I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting, upcoming food & drink events.
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1) Bar Boulud takes a modern approach to the classic Parisian patisserie experience with the debut of its new menu: “An Afternoon in Paris.” Whether gathering for business or pleasure, this experience features a selection of afternoon “perks,” including café, tea and rich house-made chocolat chaud, paired with an assortment of petite patisserie created by Pastry Chef Robert Differ.
Available daily from 2:30 to 5:30pm in the restaurant lounge, the menu includes:
--Café & Tea (espresso, cappuccino, latte, café au lait, selection of artisanal teas) $7
--Chocolat Chaud
Valrhona Illanka 64% Dark $8
Valrhona Dulcey 32% Blonde $8
Savory
--Vegetable Crudité (seasonal veggies, Chef Daniel Boulud’s famous aïoli) $12
--Les Tartines (smoked salmon, shrimp & avocado, jambon-beurre) $15
Sweet
--Petite Madeleines (brown butter cakes, sugar dust) $8
--French Macarons (chef’s seasonal flavors) $12
--Pâte à Choux (Trio: éclair au chocolat, grand marnier profiterole, praline cream puff) $12
--Fondue au Chocolat (serves two to four guests) $12
melting dark chocolate sphere, strawberries, madeleines, vanilla bean marshmallows
--La Tour Eiffel (serves two to four guests) $88
vegetable crudité, les tartines, french macarons, petite madeleines, pâte à choux and choice of coffee, tea or chocolat chaud
To make a reservation, please call 6170-535-8800
2) On Sunday, January 7th, 2018, a pipe burst at United South End Settlements’ (USES) South End House, causing extensive damage to each floor and displacing over 100 children from early childhood education and after school programming.
USES President and CEO Maicharia Weir Lytle explains the impact: “At $20 per hour for a babysitter, the cost of care per week for one child can be over $1,000. For our low-income families, this burden is devastating. Fortunately, our community has come together in beautiful ways. Families who are able to provide private childcare have opened up their homes and welcomed families who otherwise could not access care.”
To this end, USES has created an emergency fund to support families with financial assistance, cover the costs associated with equipping a temporary space, and assist USES with expenses related to rehabbing our building that are not covered by insurance.
USES has secured temporary space for programming, as demolishing and rebuilding the interior of the building is expected to take 12-18 weeks. “The biggest expense USES faces is repairing our roof. The pipe burst due to exposure to the frigid outside air. Insurance will not cover the repairs, yet this work is essential to preventing a future recurrence,” said Weir Lytle.
On Tuesday, February 6, neighbors and supporters are invited to stop by The Beehive and enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres between 6pm-8pm, and make a financial contribution to USES and/or drop off new and gently used toys and books for USES's classrooms. In addition, The Beehive will donate 100% food sales on USES dinner reservations February 5th, 6th, and 7th. (Be sure to use code “USES” and book a separate reservation on the Beehive's website or call 617-423-0069)
The mission of United South End Settlements is to harness the power of the diverse community to disrupt the cycle of poverty for children and their families. In the South End, where USES is located, 36% of children live below the poverty line. Collectively, they have the capacity to do better for the children in their neighborhood, ensuring that both children and their parents develop the skills they need to succeed in school and in the workplace.
3) In celebration of National Hot Chocolate Day on January 31, the North End’s il Molo will show off and serve up their specialty hot chocolate recipe at no charge. Not your average hot cocoa with powdered ingredients, il Molo’s hot chocolate blends milk with melted, rich chunks of chocolate and is topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. For added warmth, order a spiked option with your favorite winter liqueur for a supplementary charge.
Date: Wednesday, January 31 beginning at 4pm
Cost: Free with purchase of a menu item. Spiked hot chocolate available for additional charge
4) Chef Tony Maws is known for all things pork – especially his show-stopping Pig’s Head Platter served at Craigie On Main. Tony is offering Craigie’s Pig’s Head Platter, complete with all the fixin’s, as a Super Bowl Pigskin Take Out – so get your orders in early. This is a fingerlickin’ crowd pleasin’ platter of luscious pig’s head, ribs and/or sausage. Complete with all the fixin’s.
The Pigs Head Platter (Cost $75, Serves 4-6 people) includes:
1 Half Slow-Roasted Milk-Fed Pig’s Head
12 Chicken Wings
Black beans
Guacamole
Red Chile Sauce
Tortillas
Cabbage slaw
Corn bread
Additional supplement –
*Full spice-crusted rack of heritage pork ribs / $25.
And / Or
6 country pork sausages, sauerkraut and homemade mustards / $25.
And /Or
The Kirkland Tap & Trotter’s Green Chile Michelada Miz (8 ox of housemade fire-roasted green chile sauce and lime) / $8.
Please note, several of these items in the Pigskin Package are not good for people with a peanut allergy. Also please note, you can order several racks of ribs, just please fill out separate tickets for additional orders.
Please order by February 3 and pick up on February 4, fro 12pm-5pm.
To order:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/craigies-swanky-super-bowl-party-package-2018-tickets-42409788820?mc_cid=e64d08319b&mc_eid=faf4a679dc
5) Chef Tony Maws is pleased to host Boston Food Fight: February Fry-Off to benefit No Kid Hungry on February 10, from 1pm-3pm at The Kirkland Tap & Trotter. Tony has invited four guest chefs from top restaurants in the city to compete in this legendary Boston Food Fight. The four chefs will compete for votes in the ultimate battle for the perfect french fry! Admission includes all you can eat, as well as 2 sponsored drinks.
Competing Restaurants/Chefs:
Craigie On Main, Chef Nick Anichini
Tiger Mama, Chef Ellie Campbell
The Table at Season To Taste, Chef Carl Dooley
Highland Fried, Chef Mark Romano
Tickets: $20.
Reservations: https://ce.nokidhungry.org/events/boston-food-fights-fry
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Thursday, January 25, 2018
Thursday, October 20, 2016
Thursday Sips & Nibbles
I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting, upcoming food & drink events.
**********************************************************
1) The team at ArtBar, Royal Sonesta Boston’s locally-infused restaurant, is cheering for the New England Patriots and knows a thing or two about rooting for the home team. As a restaurant with travelers from every part of the world, they have heard it all. To defend the home team the best way they know how, ArtBar has created a specialty “Bully For Brady” cocktail.
Cheer on ‘the most hated team’ in the NFL as they ‘do their job.’ From the special “Bully For Brady” cocktail to a new football menu featuring half-priced wings, ArtBar is ready for some football.
Bully For Brady
“We created this with Tom Brady in mind” explains Kevin Khem, restaurants director at Royal Sonesta Boston. “We are keeping the cocktail clean and fresh with nothing artificial – the way Tom likes to eat. Bully Boy Whiskey is perfect for a football themed cocktail.”
The Recipe:
Bully Boy Whiskey
St. Germain
Agave
Lemon Juice
Cranberry Bitters
Club Soda
Garnished with fresh cranberries and a lemon twist
Football Game Day Menu
The special football game day menu, offered Sundays 1pm- til closing:
½ price wings – lime garlic, sriracha roasted peanuts
Loaded Fries – cheddar, mozzarella, bacon, scallion, garlic parmesan aioli
Fried Calamari – roasted tomato sauce
½ BBQ Ribs – pickled peppers, cornbread
2) Brassica Kitchen + Café Co-Chef/Owners Jeremy Kean and Phil Kruta invite you to a '6-Course Tasting Menu' to raise awareness and funds for Rise Up for Justice. Along with Chef Kean and Kruta, the event will be hosted by Beth Fraster and Rosie McMahan in collaboration with James Mackey of Opportunity Youth United. All Proceeds from the event will support Opportunity Youth United’s work.
Opportunity Youth United is a movement of young leaders from all backgrounds working towards creating a nation where all young people can reach their highest potential and noblest aspirations in the context of supportive, healthy, and inclusive communities. The active membership reflects a diverse group of religions, genders, sexual preferences, and geographical areas across the United States.
The event will take place on October 30th from 6 to 8 pm.
Tickets cost $200 per person or $350 per couple. Attendees will be treated to a 6 course French inspired meal with wine pairings.
To purchase tickets, please go to: http://boston.eventful.com/events/rise-up-justice-/E0-001-094910245-1
3) On Halloween night, Union Square will be home to a Murder Mystery as Brass Union presents a classic game of “Who Done It?” hosted throughout the venue. Beginning at 8pm, the Brass team will be in full character while they go about their business and guests try to solve the mystery at-hand. Adult trick-or-treaters will comb the scene for clues while doing some of their best detective work questioning the (mostly) unassuming service staff to determine who went on a murderous tear. The first one to figure it out will get a $100 gift card to Brass Union.
Party-goers also will have their chance to shine with Brass Union’s annual costume contest, as voted on by the Brass team. Before 11pm, present yourself at the host stand for your close-up as they snap a picture and later confer with their colleagues in choosing the “Best in Show.” The winner will take home a $100 cash prize, and have bragging rights through the next All Hallows Eve. Additionally, Halloween faithful will be treated to piles of candy and other festive swag and DJ J-Wall will take to the turntables starting at 10pm to spin the “Monster Mash” and other spooky sounds.
Admission is complimentary. This event is reserved for ages 21+.
4) Travel back in time with CHOPPS American Bar and Grill at the First Annual 80’s Themed Halloween Costume party in partnership with The 33 Foundation. Dawn your best perm, apply that frosted blue eyeshadow, and throw on your favorite leg warmers for a party that will be “totally tubular”. DJ Doze will be dropping beats and playing top 80’s hits all night. The Burlington Marriott Boston Hotel will be offering a discounted overnight stay and breakfast for party goers for just $129/night.
Proceeds from tickets sales will go to The 33 Foundation, a community of beneficiaries and donors that are passionate about helping those living with and recovering from spinal cord injury.
To register for the 80s Themed Halloween Party, please contribute a donation of $33 or more to The 33 Foundation at http://www.the33foundation.org/new-events. Donations/admission will also be available at the door.
5) Committee is hosting a special Halloween Brunch on Sunday, October 30th featuring beats from DJ Ryan Brown from 12pm–5pm.
Guests are invited to indulge in an array of Meze Dishes (perfect for sharing), Breakfast favorites with a Greek twist, and Greek-inspired Lunch Entrees while Beverage Director Peter Szigeti crafts up creepy cocktails behind the bar.
Please make reservations by calling 617-737-5051
6) In celebration of Halloween, The Beehive is bringing a sensual side to terror on Thursday, October 27, from 5pm-12am, at its Dead Sexy Burlesque show. This year, the space will be transformed into the Evil Laboratory and Cabaret Space of Mad Scientist Dr. Johanny Porkenpie (Jonny Porkpie) and his three peek-a-boo darlings. For one night only the slasher flasher showcase Dead Sexy will leave its weekly Times Square, New York City venue for its annual Boston appearance. Throughout the evening, Executive Chef Gregory Torrech will be serving up devilishly delicious dinner specials alongside special cocktail concoctions from the evening’s sponsor, Beam Suntory.
The psychopath who created Pinchbottom Theatrical Burlesque (named the "Best Burlesque" in NYC - The Village Voice, New York Magazine) and the infamous international burlesque gameshow "Grab My Junk" has dug up a skeleton crew of ghoulishly gorgeous (and gorgeously ghoulish) burlesque stars, to possess the stage of The Beehive just in time for Halloween. Terror has never been so titillating; horror has never been so hot. Come scream — with excitement — at this frighteningly attractive, monstrously talented, insanely seductive night of blood & gore and bump & grind.
Since 2013, Dead Sexy has been haunting the stages of Times Scare, a year-round Haunted House and performance venue in Times Square, NYC. Showcasing acts of more haunting nature, Dead Sexy has featured over a hundred top burlesque stars from across the country and around the world, including over a dozen Burlesque Hall of Fame “Queen of Burlesque” winners. This October in New York, a world-premiere Off-Broadway play will tell the electrifying story behind the creation of this burlesque cabaret.
Show begins at 8pm.
Cost: No cover charge RSVP: Dinner reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling (617) 423-0069.
**********************************************************
1) The team at ArtBar, Royal Sonesta Boston’s locally-infused restaurant, is cheering for the New England Patriots and knows a thing or two about rooting for the home team. As a restaurant with travelers from every part of the world, they have heard it all. To defend the home team the best way they know how, ArtBar has created a specialty “Bully For Brady” cocktail.
Cheer on ‘the most hated team’ in the NFL as they ‘do their job.’ From the special “Bully For Brady” cocktail to a new football menu featuring half-priced wings, ArtBar is ready for some football.
Bully For Brady
“We created this with Tom Brady in mind” explains Kevin Khem, restaurants director at Royal Sonesta Boston. “We are keeping the cocktail clean and fresh with nothing artificial – the way Tom likes to eat. Bully Boy Whiskey is perfect for a football themed cocktail.”
The Recipe:
Bully Boy Whiskey
St. Germain
Agave
Lemon Juice
Cranberry Bitters
Club Soda
Garnished with fresh cranberries and a lemon twist
Football Game Day Menu
The special football game day menu, offered Sundays 1pm- til closing:
½ price wings – lime garlic, sriracha roasted peanuts
Loaded Fries – cheddar, mozzarella, bacon, scallion, garlic parmesan aioli
Fried Calamari – roasted tomato sauce
½ BBQ Ribs – pickled peppers, cornbread
2) Brassica Kitchen + Café Co-Chef/Owners Jeremy Kean and Phil Kruta invite you to a '6-Course Tasting Menu' to raise awareness and funds for Rise Up for Justice. Along with Chef Kean and Kruta, the event will be hosted by Beth Fraster and Rosie McMahan in collaboration with James Mackey of Opportunity Youth United. All Proceeds from the event will support Opportunity Youth United’s work.
Opportunity Youth United is a movement of young leaders from all backgrounds working towards creating a nation where all young people can reach their highest potential and noblest aspirations in the context of supportive, healthy, and inclusive communities. The active membership reflects a diverse group of religions, genders, sexual preferences, and geographical areas across the United States.
The event will take place on October 30th from 6 to 8 pm.
Tickets cost $200 per person or $350 per couple. Attendees will be treated to a 6 course French inspired meal with wine pairings.
To purchase tickets, please go to: http://boston.eventful.com/events/rise-up-justice-/E0-001-094910245-1
3) On Halloween night, Union Square will be home to a Murder Mystery as Brass Union presents a classic game of “Who Done It?” hosted throughout the venue. Beginning at 8pm, the Brass team will be in full character while they go about their business and guests try to solve the mystery at-hand. Adult trick-or-treaters will comb the scene for clues while doing some of their best detective work questioning the (mostly) unassuming service staff to determine who went on a murderous tear. The first one to figure it out will get a $100 gift card to Brass Union.
Party-goers also will have their chance to shine with Brass Union’s annual costume contest, as voted on by the Brass team. Before 11pm, present yourself at the host stand for your close-up as they snap a picture and later confer with their colleagues in choosing the “Best in Show.” The winner will take home a $100 cash prize, and have bragging rights through the next All Hallows Eve. Additionally, Halloween faithful will be treated to piles of candy and other festive swag and DJ J-Wall will take to the turntables starting at 10pm to spin the “Monster Mash” and other spooky sounds.
Admission is complimentary. This event is reserved for ages 21+.
4) Travel back in time with CHOPPS American Bar and Grill at the First Annual 80’s Themed Halloween Costume party in partnership with The 33 Foundation. Dawn your best perm, apply that frosted blue eyeshadow, and throw on your favorite leg warmers for a party that will be “totally tubular”. DJ Doze will be dropping beats and playing top 80’s hits all night. The Burlington Marriott Boston Hotel will be offering a discounted overnight stay and breakfast for party goers for just $129/night.
Proceeds from tickets sales will go to The 33 Foundation, a community of beneficiaries and donors that are passionate about helping those living with and recovering from spinal cord injury.
To register for the 80s Themed Halloween Party, please contribute a donation of $33 or more to The 33 Foundation at http://www.the33foundation.org/new-events. Donations/admission will also be available at the door.
5) Committee is hosting a special Halloween Brunch on Sunday, October 30th featuring beats from DJ Ryan Brown from 12pm–5pm.
Guests are invited to indulge in an array of Meze Dishes (perfect for sharing), Breakfast favorites with a Greek twist, and Greek-inspired Lunch Entrees while Beverage Director Peter Szigeti crafts up creepy cocktails behind the bar.
Please make reservations by calling 617-737-5051
6) In celebration of Halloween, The Beehive is bringing a sensual side to terror on Thursday, October 27, from 5pm-12am, at its Dead Sexy Burlesque show. This year, the space will be transformed into the Evil Laboratory and Cabaret Space of Mad Scientist Dr. Johanny Porkenpie (Jonny Porkpie) and his three peek-a-boo darlings. For one night only the slasher flasher showcase Dead Sexy will leave its weekly Times Square, New York City venue for its annual Boston appearance. Throughout the evening, Executive Chef Gregory Torrech will be serving up devilishly delicious dinner specials alongside special cocktail concoctions from the evening’s sponsor, Beam Suntory.
The psychopath who created Pinchbottom Theatrical Burlesque (named the "Best Burlesque" in NYC - The Village Voice, New York Magazine) and the infamous international burlesque gameshow "Grab My Junk" has dug up a skeleton crew of ghoulishly gorgeous (and gorgeously ghoulish) burlesque stars, to possess the stage of The Beehive just in time for Halloween. Terror has never been so titillating; horror has never been so hot. Come scream — with excitement — at this frighteningly attractive, monstrously talented, insanely seductive night of blood & gore and bump & grind.
Since 2013, Dead Sexy has been haunting the stages of Times Scare, a year-round Haunted House and performance venue in Times Square, NYC. Showcasing acts of more haunting nature, Dead Sexy has featured over a hundred top burlesque stars from across the country and around the world, including over a dozen Burlesque Hall of Fame “Queen of Burlesque” winners. This October in New York, a world-premiere Off-Broadway play will tell the electrifying story behind the creation of this burlesque cabaret.
Show begins at 8pm.
Cost: No cover charge RSVP: Dinner reservations are encouraged and can be made by calling (617) 423-0069.
Thursday, May 19, 2016
Thursday Sips & Nibbles
I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting, upcoming food & drink events.
**********************************************************
1) In an effort to discover who will be mixing up the Seaport District’s best Sangria this season, the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center will hold its 2nd Annual Seaport Sangria Smackdown. Bartenders from various Seaport District establishments will come together on Thursday, June 2, from 6pm-8pm, at the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center, and bring their sangria A-game; whether it is an existing recipe from their eatery or a new twist on an old classic, guests will be the final judge of who will be dubbed the Seaport Sangria Smackdown Champion.
For $20 per person, guests will enjoy sangria tastings from participating restaurants and light hors d’oeuvres and are encouraged to vote for their favorite sangria, with one restaurant being crowned the Seaport Sangria Smackdown Champion! Participating restaurants include: Ocean Prime, Empire Restaurant and Lounge, TAMO Bistro & Bar, Legal Test Kitchen, Del Frisco’s, Barlow’s Restaurant, MJ O’Connor’s, Salvatore’s, Morton’s, Rosa Mexicano, Rowe’s Wharf Sea Grille and returning champion, The Barking Crab.
TICKETS: Tickets can be purchased online at: http://sangriasmackdown2016.eventbrite.com
2) On Sunday, June 5th, Ward 8, located in the North End, will begin serving up Lobster Clambakes every Sunday evening throughout the summer. Ward 8 Executive Chef Kenny Schweizer has created a delicious version of the New England summertime favorite: the lobster clambake. The individual Lobster Clambake, priced at $35, will include a full lobster, clams, corn on the cob, mussels, and chorizo sausage.
When: Every Sunday, starting June 5, from 5pm-10pm
Reservations are suggested but not necessary. All reservations can be made via phone at (617) 823-4478.
3) As part of his season-long farewell tour, Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz will host the fourth annual “David Ortiz Children’s Fund Gala” on Monday, July 18 at the Boston Park Plaza, celebrating the worthy accomplishments of Ortiz’s nonprofit organization, its courageous young beneficiaries and its dedicated supporters.
Emceed by top ESPN personalities Steve Levy and Jonathan “Coach” Coachman, proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, in partnership with MassGeneral Hospital for Children and the World Pediatric Project, which provides critical pediatric healthcare to children in New England and the Dominican Republic.
Tickets now are available for this soiree where revelers will have the opportunity to mix-and-mingle with Boston’s biggest names in sports and entertainment while Big Papi gives remarks on his final season and his future after baseball. Guests also will enjoy a cocktail reception, live music and entertainment as well as a three-course seated dinner in honor of the special works of the David Ortiz Children’s Fund. Additionally, all guests will have access to a silent and live auction featuring unique memorabilia, priceless experiences and retirement season exclusives from David Ortiz.
WHEN: Monday, July 18
6:00pm-7:00pm: VIP & General Cocktail Receptions
7:00pm – 10:00pm: Dinner Program in the Ballroom
COST:
--General Admission (includes access to the general cocktail reception and the dinner program): $295 per person; $500 for two people
--VIP Tickets (includes access to the VIP cocktail reception with David Ortiz and other celebrities, the dinner program, name mentioned in the event program and a photo opportunity with David Ortiz): $1,500 per person; $2,500 for two people
To reserve tickets, please visit: www.501auctions.com/ortizgala.
The David Ortiz Children’s Fund is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity. The David Ortiz Children’s Fund is exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
The David Ortiz Children’s Fund provides critical pediatric healthcare to children in New England and the Dominican Republic. The David Ortiz Children's Fund has currently netted approximately $2 million, provided over 500 children with life-saving heart surgery in the Dominican Republic, and has helped countless others throughout New England region. In 2011, David Ortiz was awarded the Roberto Clemente Award by Major League Baseball for his work with the David Ortiz Children’s Fund.
4) Now in its 19th year, Chefs in Shorts brings together a group of the area’s top culinary talents who fire up the grills and create their best dishes during this expansive outdoor, summer-in-the-city barbeque hosted at the Seaport World Trade Center. Join some of Boston’s best chefs for an evening of grill-offs, desserts, beer, wine and fun to benefit Future Chefs, a local nonprofit focused on first careers in the culinary arts. Attendees also will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite culinary creation.
This year’s featured chefs include the following:
Host Chefs:
Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center--Karen Hodsdon, Pastry Chef
Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center--Richard Rayment, Executive Chef
TAMO Bistro & Bar at the Seaport Hotel--Robert Tobin, Chef
Participating Chefs & Venues:
Artbar--Brian Dandro
Ashmont Grille & Tavolo--Chris Douglass
Back Deck--Paul Sussman
Bar Boulud--Jonathan Kilroy
Bastille Kitchen--Adam Kube
BOND at The Langham, Boston--Mark Sapienza
Brasserie JO--Nicholas Calias
Coppersmith--Jason Heard
Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse--Rodney Murillo
Deuxave--Shaun Velez
Earls Kitchen + Bar--Cyrus Winter
Flour Bakery + Café--Corey Johnson
Foundry on Elm & Saloon--Shayne Nunes
Gather--Dennis Wilson
Harvard Club--Dean Moore
Kashmir--Harjit Pabla
Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar--Matt Drummond
Lucca Back Bay--Andres Cruz
Lulu’s Allston--Sarah Wade
Ocean Prime--Mitchell Brumels
Pete & Gerry’s Eggs--Karl Johnson
Philip R’s--Philip Rotondo
RFK Kitchen--Rachel Klein
Salty Pig--Josh Turka
Scampo--Alex Pineda
Serafina--Brendan Burke
Tip Tap Room--Brian Poe & Emmett Ledbetter
Top of the Hub--Stefan Jarausch
Town Market Andover--Mark Porcaro
TRADE--Cory Seeker
Waterline--Joe Florio
Worden Hall & Five Horses Tavern--Jim McQuinn
WHEN: Friday, June 24, 2016 from 7:00pm-10:00pm
COST: $80 per person (includes admission with complimentary beer, wine and culinary tastings)
TICKETS: Advance tickets are required: http://chefsinshorts2016.eventbrite.com. Tickets will not be available at the door.
MORE INFO: This event is strictly ages 21+ and requires proper identification.
BENEFICIARY: Future Chefs’ mission is to prepare urban youth in Greater Boston for quality early employment and post-secondary education opportunities in the culinary field and to support them in developing a broad base of transferable skills as they transition into the working world.
**********************************************************
1) In an effort to discover who will be mixing up the Seaport District’s best Sangria this season, the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center will hold its 2nd Annual Seaport Sangria Smackdown. Bartenders from various Seaport District establishments will come together on Thursday, June 2, from 6pm-8pm, at the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center, and bring their sangria A-game; whether it is an existing recipe from their eatery or a new twist on an old classic, guests will be the final judge of who will be dubbed the Seaport Sangria Smackdown Champion.
For $20 per person, guests will enjoy sangria tastings from participating restaurants and light hors d’oeuvres and are encouraged to vote for their favorite sangria, with one restaurant being crowned the Seaport Sangria Smackdown Champion! Participating restaurants include: Ocean Prime, Empire Restaurant and Lounge, TAMO Bistro & Bar, Legal Test Kitchen, Del Frisco’s, Barlow’s Restaurant, MJ O’Connor’s, Salvatore’s, Morton’s, Rosa Mexicano, Rowe’s Wharf Sea Grille and returning champion, The Barking Crab.
TICKETS: Tickets can be purchased online at: http://sangriasmackdown2016.eventbrite.com
2) On Sunday, June 5th, Ward 8, located in the North End, will begin serving up Lobster Clambakes every Sunday evening throughout the summer. Ward 8 Executive Chef Kenny Schweizer has created a delicious version of the New England summertime favorite: the lobster clambake. The individual Lobster Clambake, priced at $35, will include a full lobster, clams, corn on the cob, mussels, and chorizo sausage.
When: Every Sunday, starting June 5, from 5pm-10pm
Reservations are suggested but not necessary. All reservations can be made via phone at (617) 823-4478.
3) As part of his season-long farewell tour, Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz will host the fourth annual “David Ortiz Children’s Fund Gala” on Monday, July 18 at the Boston Park Plaza, celebrating the worthy accomplishments of Ortiz’s nonprofit organization, its courageous young beneficiaries and its dedicated supporters.
Emceed by top ESPN personalities Steve Levy and Jonathan “Coach” Coachman, proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, in partnership with MassGeneral Hospital for Children and the World Pediatric Project, which provides critical pediatric healthcare to children in New England and the Dominican Republic.
Tickets now are available for this soiree where revelers will have the opportunity to mix-and-mingle with Boston’s biggest names in sports and entertainment while Big Papi gives remarks on his final season and his future after baseball. Guests also will enjoy a cocktail reception, live music and entertainment as well as a three-course seated dinner in honor of the special works of the David Ortiz Children’s Fund. Additionally, all guests will have access to a silent and live auction featuring unique memorabilia, priceless experiences and retirement season exclusives from David Ortiz.
WHEN: Monday, July 18
6:00pm-7:00pm: VIP & General Cocktail Receptions
7:00pm – 10:00pm: Dinner Program in the Ballroom
COST:
--General Admission (includes access to the general cocktail reception and the dinner program): $295 per person; $500 for two people
--VIP Tickets (includes access to the VIP cocktail reception with David Ortiz and other celebrities, the dinner program, name mentioned in the event program and a photo opportunity with David Ortiz): $1,500 per person; $2,500 for two people
To reserve tickets, please visit: www.501auctions.com/ortizgala.
The David Ortiz Children’s Fund is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity. The David Ortiz Children’s Fund is exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
The David Ortiz Children’s Fund provides critical pediatric healthcare to children in New England and the Dominican Republic. The David Ortiz Children's Fund has currently netted approximately $2 million, provided over 500 children with life-saving heart surgery in the Dominican Republic, and has helped countless others throughout New England region. In 2011, David Ortiz was awarded the Roberto Clemente Award by Major League Baseball for his work with the David Ortiz Children’s Fund.
4) Now in its 19th year, Chefs in Shorts brings together a group of the area’s top culinary talents who fire up the grills and create their best dishes during this expansive outdoor, summer-in-the-city barbeque hosted at the Seaport World Trade Center. Join some of Boston’s best chefs for an evening of grill-offs, desserts, beer, wine and fun to benefit Future Chefs, a local nonprofit focused on first careers in the culinary arts. Attendees also will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite culinary creation.
This year’s featured chefs include the following:
Host Chefs:
Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center--Karen Hodsdon, Pastry Chef
Seaport Hotel & World Trade Center--Richard Rayment, Executive Chef
TAMO Bistro & Bar at the Seaport Hotel--Robert Tobin, Chef
Participating Chefs & Venues:
Artbar--Brian Dandro
Ashmont Grille & Tavolo--Chris Douglass
Back Deck--Paul Sussman
Bar Boulud--Jonathan Kilroy
Bastille Kitchen--Adam Kube
BOND at The Langham, Boston--Mark Sapienza
Brasserie JO--Nicholas Calias
Coppersmith--Jason Heard
Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse--Rodney Murillo
Deuxave--Shaun Velez
Earls Kitchen + Bar--Cyrus Winter
Flour Bakery + Café--Corey Johnson
Foundry on Elm & Saloon--Shayne Nunes
Gather--Dennis Wilson
Harvard Club--Dean Moore
Kashmir--Harjit Pabla
Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar--Matt Drummond
Lucca Back Bay--Andres Cruz
Lulu’s Allston--Sarah Wade
Ocean Prime--Mitchell Brumels
Pete & Gerry’s Eggs--Karl Johnson
Philip R’s--Philip Rotondo
RFK Kitchen--Rachel Klein
Salty Pig--Josh Turka
Scampo--Alex Pineda
Serafina--Brendan Burke
Tip Tap Room--Brian Poe & Emmett Ledbetter
Top of the Hub--Stefan Jarausch
Town Market Andover--Mark Porcaro
TRADE--Cory Seeker
Waterline--Joe Florio
Worden Hall & Five Horses Tavern--Jim McQuinn
WHEN: Friday, June 24, 2016 from 7:00pm-10:00pm
COST: $80 per person (includes admission with complimentary beer, wine and culinary tastings)
TICKETS: Advance tickets are required: http://chefsinshorts2016.eventbrite.com. Tickets will not be available at the door.
MORE INFO: This event is strictly ages 21+ and requires proper identification.
BENEFICIARY: Future Chefs’ mission is to prepare urban youth in Greater Boston for quality early employment and post-secondary education opportunities in the culinary field and to support them in developing a broad base of transferable skills as they transition into the working world.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Thursday Sips & Nibbles
I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting, upcoming food & drink events..
**********************************************************
1) On September 23, at 7pm, Brass Union will host the next event in their “Brass Pair” series – a monthly pairing dinner where the Union Square eatery and lounge joins forces with local brewers, distillers, wine makers and sommeliers – for a night of interactive cuisine and beverage.
In this “Brass Pair” evening, Brass Union will team up with Ireland-based Glendalough Distillery for a savory five-plus-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Jonathan Kopacz with accompanying sips hand-selected by Glendalough’s Brand Manager, Donal O'Gallachoir and Brass Union’s Beverage Director Paulo Pereira. Guests also will have the chance to imbibe on an exclusive barrel-aged cocktail that soon will be available for purchase at Brass Union.
Chef Kopacz and Glendalough will present the menus as follows:
AMUSE
Whiskey Caramel Corn
Glendalough Double Barrel Punch
FIRST COURSE
Roasted Apricot, Goat Cheese, Savory Honey
Glendalough Double Barrel Irish Whiskey
SECOND COURSE
Grilled Quail, Cherry Mustardo
Glendalough 7 Year Single Malt Irish Whiskey
INTERMEZZO
Grilled Grapefruit
Glendalough Wild Botanical Seasonal Gin
THIRD COURSE
Braised Lamb, Chickpeas
Glendalough 13 Year Single Malt Irish Whiskey
DESSERT COURSE
Chocolate, Dark Fruit
Glendalough Irish Coffee
COST: $55 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Tickets are available via EventBrite: brasspair9.eventbrite.com.
This event is reserved for ages 21+ with proper ID.
This sounds like a fantastic event and not enough restaurants do Whiskey pairing dinners. And where else can you find Whiskey Caramel Corn?
2) With several years of revitalization under its belt, Somerville’s East Broadway neighborhood is presenting the vibrant flavors of more than a dozen restaurants at the East Broadway Foodie Crawl on Tuesday, September 29, from 6 pm to 8:30 pm. East Somerville’s restaurant corridor features some of the area’s most authentic flavors and hidden gems. A ticket to this tasting tour gives its holder access to more than a dozen restaurants representing five continents and provides food samples and a glimpse of the experience at each.
The Foodie Crawl invites participants directly inside each participating restaurant for a walking and tasting neighborhood tour that sets it apart from other food events and festivals. The experience includes the sights and smells of Ethiopia, the tastes of El Salvador and the colors of Haiti, among many others. East Somerville’s beautiful streetscape provides outdoor seating and music and entertainment for more than 1,000 people enjoying the crawl.
This year’s event promises to be particularly exciting as it comes in the midst of the “This Is East” project that has rejuvenated the neighborhood, inviting residents to participate in the creation of artwork, video installations and other cultural projects that reflect the rich cultural fabric of the neighborhood.
All proceeds from the Foodie Crawl benefit East Somerville Main Streets, which is committed to building a safe, sustainable and prosperous multicultural community by developing a vibrant businesses district at the neighborhood’s heart.
Tickets for the Foodie Crawl are on sale now. You can buy them for $20 online and $25 at the door if there are still tickets available. Tickets are available here: http://eastsomervillemainstreets.org/foodie-crawl/foodie-buy-tickets/
The event has a rain date of September 30th.
3) On Monday, October 5, at 7pm, Beacon Hill Hotel & Bistro (BHHB) invites guests to take a tour of Spain’s Rioja region during a four-course wine dinner featuring the culinary stylings of Executive Chef Lucas Sousa perfectly paired with four wines from Francos-Españolas Winery.
Cecilia Rait, proprietress and wine director of BHHB, and a representative from the winery will guide diners through the history, curiosities and nuances of each selection. Franco-Españolas Winery is one of the largest wineries in La Rioja. With almost 125 years of history and its exceptional location on the banks of the Ebro River, it produces some of the region’s finest wines.
This intimate adventure is set in communal seating to encourage conversation, laughter and fun. For $65.00 per person (tax and gratuity not included), guests are treated to four wines, a four-course dinner and Cecilia's and Tracy's good cheer, humor and expertise.
Reservations are encouraged as the event will sell out fast so please call 617-723-7575.
4) On September 28, at 6pm, The Tip Tap Room owners Brian Poe and Gordon Wilcox will host the 2nd annual “Chefs for Clefts” fundraiser at their Beacon Hill hotspot to benefit Massachusetts General Hospital’s Global Surgical Initiative. Funds raised from the charitable fête will directly assist Dr. Jay Austen’s missions that support children with facial deformities and cleft lips as well as burn victims in Colombia.
This festive “Night in Colombia” themed event will kick-off with Colombian music paired with complimentary Colombian-inspired cocktails and passed hors d'oeuvres, as prepared by Brian Poe, including: Summer Corn & Cheese Arepas; Buenelos (stuffed with goat cheese and cinnamon sugar dust); Cassava Chips (topped with roasted lechona bits); Empanadas (topped with lime-infused purple cabbage relish); Traditional Fritanga o’ Picada Colombiano (patacones, chicharrón, papa criolla, chorizo, pork ribs, yucca frita & ají Colombiano sauce); and, Colombian Ceviche de Camarones.
Brian Poe (The Tip Tap Room; Poe’s Kitchen at the Rattlesnake; Bukowski Tavern – Cambridge; CLUCKIT!) and chef friends Andy Husbands (Tremont 647; Smoke Shop), Chris Coombs (Boston Chops; Deuxave), Douglas Rodrigues (The Tip Tap Room), Jason Heard (East Coast Grill), Jose Duarte (Taranta), Lydia Shire (Scampo), Mark O’Leary (Shōjo), Michael Scelfo (Alden & Harlow) and Rodney Murillo (Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse; Davio’s Cucina) each graciously have donated a three-course “dinner for ten” with wine pairings at their respective restaurants which will be up for bid during the live auction. Supporters also will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with some the City’s top culinary luminaries who will be present at this evening with a cause.
COST: General Admission (includes open bar and passed hors d'oeuvres): $50 per person in advance; $75 per person at the door
MORE INFO: To purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chefs-for-clefts-tickets-18142519765.
Additional donations for Massachusetts General Hospital’s Global Surgical Initiative will be accepted onsite or via EventBrite.
5) Join Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, E&J Gallo Winery and the Taste of the NFL in the fight against hunger. Since 1992, Taste of the NFL has raised over $22 million dollars for hunger relief agencies across the country to help kick hunger. Davio’s is proud to support hunger relief and by purchasing one of the selected wines listed below, meals will be provided to local food banks across the country by Gallo Wines (through December 2015).
Gallo’s “Wine-By-The-Glass” program includes more than 15,000 restaurants nationwide that support Taste of the NFL throughout the year. The wine program expands the local impact of Taste of the NFL’s presence in the San Francisco Bay Area leading up to Super Bowl 50 and the Taste of the NFL’s annual “Party with a Purpose®” event.
WHERE:
Davio’s Boston | 75 Arlington Street, Boston
Davio’s Foxborough | 236 Patriot Place, Foxborough
Davio’s Chestnut Hill | 55 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill
Davio’s Lynnfield | 1250 Market Street, Lynnfield
WHEN: Selected wines will be available at all Davio’s Massachusetts locations until December 2015
MENU
Starborough, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand | $12 5oz/$48 Bottle
MacMurray Ranch, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast | $12 5oz/ $60 Bottle
William Hill, Chardonnay, Napa Valley | $9 5oz/ $50 Bottle
Brancaia Tre, Tuscany, Italy | $11 5oz/$65 Bottle
Davinci, Chianti Riserva, Italy| $14 5oz/$70 Bottle
Ghost Pines, Red Blend, Napa/Sonoma| $16 5oz /$65 Bottle
6) On October 6, at 6:30pm, Legal Sea Foods in Park Square will host a seminar and wine dinner with Joseph Phelps Vineyards. Established in 1973, Phelps bought the 600-acre Connolly cattle ranch in Spring Valley and began planting vineyards and construction of a winery. Four decades later, the flagship wine, Insignia, is recognized as one of the world’s great wines. Joe became a leader in a remarkable group of entrepreneurs who launched a new era of excellence in California wine.
Legal Sea Foods will team up with granddaughter of Founder Joseph Phelps, Elizabeth Neuman to host an exclusive seminar and four-plus-course dinner featuring signature cuisine paired with her selections from the Phelps vine. The menu will be presented as followsr:
COLLECTOR’S SEMINAR
Six Vintages of Joseph Phelps “Insignia” (2005, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012)
HORS D’OEUVRES
Maryland Crab, Mango Salsa, Jalapeno Polenta
Seared Sea Scallop Tartlets, Sweet Chili Sauce, Crème Fraîche
Baked Oysters, Tarragon-Lime Aioli, Rye Toast
Joseph Phelps Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, 2013
FIRST COURSE
Pan-Seared Diver Sea Scallops (Anjou Pear, Zucchini Bisque, Squash Blossom)
Joseph Phelps “Freestone Vineyards” Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, 2013
SECOND COURSE
Grilled Cajun Yellowfin Tuna (Hen of the Woods Mushroom Couscous, Thyme-Balsamic & Apple-Onion Jam)
Joseph Phelps “Freestone Vineyards” Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, 2013
THIRD COURSE
Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb (Tuscan Kale, Pearl Farro Salad)
Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2012
Joseph Phelps “Insignia,” Napa Valley, 2012
DESSERT COURSE
Roasted Pineapple & Coconut Tart (Crème Anglaise)
Joseph Phelps “Eisrébe,” Napa Valley, 2012
COST: $225 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Reservation required by calling 617-530-9397
1) On September 23, at 7pm, Brass Union will host the next event in their “Brass Pair” series – a monthly pairing dinner where the Union Square eatery and lounge joins forces with local brewers, distillers, wine makers and sommeliers – for a night of interactive cuisine and beverage.
In this “Brass Pair” evening, Brass Union will team up with Ireland-based Glendalough Distillery for a savory five-plus-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef Jonathan Kopacz with accompanying sips hand-selected by Glendalough’s Brand Manager, Donal O'Gallachoir and Brass Union’s Beverage Director Paulo Pereira. Guests also will have the chance to imbibe on an exclusive barrel-aged cocktail that soon will be available for purchase at Brass Union.
Chef Kopacz and Glendalough will present the menus as follows:
AMUSE
Whiskey Caramel Corn
Glendalough Double Barrel Punch
FIRST COURSE
Roasted Apricot, Goat Cheese, Savory Honey
Glendalough Double Barrel Irish Whiskey
SECOND COURSE
Grilled Quail, Cherry Mustardo
Glendalough 7 Year Single Malt Irish Whiskey
INTERMEZZO
Grilled Grapefruit
Glendalough Wild Botanical Seasonal Gin
THIRD COURSE
Braised Lamb, Chickpeas
Glendalough 13 Year Single Malt Irish Whiskey
DESSERT COURSE
Chocolate, Dark Fruit
Glendalough Irish Coffee
COST: $55 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Tickets are available via EventBrite: brasspair9.eventbrite.com.
This event is reserved for ages 21+ with proper ID.
This sounds like a fantastic event and not enough restaurants do Whiskey pairing dinners. And where else can you find Whiskey Caramel Corn?
2) With several years of revitalization under its belt, Somerville’s East Broadway neighborhood is presenting the vibrant flavors of more than a dozen restaurants at the East Broadway Foodie Crawl on Tuesday, September 29, from 6 pm to 8:30 pm. East Somerville’s restaurant corridor features some of the area’s most authentic flavors and hidden gems. A ticket to this tasting tour gives its holder access to more than a dozen restaurants representing five continents and provides food samples and a glimpse of the experience at each.
The Foodie Crawl invites participants directly inside each participating restaurant for a walking and tasting neighborhood tour that sets it apart from other food events and festivals. The experience includes the sights and smells of Ethiopia, the tastes of El Salvador and the colors of Haiti, among many others. East Somerville’s beautiful streetscape provides outdoor seating and music and entertainment for more than 1,000 people enjoying the crawl.
This year’s event promises to be particularly exciting as it comes in the midst of the “This Is East” project that has rejuvenated the neighborhood, inviting residents to participate in the creation of artwork, video installations and other cultural projects that reflect the rich cultural fabric of the neighborhood.
All proceeds from the Foodie Crawl benefit East Somerville Main Streets, which is committed to building a safe, sustainable and prosperous multicultural community by developing a vibrant businesses district at the neighborhood’s heart.
Tickets for the Foodie Crawl are on sale now. You can buy them for $20 online and $25 at the door if there are still tickets available. Tickets are available here: http://eastsomervillemainstreets.org/foodie-crawl/foodie-buy-tickets/
The event has a rain date of September 30th.
3) On Monday, October 5, at 7pm, Beacon Hill Hotel & Bistro (BHHB) invites guests to take a tour of Spain’s Rioja region during a four-course wine dinner featuring the culinary stylings of Executive Chef Lucas Sousa perfectly paired with four wines from Francos-Españolas Winery.
Cecilia Rait, proprietress and wine director of BHHB, and a representative from the winery will guide diners through the history, curiosities and nuances of each selection. Franco-Españolas Winery is one of the largest wineries in La Rioja. With almost 125 years of history and its exceptional location on the banks of the Ebro River, it produces some of the region’s finest wines.
This intimate adventure is set in communal seating to encourage conversation, laughter and fun. For $65.00 per person (tax and gratuity not included), guests are treated to four wines, a four-course dinner and Cecilia's and Tracy's good cheer, humor and expertise.
Reservations are encouraged as the event will sell out fast so please call 617-723-7575.
4) On September 28, at 6pm, The Tip Tap Room owners Brian Poe and Gordon Wilcox will host the 2nd annual “Chefs for Clefts” fundraiser at their Beacon Hill hotspot to benefit Massachusetts General Hospital’s Global Surgical Initiative. Funds raised from the charitable fête will directly assist Dr. Jay Austen’s missions that support children with facial deformities and cleft lips as well as burn victims in Colombia.
This festive “Night in Colombia” themed event will kick-off with Colombian music paired with complimentary Colombian-inspired cocktails and passed hors d'oeuvres, as prepared by Brian Poe, including: Summer Corn & Cheese Arepas; Buenelos (stuffed with goat cheese and cinnamon sugar dust); Cassava Chips (topped with roasted lechona bits); Empanadas (topped with lime-infused purple cabbage relish); Traditional Fritanga o’ Picada Colombiano (patacones, chicharrón, papa criolla, chorizo, pork ribs, yucca frita & ají Colombiano sauce); and, Colombian Ceviche de Camarones.
Brian Poe (The Tip Tap Room; Poe’s Kitchen at the Rattlesnake; Bukowski Tavern – Cambridge; CLUCKIT!) and chef friends Andy Husbands (Tremont 647; Smoke Shop), Chris Coombs (Boston Chops; Deuxave), Douglas Rodrigues (The Tip Tap Room), Jason Heard (East Coast Grill), Jose Duarte (Taranta), Lydia Shire (Scampo), Mark O’Leary (Shōjo), Michael Scelfo (Alden & Harlow) and Rodney Murillo (Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse; Davio’s Cucina) each graciously have donated a three-course “dinner for ten” with wine pairings at their respective restaurants which will be up for bid during the live auction. Supporters also will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with some the City’s top culinary luminaries who will be present at this evening with a cause.
COST: General Admission (includes open bar and passed hors d'oeuvres): $50 per person in advance; $75 per person at the door
MORE INFO: To purchase tickets, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chefs-for-clefts-tickets-18142519765.
Additional donations for Massachusetts General Hospital’s Global Surgical Initiative will be accepted onsite or via EventBrite.
5) Join Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, E&J Gallo Winery and the Taste of the NFL in the fight against hunger. Since 1992, Taste of the NFL has raised over $22 million dollars for hunger relief agencies across the country to help kick hunger. Davio’s is proud to support hunger relief and by purchasing one of the selected wines listed below, meals will be provided to local food banks across the country by Gallo Wines (through December 2015).
Gallo’s “Wine-By-The-Glass” program includes more than 15,000 restaurants nationwide that support Taste of the NFL throughout the year. The wine program expands the local impact of Taste of the NFL’s presence in the San Francisco Bay Area leading up to Super Bowl 50 and the Taste of the NFL’s annual “Party with a Purpose®” event.
WHERE:
Davio’s Boston | 75 Arlington Street, Boston
Davio’s Foxborough | 236 Patriot Place, Foxborough
Davio’s Chestnut Hill | 55 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill
Davio’s Lynnfield | 1250 Market Street, Lynnfield
WHEN: Selected wines will be available at all Davio’s Massachusetts locations until December 2015
MENU
Starborough, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand | $12 5oz/$48 Bottle
MacMurray Ranch, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast | $12 5oz/ $60 Bottle
William Hill, Chardonnay, Napa Valley | $9 5oz/ $50 Bottle
Brancaia Tre, Tuscany, Italy | $11 5oz/$65 Bottle
Davinci, Chianti Riserva, Italy| $14 5oz/$70 Bottle
Ghost Pines, Red Blend, Napa/Sonoma| $16 5oz /$65 Bottle
6) On October 6, at 6:30pm, Legal Sea Foods in Park Square will host a seminar and wine dinner with Joseph Phelps Vineyards. Established in 1973, Phelps bought the 600-acre Connolly cattle ranch in Spring Valley and began planting vineyards and construction of a winery. Four decades later, the flagship wine, Insignia, is recognized as one of the world’s great wines. Joe became a leader in a remarkable group of entrepreneurs who launched a new era of excellence in California wine.
Legal Sea Foods will team up with granddaughter of Founder Joseph Phelps, Elizabeth Neuman to host an exclusive seminar and four-plus-course dinner featuring signature cuisine paired with her selections from the Phelps vine. The menu will be presented as followsr:
COLLECTOR’S SEMINAR
Six Vintages of Joseph Phelps “Insignia” (2005, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012)
HORS D’OEUVRES
Maryland Crab, Mango Salsa, Jalapeno Polenta
Seared Sea Scallop Tartlets, Sweet Chili Sauce, Crème Fraîche
Baked Oysters, Tarragon-Lime Aioli, Rye Toast
Joseph Phelps Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, 2013
FIRST COURSE
Pan-Seared Diver Sea Scallops (Anjou Pear, Zucchini Bisque, Squash Blossom)
Joseph Phelps “Freestone Vineyards” Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, 2013
SECOND COURSE
Grilled Cajun Yellowfin Tuna (Hen of the Woods Mushroom Couscous, Thyme-Balsamic & Apple-Onion Jam)
Joseph Phelps “Freestone Vineyards” Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, 2013
THIRD COURSE
Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb (Tuscan Kale, Pearl Farro Salad)
Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2012
Joseph Phelps “Insignia,” Napa Valley, 2012
DESSERT COURSE
Roasted Pineapple & Coconut Tart (Crème Anglaise)
Joseph Phelps “Eisrébe,” Napa Valley, 2012
COST: $225 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Reservation required by calling 617-530-9397
Thursday, May 21, 2015
Thursday Sips & Nibbles
I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting, upcoming food & drink events..
**********************************************************
1) Vine Brook Tavern, located in downtown Lexington, has starting serving lunch Tuesday-Sunday from 11:30am-3pm. A creation of Marcus Palmer and Brian Lesser, Vine Brook is a contemporary American tavern offering classic, refined American fare, warm hospitality, and outstanding service. American cuisine and a blend of farm-to-table produce from local Lexington farms is the theme for Executive Chef Chris Frothingham’s menu.
Here are some of the items available:
New England Clam Chowder with smoky bliss potatoes
Quinoa & Kale with shaved cauliflower & brussels, carrot, sesame miso vinaigrette
Salmon Burger with sticky soy, wasabi aioli, shiitake & cilantro
Lobster Roll shucked daily, mayo, chives and coleslaw
Quiche made daily with arugula salad
Fish & Chips house made tarter sauce, beer battered cod, coleslaw
Vine Brook Tavern also offers an extensive selection of wines, craft micro-brews, and cocktails. Featuring over 20 mostly American wines, Vine Brook Tavern serves these wines through its custom cruvinet system at proper temperatures. With twelve beers on tap and twelve more in bottles and cans, Vine Brook Tavern features a wide selection of craft micro-brews as well as quality production lagers and ales. Of course, the spirits mustn’t be left out, which is why Palmer has enlisted some of Boston’s finest mixologists to create a fantastic mix of modern and contemporary cocktails.
2) Beginning May 18, Prezza will introduce a new pairing special at the bar and in the dining room that is available through June. Macaroni Mondays offers three housemade pasta selections for only $8 each on Mondays from 5:00pm-7:00pm. Chef Caturano’s featured pasta dishes include Tagliatelle with meatballs; Gnocchi with San Marzano tomatoes and basil; and, Orecchiette with sausage, broccoli rabe, chili flakes and parmigiano.
For those looking to imbibe, Prezza will offer a trio of premium red wines by the glass that come paired with a complimentary order of one of the three “Macaroni Mondays” featured pastas. From the Prezza wine cellar, there is Beni di Batasiolo Barolo ($17), Francis Ford Coppola Director's Cut Cabernet Sauvignon ($15) and Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva ($15).
By popular demand, Chef Caturano is bringing back Crispy Shrimp Tuesdays for a limited time. Each Tuesday from 5:00pm-7:00pm at the bar and in the dining room, Prezza will dish out three U-10 Crispy Shrimp with Italian Slaw and cherry pepper aioli for only $8.
For summer wine enthusiasts, Prezza will feature three premium white and rose varietals by the glass which will come paired with a complimentary order of the Crispy Shrimp: Chateau Miraval Jolie-Pitt Cotes de Provence Rose ($14); CADE Sauvignon Blanc ($15); and, Duckhorn Vineyards Chardonnay ($16).
3) On June 22, Red Sox Designated Hitter David Ortiz is bringing the flavor of his native Dominican Republic to Boston at the third annual “David Ortiz Children’s Fund Gala” hosted at the Boston Marriott Copley Place. Proceeds from the festive fundraiser will benefit the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, in partnership with MassGeneral Hospital for Children and the World Pediatric Project, which provides critical pediatric healthcare to children in New England and the Dominican Republic.
Tickets now are available for the island-inspired soiree where revelers will have the opportunity to mix-and-mingle with Boston’s biggest names in sports and entertainment. Guests also will enjoy a Dominican-themed cocktail reception, live Latin music and entertainment as well as a three-course seated dinner – hosted by Big Papi himself – in honor of the special works and the beneficiaries of the David Ortiz Children’s Fund. All guests will have access to an exclusive silent and live auction featuring unique memorabilia and priceless experiences.
WHEN: Monday • June 22, 2015
6:00pm – 7:00pm: VIP Cocktail Reception
6:00pm – 7:00pm: General Cocktail Reception
7:00pm – 10:00pm: Seated Dinner in the Ballroom
COST:
--General Admission (includes access to the general cocktail reception and the dinner program):$450 per person; $800 for two people
--VIP Tickets (includes access to the VIP cocktail reception with David Ortiz and other celebrities, the dinner program, an autographed David Ortiz baseball and a photo opportunity with David Ortiz): · $1,250 per person; $2,250 for two people
HOW: To reserve tickets, please visit: www.davidortiz.splashthat.com. Tables and sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Radegen Sports Management’s Alexis Walberg at 212-727-2142 or AWalberg@radegen.com.
4) In honor of the seasonal opening of Fiorella’s outdoor patio, the restaurant is encouraging people to celebrate sun, family and friends on Tuesday, May 26, from 11:30AM – 4PM as it hosts a special day of delicious food and libations and beautiful weather.
Guests to Fiorella’s can treat friends and families to a complimentary lunch entrée courtesy of the restaurant with the regular purchase of any entrée. “We want to welcome our neighbors, friends and essentially our extended family back to a summer full of amazing outdoor dining. We have a lot of amazing events planned for our patio including special wine dinners, tastings, and receptions. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back,” said Remon Karian, Owner of Fiorella’s.
Guests can vie for dishes like Tilapia Cannellini featuring fresh tilapia poached with capers, tomatoes & cannellini beans prepared in a delicious lemon and wine sauce served over a bed of fresh spinach & rice pilaf ($14), or the Vegetable Chicken Salad with sautéed chicken and mushroom, zucchini, summer squash & broccoli over a house salad, topped with red onions, cucumbers & olives in a balsamic dressing ($10). Guests can also try one of Fiorella’s classic pastas, artisanal sandwiches, or enjoy one of its thin Neapolitan style pizzas cooked in a 700˚F wood burning brick pizza oven.
Customers must purchase one entrée at regular price, this offer is only valid on Tuesday, May 26th, 2015 from 11:30AM – 4:00PM and is only available on the patio on a first come, first serve basis.
1) Vine Brook Tavern, located in downtown Lexington, has starting serving lunch Tuesday-Sunday from 11:30am-3pm. A creation of Marcus Palmer and Brian Lesser, Vine Brook is a contemporary American tavern offering classic, refined American fare, warm hospitality, and outstanding service. American cuisine and a blend of farm-to-table produce from local Lexington farms is the theme for Executive Chef Chris Frothingham’s menu.
Here are some of the items available:
New England Clam Chowder with smoky bliss potatoes
Quinoa & Kale with shaved cauliflower & brussels, carrot, sesame miso vinaigrette
Salmon Burger with sticky soy, wasabi aioli, shiitake & cilantro
Lobster Roll shucked daily, mayo, chives and coleslaw
Quiche made daily with arugula salad
Fish & Chips house made tarter sauce, beer battered cod, coleslaw
Vine Brook Tavern also offers an extensive selection of wines, craft micro-brews, and cocktails. Featuring over 20 mostly American wines, Vine Brook Tavern serves these wines through its custom cruvinet system at proper temperatures. With twelve beers on tap and twelve more in bottles and cans, Vine Brook Tavern features a wide selection of craft micro-brews as well as quality production lagers and ales. Of course, the spirits mustn’t be left out, which is why Palmer has enlisted some of Boston’s finest mixologists to create a fantastic mix of modern and contemporary cocktails.
2) Beginning May 18, Prezza will introduce a new pairing special at the bar and in the dining room that is available through June. Macaroni Mondays offers three housemade pasta selections for only $8 each on Mondays from 5:00pm-7:00pm. Chef Caturano’s featured pasta dishes include Tagliatelle with meatballs; Gnocchi with San Marzano tomatoes and basil; and, Orecchiette with sausage, broccoli rabe, chili flakes and parmigiano.
For those looking to imbibe, Prezza will offer a trio of premium red wines by the glass that come paired with a complimentary order of one of the three “Macaroni Mondays” featured pastas. From the Prezza wine cellar, there is Beni di Batasiolo Barolo ($17), Francis Ford Coppola Director's Cut Cabernet Sauvignon ($15) and Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva ($15).
By popular demand, Chef Caturano is bringing back Crispy Shrimp Tuesdays for a limited time. Each Tuesday from 5:00pm-7:00pm at the bar and in the dining room, Prezza will dish out three U-10 Crispy Shrimp with Italian Slaw and cherry pepper aioli for only $8.
For summer wine enthusiasts, Prezza will feature three premium white and rose varietals by the glass which will come paired with a complimentary order of the Crispy Shrimp: Chateau Miraval Jolie-Pitt Cotes de Provence Rose ($14); CADE Sauvignon Blanc ($15); and, Duckhorn Vineyards Chardonnay ($16).
3) On June 22, Red Sox Designated Hitter David Ortiz is bringing the flavor of his native Dominican Republic to Boston at the third annual “David Ortiz Children’s Fund Gala” hosted at the Boston Marriott Copley Place. Proceeds from the festive fundraiser will benefit the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, in partnership with MassGeneral Hospital for Children and the World Pediatric Project, which provides critical pediatric healthcare to children in New England and the Dominican Republic.
Tickets now are available for the island-inspired soiree where revelers will have the opportunity to mix-and-mingle with Boston’s biggest names in sports and entertainment. Guests also will enjoy a Dominican-themed cocktail reception, live Latin music and entertainment as well as a three-course seated dinner – hosted by Big Papi himself – in honor of the special works and the beneficiaries of the David Ortiz Children’s Fund. All guests will have access to an exclusive silent and live auction featuring unique memorabilia and priceless experiences.
WHEN: Monday • June 22, 2015
6:00pm – 7:00pm: VIP Cocktail Reception
6:00pm – 7:00pm: General Cocktail Reception
7:00pm – 10:00pm: Seated Dinner in the Ballroom
COST:
--General Admission (includes access to the general cocktail reception and the dinner program):$450 per person; $800 for two people
--VIP Tickets (includes access to the VIP cocktail reception with David Ortiz and other celebrities, the dinner program, an autographed David Ortiz baseball and a photo opportunity with David Ortiz): · $1,250 per person; $2,250 for two people
HOW: To reserve tickets, please visit: www.davidortiz.splashthat.com. Tables and sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Radegen Sports Management’s Alexis Walberg at 212-727-2142 or AWalberg@radegen.com.
4) In honor of the seasonal opening of Fiorella’s outdoor patio, the restaurant is encouraging people to celebrate sun, family and friends on Tuesday, May 26, from 11:30AM – 4PM as it hosts a special day of delicious food and libations and beautiful weather.
Guests to Fiorella’s can treat friends and families to a complimentary lunch entrée courtesy of the restaurant with the regular purchase of any entrée. “We want to welcome our neighbors, friends and essentially our extended family back to a summer full of amazing outdoor dining. We have a lot of amazing events planned for our patio including special wine dinners, tastings, and receptions. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back,” said Remon Karian, Owner of Fiorella’s.
Guests can vie for dishes like Tilapia Cannellini featuring fresh tilapia poached with capers, tomatoes & cannellini beans prepared in a delicious lemon and wine sauce served over a bed of fresh spinach & rice pilaf ($14), or the Vegetable Chicken Salad with sautéed chicken and mushroom, zucchini, summer squash & broccoli over a house salad, topped with red onions, cucumbers & olives in a balsamic dressing ($10). Guests can also try one of Fiorella’s classic pastas, artisanal sandwiches, or enjoy one of its thin Neapolitan style pizzas cooked in a 700˚F wood burning brick pizza oven.
Customers must purchase one entrée at regular price, this offer is only valid on Tuesday, May 26th, 2015 from 11:30AM – 4:00PM and is only available on the patio on a first come, first serve basis.
Thursday, April 2, 2015
Thursday Sips & Nibbles
I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting, upcoming food & drink events..
**********************************************************
1) Boston Nightlife Ventures (BNV) is excited to announce Akinto at Wink & Nod, a new culinary collaboration with Executive Chef Patrick Enage that is part of the craft cocktail speakeasy’s rotating pop-up dining program. Focusing on Southeast Asian cuisine, Enage’s six month residency in the kitchen at Wink & Nod begins on Monday, March 30.
The name Akinto means “this is mine” in Tagalog, reflecting Enage’s view of the program as a welcome opportunity to articulate and explore his own distinctive culinary perspective. Enage explains, “I see Akinto as an exciting opportunity to introduce guests to the Southeast Asian flavors and ingredients I grew up with—the flavors that shaped my culinary perspective.”
Enage was born in the Philippines and moved to Los Angeles at a young age. A culinary school graduate, Enage worked in fine dining establishments and hotels across the country before meeting his mentor, current BNV Chief Culinary Officer Bill Brodsky, while working the line at the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club. Prior to joining the BNV team, Enage worked as Chef de Cuisine at Brodsky’s City Landing restaurant in Boston. To prepare for this new project, Enage took a month to travel around Asia this winter, exploring traditions and ingredients at their source.
Akinto will showcase the distinctive flavors and ingredients of Southeast Asian street food from Enage’s native Philippines as well as India, Singapore, Thailand, India, Vietnam, China, Japan and Laos. Designed to encourage sharing, the menu features snack-sized small and medium plates that complement Wink & Nod’s cocktail program, as well as large plates and desserts that will satisfy guests seeking a full meal.
Highlights from the approachably priced menu include:
Small Plates ($7-$10)
--Pork Hash “Sisig” with quail egg, calamansi, and soy
--Traditional Shrimp Bao Buns in a curried mussel liqueur
--Spicy Pork “Drop Wontons” with anise BBQ, toasted sesame-rice wine, & peanut paste
Medium Plates ($11-$18)
--Braised Oxtail and Black Bean Water Spinach with jasmine rice and house chili oil
--18-Hour Pork Belly in a Kabocha-pho broth
--Kabayaki Glazed Swordfish Belly with grilled Taiwan lettuce and salted duck egg vinaigrette
Large Plates ($22-31)
--Teapot Fish Stew with lemongrass-native clam broth
--Steamed Striped Bass with orange miso tamarind glaze and long beans
--Korean Style Beef Short Rib with X0-coconut glaze, calamansi, cilantro, flowering chives, and peanuts
Desserts ($6-$9)
--Green Tea-Almond Chocolate Bar
--Thai Tea Crème Brulee with peanut crackle
--Turon Banana Fritter with jack fruit and smoky caramel
As I have written about before, I have bemoaned the fact that there is so little Filipino cuisine available in the Boston area, so I am very excited to see the arrival of Arinto. I hope you check it out too and let me know your thoughts.
2) On April 13, at 6:30pm, Legal Oysteria will host a Tuscan wine dinner with Wine Expert, Claudio Andreani. Legal Oysteria will team up with Andreani to host an exclusive four-plus-course dinner featuring signature cuisine paired with selections from the Tuscan vine.
The menu will be presented as follows:
HORS D’OEUVRES
Grilled Calamari Salad
Fresh Cod Cakes
Olive Oil Poached Tuna Crostini
Tenuta Campo al Mare Vermentino, 2013
FIRST COURSE
Pan-Seared Trout (fennel purée, warm pine nut dressing)
Tenute del Cabreo “La Pietra” Chardonnay, 2012
Tenuta di Nozzole “Le Bruniche” Chardonnay, 2013
SECOND COURSE
Swordfish Saltimbocca (slow-roasted balsamic turnips & cipollini onions, toasted fregola)
Tenute del Cabreo “Il Borgo” Super Tuscan, 2011
Tenuta TorCalvano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, 2011
THIRD COURSE
Rosemary and Black Pepper Rib Roast (roasted wild mushrooms, grilled asparagus, porcini jus)
Tenuta di Nozzole “La Forra” Chianti Classico Riserva, 2009
CHEESE COURSE
Manchego
Aged Gouda
Pecorino Romano
Tenuta di Nozzole “Il Pareto” Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009
COST: $85 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Reservations required by calling (617) 530-9392
3) On Monday, April 20, in celebration of the 2015 Boston Marathon, The Beehive will host the second annual benefit event in support of the Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Fund. From 10am-1am, 100% of the profits will be donated towards the organization’s mission to fuel cutting-edge research and clinical programs in trauma healing and limb reconstruction.
The Reny Family established the Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Fund in gratitude to the doctors at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) that saved their 18 year old daughter’s life and limbs following the explosions at the finish line of the 2013 Boston Marathon. The fund fuels innovative research and clinical programs in trauma healing and limb reconstruction to help future patients with traumatic, athletic and disease-related limb injuries regain their strength so they can step strong once again. The Beehive is proud to honor the medical heroes at BWH who treated and saved 39 patients with life-threatening injuries that day and support this effort to turn the tragedy that befell the Reny Family into hope for the future.
Guests will enjoy a day of live jazz performances and cuisine from The Beehive’s Executive Chef Marc Orfaly. Opening for a special holiday brunch, guests can enjoy selections from The Beehive’s brunch menu including: Eggs Shakshuka, poached eggs baked “North African Style” in tomato sauce with polenta ($15), Quiche with hot & sweet Italian sausage, broccoli rabe, caramelized onion, mozzarella ($16.5) and Sirloin Steak & Potato Hash, poached egg, salad ($17.50). For kids ten and under, The Beehive has a “Little Bee’s Kids Menu” featuring scrambled eggs and toast, kiddie French toast and grilled cheese and frites (all $8).
For dinner, guests can indulge including dishes such as: Szechuan Style Beef Brisket with Kung Pao vegetables ($25), Roasted Salmon, truffled savoy cabbage and whole grain mustard broth ($26), The Beehive Prime Burger with frites & slaw ($18) and Cauliflower Parmesan, arugula and pomodoro sauce ($24).
For reservations, please call 617-423-0069
4) The South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation presents the 13th Annual Taste of South Boston on April 12th from 6 - 9 pm at the Plaza Ballroom at the Seaport Hotel . Don’t miss out on this chance to sample delectable culinary creations from South Boston’s new dining establishments including: Pastoral, Bastille Kitchen, Loco Taqueria, J.P. Licks, and the Juice Box. In addition to these new establishments will be: American Provisions, Barking Crab, Café Porto Bello, Cranberry Café, Empire, Flour Bakery & Café, Jerry Remy's Seaport, Legal Harborside, Lincoln, Local 149, Lucky's Lounge, M.C. Spiedo, Miam Miam Macaronerie, No Name Restaurant, The Paramount, Salsa's, Salvatore's, Stephi's in Southie, Strega Waterfront, Sweet Tooth Boston, Tamo Bistro & Bar, Temazcal, and Trade.
Al's Liquors will be pouring samples of select wines, and Harpoon Brewery will be providing samples of their latest brews.
Purchase tickets today at: tasteofsouthboston.com
5) As the highly-anticipated premiere of the fifth season of “Game of Thrones” approaches, the show continues to establish itself as a true cultural phenomenon. In response to the excitement among devoted viewers, Violet Thorn, the signature bar and lounge located at The VERVE - Crowne Plaza Natick, will offer a special menu inspired by the fantasy drama during the weekend of the premiere.
On Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, “Game of Thrones” enthusiasts are invited to enjoy a selection of small plates created by Executive Chef Alastair Mclean and Chef James Booth for the return of the hit series. Fans looking for bold flavors will want to start with Dragons Tail with Fire Breath ($10), an appetizer of crispy pig tails tossed in a spicy sauce, while those seeking hearty fare that’s guaranteed to satisfy even the nobles of Westeros will want to dig into piping hot Beef n’ Bacon Pie ($12), a beef stew topped with a flaky puff pastry. For “Thrones” fans hoping to dine like true medieval royalty, Violet Thorn’s King’s Landing Confit ($10), a dish comprising of turkey leg with giblet gravy, and Baratheon Blood Wild Boar Rib ($12), a plate of ribs with braised tomato sauce, are the perfect fit. Providing a perfectly sweet ending is Sansa’s Homemade Lemon Pie ($8), a light and refreshing dessert drizzled with vanilla icing and topped with roasted almonds.
Guests looking for a complete experience will want to take advantage of The VERVE’s “Game of Throne’s”-themed overnight package that includes the following: two small plates from Violet Thorn’s special menu, a bucket of three beers from Ommegang Brewery, popcorn, and of course, a complimentary in-room viewing of episode one of the season five premier on Sunday, April 12th.
COST: Room package starts at $159 for Saturday, April 11th and $219 for Sunday, April 12th (tax and gratuity not included). Package includes: choice of two small plates from “Game of Thrones”-themed menu, popcorn, and a bucket of three beers from Ommegang Brewery.
For Reservations, please call 508-653-8800
6) On Wednesday, April 22, The Wine ConneXtion, located in North Andover, is celebrating the opening of “The Back Room at The Wine ConneXtion,” the new high-end wines and spirits room, with a complimentary whisky sampling, “East Meets West.”
Last year Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible named Yamazaki Single Malt Japanese Whisky the best whisky in the world— the first time in its history that a Japanese whisky took the top spot, bypassing Scotch and shocking connoisseurs all over the world. But what are the defining differences between the two whiskys? From 6:30PM to 8:30PM the expert staff will be serving tastes of top-shelf whiskys from Japan, Taiwaan and Scotland, highlighting the subtle flavor differences between the two styles as a result of heating techniques, climate and landscape.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the evolving profiles of the whisky world and to support the expansion of The Wine ConneXtion.
COST: Tastings are complimentary and open to the public, 21+ only
7) In lieu of a vacation to Europe this spring, Davis Square watering hole Saloon is going on “Island Time, Scottish Style” as they host a whiskey tasting celebrating the liquid delights of Scotland’s shores on April 21 at 7pm. Emceed by Saloon’s resident malt man and Beverage Director Manny Gonzales, this spirits-based tasting will showcase single-malt scotches from various Scottish islands including Islay, Jura, the Isle of Mull and the Isle of Arran. Complemented by a selection of cheeses and charcuterie, Gonzales will hand-select some of the greatest tastes from Scotland’s premier isles while imparting his wisdom on how these whiskeys are developed in relation to their islandic surroundings.
COST: $35 per person
Advance reservations required. For tickets, please visit: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/island-time-scottish-style-tickets-16384532578?aff=es2
1) Boston Nightlife Ventures (BNV) is excited to announce Akinto at Wink & Nod, a new culinary collaboration with Executive Chef Patrick Enage that is part of the craft cocktail speakeasy’s rotating pop-up dining program. Focusing on Southeast Asian cuisine, Enage’s six month residency in the kitchen at Wink & Nod begins on Monday, March 30.
The name Akinto means “this is mine” in Tagalog, reflecting Enage’s view of the program as a welcome opportunity to articulate and explore his own distinctive culinary perspective. Enage explains, “I see Akinto as an exciting opportunity to introduce guests to the Southeast Asian flavors and ingredients I grew up with—the flavors that shaped my culinary perspective.”
Enage was born in the Philippines and moved to Los Angeles at a young age. A culinary school graduate, Enage worked in fine dining establishments and hotels across the country before meeting his mentor, current BNV Chief Culinary Officer Bill Brodsky, while working the line at the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club. Prior to joining the BNV team, Enage worked as Chef de Cuisine at Brodsky’s City Landing restaurant in Boston. To prepare for this new project, Enage took a month to travel around Asia this winter, exploring traditions and ingredients at their source.
Akinto will showcase the distinctive flavors and ingredients of Southeast Asian street food from Enage’s native Philippines as well as India, Singapore, Thailand, India, Vietnam, China, Japan and Laos. Designed to encourage sharing, the menu features snack-sized small and medium plates that complement Wink & Nod’s cocktail program, as well as large plates and desserts that will satisfy guests seeking a full meal.
Highlights from the approachably priced menu include:
Small Plates ($7-$10)
--Pork Hash “Sisig” with quail egg, calamansi, and soy
--Traditional Shrimp Bao Buns in a curried mussel liqueur
--Spicy Pork “Drop Wontons” with anise BBQ, toasted sesame-rice wine, & peanut paste
Medium Plates ($11-$18)
--Braised Oxtail and Black Bean Water Spinach with jasmine rice and house chili oil
--18-Hour Pork Belly in a Kabocha-pho broth
--Kabayaki Glazed Swordfish Belly with grilled Taiwan lettuce and salted duck egg vinaigrette
Large Plates ($22-31)
--Teapot Fish Stew with lemongrass-native clam broth
--Steamed Striped Bass with orange miso tamarind glaze and long beans
--Korean Style Beef Short Rib with X0-coconut glaze, calamansi, cilantro, flowering chives, and peanuts
Desserts ($6-$9)
--Green Tea-Almond Chocolate Bar
--Thai Tea Crème Brulee with peanut crackle
--Turon Banana Fritter with jack fruit and smoky caramel
As I have written about before, I have bemoaned the fact that there is so little Filipino cuisine available in the Boston area, so I am very excited to see the arrival of Arinto. I hope you check it out too and let me know your thoughts.
2) On April 13, at 6:30pm, Legal Oysteria will host a Tuscan wine dinner with Wine Expert, Claudio Andreani. Legal Oysteria will team up with Andreani to host an exclusive four-plus-course dinner featuring signature cuisine paired with selections from the Tuscan vine.
The menu will be presented as follows:
HORS D’OEUVRES
Grilled Calamari Salad
Fresh Cod Cakes
Olive Oil Poached Tuna Crostini
Tenuta Campo al Mare Vermentino, 2013
FIRST COURSE
Pan-Seared Trout (fennel purée, warm pine nut dressing)
Tenute del Cabreo “La Pietra” Chardonnay, 2012
Tenuta di Nozzole “Le Bruniche” Chardonnay, 2013
SECOND COURSE
Swordfish Saltimbocca (slow-roasted balsamic turnips & cipollini onions, toasted fregola)
Tenute del Cabreo “Il Borgo” Super Tuscan, 2011
Tenuta TorCalvano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, 2011
THIRD COURSE
Rosemary and Black Pepper Rib Roast (roasted wild mushrooms, grilled asparagus, porcini jus)
Tenuta di Nozzole “La Forra” Chianti Classico Riserva, 2009
CHEESE COURSE
Manchego
Aged Gouda
Pecorino Romano
Tenuta di Nozzole “Il Pareto” Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009
COST: $85 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Reservations required by calling (617) 530-9392
3) On Monday, April 20, in celebration of the 2015 Boston Marathon, The Beehive will host the second annual benefit event in support of the Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Fund. From 10am-1am, 100% of the profits will be donated towards the organization’s mission to fuel cutting-edge research and clinical programs in trauma healing and limb reconstruction.
The Reny Family established the Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Fund in gratitude to the doctors at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) that saved their 18 year old daughter’s life and limbs following the explosions at the finish line of the 2013 Boston Marathon. The fund fuels innovative research and clinical programs in trauma healing and limb reconstruction to help future patients with traumatic, athletic and disease-related limb injuries regain their strength so they can step strong once again. The Beehive is proud to honor the medical heroes at BWH who treated and saved 39 patients with life-threatening injuries that day and support this effort to turn the tragedy that befell the Reny Family into hope for the future.
Guests will enjoy a day of live jazz performances and cuisine from The Beehive’s Executive Chef Marc Orfaly. Opening for a special holiday brunch, guests can enjoy selections from The Beehive’s brunch menu including: Eggs Shakshuka, poached eggs baked “North African Style” in tomato sauce with polenta ($15), Quiche with hot & sweet Italian sausage, broccoli rabe, caramelized onion, mozzarella ($16.5) and Sirloin Steak & Potato Hash, poached egg, salad ($17.50). For kids ten and under, The Beehive has a “Little Bee’s Kids Menu” featuring scrambled eggs and toast, kiddie French toast and grilled cheese and frites (all $8).
For dinner, guests can indulge including dishes such as: Szechuan Style Beef Brisket with Kung Pao vegetables ($25), Roasted Salmon, truffled savoy cabbage and whole grain mustard broth ($26), The Beehive Prime Burger with frites & slaw ($18) and Cauliflower Parmesan, arugula and pomodoro sauce ($24).
For reservations, please call 617-423-0069
4) The South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation presents the 13th Annual Taste of South Boston on April 12th from 6 - 9 pm at the Plaza Ballroom at the Seaport Hotel . Don’t miss out on this chance to sample delectable culinary creations from South Boston’s new dining establishments including: Pastoral, Bastille Kitchen, Loco Taqueria, J.P. Licks, and the Juice Box. In addition to these new establishments will be: American Provisions, Barking Crab, Café Porto Bello, Cranberry Café, Empire, Flour Bakery & Café, Jerry Remy's Seaport, Legal Harborside, Lincoln, Local 149, Lucky's Lounge, M.C. Spiedo, Miam Miam Macaronerie, No Name Restaurant, The Paramount, Salsa's, Salvatore's, Stephi's in Southie, Strega Waterfront, Sweet Tooth Boston, Tamo Bistro & Bar, Temazcal, and Trade.
Al's Liquors will be pouring samples of select wines, and Harpoon Brewery will be providing samples of their latest brews.
Purchase tickets today at: tasteofsouthboston.com
5) As the highly-anticipated premiere of the fifth season of “Game of Thrones” approaches, the show continues to establish itself as a true cultural phenomenon. In response to the excitement among devoted viewers, Violet Thorn, the signature bar and lounge located at The VERVE - Crowne Plaza Natick, will offer a special menu inspired by the fantasy drama during the weekend of the premiere.
On Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, “Game of Thrones” enthusiasts are invited to enjoy a selection of small plates created by Executive Chef Alastair Mclean and Chef James Booth for the return of the hit series. Fans looking for bold flavors will want to start with Dragons Tail with Fire Breath ($10), an appetizer of crispy pig tails tossed in a spicy sauce, while those seeking hearty fare that’s guaranteed to satisfy even the nobles of Westeros will want to dig into piping hot Beef n’ Bacon Pie ($12), a beef stew topped with a flaky puff pastry. For “Thrones” fans hoping to dine like true medieval royalty, Violet Thorn’s King’s Landing Confit ($10), a dish comprising of turkey leg with giblet gravy, and Baratheon Blood Wild Boar Rib ($12), a plate of ribs with braised tomato sauce, are the perfect fit. Providing a perfectly sweet ending is Sansa’s Homemade Lemon Pie ($8), a light and refreshing dessert drizzled with vanilla icing and topped with roasted almonds.
Guests looking for a complete experience will want to take advantage of The VERVE’s “Game of Throne’s”-themed overnight package that includes the following: two small plates from Violet Thorn’s special menu, a bucket of three beers from Ommegang Brewery, popcorn, and of course, a complimentary in-room viewing of episode one of the season five premier on Sunday, April 12th.
COST: Room package starts at $159 for Saturday, April 11th and $219 for Sunday, April 12th (tax and gratuity not included). Package includes: choice of two small plates from “Game of Thrones”-themed menu, popcorn, and a bucket of three beers from Ommegang Brewery.
For Reservations, please call 508-653-8800
6) On Wednesday, April 22, The Wine ConneXtion, located in North Andover, is celebrating the opening of “The Back Room at The Wine ConneXtion,” the new high-end wines and spirits room, with a complimentary whisky sampling, “East Meets West.”
Last year Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible named Yamazaki Single Malt Japanese Whisky the best whisky in the world— the first time in its history that a Japanese whisky took the top spot, bypassing Scotch and shocking connoisseurs all over the world. But what are the defining differences between the two whiskys? From 6:30PM to 8:30PM the expert staff will be serving tastes of top-shelf whiskys from Japan, Taiwaan and Scotland, highlighting the subtle flavor differences between the two styles as a result of heating techniques, climate and landscape.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the evolving profiles of the whisky world and to support the expansion of The Wine ConneXtion.
COST: Tastings are complimentary and open to the public, 21+ only
7) In lieu of a vacation to Europe this spring, Davis Square watering hole Saloon is going on “Island Time, Scottish Style” as they host a whiskey tasting celebrating the liquid delights of Scotland’s shores on April 21 at 7pm. Emceed by Saloon’s resident malt man and Beverage Director Manny Gonzales, this spirits-based tasting will showcase single-malt scotches from various Scottish islands including Islay, Jura, the Isle of Mull and the Isle of Arran. Complemented by a selection of cheeses and charcuterie, Gonzales will hand-select some of the greatest tastes from Scotland’s premier isles while imparting his wisdom on how these whiskeys are developed in relation to their islandic surroundings.
COST: $35 per person
Advance reservations required. For tickets, please visit: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/island-time-scottish-style-tickets-16384532578?aff=es2
Monday, January 26, 2015
Rant: Snowmaggedon & Deflategate
As a fan of the New England Patriots, I'm looking forward to their Super Bowl appearance next Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, I think it's going to be an excellent game, a true clash of football professionals. Unfortunately, the media has been over-saturated with the issue of Deflategate, partially due to the NFL's slow progress in their investigation. As such, it seems I should dedicate this week's Rant to Deflategate, but that isn't going to happen. There are much more important issues to address, rather than talk about some deflated balls.
Snowmageddon! Snowpocalypse!
The weather reports are indicating a potential blizzard to begin tonight and continue all day tomorrow. We could potentially receive more than two feet of snow, sending plows out all day and night to try to remove snow from the roads. Individuals may be using shovels or snow blowers to clean their driveways or parking spots. It will be an inconvenience, and travel on Tuesday could be difficult. Some of your plans might be disrupted for that day.
In preparation of that potential blizzard, the supermarkets yesterday were packed, and today, they will likely be packed as well. It happens before every possible storm. A sudden rush for bread and water, a stockpiling of alleged necessities. You would think people were preparing for being locked in their houses for a week or more, or that they expected the supermarkets to shut down for a week. Is all of that necessary? Not really.
For the vast majority of us, these snow storms won't be any more of a single day problem. The city's response is quick enough that the roads should be accessible within a day of any snowstorm. Even if homeowners lose their power in their home for an extended time, they will still be able to drive to a supermarket, restaurant or hotel if necessary. A repeat of an extended shutdown, like that caused by the Blizzard of 1978, will probably never happen again. And if we are only looking at a single day problem, then there is no need for the urgent stockpiling.
Who doesn't have enough food and drink in their home to last through a day or two? There are too many people stockpiling food who really don't need to do so. It is far too often based on an irrational fear. And it can be a problem for those people who might actually have a true need to purchase basic supplies. Stop the unnecessary worrying each time a storm approaches. If you live in New England, you should be used to winter storms, and have prepared for them long before they even approach. Stop crowding the supermarket the day or two before a storm, picking up food and drink that you probably don't even need.
Snowmageddon! Snowpocalypse!
The weather reports are indicating a potential blizzard to begin tonight and continue all day tomorrow. We could potentially receive more than two feet of snow, sending plows out all day and night to try to remove snow from the roads. Individuals may be using shovels or snow blowers to clean their driveways or parking spots. It will be an inconvenience, and travel on Tuesday could be difficult. Some of your plans might be disrupted for that day.
In preparation of that potential blizzard, the supermarkets yesterday were packed, and today, they will likely be packed as well. It happens before every possible storm. A sudden rush for bread and water, a stockpiling of alleged necessities. You would think people were preparing for being locked in their houses for a week or more, or that they expected the supermarkets to shut down for a week. Is all of that necessary? Not really.
For the vast majority of us, these snow storms won't be any more of a single day problem. The city's response is quick enough that the roads should be accessible within a day of any snowstorm. Even if homeowners lose their power in their home for an extended time, they will still be able to drive to a supermarket, restaurant or hotel if necessary. A repeat of an extended shutdown, like that caused by the Blizzard of 1978, will probably never happen again. And if we are only looking at a single day problem, then there is no need for the urgent stockpiling.
Who doesn't have enough food and drink in their home to last through a day or two? There are too many people stockpiling food who really don't need to do so. It is far too often based on an irrational fear. And it can be a problem for those people who might actually have a true need to purchase basic supplies. Stop the unnecessary worrying each time a storm approaches. If you live in New England, you should be used to winter storms, and have prepared for them long before they even approach. Stop crowding the supermarket the day or two before a storm, picking up food and drink that you probably don't even need.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Thursday Sips & Nibbles
I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting wine and food items that are upcoming.
**********************************************************
1) Legal Harborside is saddling up for “the most exciting two minutes in sports” by hosting a Kentucky Derby party for the books. Guests can head over to Legal Harborside’s rooftop to catch the run of the roses as all eyes will be on the top contenders at Churchill Downs. Revelers should dress to impress for Millionaires Row with a prize awarded at the end of the evening for “Best Derby Hat.”
Tickets to the party include festive tunes from a live deejay, one Mint Julep per guest, a Triple Crown of passed hors d’oeuvres (pulled pork sliders, shrimp & corn hush puppies, mini chicken & waffles) and an Oyster Bar (WiAnno, Merry Bay, Wellfleet, Naked Cowboy) from 6-7pm.
When: May 3 from 4:30pm – 7:30pm
Cost: General admission: $60 per person
Reserved couch: $400 per group (up to six people)
Tickets and tables may be reserved online. Tickets purchased are non-refundable and have no cash value. Limited tickets and table reservations are available. Access to the event will only be granted to guests with a ticket receipt and 21+ ID. Guests may order food a la carte from the full 3rd floor menu. Roof opens to the public at 7:30pm.
2) From June 2-8, 2014, Campari® and Imbibe magazine will present Negroni Week nationwide when a portion of proceeds from every Negroni sold at participating bars and restaurants will be donated to the charity of their choice. In addition, Campari will donate $10,000 to the top fundraising establishment’s charity.
“Last year through Negroni Week, we were able to give back by simply enjoying one of my favorite cocktails,” says Jonny Raglin of Comstock Saloon in San Francisco, one of the original Negroni Week supporters. “Cocktails are really only improved by supporting those in need.”
Last year, more than 120 bars and restaurants across the U.S. participated in the inaugural Negroni Week, including renowned cocktail destinations such as PDT in New York; Son of a Gun and Spare Room in Los Angeles; Imperial in Portland; and many more. “What started as a grassroots movement to aid charities through a cocktail is now an orchestrated effort around the world, giving bartenders and Campari fans a chance to give back to causes that matter most in their communities,” said Umberto Luchini, Head of Marketing, Campari America.
Negroni Week 2014, held in partnership the U.S. Bartender’s Guild (USBG), uses the classic Negroni cocktail - one part Campari, one part gin and one part sweet vermouth – as the catalyst to help raise funds for worthy causes. "We launched Negroni Week not only to celebrate one of the world's great cocktails but also to create a unique platform for charities nationwide," says Imbibe publisher Karen Foley. "It's such an amazing way for bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts to join forces for the greater good."
Bars and restaurants interested in signing up can go to www.NegroniWeek.com. This is also where consumers can find participating bars and restaurants in their area. Negroni fans nationwide will be encouraged to spread the word on social media using the hashtag #NegroniWeek, with surprise giveaways to supporters throughout the week.
Invented in Florence, Italy, in 1919, the exceptionally easy-to-create and even easier-to-enjoy Negroni is considered an aperitif – a drink traditionally consumed before a meal to stimulate the appetite. It can be served up in a cocktail glass or on the rocks, and it is always stirred, never shaken.
Several local bars have already committed to participating, including:
jm Curley
Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar
Brick & Mortar
Russell House Tavern
3) Scheduled for Sunday, April 13, the fifth annual Boston Lamb Jam brings together a slew of talented chefs and their tastiest American lamb-based dishes to compete for top honors in categories like Best in Show, People's Choice and Best Leg, Ground, Shank and Shoulder.
The event starts with a VIP hour tailored to the most ardent lovers of American lamb. From 2:30-3:30pm, guests will get to snack on lamb charcuterie from acclaimed chefs Jamie Bissonnette of Toro and Coppa, Will Gilson of Puritan & Co., Louis DiBiccari of Tavern Road and Dante de Magistris of dante. VIPs will also get to sample sheep's milk cheese, wine and beer, and Elijah Craig bourbon-based cocktails courtesy of mixologist Joy Richard and the renowned bar team at Citizen.
At the main event, which takes place from 3:00-6:00pm, fans of lamb will get to try samples of two dozen lambtastic dishes presented by chefs from Boston, Providence, Portsmouth and Portland. Reigning champion Michael Scelfo of Alden & Harlow, who took home a trio of trophies last year, will be defending his title against first time participants like Graham Botto of Back Bay Grill in Portland and Matt Louis from Portsmouth's Moxy. There are more than a few repeat performers, too including...
Boston/Cambridge
Michael Scelfo, Alden & Harlow
Brian Alberg, Red Lion Inn
Brian Dandro, ArtBar
Brian Rae, Rialto
Robert Sisca, Bistro du Midi
Cassie Piuma, Sarma
Brian Reyelt, Citizen
Nuno Alves & Chris Douglass, Tavolo
Peter Davis, Henrietta's Table
Jim Solomon, The Fireplace
Daniel Bojorquez, La Brasa
Justin Melnick, The Terrace
Providence
Nemo Bolin, Cook & Brown
Beau Vestal, New Rivers
Champe Speidel, Persimmon
Portland
Graham Botto, Back Bay Grill
Austin Miller, East Ender
Niko Regas, Emilitsa
Portsmouth
Matt Louis, Moxy
Evan Hennessy, Stages at One Washington
Attendees will be able to sip on lamb-friendly wines and beers from 12 of New England's best breweries (like Mayflower, Harpoon, Rising Tide and Smuttynose, just to name a few), take part in the make-your-own spice rub station and learn the ins and outs of animal butchery at a demo with Nuno Alves of Tavolo.
A portion of the proceeds from the Boston Lamb Jam will support Lovin' Spoonfuls, a local organization that facilitates the recovery and distribution of healthy, perishable food that would otherwise be discarded.
Where: The Royal Sonesta, 40 Edwin H Land Blvd, Cambridge, MA 02142
VIP Tickets ($90): http://www.americanlamb.com/store/products/vip-boston-lamb-jam-ticket/ GA Tickets ($60): http://www.americanlamb.com/store/products/ga-boston-lamb-jam-tickets/
4) Boston Bakes for Breast Cancer is celebrating their 15th year of sweet success in the city. This year, some of the area’s premier restaurants and bakeries will be joining forces to help raise money to benefit breast cancer research and care at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Establishments will choose one dessert to feature for a week where 100% of the proceeds from sales will go directly to the Boston Bakes for Breast Cancer organization.
This year, top area restaurants have kindly pledged to donate all of their selected dessert’s proceeds to join in the battle against breast cancer including: Cask ‘n Flagon’s Chocolate Torte (homemade flourless chocolate torte served warm with vanilla ice cream, topped with whipped cream and hot chocolate sauce - $6.75); Haru’s Tempura Cheesecake (coconut with mixed berry coulis, or traditional with sake claret coulis - $9); Legal Sea Foods’s Boston Cream Pie (chocolate sauce, rum caramel sauce, toffee almond crunch - $7.95); and, The Tip Tap Room’s Blackberry White Chocolate Bread Pudding (whiskey caramel glaze - $7.95).
WHEN: Available May 5th through May 11th at participating restaurants
WHERE: Participating restaurants include the following:
· Cask ‘n Flagon – Fenway (62 Brookline Avenue, Boston)
· Cask ‘n Flagon – Marshfield (804 Plain Street, Marshfield)
· Haru (55 Huntington Avenue, Boston)
· Legal Sea Foods – Copley Place (100 Huntington Avenue, Boston)
· Legal Sea Foods – Prudential Center (800 Boylston Street, Boston)
· Legal Sea Foods – Park Plaza (26 Park Plaza, Boston)
· Legal Sea Foods – Chestnut Hill (43 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill)
· The Tip Tap Room (138 Cambridge Street, Boston)
5) Frances Mayes, the bestselling author of “Under the Tuscan Sun,” brings her line of Tuscan Sun Wines to New Hampshire for the first time on Friday, May 16 for a private dinner event at Tuscan Kitchen, a fine-dining Italian restaurant in Salem, New Hampshire. This will be followed by a wine sampling and book and bottle singing event on Saturday, May 17 at Tuscan Market, an artisan Italian marketplace and trattoria. Created in partnership with Curious Cork Imports, each Tuscan Sun Wine was hand-selected by Mayes herself to embody a different concept that touches on the Tuscan lifestyle.
The private dinner with Frances will take place on Friday, May 16 with two seatings at 5:30pm and again at 8:30pm at Tuscan Kitchen. Reservations for the private dinner is limited to 50 people per seating and is $125 per person. This includes a gourmet dinner, a signed bottle of Tuscan Sun Wines, and a signed cookbook. For reservations, please visit www.TuscanSunWines.com/events.
The book and bottle signing will take place the following day on Saturday, May 17 from 11:00am– 3:00pm at Tuscan Market, 63 Main Street in Salem, NH, right next to Tuscan Kitchen. Fans will be able to meet Frances Mayes, taste the wines and have Frances autograph her bottles, books, and the movie which make the perfect keepsake or gift. Frances’s wines, her cookbook, “The Tuscan Sun Cookbook,” book “Under the Tuscan Sun,” as well as the 2003 movie adaptation of her book of the same title will be available for purchase at the event.
The line of Tuscan Sun Wines includes three reds and one white. Each wine has an Italian name and an English translation and showcases the vision of Frances Mayes:
· Pensiero (A little gift) 100% Pinot Grigio
· Permesso (May I come in?) 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
· Tondo Tondo (Just perfect) 100% Sangiovese
· Auguri (My best to you) 80% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot
“These wines bring to life a sense of wonder through the simple joys that my life in Italy has given me,” said Mayes. “I hope that by sharing them with the world, others can also attain a bit of the enjoyment I’ve gained from my experience here, if only for a moment as they sip these glorious wines.”
1) Legal Harborside is saddling up for “the most exciting two minutes in sports” by hosting a Kentucky Derby party for the books. Guests can head over to Legal Harborside’s rooftop to catch the run of the roses as all eyes will be on the top contenders at Churchill Downs. Revelers should dress to impress for Millionaires Row with a prize awarded at the end of the evening for “Best Derby Hat.”
Tickets to the party include festive tunes from a live deejay, one Mint Julep per guest, a Triple Crown of passed hors d’oeuvres (pulled pork sliders, shrimp & corn hush puppies, mini chicken & waffles) and an Oyster Bar (WiAnno, Merry Bay, Wellfleet, Naked Cowboy) from 6-7pm.
When: May 3 from 4:30pm – 7:30pm
Cost: General admission: $60 per person
Reserved couch: $400 per group (up to six people)
Tickets and tables may be reserved online. Tickets purchased are non-refundable and have no cash value. Limited tickets and table reservations are available. Access to the event will only be granted to guests with a ticket receipt and 21+ ID. Guests may order food a la carte from the full 3rd floor menu. Roof opens to the public at 7:30pm.
2) From June 2-8, 2014, Campari® and Imbibe magazine will present Negroni Week nationwide when a portion of proceeds from every Negroni sold at participating bars and restaurants will be donated to the charity of their choice. In addition, Campari will donate $10,000 to the top fundraising establishment’s charity.
“Last year through Negroni Week, we were able to give back by simply enjoying one of my favorite cocktails,” says Jonny Raglin of Comstock Saloon in San Francisco, one of the original Negroni Week supporters. “Cocktails are really only improved by supporting those in need.”
Last year, more than 120 bars and restaurants across the U.S. participated in the inaugural Negroni Week, including renowned cocktail destinations such as PDT in New York; Son of a Gun and Spare Room in Los Angeles; Imperial in Portland; and many more. “What started as a grassroots movement to aid charities through a cocktail is now an orchestrated effort around the world, giving bartenders and Campari fans a chance to give back to causes that matter most in their communities,” said Umberto Luchini, Head of Marketing, Campari America.
Negroni Week 2014, held in partnership the U.S. Bartender’s Guild (USBG), uses the classic Negroni cocktail - one part Campari, one part gin and one part sweet vermouth – as the catalyst to help raise funds for worthy causes. "We launched Negroni Week not only to celebrate one of the world's great cocktails but also to create a unique platform for charities nationwide," says Imbibe publisher Karen Foley. "It's such an amazing way for bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts to join forces for the greater good."
Bars and restaurants interested in signing up can go to www.NegroniWeek.com. This is also where consumers can find participating bars and restaurants in their area. Negroni fans nationwide will be encouraged to spread the word on social media using the hashtag #NegroniWeek, with surprise giveaways to supporters throughout the week.
Invented in Florence, Italy, in 1919, the exceptionally easy-to-create and even easier-to-enjoy Negroni is considered an aperitif – a drink traditionally consumed before a meal to stimulate the appetite. It can be served up in a cocktail glass or on the rocks, and it is always stirred, never shaken.
Several local bars have already committed to participating, including:
jm Curley
Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar
Brick & Mortar
Russell House Tavern
3) Scheduled for Sunday, April 13, the fifth annual Boston Lamb Jam brings together a slew of talented chefs and their tastiest American lamb-based dishes to compete for top honors in categories like Best in Show, People's Choice and Best Leg, Ground, Shank and Shoulder.
The event starts with a VIP hour tailored to the most ardent lovers of American lamb. From 2:30-3:30pm, guests will get to snack on lamb charcuterie from acclaimed chefs Jamie Bissonnette of Toro and Coppa, Will Gilson of Puritan & Co., Louis DiBiccari of Tavern Road and Dante de Magistris of dante. VIPs will also get to sample sheep's milk cheese, wine and beer, and Elijah Craig bourbon-based cocktails courtesy of mixologist Joy Richard and the renowned bar team at Citizen.
At the main event, which takes place from 3:00-6:00pm, fans of lamb will get to try samples of two dozen lambtastic dishes presented by chefs from Boston, Providence, Portsmouth and Portland. Reigning champion Michael Scelfo of Alden & Harlow, who took home a trio of trophies last year, will be defending his title against first time participants like Graham Botto of Back Bay Grill in Portland and Matt Louis from Portsmouth's Moxy. There are more than a few repeat performers, too including...
Boston/Cambridge
Michael Scelfo, Alden & Harlow
Brian Alberg, Red Lion Inn
Brian Dandro, ArtBar
Brian Rae, Rialto
Robert Sisca, Bistro du Midi
Cassie Piuma, Sarma
Brian Reyelt, Citizen
Nuno Alves & Chris Douglass, Tavolo
Peter Davis, Henrietta's Table
Jim Solomon, The Fireplace
Daniel Bojorquez, La Brasa
Justin Melnick, The Terrace
Providence
Nemo Bolin, Cook & Brown
Beau Vestal, New Rivers
Champe Speidel, Persimmon
Portland
Graham Botto, Back Bay Grill
Austin Miller, East Ender
Niko Regas, Emilitsa
Portsmouth
Matt Louis, Moxy
Evan Hennessy, Stages at One Washington
Attendees will be able to sip on lamb-friendly wines and beers from 12 of New England's best breweries (like Mayflower, Harpoon, Rising Tide and Smuttynose, just to name a few), take part in the make-your-own spice rub station and learn the ins and outs of animal butchery at a demo with Nuno Alves of Tavolo.
A portion of the proceeds from the Boston Lamb Jam will support Lovin' Spoonfuls, a local organization that facilitates the recovery and distribution of healthy, perishable food that would otherwise be discarded.
Where: The Royal Sonesta, 40 Edwin H Land Blvd, Cambridge, MA 02142
VIP Tickets ($90): http://www.americanlamb.com/store/products/vip-boston-lamb-jam-ticket/ GA Tickets ($60): http://www.americanlamb.com/store/products/ga-boston-lamb-jam-tickets/
4) Boston Bakes for Breast Cancer is celebrating their 15th year of sweet success in the city. This year, some of the area’s premier restaurants and bakeries will be joining forces to help raise money to benefit breast cancer research and care at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Establishments will choose one dessert to feature for a week where 100% of the proceeds from sales will go directly to the Boston Bakes for Breast Cancer organization.
This year, top area restaurants have kindly pledged to donate all of their selected dessert’s proceeds to join in the battle against breast cancer including: Cask ‘n Flagon’s Chocolate Torte (homemade flourless chocolate torte served warm with vanilla ice cream, topped with whipped cream and hot chocolate sauce - $6.75); Haru’s Tempura Cheesecake (coconut with mixed berry coulis, or traditional with sake claret coulis - $9); Legal Sea Foods’s Boston Cream Pie (chocolate sauce, rum caramel sauce, toffee almond crunch - $7.95); and, The Tip Tap Room’s Blackberry White Chocolate Bread Pudding (whiskey caramel glaze - $7.95).
WHEN: Available May 5th through May 11th at participating restaurants
WHERE: Participating restaurants include the following:
· Cask ‘n Flagon – Fenway (62 Brookline Avenue, Boston)
· Cask ‘n Flagon – Marshfield (804 Plain Street, Marshfield)
· Haru (55 Huntington Avenue, Boston)
· Legal Sea Foods – Copley Place (100 Huntington Avenue, Boston)
· Legal Sea Foods – Prudential Center (800 Boylston Street, Boston)
· Legal Sea Foods – Park Plaza (26 Park Plaza, Boston)
· Legal Sea Foods – Chestnut Hill (43 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill)
· The Tip Tap Room (138 Cambridge Street, Boston)
5) Frances Mayes, the bestselling author of “Under the Tuscan Sun,” brings her line of Tuscan Sun Wines to New Hampshire for the first time on Friday, May 16 for a private dinner event at Tuscan Kitchen, a fine-dining Italian restaurant in Salem, New Hampshire. This will be followed by a wine sampling and book and bottle singing event on Saturday, May 17 at Tuscan Market, an artisan Italian marketplace and trattoria. Created in partnership with Curious Cork Imports, each Tuscan Sun Wine was hand-selected by Mayes herself to embody a different concept that touches on the Tuscan lifestyle.
The private dinner with Frances will take place on Friday, May 16 with two seatings at 5:30pm and again at 8:30pm at Tuscan Kitchen. Reservations for the private dinner is limited to 50 people per seating and is $125 per person. This includes a gourmet dinner, a signed bottle of Tuscan Sun Wines, and a signed cookbook. For reservations, please visit www.TuscanSunWines.com/events.
The book and bottle signing will take place the following day on Saturday, May 17 from 11:00am– 3:00pm at Tuscan Market, 63 Main Street in Salem, NH, right next to Tuscan Kitchen. Fans will be able to meet Frances Mayes, taste the wines and have Frances autograph her bottles, books, and the movie which make the perfect keepsake or gift. Frances’s wines, her cookbook, “The Tuscan Sun Cookbook,” book “Under the Tuscan Sun,” as well as the 2003 movie adaptation of her book of the same title will be available for purchase at the event.
The line of Tuscan Sun Wines includes three reds and one white. Each wine has an Italian name and an English translation and showcases the vision of Frances Mayes:
· Pensiero (A little gift) 100% Pinot Grigio
· Permesso (May I come in?) 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
· Tondo Tondo (Just perfect) 100% Sangiovese
· Auguri (My best to you) 80% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot
“These wines bring to life a sense of wonder through the simple joys that my life in Italy has given me,” said Mayes. “I hope that by sharing them with the world, others can also attain a bit of the enjoyment I’ve gained from my experience here, if only for a moment as they sip these glorious wines.”
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Thursday Sips & Nibbles
I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I briefly highlight some interesting wine and food items that I have encountered recently.
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1) Joslin Diabetes Center’s High Hopes Gala and World Diabetes Month celebration promotes awareness and raises funds for vital diabetes clinical care programs and groundbreaking research initiatives at Joslin Diabetes Center. This fabulous black-tie event, established in 1999, benefits Joslin Diabetes Center’s High Hopes Fund, which supports the Center’s greatest needs in research, education and clinical care. Joslin Diabetes Center is pleased to recognize Team Joslin Boston Marathon Runners as 2013 High Hopes Gala Honorees for their outstanding passion and commitment to Joslin’s mission.
The evening will include a lively cocktail reception, exciting silent and live auction, a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl XLVIII, and live entertainment by one of the region’s top party bands, K2, who will be performing a mix of dance favorites from Sinatra to Black Eyed Peas.
An astounding 347 million people worldwide have diabetes and that number is increasing in alarming, epidemic proportions. Joslin is working toward a cure, and a world without diabetes and its complications.
When: Saturday, November 23, from 6p.m.–Midnight
Where:: The Westin Copley Place 10 Huntington Avenue, Boston
For information on the High Hopes Gala or to purchase tickets: Email: Kevin.Hudson@joslin.harvard.edu or call them at 617-309-2512
2) Taste of the Nation Boston, the annual tasting event hosted by Share Our Strength to benefit its No Kid Hungry campaign initiative, has created a "Food Fight" event series that pits two chefs against each other to battle it out for the best dish under the guidelines of a fun and creative theme leading up to the major event on April 29, 2014.
On Tuesday, November 12th, the second "Food Fight" will take place between Tremont 647 and Belly Wine Bar at Lincoln Tavern in South Boston. For $20, attendees can sample complimentary pizza and bites from Lincoln, each of the chefs' dishes (theme this event is New England fare), two sponsored cocktails courtesy of KEEL Vodka, and vote for the winning dish. Attendees will also receive special discount code to purchase Taste of the Nation Boston tickets.
In September, the inaugural "Food Fight" between Hungry Mother and West Bridge catered to a sold out crowd of over 75 who crowned the former's Chef Barry Maiden the winner by only a few votes. The “Food Fight” event series will continue through Spring 2014 and spotlight Myers + Chang vs. Lincoln Tavern (1/14, Southern Comfort Food) and Coppa vs. a yet to be determined opponent (3/11, Spice Trade Route: Africa to Europe). Lincoln has generously donated their event space and food to these four "Food Fights," and a portion of ticket proceeds directly benefit Taste of the Nation and Share Our Strength's No Kid Hungry campaign to end childhood hunger in America.
WHEN: Tuesday, November 12th, 7-9pm
WHERE: Lincoln Tavern, 425 W Broadway, South Boston
INFO/TICKETS: http://ce.strength.org/boston
About Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry® campaign: No child should grow up hungry in America, but one in five children struggles with hunger. Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry® campaign is ending childhood hunger in America by ensuring all children get the healthy food they need, every day. The No Kid Hungry campaign connects kids in need to effective nutrition programs like school breakfast and summer meals and teaches low-income families to cook healthy, affordable meals through Cooking Matters. This work is accomplished through the No Kid Hungry network, made up of private citizens, public officials, nonprofits, business leaders and others providing innovative hunger solutions in their communities.
3) The Beehive will be hosting its annual Thanksgiving Day dinner, featuring a traditional a la carte Thanksgiving menu on Thursday, November 28. The Beehive will host exquisite live jazz performances from Maxim Lubarsky, Jamie Stewardson and Tammy Scheffer all day long.
THANKSGIVING MENU 2013
STARTERS
Parsnip Soup with Spicy Pumpkin Seed Pesto 11
Kale, White Bean & Sausage Soup 11
Roasted Beet Terrine, Fromage Blanc, Candied Walnuts 12
Tuna Tartare, Soy, Seaweed, Flying Fish Roe 17
Baby Back Spare Ribs 13
Foie Gras Terrine, Artichokes, Duck Confit, Armagnac Plums 14
Baked Crab Cake, Celery Root Slaw, Jalapeños Aioli 14
Chopped Salad with Blue Cheese Vinaigrette 11
Simple Salad with Red Wine Dressing 10
MAINS
Roast Organic Turkey 32 (Wild Mushroom & Truffle Stuffing, Country Mashed Potatoes, Brussels Sprout, Chestnut & Pea Salad, Fresh Cranberry Sauce, Herbed Gravy)
Roast New York Strip* 38 (Country Mashed Potatoes, Brussels Sprout, Chestnut & Pea Salad, Peppercorn Jus)
Lobster Braised Halibut* 36 (Root Vegetable Medley & Lobster Broth)
Wild Alaskan Salmon* 32 (Lentils, Glazed Carrots, Roasted Beets, Sesame-Carrot Sauce)
Grass Fed Rack of Lamb* 42 (Country Mashed Potatoes, Root Vegetable Medley, Mustard Shallot Sauce)
Spinach, Spaghetti Squash & Tomato Lasagna 27
Vegetarian Thanksgiving 27 (Wild Mushroom & Truffle Stuffing, Country Mashed Potatoes, Brussels Sprout & Pea Salad, Root Vegetable Medley, Glazed Carrots, Roasted Beets, Fresh Cranberry Sauce)
LITTLE PILGRIM’S
Kid’s Turkey Dinner 18
Pasta with Butter & Parmesan 10
Crispy Chicken Dinosaurs with Frites 10
Menu Subject to change
Hours of Operation on Thanksgiving Day, November 28: 11am-2am
Traditional Menu: 11am-12am. Leftovers menu: 10pm-12am.
Performers: 11am-2:30pm Maxim Lubarsky; 3pm-7:30pm Jamie Stewardson; 8pm-12am Tammy Scheffer
Cost: À la carte pricing for dinner, no cover charge for entry.
Reservations recommended by calling 617-423-0069 or visiting www.beehiveboston.com
4) The 2nd Annual Boston Taste of the NFL and Kick Hunger Challenge will take place on Wednesday, November 13, from 6pm-9pm at Davio’s Boston. Join TNFL Chef representing the New England Patriots and owner of Davio’s, Steve DiFillippo, along with special celebrity guests for an unforgettable night that will benefit The Greater Boston Food Bank. This special evening will feature wines from E&J Gallo Wineries, food tasting of signature Davio’s dishes such as the kobe meatballs and pesto gnocchi and each guest will receive DiFillippo’s new book, “It’s All About the Guest: Exceeding Expectations in Business & in Life, the Davio’s Way,” his new fast-paced and story-driven memoir (retail $26.95).
The event will take place at The Atrium of Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse located in Boston’s Back Bay Reservations are required for this event by visiting: www.daviosbostontfnl.eventbrite.com
COST: $50 per person. Price includes entrance to the event, as well as a signed copy of It’s All About the Guest.
5) As the leaves have changed, so has the seasonally-driven menu at Kendall Square's restaurant, Belly. The new offerings include:
Arm + A Leg ($62 per person for groups of 4-12 people; 48-hours’ notice required)
A Four-Course Whole Duck Feast: Courses include Salad Lyonnaise (tea-smoked duck bacon, frisee, hazelnut vin, poached duck egg), Blanquette of Duck Offal (buccatini, pecorino, sherry, mushrooms), Whole Roast Stuffed Duck (sourdough, apples, chestnuts, lentils + sautéed Brussels), Duck Fat Popover (ginger ice-cream, candied orange).
S’mores (Free on Halloween with food or beverage purchase; beginning November 1st S’mores are $4/ person)
Beginning on Halloween night, Belly takes to the patio to tend an open-top fireplace with a dual purpose: fighting low temperatures and treating guests to free s’mores! The home-style treats are made with house-made graham crackers + marshmallows, along with various chocolate options to meet diners’ chocolaty desires.
Fondue ($14 per person for groups of 2-6 people; 24 hours’ notice required)
Beginning on Friday, November 1, Belly says arrivederci to their Fried Chicken + Orange Wine and welcomes warm fondue back to the Square for fall. Fromage aficionados to the core, the Belly team looks for any excuse to dip, smear + dunk carbs, fruit + veggies into melty, gooey cheese (a decadent Alpine cheese combo of Spring Brook Farm Reading Raclette, Emmentaler + Gruyere, at that!). Alpine wine pairings are available for purchase. Online reservations can be made here: http://fondue.youcanbook.me
6) On Tuesday, Novermber 12, at 7pm, at L’Espalier, Fromager and Mâitre d’ Louis Risoli collaborates with Pastry Chef & Apiarist Jared Bachelor and Wine Director & Sommelier Lauren Collins to bring you the latest Cheese Tuesday from L’Espalier. Jared Bachelor is not only the Head Pastry Chef of L’Espalier but is also a seasoned apiarist. With a vast knowledge on honey, Jared tends to primarily Italian honeybees in the backyard of his New Hampshire home.
Once a month, Louis Risoli hosts the wildly popular Cheese Tuesday at L’Espalier, providing easy commentary, while sommelier Lauren Collins describes the wine. Cheese Tuesday combines wine and cheese in a casual night featuring a three course dinner with paired wines, followed by a grand cheese tasting and musical entertainment. Louis Risoli concludes the evening with an original, cheese inspired sing-a-long to the tune of a pop culture song. One of his renditions being: Don’t Stop Bleu Cheesin’ to the tune of Don’t Stop Believing by Journey. “Cheese & Honey” will guide guests through a balancing act as Louis Risoli and Jared Bachelor demonstrate how different types of honey can enhance the mildest cheeses and even tame the wildest ones. Working side by side, Louis and Jared have collaborated to pair six combinations of local honeys and cheeses to entice even the most discerning guest. WHEN: Tuesday, November 12 7:00 p.m. WHERE: L’Espalier 775 Boylston Street Boston, MA 02199 (617) 262-3023 http://www.lespalier.com
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1) Joslin Diabetes Center’s High Hopes Gala and World Diabetes Month celebration promotes awareness and raises funds for vital diabetes clinical care programs and groundbreaking research initiatives at Joslin Diabetes Center. This fabulous black-tie event, established in 1999, benefits Joslin Diabetes Center’s High Hopes Fund, which supports the Center’s greatest needs in research, education and clinical care. Joslin Diabetes Center is pleased to recognize Team Joslin Boston Marathon Runners as 2013 High Hopes Gala Honorees for their outstanding passion and commitment to Joslin’s mission.
The evening will include a lively cocktail reception, exciting silent and live auction, a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl XLVIII, and live entertainment by one of the region’s top party bands, K2, who will be performing a mix of dance favorites from Sinatra to Black Eyed Peas.
An astounding 347 million people worldwide have diabetes and that number is increasing in alarming, epidemic proportions. Joslin is working toward a cure, and a world without diabetes and its complications.
When: Saturday, November 23, from 6p.m.–Midnight
Where:: The Westin Copley Place 10 Huntington Avenue, Boston
For information on the High Hopes Gala or to purchase tickets: Email: Kevin.Hudson@joslin.harvard.edu or call them at 617-309-2512
2) Taste of the Nation Boston, the annual tasting event hosted by Share Our Strength to benefit its No Kid Hungry campaign initiative, has created a "Food Fight" event series that pits two chefs against each other to battle it out for the best dish under the guidelines of a fun and creative theme leading up to the major event on April 29, 2014.
On Tuesday, November 12th, the second "Food Fight" will take place between Tremont 647 and Belly Wine Bar at Lincoln Tavern in South Boston. For $20, attendees can sample complimentary pizza and bites from Lincoln, each of the chefs' dishes (theme this event is New England fare), two sponsored cocktails courtesy of KEEL Vodka, and vote for the winning dish. Attendees will also receive special discount code to purchase Taste of the Nation Boston tickets.
In September, the inaugural "Food Fight" between Hungry Mother and West Bridge catered to a sold out crowd of over 75 who crowned the former's Chef Barry Maiden the winner by only a few votes. The “Food Fight” event series will continue through Spring 2014 and spotlight Myers + Chang vs. Lincoln Tavern (1/14, Southern Comfort Food) and Coppa vs. a yet to be determined opponent (3/11, Spice Trade Route: Africa to Europe). Lincoln has generously donated their event space and food to these four "Food Fights," and a portion of ticket proceeds directly benefit Taste of the Nation and Share Our Strength's No Kid Hungry campaign to end childhood hunger in America.
WHEN: Tuesday, November 12th, 7-9pm
WHERE: Lincoln Tavern, 425 W Broadway, South Boston
INFO/TICKETS: http://ce.strength.org/boston
About Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry® campaign: No child should grow up hungry in America, but one in five children struggles with hunger. Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry® campaign is ending childhood hunger in America by ensuring all children get the healthy food they need, every day. The No Kid Hungry campaign connects kids in need to effective nutrition programs like school breakfast and summer meals and teaches low-income families to cook healthy, affordable meals through Cooking Matters. This work is accomplished through the No Kid Hungry network, made up of private citizens, public officials, nonprofits, business leaders and others providing innovative hunger solutions in their communities.
3) The Beehive will be hosting its annual Thanksgiving Day dinner, featuring a traditional a la carte Thanksgiving menu on Thursday, November 28. The Beehive will host exquisite live jazz performances from Maxim Lubarsky, Jamie Stewardson and Tammy Scheffer all day long.
THANKSGIVING MENU 2013
STARTERS
Parsnip Soup with Spicy Pumpkin Seed Pesto 11
Kale, White Bean & Sausage Soup 11
Roasted Beet Terrine, Fromage Blanc, Candied Walnuts 12
Tuna Tartare, Soy, Seaweed, Flying Fish Roe 17
Baby Back Spare Ribs 13
Foie Gras Terrine, Artichokes, Duck Confit, Armagnac Plums 14
Baked Crab Cake, Celery Root Slaw, Jalapeños Aioli 14
Chopped Salad with Blue Cheese Vinaigrette 11
Simple Salad with Red Wine Dressing 10
MAINS
Roast Organic Turkey 32 (Wild Mushroom & Truffle Stuffing, Country Mashed Potatoes, Brussels Sprout, Chestnut & Pea Salad, Fresh Cranberry Sauce, Herbed Gravy)
Roast New York Strip* 38 (Country Mashed Potatoes, Brussels Sprout, Chestnut & Pea Salad, Peppercorn Jus)
Lobster Braised Halibut* 36 (Root Vegetable Medley & Lobster Broth)
Wild Alaskan Salmon* 32 (Lentils, Glazed Carrots, Roasted Beets, Sesame-Carrot Sauce)
Grass Fed Rack of Lamb* 42 (Country Mashed Potatoes, Root Vegetable Medley, Mustard Shallot Sauce)
Spinach, Spaghetti Squash & Tomato Lasagna 27
Vegetarian Thanksgiving 27 (Wild Mushroom & Truffle Stuffing, Country Mashed Potatoes, Brussels Sprout & Pea Salad, Root Vegetable Medley, Glazed Carrots, Roasted Beets, Fresh Cranberry Sauce)
LITTLE PILGRIM’S
Kid’s Turkey Dinner 18
Pasta with Butter & Parmesan 10
Crispy Chicken Dinosaurs with Frites 10
Menu Subject to change
Hours of Operation on Thanksgiving Day, November 28: 11am-2am
Traditional Menu: 11am-12am. Leftovers menu: 10pm-12am.
Performers: 11am-2:30pm Maxim Lubarsky; 3pm-7:30pm Jamie Stewardson; 8pm-12am Tammy Scheffer
Cost: À la carte pricing for dinner, no cover charge for entry.
Reservations recommended by calling 617-423-0069 or visiting www.beehiveboston.com
4) The 2nd Annual Boston Taste of the NFL and Kick Hunger Challenge will take place on Wednesday, November 13, from 6pm-9pm at Davio’s Boston. Join TNFL Chef representing the New England Patriots and owner of Davio’s, Steve DiFillippo, along with special celebrity guests for an unforgettable night that will benefit The Greater Boston Food Bank. This special evening will feature wines from E&J Gallo Wineries, food tasting of signature Davio’s dishes such as the kobe meatballs and pesto gnocchi and each guest will receive DiFillippo’s new book, “It’s All About the Guest: Exceeding Expectations in Business & in Life, the Davio’s Way,” his new fast-paced and story-driven memoir (retail $26.95).
The event will take place at The Atrium of Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse located in Boston’s Back Bay Reservations are required for this event by visiting: www.daviosbostontfnl.eventbrite.com
COST: $50 per person. Price includes entrance to the event, as well as a signed copy of It’s All About the Guest.
5) As the leaves have changed, so has the seasonally-driven menu at Kendall Square's restaurant, Belly. The new offerings include:
Arm + A Leg ($62 per person for groups of 4-12 people; 48-hours’ notice required)
A Four-Course Whole Duck Feast: Courses include Salad Lyonnaise (tea-smoked duck bacon, frisee, hazelnut vin, poached duck egg), Blanquette of Duck Offal (buccatini, pecorino, sherry, mushrooms), Whole Roast Stuffed Duck (sourdough, apples, chestnuts, lentils + sautéed Brussels), Duck Fat Popover (ginger ice-cream, candied orange).
S’mores (Free on Halloween with food or beverage purchase; beginning November 1st S’mores are $4/ person)
Beginning on Halloween night, Belly takes to the patio to tend an open-top fireplace with a dual purpose: fighting low temperatures and treating guests to free s’mores! The home-style treats are made with house-made graham crackers + marshmallows, along with various chocolate options to meet diners’ chocolaty desires.
Fondue ($14 per person for groups of 2-6 people; 24 hours’ notice required)
Beginning on Friday, November 1, Belly says arrivederci to their Fried Chicken + Orange Wine and welcomes warm fondue back to the Square for fall. Fromage aficionados to the core, the Belly team looks for any excuse to dip, smear + dunk carbs, fruit + veggies into melty, gooey cheese (a decadent Alpine cheese combo of Spring Brook Farm Reading Raclette, Emmentaler + Gruyere, at that!). Alpine wine pairings are available for purchase. Online reservations can be made here: http://fondue.youcanbook.me
6) On Tuesday, Novermber 12, at 7pm, at L’Espalier, Fromager and Mâitre d’ Louis Risoli collaborates with Pastry Chef & Apiarist Jared Bachelor and Wine Director & Sommelier Lauren Collins to bring you the latest Cheese Tuesday from L’Espalier. Jared Bachelor is not only the Head Pastry Chef of L’Espalier but is also a seasoned apiarist. With a vast knowledge on honey, Jared tends to primarily Italian honeybees in the backyard of his New Hampshire home.
Once a month, Louis Risoli hosts the wildly popular Cheese Tuesday at L’Espalier, providing easy commentary, while sommelier Lauren Collins describes the wine. Cheese Tuesday combines wine and cheese in a casual night featuring a three course dinner with paired wines, followed by a grand cheese tasting and musical entertainment. Louis Risoli concludes the evening with an original, cheese inspired sing-a-long to the tune of a pop culture song. One of his renditions being: Don’t Stop Bleu Cheesin’ to the tune of Don’t Stop Believing by Journey. “Cheese & Honey” will guide guests through a balancing act as Louis Risoli and Jared Bachelor demonstrate how different types of honey can enhance the mildest cheeses and even tame the wildest ones. Working side by side, Louis and Jared have collaborated to pair six combinations of local honeys and cheeses to entice even the most discerning guest. WHEN: Tuesday, November 12 7:00 p.m. WHERE: L’Espalier 775 Boylston Street Boston, MA 02199 (617) 262-3023 http://www.lespalier.com
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Thursday Sips & Nibbles
I am back again with a new edition of Thursday Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I briefly highlight some interesting wine and food items that I have encountered recently. **********************************************************
1) For 20 years, Taste of the NFL has been working to kick hunger at their annual charity event held on the eve of the Super Bowl. On September 12, past Taste of the NFL participant and restaurateur Steve DiFillippo (Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse; Avila Modern Mediterranean) will team up with the organization and some of Boston’s top chefs to host a kickoff event benefitting the Greater Boston Food Bank.
This evening features gourmet bites paired with pours from famous California vineyards such as William Hill Estate Winery, Louis M. Martini Winery and MacMurray Ranch. Participating chefs include: Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse’s Rodney Murillo (preparing gnocchi Bolognese); Olé Restaurant Group’s Erwin Ramos (preparing beef barbacoa tacos); Deuxave’s Chris Coombs (preparing duck liver pate); Restaurant dante and il Casale’s Dante de Magistris (preparing chilled melon soup with prosciutto crumbles); Pigalle’s Marc Orfaly (preparing smoked trout fried rice with Chinese sausage, yellow leeks, Thai chilies and peas); and, Stella’s Evan Deluty (preparing salmon tartare with wasabi, soy and ginger). Guests will also be introduced to the 2013 Taste of the NFL program. All proceed of the evening will be donated to support the Greater Boston Food Bank in its fight against hunger.
Where: Galleria Atrium (adjacent to Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse), 10 St. James Avenue, Boston
When: Wednesday, September 12 from 6pm – 9pm
Cost: $25 per person
Tickets: Tickets to this event may be purchased at: www.tasteofthenflkickoffdavios.eventbrite.com
2) On September 13, at 6:30pm, Legal Harborside will team up with Christina Turley, National Sales Manager for Turley Wine Cellars, for an exclusive four-plus-course wine dinner. "A popular California wine producer with wineries in Templeton and St. Helena, Turley wines are often recognized as some of the best old-vine red Zinfandels in California with fruits sourced from vineyards dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Turley Wine Cellars also boasts a two year waiting list for new recipients into their wine club."
This menu will be presented as follows on Legal Harborside’s scenic second level overlooking Boston Harbor:
HORS D’OEUVRES
fried oyster, preserved lemon, caper aioli
razor clam ceviche,* yuzu, fava bean, heirloom radish
curried mussels, thai basil foam
Schramsberg "Blanc de Blancs," North Coast, 2009
FIRST COURSE
grilled swordfish (braised romano beans, three-bean kalamata vinaigrette)
Turley "Old Vines" Zinfandel, California, 2010
SECOND COURSE
torchon of foie gras (luxardo cherries, chocolate brioche)
Turley "Ueberroth Vineyard" Zinfandel, Paso Robles, 2007
MAIN COURSE
charred northeast family farms flat iron steak (smoked tomato-cipollini onion jam, red wine demi-glace)
Turley "Cedarman Vineyard" Zinfandel, Howell Mountain, Napa, 2009
CHEESE COURSE
beecher's flagship reserve, valdeón
Turley "Hayne Vineyard" Petite Sirah, Napa Valley, 2007
Cost: $115 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Reservations can be made by contacting 617-530-9470
3) On August 26, from 11am-3pm, Belkin Family Lookout Farm is hosting NECN’s TV Diner. Some of Greater Boston’s best chefs and restaurants will gather together for a day of food, family, fun and memories. The 2nd Annual Family Food Fest will include cooking demos, tastings, entertainment, children’s activities, hayrides, contests and more! NECN and TV Diner are proud to support local farms, like Belkin Family Lookout Farm, with farm-to-table foods.
Tasting stations and product sampling from the top restaurants and food vendors in the Boston area, such as:
o Salvatore’s – Wild Mushroom Risotto
o Mangia - Pizza
o Tasty Burger - Charbroiled patty w/ American cheese barbeque sauce and caramelized onions
o Friendly’s - Ice Cream
o Glynn Hospitality - Mahi Mahi with a fresh mango salsa and homemade potato chips
o Fresh City - Caesar Salad
o Brasserie Jo - Pressed Watermelon w/ dehydrated olive, pickled goat cheese & chorizo vinaigrette
o La Nina - Cheese Quesadilla & Cheese and Ham Quesadilla
o Bryantville - Meatloaf
o Captain Parkers - New England clam chowder
o Piantidossi - Gourmet Breads served with imported oils
o Michele’s - Gourmet Popcorn
Beer and wine tent…for the adults! Entertainment. Kids’ play area, farm animals, face painting, hayrides, contests and more! Pick your own seasonal fruits from the farm
Where: Belkin Family Lookout Farm 89 Pleasant Street South, South Natick
Admission: $30.00 per adult in advance (www.necn.com/foodfest or www.aceticket.com), $40.00 per adult at the door (Children 10 years old and under are free!)
1) For 20 years, Taste of the NFL has been working to kick hunger at their annual charity event held on the eve of the Super Bowl. On September 12, past Taste of the NFL participant and restaurateur Steve DiFillippo (Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse; Avila Modern Mediterranean) will team up with the organization and some of Boston’s top chefs to host a kickoff event benefitting the Greater Boston Food Bank.
This evening features gourmet bites paired with pours from famous California vineyards such as William Hill Estate Winery, Louis M. Martini Winery and MacMurray Ranch. Participating chefs include: Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse’s Rodney Murillo (preparing gnocchi Bolognese); Olé Restaurant Group’s Erwin Ramos (preparing beef barbacoa tacos); Deuxave’s Chris Coombs (preparing duck liver pate); Restaurant dante and il Casale’s Dante de Magistris (preparing chilled melon soup with prosciutto crumbles); Pigalle’s Marc Orfaly (preparing smoked trout fried rice with Chinese sausage, yellow leeks, Thai chilies and peas); and, Stella’s Evan Deluty (preparing salmon tartare with wasabi, soy and ginger). Guests will also be introduced to the 2013 Taste of the NFL program. All proceed of the evening will be donated to support the Greater Boston Food Bank in its fight against hunger.
Where: Galleria Atrium (adjacent to Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse), 10 St. James Avenue, Boston
When: Wednesday, September 12 from 6pm – 9pm
Cost: $25 per person
Tickets: Tickets to this event may be purchased at: www.tasteofthenflkickoffdavios.eventbrite.com
2) On September 13, at 6:30pm, Legal Harborside will team up with Christina Turley, National Sales Manager for Turley Wine Cellars, for an exclusive four-plus-course wine dinner. "A popular California wine producer with wineries in Templeton and St. Helena, Turley wines are often recognized as some of the best old-vine red Zinfandels in California with fruits sourced from vineyards dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Turley Wine Cellars also boasts a two year waiting list for new recipients into their wine club."
This menu will be presented as follows on Legal Harborside’s scenic second level overlooking Boston Harbor:
HORS D’OEUVRES
fried oyster, preserved lemon, caper aioli
razor clam ceviche,* yuzu, fava bean, heirloom radish
curried mussels, thai basil foam
Schramsberg "Blanc de Blancs," North Coast, 2009
FIRST COURSE
grilled swordfish (braised romano beans, three-bean kalamata vinaigrette)
Turley "Old Vines" Zinfandel, California, 2010
SECOND COURSE
torchon of foie gras (luxardo cherries, chocolate brioche)
Turley "Ueberroth Vineyard" Zinfandel, Paso Robles, 2007
MAIN COURSE
charred northeast family farms flat iron steak (smoked tomato-cipollini onion jam, red wine demi-glace)
Turley "Cedarman Vineyard" Zinfandel, Howell Mountain, Napa, 2009
CHEESE COURSE
beecher's flagship reserve, valdeón
Turley "Hayne Vineyard" Petite Sirah, Napa Valley, 2007
Cost: $115 per person (excludes tax & gratuity)
Reservations can be made by contacting 617-530-9470
3) On August 26, from 11am-3pm, Belkin Family Lookout Farm is hosting NECN’s TV Diner. Some of Greater Boston’s best chefs and restaurants will gather together for a day of food, family, fun and memories. The 2nd Annual Family Food Fest will include cooking demos, tastings, entertainment, children’s activities, hayrides, contests and more! NECN and TV Diner are proud to support local farms, like Belkin Family Lookout Farm, with farm-to-table foods.
Tasting stations and product sampling from the top restaurants and food vendors in the Boston area, such as:
o Salvatore’s – Wild Mushroom Risotto
o Mangia - Pizza
o Tasty Burger - Charbroiled patty w/ American cheese barbeque sauce and caramelized onions
o Friendly’s - Ice Cream
o Glynn Hospitality - Mahi Mahi with a fresh mango salsa and homemade potato chips
o Fresh City - Caesar Salad
o Brasserie Jo - Pressed Watermelon w/ dehydrated olive, pickled goat cheese & chorizo vinaigrette
o La Nina - Cheese Quesadilla & Cheese and Ham Quesadilla
o Bryantville - Meatloaf
o Captain Parkers - New England clam chowder
o Piantidossi - Gourmet Breads served with imported oils
o Michele’s - Gourmet Popcorn
Beer and wine tent…for the adults! Entertainment. Kids’ play area, farm animals, face painting, hayrides, contests and more! Pick your own seasonal fruits from the farm
Where: Belkin Family Lookout Farm 89 Pleasant Street South, South Natick
Admission: $30.00 per adult in advance (www.necn.com/foodfest or www.aceticket.com), $40.00 per adult at the door (Children 10 years old and under are free!)
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Chianti Classico: Events & Wine Recommendations
So much Chianti Classico wine! And that is far from a complaint.
During our stay in Tuscany, we attended a number of events of the Chianti Classico è, a ten day festival celebrating the wines and foods of this beautiful and fascinating region. At each of those events, the wines flowed freely and I tasted many different wines from this region, from Chianti Classico to IGT wines. I want to provide a brief summary of some of these events, to give you an overview of the festival, as well as to provide a number of wine recommendations. The festival is an annual event, and it is an excellent way to experience the region.
But first I want to start with something that was not on our itinerary, but worthy of mention. On my first day in Tuscany, I had some free time to wander the historical city of Florence. I walked to the San Lorenzo Central Mercado, a large food market, as I had heard good things about it and I desired lunch. After haggling a bit, and buying two coats, at one of the myriad leather shops surrounding the market, I ventured inside and wandering down the rows of food stalls.
One of the most famous stalls in this market is Nerbone, a restaurant counter where you can order sandwiches and other meals. One of their specialties is the panino con bollito, a boiled beef sandwich that sells for only 3.50 Euros. The meat is topped with both a spicy red sauce as well as a green pesto sauce while the roll is fresh, though hearty and dense. The sandwich was quite tasty, with plenty of tender meat, very little fat, and with a strong spicy kick on the finish. A great bargain sandwich and well worth checking it out. Just get there early before the long lines start forming.
Our initial dinner in the Chianti Classico region was the inaugural event of the festival, the Pentecost in Castellina dinner. This event was held under the vaulted loggias, essentially a lengthy tunnel, which was a fascinating setting for this event. With all the stonework, it added an air of the medieval to the dinner, as well as protected us from the rain. It was a festive occasion and we were all made to feel very welcome. The Ristorante Albergaccio in Castellina catered the tasty dinner, with traditional items such as polenta, ravioli and risotto. In addition, we had plenty of Chianti Classico wines to taste, a mix of both traditional and modern styles. For the most part, I preferred the more traditional ones.
One of my favorite events was the Gallo Nero & Street Food Festival, which showcased street foods from all over Italy with a multitude of Chianti Classico wines. Food came from regions such as Abruzzo, Liguria, Sicilia, Romagna, Marche, and Toscana. In addition, the special guest country was Argentina, which offered a variety of grilled meats, a gift for your inner carnivore. We traveled from booth to booth, sampling the diversity of available cuisine, finding much to enjoy, from porchetta sandwiches to cannolis.
My clear favorite of the evening though was from the Sicilia booth, their Arancini. These are basically rice croquettes filled with a meat and pea filling. I have eaten many different Arancinis, but this was one of the best that I have ever tasted. About the size of my fist, the arancini was cooked perfectly, with a crisp coating, and contained plenty of a moist meat filling, which helped to prevent it from being dry. Too many arancini skimp on the meat filling so they sometimes can be too dry and chewy. This arancini was bursting with flavor, and I had to enjoy a second one too.
In the historic town of Greve, we dined for lunch one day at the Ristorante Da Verrazzano, participating in the semifinals of the Homemakers’ Trophy, a cooking contest that pits various cities and towns in Chianti Classico against each other. You can see some of the cooks above, local homemakers who prepared territorial dishes. At this seminfinal, Castellina and Radda competed, each preparing a three course lunch and we got to taste both of the dishes from each course. We then voted for which of the two dishes we enjoyed the most.
My overall favorite dish was the Galletto all Toscana, which is rooster. Rooster seems to be common in this region as we had it a couple other times during our time in Tuscany. It was moist, tender and flavorful and it is a dish that probably should be more prominent in the U.S. too. After the voting was tallied, the winner was Castellina, taking two of the three courses and my votes coincided with all three of the winning dishes. Radda won the Primi course for their pasta dish and then Castellina won for their Galletto and Torta. We were not in Tuscany during the Finals, but Castellina faced Greve, and it was Greve who ultimately won the competition.
One of the most unusual wine pairing events I have ever attended was at the Goals di-vini event. Chianti Classico and European football? The Italians are certainly passionate about both, so with days before the start of the European Football Championship, they decided to pair these two interests. We watched films of some historic football goals, and Daniele Cernilli, formerly of the renowned Gambero Rosso, paired a wine with each of those goals. Overall, we tasted 14 different wines, and though I am not a huge football fan, it was exciting to watch these amazing goals, to see the incredible skills of the players. We enjoyed some excellent wines as well. Mmmm..which wines should we pair with hockey?
Now onto to some wine recommendations.
The Fattoria di Rodano winery is located in the Castellina region and was located on an ancient pilgrimage route. There was even once a Benedictine house on the property which was a rest stop for these pilgrims. In 1958, Carlos Pozzesi, a medical officer, bought the estate and planted vineyards. Currently, the estate constitutes about 100 hecatres, with one-third possessing vines. They produce traditional style Chianti Classico and I was impressed with their wines.
I tasted both their 2006 and 2007 Chianti Classicos, which are a blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo & Colorino. The wine is aged for about 18 months, 80% in Slavonian oak barrel and 20% in barrique. They are elegant and rustic wines, with a nice depth of flavor and are excellent food wines. The 2004 Viacosta Chianti Classico Riserva is 100% Sangiovese from the Viacosta vineyard. It was aged for about 24 months, 60% in French oak and 20% of that is new. It had an alluring aroma and on the palate it was superb! Complex, elegant, rustic, spicy, and with a lengthy and pleasing finish. One of my favorite wines of the entire trip and an excellent example of the potential of Sangiovese.
The Bibbiano winery, owned by Tommaso and Frederico Marrocchesi Marzi, possesses about 25 hectares of vineyards and they still use many old agricultural methods. The 2009 Montornello Chianti Classico is more of a traditional style, with prominent fruit flavors, but also some nice spice and hints of earthiness. Elegant and delicious. The 2007 Vigna del Capannino Chianti Classico Riserva is made from 100% Sangiovese from the del Capannino vineyard. It too is elegant and delicious, with more spice notes, greater complexity, restrained ripe fruit, violet notes and a lengthy, satisfying finish. A winery you should notice.
The 2004 Vegi Silvio Chiostri Chianti Classico Riserva is made from 100% Sangiovese and has a light red color with nice, restrained cherry flavors and hints of earthiness and spice. Very good acidity made this an excellent food wine. Another traditional style wine which appealed to me.
The 2007 San Fabiano Calcinaia Cellole Chianti Classico Riserva is mostly Sangiovese with a touch of Merlot. As such, it seems a bit more modern in style, but still is restrained. Ripe cherries, silky tannins, vanilla and spice. It would be good with a hearty dish, such as pasta Bolognese or a nice steak.
Poggio al Sole (which means "the sunny hillock) once belonged to the Passignano Abbey but was purchased by a Florentine goldsmith during the 1960s. In May 1990, he sold the estate to a Swiss couple, Johannes and Kathrin Davaz. Johannes learned about wine from working at his parents' vineyard, and his brother took over that vineyard. When they purchased Poggio, there were only 8 hectares of vineyards and they have increased that to 18 hectares, now producing about 80,000 bottles annually. They grow all of their own grapes, and the vineyards are primarily planted with Sangiovese.
The winery produces a Rosé, two Chianti Classicos and 3 Table wines. To me, their wines are mainly produced in a more modern style so though they are good, they are not my preference. But, I was impressed with the 2009 Casasillia Chianti Classico Riserva. "Casasillia" is the former name of the Poggio al Sole estate. It is made from 100% Sangiovese and aged in barriques, 50% new, for about 16-18 months. It had an intriguing aroma and on the palate was a complex melange of dark fruits, smoke, spice and a hint of earthiness. It was elegant, with a lengthy finish, and nice acidity. Strongly recommended.
The Casina Di Cornia winery, established in 1979, consists of only 24 hectares, 7 which have vineyards. They have been certified organic since 1983 and believe in minimal intervention during the wine making process. The 2010 Chianti Classico is made from 100% Sangiovese and is very traditional, with plenty of cherry flavors, hints of violet and an earthy backbone. The 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva is also in a traditional style, with more spicy notes and tastes of prunes and blackfruits.
The 2010 Villa Cerna Chianti Classico, another traditional wine, presented intriguing smoke and spice elements while their 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva was very elegant and restrained, with dried cherries, violets, earthiness, and great acidity.
A few more Chianti Classico recommendations include the 2008 Casaloste "Don Vincenzo" Chianti Classico Riserva, the 2008 Castello di Fonterotoli Chianti Classico, and the 2008 San Donatino Poggio Chianti Classico Riserva.
During our stay in Tuscany, we attended a number of events of the Chianti Classico è, a ten day festival celebrating the wines and foods of this beautiful and fascinating region. At each of those events, the wines flowed freely and I tasted many different wines from this region, from Chianti Classico to IGT wines. I want to provide a brief summary of some of these events, to give you an overview of the festival, as well as to provide a number of wine recommendations. The festival is an annual event, and it is an excellent way to experience the region.
One of the most famous stalls in this market is Nerbone, a restaurant counter where you can order sandwiches and other meals. One of their specialties is the panino con bollito, a boiled beef sandwich that sells for only 3.50 Euros. The meat is topped with both a spicy red sauce as well as a green pesto sauce while the roll is fresh, though hearty and dense. The sandwich was quite tasty, with plenty of tender meat, very little fat, and with a strong spicy kick on the finish. A great bargain sandwich and well worth checking it out. Just get there early before the long lines start forming.
My clear favorite of the evening though was from the Sicilia booth, their Arancini. These are basically rice croquettes filled with a meat and pea filling. I have eaten many different Arancinis, but this was one of the best that I have ever tasted. About the size of my fist, the arancini was cooked perfectly, with a crisp coating, and contained plenty of a moist meat filling, which helped to prevent it from being dry. Too many arancini skimp on the meat filling so they sometimes can be too dry and chewy. This arancini was bursting with flavor, and I had to enjoy a second one too.
My overall favorite dish was the Galletto all Toscana, which is rooster. Rooster seems to be common in this region as we had it a couple other times during our time in Tuscany. It was moist, tender and flavorful and it is a dish that probably should be more prominent in the U.S. too. After the voting was tallied, the winner was Castellina, taking two of the three courses and my votes coincided with all three of the winning dishes. Radda won the Primi course for their pasta dish and then Castellina won for their Galletto and Torta. We were not in Tuscany during the Finals, but Castellina faced Greve, and it was Greve who ultimately won the competition.
Now onto to some wine recommendations.
I tasted both their 2006 and 2007 Chianti Classicos, which are a blend of 90% Sangiovese and 10% Canaiolo & Colorino. The wine is aged for about 18 months, 80% in Slavonian oak barrel and 20% in barrique. They are elegant and rustic wines, with a nice depth of flavor and are excellent food wines. The 2004 Viacosta Chianti Classico Riserva is 100% Sangiovese from the Viacosta vineyard. It was aged for about 24 months, 60% in French oak and 20% of that is new. It had an alluring aroma and on the palate it was superb! Complex, elegant, rustic, spicy, and with a lengthy and pleasing finish. One of my favorite wines of the entire trip and an excellent example of the potential of Sangiovese.
The 2010 Villa Cerna Chianti Classico, another traditional wine, presented intriguing smoke and spice elements while their 2007 Chianti Classico Riserva was very elegant and restrained, with dried cherries, violets, earthiness, and great acidity.
A few more Chianti Classico recommendations include the 2008 Casaloste "Don Vincenzo" Chianti Classico Riserva, the 2008 Castello di Fonterotoli Chianti Classico, and the 2008 San Donatino Poggio Chianti Classico Riserva.
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