Hello! Welcome to Dontmissmyplate.

Thank you for visiting my website! I'm Maxine, a food blogger, home cook, travel enthusiast, and lover of food and culture. I’m passionate about fusion cuisine, a style of cooking that blends ingredients and techniques from different countries, regions, and traditions.

My approach is influenced by both Southern African and American cooking, shaped by my life experiences and reflected in the diversity of my recipes. I also focus on farm-to-table cooking, using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally whenever possible. I believe food tastes best when it’s in season and close to its origin.

Travel plays a big role in how I cook and create. I love sharing my food adventures, from what I’ve eaten to where to eat, while discovering new flavors, cultures, and techniques that continue to inspire me.

I hope this space feels helpful and inspiring. Whether you're in the mood for something familiar or ready to try something new, you’ll find plenty to explore here. Happy cooking!

Pamplona - Clarendon, VA

Pamplona - Clarendon, VA

Go with a friend or two and share a few small plates. All the sangria based cocktails are good, but make sure you try their "secret" cocktail. Try the Serrano ham platter - which has amazing olive oil ice cream - the Brussels sprouts - nice and crispy, and the grilled cheese - which comes dripping in honey.

Sugar Lab - Georgetown, DC

Sugar Lab - Georgetown, DC

Lyon Hall - Clarendon, VA

Lyon Hall - Clarendon, VA

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