Writing and Dining: The Ultimate Guide for Novelists Who Love to Eat Out

The Perfect Guide for Writers Who Want to Dine Out While Crafting Their Next Novel

Writing a novel is an intense and often solitary endeavor, requiring hours of dedicated focus and creativity. While the comfort of your home or a quiet corner of the library can be ideal writing spots, sometimes a change of scenery and a delicious meal can do wonders for your inspiration and productivity. For those writers looking to combine the pleasure of dining out with their passion for writing, we've compiled the perfect guide to eating out while working on your novel.

#### Why Write While Dining Out?

1. **Change of Scenery:**

   - Shifting from your usual writing space to a bustling café or a tranquil restaurant can spark new ideas and provide a fresh perspective.

   - Observing the ambiance, interactions, and unique details of a different environment can add depth and authenticity to your writing.

2. **Fuel Your Creativity:**

   - Enjoying a delicious meal can be a delightful break, giving your mind a chance to relax and recharge.

   - Trying new cuisines and flavors can be a sensory experience that stimulates your creative juices.

3. **Networking Opportunities:**

   - Dining out in public places can lead to chance encounters with other creatives, opening up opportunities for networking and collaboration.

   - Writers' meetups and literary events often take place in cafes and restaurants, providing a community atmosphere.

#### Tips for Dining Out While Writing

1. **Choose the Right Venue:**

   - Look for cafes or restaurants with a quiet, relaxed atmosphere where you won't feel rushed.

   - Many coffee shops and eateries offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets, perfect for writers who need to stay connected and powered up.

2. **Time Your Visit:**

   - Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and noise, ensuring a more peaceful environment.

   - Early mornings, mid-afternoons, and late evenings are typically quieter times in most dining establishments.

3. **Pack Your Essentials:**

   - Bring your writing tools: laptop, notebook, pens, and any reference materials you might need.

   - Don’t forget your headphones if you prefer to write with music or need to block out ambient noise.

4. **Order Wisely:**

   - Choose meals that are easy to eat and won't distract you from your writing. Finger foods, sandwiches, and salads are great options.

   - Stay hydrated with water, tea, or coffee, and avoid heavy, sleep-inducing meals if you plan to write for an extended period.

5. **Be Considerate:**

   - Be mindful of the restaurant’s seating policy, especially during busy times. If the place fills up, consider giving up your table after you've finished your meal.

   - Tip generously and be courteous to the staff, especially if you’re spending several hours at the venue.

#### Suggested Venues for Writers

1. **Cafes:**

   - Independent coffee shops often provide a cozy atmosphere with ample seating, Wi-Fi, and a variety of beverages and light snacks.

   - Many cafes are designed to be work-friendly, with comfortable seating and quiet corners perfect for writing.

2. **Bistros and Eateries:**

   - Casual dining restaurants and bistros can offer a more substantial meal in a relaxed setting. Look for places with a laid-back vibe and friendly service.

   - Some eateries even have designated quiet areas or book nooks, catering specifically to those who want to read or write.

3. **Libraries with Cafes:**

   - Some libraries have in-house cafes, combining the best of both worlds: the quiet of a library and the comfort of a café.

   - These spaces are ideal for writers who need a blend of tranquility and sustenance.

#### Embrace the Experience

Dining out while writing your novel can be an enriching experience that blends creativity, culinary delight, and social interaction. It’s a chance to break free from the isolation of writing, enjoy good food, and perhaps even gather new inspiration from your surroundings. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy café, a bustling bistro, or a serene library café, there are plenty of venues ready to welcome you and your literary ambitions.

So pack up your writing essentials, head out to your favorite eatery, and let the flavors and atmosphere fuel your next great chapter. Happy writing and bon appétit!

 Spicy Garlic Prawns with Noodles and Sweet Corn Ribs

**Ingredients:**

- 200g prawns, peeled and deveined

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 red chili, thinly sliced

- 1 tablespoon butter

- 1 pack (200g) of your favorite noodles (rice noodles, soba, or egg noodles)

- 1 cup sweet corn ribs (corn cut into small rib-like pieces)

- 1 tablespoon soy sauce

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh coriander for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

#### Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. **Prepare the Noodles:**

   - Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

2. **Prepare the Sweet Corn Ribs:**

   - Toss the sweet corn ribs in olive oil, salt, and pepper.

#### Step 2: Cooking with the Portable Cooking Device

1. **Cook the Sweet Corn Ribs:**

   - Place the sweet corn ribs in one compartment of the portable cooking device.

   - Set the timer for 15 minutes, allowing the corn to cook until tender and slightly charred.

2. **Prepare the Prawns:**

   - In another compartment, melt the butter and add the minced garlic and sliced chili. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

   - Add the prawns to the garlic and chili butter, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the prawns turn pink and are fully cooked. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

   - Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. **Combine and Flavor:**

   - In the same compartment as the prawns, add the cooked noodles and soy sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the garlic chili butter and prawns.

#### Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

1. **Plate the Dish:**

   - Serve the spicy garlic prawns and noodles on a plate or bowl.

   - Arrange the sweet corn ribs on the side.

2. **Garnish:**

   - Garnish with fresh coriander if desired for an extra burst of flavor and color.

3. **Enjoy:**

   - Enjoy your delicious, spicy garlic prawns with noodles and sweet corn ribs, all made effortlessly with your portable cooking device!

### Cooking Tips:

- **Adjust Spice Level:** If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chili or remove the seeds before slicing.

- **Noodle Choice:** Feel free to use any type of noodles you like or have on hand.

- **Add Veggies:** You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to make the dish even more nutritious.

This flavorful recipe combines the sweetness of corn ribs with the spiciness of garlic prawns and the comforting texture of noodles, all cooked quickly and easily. Perfect for a satisfying meal during a busy writing day!