Confessions Of A Picky Eater: Tropical Lasagna

Whisked away to Jamaica recently for a long weekend for a wedding, I knew I was in for a treat. The Grand Palladium Resort & Spa was just what this New Yorker needed for a quick escape. Soothing reggae band on the beach serenading the bride and groom as they exchanged their vows amidst the stunning beachfront? Check. Super relaxing afternoon at the Zentropia Palladium Spa enjoying poolside champagne with friends? Yes, please. Finally, dinner to cap it off at the Arte & Cuccina? You bet.

I had a very rough autumn personally, but when there's insurmountable stress, nothing can help treat it better than – let's say it altogether now – comfort food in an amazing location after a beautiful, casual, yet elegant ceremony. So while I just wasn't into food earlier in the day at the Jerk Hut, this picky eater preferred to nibble on pizza and salad at the buffet earlier that afternoon. By sunset, the menu at this on-site restaurant was the meal meant for me.

After appetizers of calamari and risotto, I dug into the lasgane al forno and then tiramisu. While it was indeed tasty, I couldn't help but slowly eat as I enjoyed also savoring memories from the weekend. As the bride and groom walked down their sand-filled aisle and beverages chilled on ice, it was hard not to think about the beauty of landscape, simple pleasures like palm trees and water, celebrations on the road, family and friends. It's interesting how food influences our experiences, and vice-versa. Yes, I opted for the lasagna, but perhaps what's more memorable about this picky palate is one's surroundings, the ambiance, the people you surround yourself with, the choices you make – yes, even from the menu – in life, in love and yes, at the dinner table.