Allison Ballard: What it's like covering the food and dining beat at the StarNews

I've been fortunate enough to work as a writer for most of my career, aside from a few college-era jobs as a server and bartender. And during that time, I've covered a lot of topics. (Science writing, in particular, has been a favorite.) But I've also returned to food writing again and again. I've worked at the StarNews a few times over the years and most recently have been covering the restaurant scene in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties as the food and dining reporter. It's something people always ask about.

Here's a little bit more about my job and some questions I get asked by a lot of readers.

Q: How'd I get interested in writing about food and dining?

When I started my career, I was covering the film industry for the StarNews. During a lull in productions, my work shifted more to general features reporting, including writing about food and restaurants. It was something I really enjoyed. I love the passion of people who work in the hospitality industry. I also have a background in science writing, and food is definitely a place where science and creativity meet. Fortunately, it was also something that readers and my editors responded to.

Q: What do I wish people understood about my work?

I'm not a restaurant critic. I have done this in the past for the StarNews, but what I'm doing now is more general coverage of what's happening with the local food scene. I try to let people know about the interesting people and places that make this a vibrant part of our community.

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Q: What's missing in terms of local restaurants?

I think we could definitely use more diversity. I'd love to see some African restaurants. Maybe Ethiopian or South African. I also think it would be great to see some more budget friendly street food options representing different cuisines, Asian, Latin or anything. I'll add in another. Because we are in coastal North Carolina, I believe we should have more options when it comes to Eastern-style barbecue.

Q: What's my favorite restaurant?

People ask me this all the time. It's a difficult question to answer. I usually just try to find out more about what they're looking for. Do you want ideas for date night? A great brunch spot? Or do you want to have a delicious burger or pizza? I'm always looking for new ideas, too. So I often turn it around so I'm asking them the question.

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Q: Do I like cooking, too?

I love to cook. Typically, I don't get to do it as much as I'd like. Day to day, it's usually quick and easy meals. And when I do cook, I'm not one who makes the same things again and again. I love to take a few hours on a weekend to try a new recipe. I've recently made summer rolls, crepes and a Oaxacan mole.

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This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews