It was with this intention that we began planning this year’s Food Issue. Rather than compete with daily outlets proclaiming the top 10 restaurant patios or the city’s best margaritas, we wanted to slow down, to dig a little deeper and examine where our food comes from. There is no doubt that Austin is turning into a culinary destination, one apt to compete with the great food cities of the world. As patrons, we must continue to support restaurants whose ethos reflect our own. Likewise, purveyors must continue to strive to give Austinites a thoughtful, quality experience worthy of their patronage. If we can do this, the stars of Austin’s culinary scene will continue to rise — and the profile of our city right along with them.