After all of the traveling we have done, I have never been more happy to set foot back in good ‘ol New York City than yesterday.  We arrived around 9p (4a to our bodies) at JFK and as soon as we entered the airport I felt home again.  I could read every sign, I could fully understand what people were saying, I had cell phone reception on my phone again, and voicemails from friends asking if were in yet.  There was a big permanent smile on my face… I was home again.  

And what better way to be welcomed home than to sit down to a big meal of food that you’ve missed?  Well that’s what our good friend Irina had prepared for us.  She and her husband, who are graciously hosting us in Brooklyn for part of our stay, had a full meal prepared at their apartment (and at 10pm no less!).  

Let’s start off with perhaps the most exciting thing awaiting us – homemade macaroni & cheese!  Yes, I have to say that this may very well be some of the best mac & cheese I’ve had.  Four cheeses, including one surprise cheese that remains a mystery and for a good reason.  It was made with love… and lots of butter and cream and cheese.  Mmmm, my favorite kind of mac & cheese!

And this post cannot go without mention of the other main surprise of the dinner.  Yes, oh yes, chicken wings.   You can imagine my excitement when I spotted the bowls of hot sauce and blue cheese.  Let’s just say I was beyond excited.  They were the good ‘ol nyc chicken wings we missed so much, with a slight crisp on the outside – which I love – and with a little extra kick of spice – which I really love.  And she had them paired with a wine that went well with bbq’d foods… so lovely!

Thank you, Irina, for preparing a welcome home meal we won’t forget!  And yes, I may have a little bit of the mac & cheese for breakfast.

Salivate here: Brooklyn welcome home dinner