders skew a bit like the picture above. A truly good vegetarian dish, one that highlights the local or seasonal fare, is as good as any meat-based meal…except maybe my mother’s grilled pork tenderloin.

My relationship with fish is similar. I eagerly scour the fish markets for anything prefaced with wild, and if that wild is conveniently followed by sockeye salmon…well then wrap it up and hand it over.

I’ve been lucky enough to see those beautiful words on a few menus dining out in the city.

Parea made a point of advertising the exceptional sourcing of all their meats, so I responded accordingly and supported their sustainability quest.

My reward? A glorious piece of grilled salmon swimming in a rich balsamic reduction.

Perhaps rather obviously, the Larchmont Yacht Club, was equally accommodating and provided a gorgeous, uncontaminated piece of red snapper for our dining pleasure.

I admit…dairy is a bit harder (unless you’re at Chipotle, actually).

But when I’m at brunch and the choice is between bacon, sausage, or yogurt…I’m taking my chances with the parfait.

And I tell you what, when it comes loaded down with homemade granola, fig preserves and fresh berries…it’s every bit as comforting.

Truly, I never feel like I’m missing out. If I did, I would probably eat differently. I eat for pleasure as much as I do for health. But I love the way this “diet” makes me feel. Whole, energetic, and healthy.

It also leaves me plenty room for sidewalk treats like these, when a craving hits

ALSO, you may have noticed told.in.vain’s recent facial reconstruction. I’ve a friend, Shannon, who is a wonderful, wonderful designer who’s playing around with some headers for me! Her work is outstanding, truly this is a very small glimpse at her talents…if you’re interested in contacting her–leave me a comment and I’ll put you in touch!