Que Bola Podcast Ep. 94 Virginia Otazo

In this episode of the Que Bola podcast, I had the pleasure of
sitting down with Virginia Otazo, a talented food journalist
currently making waves at The Infatuation, one of the most
respected food publications in South Florida. We kicked off the
conversation by expressing gratitude for the support the
podcast has received, emphasizing that this endeavor is driven
by passion rather than profit.


Virginia shared her journey into the world of food journalism,
which began with her background in creative writing. Despite
her parents' skepticism about her career choice, she followed
her passion and found herself immersed in the restaurant
industry. After moving to Washington, D.C., for love, she
started working in restaurants, quickly rising through the
ranks due to her dedication and love for the craft. Her
experiences in various roles, from server to general manager,
shaped her understanding of the restaurant business and
ultimately led her to her current position at The Infatuation.


We delved into the unique approach that The Infatuation takes
towards food journalism, highlighting their commitment to
honesty and integrity. Virginia explained how they dine
anonymously, never accepting freebies or comps, ensuring that
their reviews are genuine and trustworthy. This authenticity
resonates with readers, as they know they can rely on The
Infatuation for honest recommendations.


As we explored the cultural significance of food in South
Florida, Virginia shared her insights on how food tells
stories, reflecting the diverse backgrounds and experiences of
the community. We discussed the evolution of Cuban-American
cuisine and how it has been shaped by the diaspora, with
Virginia drawing parallels between her own experiences and the
dishes she encounters.


The conversation also touched on the impact of social media on
the restaurant industry. Virginia emphasized the importance of
genuine connections and how she uses social media to discover
new culinary experiences through the eyes of chefs and cooks,
rather than just relying on glossy marketing.


Throughout the episode, we examined the concept of value in
dining experiences, discussing how the atmosphere, service, and
overall experience contribute to the worth of a meal. Virginia
shared her personal approach to evaluating value, turning it
into a fun game with friends to gauge expectations against the
final bill.


This episode is a deep dive into the world of food journalism,
the cultural tapestry of South Florida, and the stories that
food tells. Virginia's passion for her craft and her commitment
to authenticity shine through, making this conversation not
only informative but also inspiring for anyone interested in
the culinary arts. Tune in to hear more about Virginia's
journey, her insights on the food scene, and the importance of
storytelling in food journalism.