I just got back to town in time to order my Summertini Tickets and they are selling like…hmmm…free infused martinis? This is one of the Bay Area’s best events.
Sooper creative drinks, a great auction (I’m bidding on the Michael Bauer dinner so WATCH OUT!), delish food from some of my fave restos, tons of excitement and ALL FOR A GREAT CAUSE!

(Ok….I suppose I should disclose that I’m one of the founders of this superb (if I do say so myself:) culinary vocational program. CHEFS is a program of Episcopal Community Services that provides culinary vocational training to prepare homeless and formerly homeless adults for employment in food service.

So better hurry and order your tickets if you want to join us in a toast to a special cause. Sip cocktails, sample food from top Bay Area restaurants and participate in live and silent auctions.

Stunning Silent and Live Auctions Hosted by Bob Sarlatte and George Noceti

Featuring: A week in Provence, a week in New Orleans,
a week in a Tahoe City lake-view home for 20, fine wines,
original artwork, a restaurant “review” dinner with
renowned food critic Michael Bauer, a glamorous weekend
with brunch for two at the Ritz-Carlton and more!

Savor Farmers’ Market Summer hors d’oeuvres created by:

Sharon Nahm | E&O Trading Company
Rob Zaborny | Hayes Street Bar & Grill
Derrek Johnson | House of Chicken and Waffles
Francisco Hau | Joe’s of Lafayette
Bob Helstrom | Kuleto’s
John Ledbetter | Lark Creek Steak
Sascha Weiss | Lettus Organic Café
Maxx Sherman | Marin French Cheese/ Rouge et Noir
Eric Tucker | Millenium
Todd Spanier | King of Mushrooms
Tim Luym | Poleng Lounge
Derek Edwards | Roots
Bill Taylor | CHEFS students and staff
Sukhi | Sukhi Indian Cuisine
Nancy Kux | Bakers Dozen
Rick Corbo | Ducca
Scott Sasaki | GaribaldisEvent date: Friday, June 13 (6 p.m.)

SummerTini
Friday, June 13, 2008
6:00-9:00 pm
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
701 Mission Street, San Francisco

Purchase tickets now, only $85

After a quiet night at the Hotel Monteleone we woke up the next morning a trifle hung-over from the Royal Street festivities, but after three cafe au laits (no beignets because we were heading for the MAIN EVENT) we were wired and ready to go. Comfy Shoes-Check! Tickets-Check! Elastic Waistbands-Check! We waited in the entrance line for the final countdown-the doors opened- and WOW! Even after all the food & wine events that I’ve attended over the years, I was still awe-struck by the plethora of the culinary delights. It was like entering the pearly “southern” gates of Food Heaven!

For the next two days I nibbled, chowed down, imbibed, and simply pigged-out on restaurant offerings such as: 5Fifty’s Duck Sliders, Bourbon-Chili Glazed Shrimp, The Ritz Carlton’s Melange “Trio of Foie Gras”, Wasabi Crusted Tuna, Crawfish/Corn/Avocado Salad, Bacco’s Lobster Raviolis, Muriel’s Crawfish and Goat Cheese Crepes, Blackened Crawfish Risotto, Dakota’s incredibly rich Crabmeat & Brie Soup, Rootbeer Pound Cake, Whiskey Bread Pudding, Bananas Foster and Strawberry Creme Brulee. I couldn’t begin to recap all the incredible wines (over 3500 corks were popped for this event,)but I began with Veuve Clicquot and ended with a succulent dessert wine from Oregon’s Elk Cove, with many fine new and old-world wines in between.

Wait…hot off the press-I just found out that the dates have been set for next year, so don’t say I’m not giving you plenty of warning to Save May 18-22, 2009 for the next NOWFE!

The first night we jumped (splashed) right into the thick of the activites by joining the festive throngs for the rollicking Royal Street Stroll. It is described as a “unique NOWFE event that brings together New Orleans’ greatest gifts: rare antiques, fine art, live jazz and stunning historic architecture with the world’s outstanding wines. Shop the enchanting galleries of Royal Street while experiencing wine and food offerings at each stop.”

What they didn’t include in the write-up, but they hinted at in the fine print which I completely missed, was In the event of inclement weather, the event will still be held. Rain ponchos will be distributed if necessary.

Our level of “inclement weather” conisisted of torrential downpours and record thunderstorms, which our little rain poncho’s were certainly no match for. Actually, since it was warm rain, this really just added to the crazy fun, as people rolled up their pant legs and jumped in the puddles, while sipping some superb-wines, and nibbling on some delish BBQ oysters, gumbo, and mini-Mufletta while eye-balling some great works of art.

Thankfully, we were staying just a puddle-jump away, so before we “caught our death of cold” we swam over to our room at the wonderful Hotel Monteleone.

LOVED it! Perfect choice as headquarters for the NOWFE event– I would definitely stay here next year. This historic family owned and operated hotel, with it’s elegant Old World facade located in the French Quarter, has played host to numerous celebs since it opened in 1886. Granted the lobby carpet was a trifle threadbare, but I’ll take a little faded elegance over generic Big-Box Chain hotels anyday.

Plus I think it has the best location: right on Royal street, which offers the best upscale shopping, and just minutes away from all the action but still far enough to avoid the racuous noise of Bourbon St. Being able to take in some sun at the outdoor pool or work-out in the small but efficient fitness room, more than made up for the lack of river-view from our “river view” suite.

It’s been a while since I’ve stayed at a hotel that didn’t advertise how wonderful their “sleep system” was, but I have to admit-this was one of the most comfy beds I’ve ever slept on. Three nights of perfect sleep is a thing of beauty, or at least worth 3 stars!

We all watched in horror as poor New Orleans was devastated by Katrina, which resulted in a sky-dive in tourism (their economic powerhouse), extensive property damage, to say nothing of their population loss and resulting labor shortage.(The labor shortage was in full evidence when I stopped in at the world famous Cafe Du Monde for cafe au lait and beignets and noticed that 15 out of about 16 of the wait-staff were Asian with absolutely no southern drawl– which I sorely missed.)
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I arrived last week for the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience. The good news is that all the touristy nabes: The French Quarter, Warehouse District and the Garden District are up & jammin’ once again. As a matter of fact, until I was driven about 30 minutes out-of-town, not only was their little evidence left of Katrina’s destruction, but there has even been a bunch of new restaurant springing up like crocus. This influx of newbies is generating some major culinary excitement. Chefs are bsuy tweaking traditional cajun standards by adding creative touches which utilize new flavor or ingredient combos, as well as some interesting international fusion cooking. Emeril calls it the ” New” New Orleans Cuisine which is typified on his menu with Gumbo of the Day being offered next to Abita Root Beer Braised Niman Ranch Pork Belly with Citrus Slaw, Marinated Yucca, Heirloom Radish, Shaved Jalepeno, Goat Cheese and Pork Cracklings.

I am thrilled to report that after 3 days of non-stop eating at the 17th annual New Orleans Wine and Food Experience, that the food is BETTER than ever. The old, the new, the classic cajun and creole, the creative twists..this is one event you do NOT want to miss next year or else, you’ll be forced to turn in your foodie merit badge! With 5 days of events, over 75 restaurants participating and 175 wineries, this is one BIG event-so BIG that this year they had to hold it in the Superdome, which could still barely contain all the excitement.

Stay tuned to read more.

Guoman Hotels announces that Rhodes W1, The Cumberland Hotel’s restaurant, has been awarded a Michelin star, the industry’s most prestigious accolade. Rhodes W1 is one of only 34 hotels to in London to receive a Michelin Star in 2008. Launched in May 2007 by British celebrity chef Gary Rhodes, the restaurant was given the honor less than a year after opening.

About Chef Gary Rhodes:
As one of the proponents for modern British cuisine, chef Gary Rhodes has received a wide array of accolades and is regarded as one of the nation’s finest ambassadors of the culinary arts. At the age of just 26, Rhodes helmed the Castle Hotel in Taunton, Somerset, where he retained the hotel’s Michelin star and at The Greenhouse Restaurant in Mayfair, he earned another Michelin star in 1996, followed by another star for City Rhodes Restaurant in 1998. Rhodes hosts his own television series, “Rhodes Around Britain” on BBC, and he makes guest appearances on shows such as “Hell’s Kitchen” and “Masterchef USA”. Rhodes is also the best-selling author of several cookbooks and was voted “Television Food and Wine Personality of the Year” by the BBC Good Food Magazine and readers of the Sunday Express in 1994. His book, Fabulous Food, won “Best Cookbook of the Year Award” at the BBC Good Food Awards in 1997.

About Rhodes W1 Restaurant:

Rhodes W1 Restaurant offers modern British cuisine, fused with classical French influences - a slight departure from the updated classic British cooking for which Rhodes has become famous. Head chef Brian Hughson, who has experience at notable London restaurants such 30 Street Mary Axe (The Gherkin) and The Savoy Grill, leads the kitchen team at Rhodes W1, where the award-winning menu utilizes fresh, seasonal English ingredients. Typical dishes might include pressed foie gras with a warm duck salad, or warm scallops and langoustines served with caviar hollandaise. The menu is complemented by an extensive wine and champagne list “curated” by master sommelier, Yves Desmaris, who has worked with Rhodes since 1998.

The restaurant offers a dramatic setting, designed by famed British interior designer Kelly Hoppen - well known for her work re-designing the first class cabins for British Airways and the Hotel Murmuri in Barcelona. The restaurant is decorated with sparkling Spina chandeliers, lush velvet fabrics, antique French chairs and mirrors.

River Runners Adventure Dating is a new craze hitting the adventurous lovelorn in Colorado. Adventure Dating is a fun, unique and exciting way to make a love connection. They say that participating in adrenaline sports with your potential mate can often times strengthen the bond between one another, heightening a new perspective on someone you thought perhaps incompatible at first. Dunno about that, but at least it’s better than making awkward conversation over a latte. And even if the date is a bust, you’ll still get your heart pumping paddling through the whitewater rapids while enjoying breathtaking views of the Rockies.

River Runners, one of the most respected whitewater adventure companies in Colorado, will host Adventure Dates every Sunday throughout the season. Daters can experience a full day of professionally guided, adventure rafting down the Browns Canyon, complete with a catered riverside lunch. If sparks flair, with discounted tickets, daters can venture over to the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park for more thrill-seeking activities or they can turn up the heat and get cozy in the natural hot spring pools at Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort, plus then you get to check each other out in the “swimsuit competition”.

One of my most surprising discoveries at the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (detailed report in a few days) was not a new alligator gumbo, praline flavor or cajun spice blend– it was my first tasting/sighting of acclaimed film director and California wine maker’s FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA’s new collection of European wines. Hadn’t heard boo about it here in California, but it created quite a stir in New Orleans as his new imported line, ENCYCLOPEDIA, is quite a departure from his usual offerings.

1. It is called ENCYCLOPEDIA because they have hand-selected wines from around the world to help you discover how wine is enjoyed and influenced by a country’s culture,geography, history, food and religion.

2. They are opening with a very tight line of only 4 wines: Cabernet Sauvignon from France, Pinot Grigio from Italy, Tempranillo from Spain and Riesling from Germany. I sampled the Riesling and thought it was a great balance of fruit flavors, with a touch of spice and minerals and a hint of sweetness complemented by some nice acidity.

3. Kitschy flask-shaped bottles are being used with brightly colored screw caps with a color-coordinated map for the label.

4. ENCYCLOPEDIA is being heavily marketed to the “millennial’s.” It will use trendy marketing by generating on-line buzz through lifestyle websites and events. Their website Knowine.com will not only offer wine-drinking anecdotes and vineyard critiques from all over Europe but also has videos , photos, and travelogues supplied by some mysterious ” Nick” person, surrounding each wine.

Wonder if Imelda owns a pair or twelve? Actually, the cool thing is that you only need to buy one pair and you’ll be able to create at least 12 different looks. The other cool thing is that these innovative sandals ( patent-pending) are cruelty free-to both you and the animals-since they are made completely from reclaimed materials (gorgeous hand rubbed woods and recycled tires) and are amazingly comfy to walk in.

Chicago based designer, Annie Mohaupt, was previously an architect, where she learned all about form and function. Throw in some beauty and creativity and you have the interchangeable Mohop Sandal.

Ordering is as easy as doing the Hokey-pokey.

1. Go to website.

2. Pick your style: either wedge or a heel that comes in three heights.

3. Select your group of 5 ribbons from categories such as stripes, nautical, metallic etc.

4. Wait impatiently for them to arrive. Since Mohops are all handmade they will take about 6-8 weeks to arrive.

5. Tear open the box and find your Mohops, complete with an organza travel bag, a ‘how to tie’ booklet, and a re-useable translucent shoe box.

I am so bummed that I won’t be able to make the 10th Stowe Wine and Food Classic, June 20-22nd at Trapp Family Lodge, selected by Travel & Leisure as one of the world’s 500 best hotels. (And yup, it’s still owned by members of the same von Trapp family portrayed in the movie classic, “The Sound of Music”.) I’m sure most of you think “ski resort” when they think of Stowe, but listen up, people…it ain’t called The Green Mountain State for nothing! It also offers some gorgeous hiking…which you’d better plan on doing after you see what’s in store for you at the Classic.

This special culinary weekend will be filled with an abundance of food from around the world to taste (with special tribute to the Lodge’s Austrian & Vermont influences) and even more wine flowing (100 different kinds!). Highlighted by a grand wine tasting, a gala dinner and live auction, and cooking demonstrations, it is unlike any other food festival in the region.Oprah Winfrey’s personal chef of 10 years, Art Smith, who was a guest judge on the smash BRAVO TV hit Top Chef this season, will be headlining the cooking demonstrations on Sunday.

For reservations, please call (800) 826-7000 and mention the Stowe Wine & Food Classic.

I always give extra bonus points for a restaurant that has the care, ambition, and talent to change their menu daily. Few can pull it off with the level of success that Chef/Owner Ethan Stowell manages to, at his Union restaurant. With some of the world’s best produce available just steps away at Seattle’s Pike Place Market, Stowell takes full advantage of this culinary mecca to offer some truly unique offerings.

The multi-level space is quite comfy, painted in warm soothing tones, with high ceilings, and it’s one of the few restos left where you can actually hear what your dining partner has to say, so better make sure you are dining with someone interesting. The service simply shone….friendly, knowledgeable yet unobtrusive. When asked, our waiter made some excellent suggestions, such as the grilled octopus salad that was deliciously chewy, tart and smoky. Other faves were the flavorful lamb sausages, the delicate duck prosciutto, and the toothsome orrchietta topped with fresh grilled sardines. I wasn’t a fan of the rather mundane lemon cake but highly recommend going the cheese route for dessert. Each selection comes with it’s own fruity conserve that would be perfect with a sip of port.

Union Restaurant
1400 1st Ave
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 838-8000