It is a glorious cloudless 25C day and I have just wandered home through the Botanical park with the wind in my face and sun in my eyes, the wonders of nature up close and very personal as I meandered beneath the glory of Wisteria Way (not actually in bloom right now…Oy Vey…)

I wound my way through the gardens, passing couples dining at the outside cafes and large groups of picnickers (is that even a word???), and I began to wonder about the origins of outdoor eating…(keeping it in the moment )…or, as now popularly referred to, Alfresco dining!

I knew the word was borrowed from the Italians but had no clue they didn’t even use it. They prefer the phrases fuori or all’aperto. I believe it translates to “in the cool [air].”

Anyhoo, I’m no history expert but apparently the concept of eating outdoors descends from medieval times and has evolved to mean different things in different parts of the world. In Europe it means sidewalk dining under a bright fun awning. To the British and Americans it is often a picnic. And in Australia it’s the outdoor barbie. Yes! throwing a snag on the grill is considered alfresco. Suddenly the simple gas grill meal has been tagged with a name of class and distinction. Who knew it was that easy to upgrade to trending! Mmm, I wonder…if I threw a chop on as well, would it suddenly be considered gourmet alfresco

Tinerate, my sister, FEC, was a big outdoors enthusiast and loved to dine amongst the elements whenever possible. She even set up a cafe style table and chair on the very mini verandah of her cottage home despite the road (actually, more of a laneway but still with reasonably high traffic) it fronted on to. Very chic!

I’m a big fan of it as well…sans mozzies, no-see-ums and wasps! Can happily cope with flies; just not anything that bites, stings and itches

Till next time.

Tipsy Pipsy xo