The SCA is wonderful for this. People who spend a lot of time and love looking into the daily stuff. The cook's guild (period cooking group) meets about once a month if you are interested.

And don't believe everything you see on TV, a lot of it is poorly written drek that perpetuates bald falsehoods and stereotypes. (although watching 5 minutes or so of the above show, I can't complain too much)*grin*