Hello, my fellow fun-loving foodies!!  My name is Tanya McGowin. So happy you stopped by to check out what The Urban Palate has to offer!  My goal is to point you in the direction of extraordinarily delicious food and convivial events happening around New Orleans and its surrounding areas, as well as, provide you with tasty recipes, including favorites from my Mother’s kitchen.  I’ll also throw in a bit of lagniappe along the way. Hopefully, in addition to the tried and true, you’ll be introduced to places unknown to the average tourist visiting the city. I’m frequently asked by family, friends and acquaintances for restaurant recommendations, in what I consider my hometown of New Orleans.   What easier way to keep others informed of the ever-changing restaurant and events/ festival scene than to create a blog, affording me the opportunity to provide frequent updates.  This is a work in progress, so bear with me as I get to know you guys, your interests, and tackle the task of mastering the art of blogging!

I was born in Chalmette, LA, which, I guess, technically makes me a Chalmatian!  My family moved to River Ridge, LA (approximately 10 miles from the city of New Orleans) when I was a young child.  I am one of four girls, whose family events centered (and still do) around food, libations, and lots of laughter! My Mother (God rest her soul) was an incredible cook, spending most of her time in the family kitchen, cooking up foods from her German, French and my Father’s Sicilian heritage. Many of her recipes will be featured in the “Recipe” section of this blog. Because of her, I developed a great love for delectable food!  My husband (Judge) and I currently reside in Mobile, AL, with a second place for weekend getaways in the CBD (Central Business District) of New Orleans.  We have five incredible children, who are scattered throughout this awesome country, two precious dogs named Bette and Marshall, and a tank full of fish. We love the incredible vibes of this melting pot of a city.   I’m choosing to spotlight the many positives it has to offer, so sit back and enjoy the journey with me!  Your taste buds will be forever grateful!