If you enjoy fine food, fresh air and a healthy lifestyle, consider Waterloo Region your paradise.  While it is a stretch to say that we created "local food", surely our Region can lay claim to one of the healthiest, most vibrant food systems to be found in the province- if not the entire country. 

There is a real, almost spiritual connection between our farms, the food they produce and our community.  Perhaps its our strong Mennonite and farming heritage.  Perhaps its the fact that virtually no one in Waterloo Region lives more than 15 minutes from a working farm.  Maybe it is our strong tradition of food festivals and vibrant and historic farmers' markets.  It could be that we have an abundance of food artisans that still produce local meats, breads, baked goods, cheeses and preserves with tradition and care.  Whatever the reason, our community seems to honour farms and place special value on the fruits of their labour. 

Local Dish will share some of the stories and themes along with the very real challenges and triumphs that make Waterloo Region's local food scene special.  Our regular contributors will document great tasting local food and explore  our food seasons as producers and eaters.  From the kitchens of chic restaurants to muddy barnyards, we hope to bring you stories that will inspire. 

I sincerely hope you enjoy these postings and above all I hope that they give you an even greater appreciation of what's on your dinner plate.

Let's dish!

Peter Katona

Foodlink