An amuse bouche is a French phrase which literally means “amuse the mouth”. It is a small bite of food, a tasty nibble served at the beginning of a meal to tease the palate, whet one’s appetite, and engage the taste buds for the feast to come. And so let me share with all and sundry my experiences and expositions on all things food — from meals and dishes from various cuisines to films, books and travels which have amused my bouche — and hopefully engage, entertain, and enlighten you. So in the wise words of the great Julia Child: Bon appetit!