the quest for zest

A food & travel community from The Crossroads of America.

Eat Local. Travel Global.

Everything Else

All the articles we couldn't find another good home for.

800 Degrees Three Fires

Chef Matt Rogers will open a second restaurant this March.

Year One

We take a look back at our first year online and give you a peek at what’s next.

New “Downtown” Higher Grounds Confirmed

Fans of the former Downtown Higher Grounds get an early Christmas present

Devastated Vernazza

Video of what Vernazza was, and will return to.

New Higher Grounds Plans Come Into Focus

Expect a smaller space and more focused offerings.

Higher Grounds Midtowne, Reborn

Former manager to open a new Higher Grounds into STAR Financial building.

Breakfast In The Face of Adversity

Valuable lessons from our first attempt at cooking while traveling.

When Should I Buy Organic?

Where to avoid the chemicals vs. where to save some green.

Playing with Fire

A detailed look at how pizzaioli cook with a traditional wood fired pizza oven.

Processed to Death

Dr. Gladd talks processed food and the benefits of eating real, local food.