Cousins Angelica D’Amore and Taylor Catalano know good eats — they come from a large Italian family, after all. So it’s only natural that their food-focused upbringing translated into a much-loved Instagram account called Chicks With Food Pics. Since 2017, they’ve posted hundreds of photos of their meals, from Boston to New Hampshire. Below, they share their favorite brunch spot (it’s a popular locale in Southie!), which two restaurants they can’t wait to try (both serve Mexican-inspired menus) and their secrets to awesome food photos.
Tell us a little about yourself. How’d you end up in Boston, and what inspired you to create your Instagram account?
We are two cousins who grew up in the Boston area. We come from a big Italian family who loves to eat anytime, all the time. We decided to take that love of food and create a page dedicated to amazing eats around Boston and beyond. We love trying new places and sharing our experience with our followers.
Name the top five dishes on your Boston food bucket list.
Magnolia Bakery’s Famous Banana Bread Pudding
Any and ALL pancakes from In A Pickle Restaurant
Java Berry (and every other doughnut) from Blackbird Doughnuts
Pistachio Pesto Gnocchi from Capo
Fried Chicken & Biscuits from Sweet Cheeks BBQ
What do you think the next big trend is for restaurants?
We think the next big trend for restaurants is specialized brunch whether that is boozy filled doughnuts or 90s throwback creations (dunkaroos please)!
Which chefs are your favorite to follow on Instagram and why?
Some of our favorite chefs to follow on Instagram are Ree Drummond (@thepioneerwoman) and Carla Hall (@carlaphall) because they post about amazing food and their family lives, plus sometimes there is a touch of humor!
Beyond chefs, what are your top three favorite food Instagram accounts to follow?
@threehungrychicas
@tasteofmassachusetts
@bostonbrunchguide
Describe Boston’s food scene in three words.
Elevated, lively & intriguing
Which restaurants haven’t you been to but you’re eager to try?
We would love to try Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar and Loco Taqueria in South Boston.
What’s your food photography philosophy, and can you share your top tips for taking awesome food photos?
Lighting is our food photography philosophy because it can make or break a picture. If the lighting isn’t good then it’s so hard to showcase how amazing a dish looks. Our top tips are to invest in a good light, try all different angles (even if that means standing on a chair), and don’t be afraid to get up close and personal with your food!
A Few Of Your Favorite Things:
Favorite brunch spot: Lincoln Tavern
Favorite place for outdoor dining: Legal Harborside’s Roof Deck
Favorite BBQ joint: Blackstrap BBQ in Winthrop
Favorite late-night: Insomnia Cookie
Favorite neighborhood for food: North End
Favorite new restaurant: Blue Dalia in Natick
