Who is The Virginia Epicure?

My name is Sheila McGrory (formerly McGrory-Klyza), and I recently moved back to Virginia after twenty-five years in Vermont. This blog was originally called The Vermont Epicure, but it made the transition as I have to this beautiful, and warmer, state. I'm originally from Maryland and lived in Virginia for a few years before moving North. Now I'm happy to be back and living just outside Washington, DC, which has become a foodie paradise since I last was in the neighborhood. World class restaurants abound, along with thriving farmers markets, interesting artisanal foods, and the surrounding Virginia countryside dotted with vineyards, farms, and eating establishments simple and grand, all calling to be explored.

I’ve worked as an English teacher, content developer, writer, and editor, and in the corporate, startup, education, and nonprofit worlds. My articles, essays, and poems have been published in national journals and magazines. I once taught English at a culinary school, which I quickly learned was a mistake. I’m a self-taught cook, but I’ve taken a class here and there and I read a lot of cookbooks. Currently I’m an English teacher and writer, and I view this blog as a fun intermingling of my professional and personal lives: a place where I can share my thoughts on and experiences with food, and celebrate the bounty that is produced in my broader neighborhood and places where I travel. My thoughts on products, purveyors, and eating establishments are my unbiased opinion. I only include what I like and/or find interesting and do not accept compensation for my commentary.

My family and friends participate in my food adventures to varying degrees, usually in good humor. Of course one of the best aspects of discovering, making, preparing, and eating food is sharing it with others, so they’re often pulled along on my explorations as you’ll find in my posts.

One thing you’ll quickly discovery about me is that I’m an avid Francophile and have had the opportunity to live in France for brief periods of time over the years. My time in France greatly informs my perspective on food and place. I’m also passionate about yoga, travel, and outdoor adventures. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoy reading my blog!