On The Menu News
August 31, 2010
Best New Restaurants 2010 - Portland OR scores again, plus NYC & Boston
OTM is delighted to see recognition for 3 of Bon Appetit's 10 Best
Restaurants 2010. Heading the list is Portland's Laurelhurst Market - hear
our interview with Chef-Owner David Kreifels - OTM Audio Archives October 11,
2009. Next NYC's Marea, where Chef Michael White also snared James Beard
Best New Restaurant earlier this year. Then Boston where Barabara Lynch
adds more kudos for her new fine dining restaurant Menton - hear her interview
in May 16, 2010's program. The entire feature is worth reading, at www.bonappetit.com/magazine/toc/september_2010_toc
August 28, 2010
Recognition for Portland OR Chef
Castagna’s young executive
chef Matt Lightner will soon be juggling multiple culinary gigs in different
time zones – from Copenhagen Cooking 2010 on August 29th to a James Beard Dinner on
September 1st. As a recent James Beard Foundation Rising
Star Chef semifinalist and one of Food
& Wine Magazine’s 2010 Best New Chefs,
Lightner is turning heads for his edgy farm to table style where vegetables,
herbs and botanicals often take center stage. Closer to home, Castagna received
the Oregonian’s 2010 Restaurant of the Year award and Lightner was
a guest chef at Aspen’s Food & Wine Classic.
August 22, 2010
2010 "Oyster Wine Award" Winners Announced
Jon Rowley & Bill Taylor of Taylor Shellfish Farms organize this large and gruelling search for the Best Wines to pair with Bi-valves. They just announced the names of the 10 wines that "made the cut". 4 are from Oregon, Acrobat 08 Pinot Gris, Anne Amie 09 Pinot Gris & 09 Cuvee A Muller-Thurgau, King Estate* 08 Pinot Gris. 3 from Washington, Chateau Ste Michelle** 08 Sauvignon Blanc, CMS 08 White & Columbia Winery* 08 Pinot Gris. # from California, Franciscan Estates 08 Sauvignon Blanc, Heitz Cellars 09 Sauvignon Blanc & Kunde Family** 09 Sauvignon Blanc. * prior winner, ** multiple prior winner. Jon thanks for all your work on the VERY important subject.
August 21, 2010
Fun Facts about Food Preserving - Napolean & Clarence Birdseye
In an upcoming program we include an interview about Village Harvest, a new brand of "ultra-frozen" grains like rice & quinoa. This got us to thinking about great inventions in food preservation, so we did a little research. Most people don't know that the Birdseye brand is named for Clarence Birdseye, who invented and patented a new method for freezing foods, based on what he learned while ice-fishing with the Inuits. Canning as earlier means ; check this out at www.associatedcontent.com/article/1788028/history_of_canned_food.html. Napolean launched a contest for a solution to the food storage problems of his armies in 1795, and Nicolas Appert won the prize in 1809 by inventing "canning". Clarence sold his patents for $22 million, Nicolas got only 12,000 Francs. Aren't you glad that you know?
August 19, 2010
What's Shochu? In Japan it's more popular than Sake!
Shochu is "all the rage" in Japan, OTM learns from Tetsu Mogi of JFC International - hear his interview in our August 22 program. Originally invented in the 16th Century through the influence of Portugese traders (the first Europeans to reach Japan), Shochu has been making a huge comeback in popularity in the last decade, after a long period of decline due to poor quality and a reputation for being "old-fashioned". Beniotome Goma Shochu, now available in the USA through JFC International (www.jfc.com), is one of the finest Shochus, with a unique flavor of Sesame Seeds (Goma). Shochus may be based on barley, buckwheat & sweet potatoes as well as the traditional wheat & rice. Typically drunk throughout a meal in Japan, it has displaced Sake as the country's most popular alcoholic beverage. Enjoy it here in the USA as the Japanese do, or try it in a cocktail or as an after dinner alternative to Cognac. For information about availability at bars, restaurants & liquor stores contact JFC, email info@jfc.com.
August 18, 2010 Laura Williamson - Member of the Court of Master Sommeliers since 2003; Certified Wine Educator; Co-owner of "Vin Tabla", Tuscon, AZ. Her Seminar topic is Wine & Chocolate.
Wine Tasting & Seminars at Euphoria Greenville, September 23-26
An appreciation of wine does not have to be an expensive talent to obtain and cultivate. You can learn this and more by attending Euphoria’s Wine Seminars hosted by some of the premier Master Sommeliers in the country. They’ll also be pouring more than 100 wines at the tasting showcase, just the ticket for refining your palate and widening your knowledge of the grape. This year's featured Sommeliers are:
Wayne Belding - Member, Court of Master Sommeliers since 1990; Prestigious Krug Cup winner; Owner, "The Wine Merchant" in Boulder, CO. Wayne's Seminar will be on Food & Wine Pairing.
For more information go to www.euphoriagreenville.com, and OTM will see you there
August 15, 2010
Elements Farm Dinner Series is canceled until we hear further
Late News - we hope that the organizers reached those of you who intended to attend this evening. If you attended or watched last night's Steeler game you know that the cancellation was prudent, even though today's weather decided to be cooperative. When we find out about rescheduling, we'll let you know...........
August 14, 2010
Friends of OTM are Finalists for 2010 Sustainability Awards
Chef's Collaborative just announced Finalists for their new Sustainability Awards. www.chefscollaborative.org/summit//awards. Chef Ana Sortun of fabulous Cambridge MA Oleana is nominated as a model for purchase & transformation of seasonal-sustainable ingredients; Jon Rowley of Washington State Taylor Shellfish Farms for Pathfinder Award for "being an Catalyst for Positive Change within the Food System through efforts that go beyond the Kitchen, and Allison Hooper & Bob Reese of Vermont Butter & Cheese Creamery for Foodshed Champion "committed to forming successful, lasting partnerships with Chefs, exemplifying principles such as - Good Food begins with unpolluted air/land/water, environmentally sustainable farming, humane animal husbandry.......... Congratulations to these nominees and all the other worthies. Winners will be announced at CC's National Summit on October 4 - and here in a News Item as soon as we hear.
August 14, 2010
Jamison Farms & Fred Rogers Center team up for a great event - Ewe are Special
Suki & John of Jamison Farms are "at it again"; this time teaming up with the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning & Childrens Media in Latrobe for a Truly Outstanding Culinary Experience, in the Bucolic Atmosphere at their Farmhouse. Famed out of town Chefs Jesse Ziff Cool from Palo Alto, Louis Osteen from Nashville & Bruce Sherman from Chicago will join Greg Andrews of Greensburg's The Supper Club. We suspect there will be Lamb on the menu. Contact the FR Center at (724) 805-2750 or info@fredrogerscenter.org.
August 12, 2010 Sunday, August 15 4:30pm until sundown. Don't miss out on this Special Event, first in the "ELEMENTS OF NATURE" Dinner Series. Join Executive Chef, Justin Severino and the Elements Cuisine team for a reflection of the food and flavors of western Pennsylvania. They are working with a variety of local growers and purveyors to secure the freshest, local ingredients possible. Space is limited, so purchase your tickets now through http://www.elementscuisine.com under the Events tab. If you can't make this date, there are 3 more events in the series. Elements Cuisine has partnered with the following area growers and purveyors who will provide food and beverages at the dinner series: McConnell’s Farm: With a commitment to excellence, the farm has become well-known for its fresh and delicious fruits and vegetables including peaches, tomatoes, blueberries, sweet corn and zucchini. Chef Severino will use a wide selection of the farm’s produce — all picked fresh the same day as the dinner. The farm’s peach orchard will also serve as the location for three of the dinners in the series. Boyd and Blair Vodka: Made from locally grown potatoes and distilled in Pennsylvania, this smooth vodka will be used to create a variety of delicious cocktails. Wild Purveyors: A family owned and operated business located just outside of Pittsburgh, Wild Purveyors will work with Chef Severino to secure seasonal, locally sourced foods that will serve as key ingredients throughout the dinner menu. BriarValley Vineyard & Winery: Located in historic Bedford, Pennsylvania at the foot of the Allegheny Mountains, this is the first winery in Bedford and the surrounding counties to produce all vinifera wines styled after classic European wines. Briar Valley is dedicated to remaining a small boutique winery concentrating on premium quality and craftsmanship. Chef Severino will work with the winery to select the perfect wine to complement each of his courses. Penn’s Corner Farm Alliance: Founded in 1999, Penn's Corner Farm Alliance is a farmer cooperative in southwestern Pennsylvania that delivers fruits, vegetables, and other farm food products directly to customers in the Pittsburgh area through its Community Supported Agriculture program. With a reputation for providing fresh, quality food and supporting sustainable farming practices, Penn’s Corner Farm Alliance will be a valuable asset to both Elements Contemporary Cuisine and Chef Severino. Elysian Fields Farm: Located inWaynesburg, Pennsylvania, Elysian Fields Farm specializes in lamb that is humanely raised, fed only grain and hay, and drink only water that has been tested for purity. The farm’s lamb — known for its fresh, vibrant taste — has gained national recognition and has been used by top chefs across the country. Chef Severino will incorporate the farm’s tender, flavorful and fresh lamb into the dinner’s five-course menu.
Elements' Special Dinners at McConnell's Farm in Aliquippa
August 12, 2010
Elements Cuisine soon opening in Gateway Center
OTM's excited to hear about an exciting new restaurant concept taking over the space wher Palomino used to be. Manager David Greenberg has snared "Boomerang Pittsburgher" Justin Severino to head the kitchen. After graduating from Pennsylvania Culinary Chef Justin worked at Casbah before heading to Cailfornia where his experience included a spell at renowned (2 Michelin Stars, James Beard 2010 Best Chef California) "farm to table" restaurant Manresa - hear Chef-Partner David Kinch from Manresa in the OTM Archive, May 9, 2010 (reflecting on winning a "Beard") & June 19, 2009. Since coming back to Pittsburgh Severino has been at 11 Contemporary Kitchen, and now he's set to open Elements near the end of this month. From cocktails and an excellent wine list to seasonal, fresh. local ingredients, this place has all the "elements" of a fine the fine addition to Pittsburgh's downtown dining scene that OTM expects it to be. The website www.elementscuisine.com is still under construction, but you can already find out more information there than space will permit here.
August 11, 2010
Grass Fed Beef from Pennsylvania - Ann judging....
Who knew that Pennsylvania was a "Hot-bed" of this new trend in "Beaf-Eating"? A crowd of carnivores and an elite judging panel gathered at Jamison Farms in Latrobe, for an afternoon and evening savoring Beef from specialized small "Cattlemen" from across the Commonwealth. The event was organized by the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA) and Slow Food Pittsburgh. Grand Champion was Rafael Velex, Horizon View Farms, Rockwood, Somerset County, 2nd Larry Herr, Cressbrook Farm, Lancaster County, 3rd John Leimgruber III, Eastbrook Homestead, New Castle. The participating farmers did their own tasting & judging; Larry Herr was their 1st choice, followed by Al Granger, Glasbern, Fogelsville. Later in the afternoon Peter helped Big Burrito's Bill Fuller & 6 Penn's Keith Fuller, to grill grass fed burgers for a seemingly unending line of hungry picnicers...........And a great time was had by all. Thanks to Suki & John Jamison for hosting the event.
August 10, 2010
Savor Pittsburgh!! Mark you Calendar for Sep 2
A collection of Pittsburgh’s finest chefs will gather on Thursday, September 2nd to share their favorite recipes in a culinary competition for the coveted “Dish of the Year” honors. Savor Pittsburgh: A Celebration of Cuisine, is sponsored by Mosaic Consulting and presented by McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant and the SouthSide Works to benefit the American Respiratory Alliance of Western Pennsylvania. Ann will be judging, so we'll see you there. Get tickets at www.savorpgh.com.
Guests of the event will enjoy unmatched cuisine and cocktails, vote for their favorite dish, dance to live music performed by "No Bad JuJu" and bid on fantastic silent and live auction items to benefit the American Respiratory Alliance of Western Pennsylvania.
Savor Pittsburgh takes place within SouthSide Works, Pittsburgh’s trendiest shopping and dining district. This sprawling outdoor complex will be outfitted with elegant white canopies as some of Pittsburgh's Best Chefs come together for one special night.
Participating Restaurants Include: Bella Frutteto, Bistecca, Bistro 19, Capital Grille, Cassis, Church Brew Works, Cioppino Restaurant and Cigar Bar, Donato's Fox Chapel, Elements, Grand Concourse Restaurant, India Palace, McCormick and Schmick's Seafood Restaurants (Downtown at Piatt Place and SouthSide Works), Mitchell's Fish Market, The Sonoma Grille, Spoon Restaurant, Steelhead Brasserie and Wine Bar, Tree Tops Restaurant, Tusca Global Tapas and Walnut Grove Restaurant and Bar.
Jim Lokay of KDKA will emcee this incredible event along with Michele Michaels of WDVE Radio and Theresa Colaizzi of 94.5 3WS Radio. Throughout the fesitivites, culinary creations will be judged by a panel of local food critics and other celebrity judges, including: Chef Daniel Aguera, Culinary Blogger, Victoria Bradley, WHIRL and Edible Allegheny; Christina French, TABLE Magazine; Chris Fennimore, Mike Lee and Rick Sebak, WQED-TV; Bruce May, Pittsburgh Magazine; Chef Ray Wesolowski and Chef Art Inzinga, Pennsylvania Culinary Institute; John Gruver, Executive Development Chef, Market District; Ann Haigh, FANFARE (Pittsburgh Tribune Review) and Co-Host of "On the Menu"; Sally Quinn, Pittsburgh Tribune Review; Margi Schrum and Marlene Parrish, Pittsburgh Post Gazette and Nancy Anderson.
The American Respiratory Alliance is the premier lung health organization in Western Pennsylvania since its establishment in 1904.
August 10, 2010
Meatless Mondays - Equal time for Vegetarians
There's a movement afoot aimed at changing the way we eat one day a
week. The Meatless Monday campaign is backed by public health advocates,
chefs and suburban moms who want to tackle the problems of cholesterol and heart
disease. One risk factor for these chronic conditions is consuming too much
saturated fat — the type of fat found in meat. More at www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=129025298&sc=emaf
August 08, 2010
Those Hart Boys are always up to something in London
OTM's old London friends Sam & Eddie Hart are always up to something new & interesting. They discovered that Chef superstar Ferran Adria & his El Bulli team created a beer specifically created to accompany food (Some of us always thought beer & food went together just fine, but who are we to know). They now stock this elixir, called Estrella Damm Inedit, at their casual Tapas Bar, Barrafina. The Hart's fine dining resto, Fino, won the "Taste of London" Best of Taste Silver Medal for its Roast Suckling Pig. And their more casual Quo Vadis has opened a Terrace on Dean Street with a special menu of summery dishes, as well as, on Saturdays, a Market Menu, offering dishes with ingredients from Soho's great Berwick Street Food Lovers Market. So take advantage of these new things, or just go have a great time with the regular offerings - you're sure to enjoy as OTM has on several occasions.
August 07, 2010
Charleston's Chef Sean Brock is at it again..........
Charleston's Sean Brock, the 2010 James Beard Best Chef SE, runs a farm for "insourcing" farm to table cuisine. He's also planning a new restauarnt, Husk, due to open in November. Husk will use only ingredients from "the South" --hence no olive oil or balsamic vinegar-- and will reintroduce such authentic items as heritage okra and benne (sesame seeds). And then, there's his long-term, on-going work creating a new breed derived from ossabow pigs. This is all good news, and for fans of Sean's cooking at McCrady's in Charleston - he's still going to be in charge there. We'll tell you more, as news reaches us.
August 06, 2010
Who doesn't love Bacon - the Bacon Today blog is for you!
At OTM we disagree about Bacon, Ann likes Bacon, but Peter loves (maybe even adores) Bacon. Not a drop of Bacon fat (not Bacon grease please) escapes re-use when Peter's at the stove, whether it's for frying eggs, sauteeing burgers, browning meat for braises, there's just something about the flavor - so he says. Now all you Bacon Lovers can get your daily dose of Bacon News at http://www.bacontoday.com, thanks to "Boss Hog" of this blog, Rocco Loosbrock. So whether you class yourself as a Baconista, a Bacoholic, a Baconeer (male) or Baconette (female) you'll want to include this site in your daily news diet. You can even add your Bacon-related event to the calendar.
August 01, 2010
Euphoria Greenville - Wine Dinner Pairings, Sep. 25 - Book Soon!!
Here's the impressive line-up:
For reservations go to www.euphoriagreenville.com
Michael Kramer, Executive Chef, The Tasting Room Wine Cafe, Houston, TX
July 29, 2010
Charles Phan, another good guy finishing 1st!!
Last time OTM met San Francisco-based Chef-Restaurateur he was manning a food
station at the 2009 5-Star Sensation in Cleveland OH - and he brought his wife
and children along to help. (See Ann pictured with the gang under OTM in
Pictures.) Now we read that that Food Arts presented Charlie with
its Silver Spoon Award in the lastest issue. OTM echos their tribute to
this architect-turned-fab Chef. To grasp his great talent, head for
his Vietnamese flagship, Slanted Door, in the Ferry Building, OR grab
"street food" at one of his Out the Door casual eateries (also Vietnamese) OR
try Chinese at Heaven's Dog, Phan's latest venture. Better yet go to all
of them!
July 28, 2010
OTM says Goodbye to Oldways' founder Dun Gifford
OTM was saddened when we read of the recent death of K. Dun Gifford, a pioneer in trying to combat the rise of unhealthful food consumption. In 2007, 17 years after founding the Oldways Preservation Trust, Dun was as energetic & passionate as always when he spoke with OTM - OTM Audio Archive, April 1, 2007. Food Arts reports that as a politically active lawyer Dun helped capture Robert Kennedy's assassin and participated in a successful defense of sailing's America's Cup. But Dun will be best remembered for his work at Oldways. OTM is pleased to be able to honor his memory by providing the opportunity to hear from him in his own words. The Oldways Table: Essays & Recipes from the Culinary Think Tank, can be purchased through OTM Bookshelf.
July 23, 2010
OTM is Euphoric about Greenville SC
OTM is just back from a visit to this charming & dynamic city, where we previewed arrangements for Euphoria, a 5th Anniversary Food-Drink-Music extravaganza & sampled some of the fine restaurants that will be participating. We highly recommend Euphoria for both what & where, well-planned liveable-sized event in a wonderfully redeveloped Downtown. Dates are Sep 23-26. Tickets are on sale now with discounted prices offered if you act quickly, so go to www.euphoriagreenville.com and OTM will see you there.
July 20, 2010
Jamison Farms does Beef
We all associate Jamison Farms with Lamb, but next month they're doing Beef instead, teaming up with PASA. Plan to join us (Ann will be judging, Peter just watching & eating). Here's the scoop.
Have you "herd" about the Beef Cook Off? On Friday August 6th and Saturday August 7th, an unusual and uniquely PASA event will take place for the third year in a new location with something for everyone! PASA members and famed sheep farmers John and Sukey Jamison have invited us to stage a 100% Grass Fed Beef Cook Off on the grounds of the beautiful Jamison Farm, located in Latrobe, PA in the rolling hills of the Laurel Highlands.
Contestants
We believe Pennsylvania grass based cattle farmers are growing some of the best beef around. This Beef Cook Off provides farmers a chance to share proven mehtods and growing techniques and enjoy sampling tasty, professionally prepared beef. Contestants will also have the opportunity to participate in a Beef Butchery Master Class in the beginning of the day, judge Delmonica steaks alongside professional chefs and food writers in the afternoon, and finish the day with a picnic open to the public when they can share information about their products with hungry consumers.
Picnic Open to the Public
From 4:00-7:00pm the public is invited to come to the Jamison Farm and enjoy grilled grass fed beef burgers and live music. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, food, and beverage and enjoy a picnic on the farm. We'll provide the burgers! Informative poster displays will detail each of the grazing operations participating in the competition. We'll be raffling off grass fed ground beef and Delmonico steaks, so be sure to bring some extra cash and a cooler in case you win! The Cook Off takes place rain or shine, because grass fed beef tastes best in any weather!
For more information including how to become a contestant go to www.pasafarming.org/cookoff.
July 01, 2010
RIP Egon Ronay
"First Career Critic of British Food" (The Economist, June 26, 2010) is a masterful understatement of Ronay's influence, through his eponymous Guide, first published in 1957. Inspired by disgust with a cup of tea dispensed in a railway station cafe, he set forth on a crusade to recognize what good food was and where to find it. Egon, OTM thanks you on behalf of all who have benefited from having the information source that you created, perhaps for even inventing the idea that such a guide should exist - back in the days before Zagat, and when the Guide Michelin was a thinly disguised means of influencing tire purchase decisions.
June 27, 2010
Birmingham (England) - not to be ignored & a great time to plan a visit
England's 2nd largest city, frequently ignored, sometimes even reviled, is an interesting place to visit, with some great dining, restored canals and other Victorian architecture, several museums in the city and surrounding areas. Now friends of OTM have let us know about an upcoming event that might be "just the ticket" to encourage you to explore for yourself. The Annual Taste of Birmingham takes place July 16-18, for more details go to http://taste.visitbirmingham.com/. If you plan to go be sure to dine (even stay) at Simpson's Birmingham, and also dine at Purnell's, in addition to taking in all the Festival events. It's a 2 hour drive from London Heathrow or Manchester airports, and some airlines fly direct from the USA. If you decide to go, please send us a report as we are on assignment elsewhere so we'll have to wait till next year.
June 17, 2010
Ladies (Chefs) of Alicante, Spain we adore you!!
There's an old popular song title............. Why such a strong contingent of top Female Chefs in and around Alicante, Spain? OTM doesn't completely understand why, but we're pleased that we found out! Maria Jose & Geni San Roman, Mari Carmen Velez, Pepa Romans, Susi Diaz, remarkable Chef-Restaurateurs are all good friends and masters in adding the modern touch to the great culinary tradition of the Alicante region. OTM had the opportunity to talk to only some of them. You can hear their explanations in an upcoming program. You’ll want to experience all of their kitchens, so your
June 16, 2010
Alicante's Fogueres rival Valencia's Fallahs
No-one could explain why these 2 cities in the Valencia region have similar festivities at different times of the year. The Hogueras & Fogueres, bonfires, fireworks and parades welcome the Summer Solstice in
May 25, 2010
Cleveland Rocks, June 13!!!
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum announces “Chef Jam 2010: Cleveland Food Rocks” on Sunday, June 13 at 7 p.m. at the Rock Hall. Cleveland’s top chefs will serve up specialties inspired by their favorite band or musician and dress like the rock stars they are featuring. A special performance by Cream of the Crop featuring special guest Todd Rundgren will top off the night.
Spend an evening sampling culinary delights prepared by the best of the best in Cleveland at more than 25 different food stations. The event will also include performances from bands made up solely of local restaurant employees: The Rare Birds from Greenhouse Tavern, Evil Eye from Happy Dog and Melange from Melange. Maker’s Mark will be conducting an infusion challenge inviting chefs to create a special dish that utilizes their bourbon. Judges for the event are Joe Crea, Michael Ruhlman and Laura Taxel. The winning chef will receive a trip to the Maker’s Mark distillery in Louisville.
Cleveland Food Rocks founder, chef-restaurateur Steve Schimoler, is delighted with the Rock Hall’s support. “The food and music scene in Cleveland rivals that in any city in the U.S.; and with our partnership with the Rock Hall, we have raised the bar in our ability to showcase our city’s talents and to put a creative face on how a community can work together.”
Tickets are $50 and the price will include samples of all the dishes offered at each food station during the event, as well as beer, wine and tours of the Museum’s exhibits. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. Proceeds from the event will go to support the Rock Hall’s education programs and Cleveland Food Rocks will be awarding a scholarship to an outstanding Culinary Arts student at Cuyahoga Community College.
Participating Restaurants are preparing fun “themed” dishes to fit into the spirit of the evening:
ABC Tavern: Meatloaf; meatloaf
Amp 150: Rolling Stones; Beef Tongue with Cabbage SaladBar Cento: Phish; “Bathtub Gin” Gumbo with Mushroom Grilled Cheese and “Goo Balls”
Bar Symon: Van Halen; Ice Cream Sandwiches w/Cabo Wabo Ice Cream, Bacon-Apple Caramel Sauce
Bistro on Lincoln Park
Blue Canyon: Burning Spear; Curried Goat
Blue Point Grille: Ramones; Oysters Vindaloo
Caruso’s Coffee: Eric Clapton; Black Coffee “After Midnight”
Crop Bistro: Grateful Dead; “Backpack Rollups”
Dante: LSD (Lemon-Scented Doughnuts)
Effervescent Chicken Wings, Dill Pickle Popcorn
Executive Caterer: Alman Brothers; roasted white asparagus with crawfish, green goddess, and crispy country ham
Fire: Beatles; “Savoy Truffle” (assorted chocolate truffles)
Flying Fig: Delta Blues; an assortment of Southern-inspired tidbits
Green House Tavern: Black Keys; Grilled pork ribs with “thick freakiness” BBQ sauce
Happy Dog: Elvis; “Ain’t Nothin’ but a Hound” Dogs
Johnny’s; Frank Zappa; “Yellow Snow”
Lago: Bob Marley; Marley Meatballs
Melange: George Thoroughgood and the Destroyers: Watermelon “Bad to the Bone” Ribs, Menu6: Psychedelia; Wild Mushroom Rice Paper Rolls and “Strawberry Fields Forever”
Momocho: Beck; Wild Boar “Satan Gave Me a Taco” Tacos
Moxie: Pink Floyd; “Dark Side of the Moon” pies
Prosperity Social Club: Hank Williams ; Jambalaya on the Bayou
Sasa: ZZ Top; “ZZ Top” Sirloin
Sushi Rock; U2; “Even Better than the Real Thing” Sushi Surf & Turf
May 18, 2010
Tamara Reynolds knows how to Party
OTM picked up information that Tamara Reynolds (OTM Nov. 22, 2009) is working on a Dinner on the Farm series at The Queens County Farm Museum. The first event was May 7, but the series continues. Get further information at www.queensfarm.org & click on the events on the left colum- the "dinner series" link.
May 17, 2010
Grape News!!! Chilean Wine Wins!!
Reports have reached OTM that a recent recreation of the famous 1976 Judgement of Paris resulted in a Chilean Wine gaining attention and an actual win versus the top wines of California & Bordeaux. The press release was a bit confusing about who won where, but whatever - Errazuriz Kai a wine featuring Carmenere grapes as the primary component of the blend gained great attention. Since OTM has enjoyed Chilean wines from this grape, we are not altogether surprised, so we suggest you try these wines for yourself and see if you agree with the esteemed blind tasters at the recent series of events. And be sure to let us know what you think. Salut!!!
May 15, 2010
More Star Power & Great Cause at NOWFE
In response to the situation Lousiana Fishermen are facing, 2 super-special
events have been added to the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, May
26-29. 2-5PM Saturday May 29 TV-celebrity Paula Dean will join NOLA
superstar Chef-Restaurateur John Besh & celebrity Chef Aaron Sanchez in a
cooking demonstration and tasting of Paula's famous Shrimp & Grits. In
the evening Paula and he brother Earl "Bubba" Hiers will join Chefs John &
Aaron, plus John Currance from City Grill in Oxford MS at a fundraising dinner
at Restaurant August. To get tickets for the Superdome tasting go to www.nowfe.com, for the dinner call Christy at
504-565-5482 or email cbradley@chefjohnbesh.com
May 14, 2010
James Beard Awards Postscript
OTM has been SO busy, that's a reason not an excuse! So the May 9 program
loaded with interviews conducted with excited award winners is already in the
Audio Archive, but no accompanying "editorial", so here goes. The awards
program was shorter, and the party slightly less overcrowded, HURRAY for
both developments! And our congratulations to some of our favorites -
Daniel Boulud, Sean Brock, David Kinch, Daniel Humm, Best Chef NYC, long overdue
recognition, but Daniel H where were you for an interview? And of
course OTM congratulates every one of the awardees, all deserving of our
admiration for their careers and achievements. Michael White, sorry we
missed you, a great win for Marea as best new restaurant - and since we brunched
there the day before the Awards, we know why! I'm sure Ann may have more
to add, but that's Peter's highlights.
April 17, 2010
Oysters & Wine - 16th Annual Contest
Dateline SEATTLE, April 16: OTM's good buddy Jon Rowley brings us news
about this landmark event: 167 wines, 1300 oysters! It took more than a week.
Each wine blind tasted with at least one Kumamoto oyster by five stalwart,
oyster-loving judges who showed up for work every day at 3:00 p.m. at Anthony's
Home Port at Shilshole Bay to narrow the field to 20 finalists as part of the
Pacific Coast Oyster Wine Competition. The mission: find the 10 best West Coast
wines to go with oysters. Judges taste the oyster, sip the wine and rate the
"bliss factor".
"Not many wines go with oysters," says Lane Hoss, Vice-President, Marketing for Anthony's Restaurants. "That's why we are thankful to have this competition. Oysters are popular. We wait for the results every year."
The 20 finalists will be judged in Los Angeles at the Watergrill on April 20, at Sutros at the Cliff House on April 21 and Anthony's in Seattle on April 22. Judging scores from forty top food and wine professionals in the three cities will be combined to select the ten equal winners of the prestigious "Oyster Award". 2010 winners will be announced April 24 at www.oysterwine.com. Wineries from California, Idaho, Oregon and Washington were invited to submit entries. Typically the best "oyster wines' are dry, crisp, clean finishing white wines.
The Pacific Coast Oyster Wine Competition is sponsored by Taylor Shellfish Farms and organized by founder Jon Rowley, Jon Rowley & Associates in Seattle. Taylor Shellfish is a fifth-generation family-owned company producing seed, oysters, Manila clams, Mediterranean mussels and geoduck for national and international markets. For information on Taylor Shellfish Farms go to www.taylorshellfishfarms.com
April 13, 2010 "Death in the South Pacific" by Washington bartender Evan Martin is the "official cocktail" of the 2010 annual culinary and cocktail festival, Tales of the Cocktail. Recipes poured in from New Zealand to Washington as over 150 bartenders worldwide punched it up to create a Tiki-inspired cocktail for the 8th annual festival. Evan Martin won first place with his drink featuring Appleton Estate Extra 12 Year Old Rum, Rhum Clement VSOP, Grand Marnier, Trader Tiki's Orgeat Syrup, Fee's Falernum, Fee’s Grenadine, and Cruzan Blackstrap Rum. "This drink hits all the contest requirements on the nose: It creatively mixes multiple rums, sweeteners, and citrus to "tikify" the Planter's Punch template; it has a full-bodied, layered, but not overcomplicated flavor; and its garnish shows theatrical flair, cleverly referencing the drink name." Said Jeff Berry, official cocktail competition judge and tiki expert. Martin’s cocktail will be served throughout Tales of the Cocktail, July 21—25, and will be featured in the summer issues of Culinary Concierge and The Tasting Panel magazine, and on the
Tales of the Cocktail - may be too Sweet for OTM's Taste
The second place cocktail is the "Once Upon a Time," created by James Goggin. Peter Bogren, a local Palace Café bartender, wins third place with his cocktail "Peter’s Planter’s Punch."
Tales of the Cocktail also collaborated with The Liquid Muse Virgin Mixology® and Fre Alcohol Removed Wines to offer the festival’s third annual official non-alcoholic cocktail. The "Self-Imposed Prohibition Punch" will be the Tiki-inspired nonalcoholic cocktail of the 2010 festival, and will be served at signature events.
For more information go to www.TalesoftheCocktail.com.
April 13, 2010 Von Essen hotel’s historic stately home, Cliveden House has been famous for various things over the centuries, but the event that in modern times the House is probably best remembered for, is the start of the greatest political and sexual scandal of the last century – The Profumo Affair. It was at Cliveden, on the hot balmy evening of 8th July 1961, that Jack Profumo, then Minister for War in Harold Macmillan’s Government, met the 19 year old, good time girl, Christine Keeler and to celebrate the 49th anniversary, Cliveden is offering a fabulous package with a talk and tour focusing on the scandal led by Rupert Gavin, a world expert on the subject. The day promises to provide a fascinating insight into the Scandal, and its consequences… For further information or to book please contact the Reservations team on 011-44-1628-668561 or
49 Years On: The Profumo Affair at von Essen’s Cliveden House
Check out OTM's interviews at this fine stately home, OTM Audio Archive program date August 16, 2009.
April 10, 2010
Congratulations to Food & Wine's 2010 Top Chefs
OTM is pleased to recognize the following on their selection: Roy Choi of the Kogi BBQ truck in Los Angeles, Matt Lightner of Castagna in Portland, Ore, Clayton Miller of Trummer's on Main in Clifton, Va. Missy Robbins of A Voce in New York City, Jonathon Sawyer of The Greenhouse Tavern in Cleveland, Alex Seidel of Fruition in Denver, Mike Sheerin of Blackbird in Chicago, John Shields of Town House in Chilhowie, Va. Jason Stratton of Spinasse in Seattle, James Syhabout of Commis in Oakland, Calif. Read more: http://www.nrn.com/breakingNews.aspx?id=381786#ixzz0kh8Jrbdt
April 05, 2010
OTM is Blogging again!!
Hello to all you Bloggers!! Peter decided it was time to resume blogging and has chosen Wordpress for its ease of use, so blog on to http://onthemenuradio.wordpress.com from now on. The old blog, http://onthemenuradio.blogspot.com will remain in place. The Blog click-through on the website has not been changed over, but you can use the wordpress link above to access the new Blog - we'll announce when the click-through is in place.
April 02, 2010
Celebrate Earth Day with the Sterlings at Iron Horse
Join Joy, Audrey & Barry at their glorious Green Valley CA vineyard and enjoy an important occasion, April 18th, with some great wine and good company. Several local wineries are joining, and John Finger of Hog Island Oysters leads a group of food providers. General admission is $50; a VIP Sparkling reception featuring California farm-raised Osetra caviar for $250 precedes the main event in Audrey & Barry's magnificent home on the vineyard (eat your heart out, when OTM visited we had lunch there). They're 2 of the most fascinating people we've ever met. There'll be music, a speaker about underwater exploration, and an eco-exhibit (whatever that is). To reserve or for more information http://www.ironhorsevineyards.com/events/
March 20, 2010
Australia's Tahbilk celebrates 150 year with dinner at London's Ledbury - May 12 is the date
This item has been amended - the event is open only to the wine trade, except for the 2 places available through Decanter.
And as part of their birthday celebrations, Tahbilk is offering a Decanter Magazine/decanter.com reader and guest the chance to attend the 150th Anniversary dinner in London on May 12th, hosted by Alister Purbrick, CEO and 4th generation Winemaker at Tahbilk. The prize also includes an overnight stay in London for the winners. This once-in-a-lifetime dinner will be held at the celebrated Ledbury Restaurant, and will be attended by wine trade, press, dignitaries and friends and family of the Purbricks. Michelin 2-star chef Brett Graham of The Ledbury (Newcastle, NSW born) will prepare a menu to match the very special and rare wines Tahbilk will be bringing from their cellar. If you don't win the prize, go to The Ledbury at another time for a great dining experience, and be sure to look for Tahbilk's great wines on wine lists and at your local wine merchants. You can find out more about these two great guys, Alister Purbrick & Brett Graham by listening to their OTM interviews in OTM Audio Archive, program dates May 11, 2008 & April 1, 2007 respectively
March 19, 2010
(Paso Robles) California here we come!!
Thanks to the wonderful cooperation of the Paso Robles Wine Alliance and Travel Paso Robles Alliance OTM is heading for a week of exploration of his area located practically 1/2 way between SF & LA. Interviews with all the food, wine & travel personalities we meet will start airing in programs beginning April 4. We know we'll be tasting wines from several of the leading vineyards, some of the pioneers of the PR wine community, and some of the new enthusiasts as well - names too numerous to include here. Two great restaurants, Artisan & Cass House Grill are included and we're staying part of the time at Hotel Cheval, then at Bella Sera. We'll be visiting an Abalone farm, tasting local Olive Oils & fresh local produce, and more - we don't have all the details yet - but you'll be sure to have them after we return to the Studio.
March 13, 2010
What's a NOWFE? - May 25-29 in New Orleans!!
When OTM cracked the abbreviation we said right way - that's for us! One of our favorite dining destinations, and great wines to match... The 19th Annual version of the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience happens May 25-29 in the Crescent City - find out more at www.nowfe.com, and plan to join OTM "where the good times roll".
March 11, 2010 It's hard to believe been that Girasole Restaurant opened its doors in Shadyside 10 years ago. The family-owned favorite will present three special Mondays in April to highlight a decade of serving the community with good food and hospitality. "We are so thankful for our loyal customers and local businesses who support us," says Patti Girasole tells OTM. "Every single day we open our doors, our priority is great food at fair prices in an upbeat atmosphere. Our passion for family, friends and excellent food is at the heart of our business." April 12, 2010, 7pm: Taste seven excellent wines from various regions of Italy. Vito Girasole, director of Girasole's wine program, will host this fun and informative evening. Each wine will be paired with small plates of specialties from their corresponding region to tantalize the palate. April 19, 2010, 6:30pm: Years ago, Brent Young worked at Girasole as a line cook, before heading to New York, where he became a founding member of The Meat Hook at the Brooklyn Kitchen Labs, which specializes in charcuterie. Join Brent's dinner of 6 petite plates highlighting the meats from his shop and including salad, soup, pasta and dessert. April 26, 2010, 6:30.pm: When she was just a "kid", Haley Zelicoff started out picking parsley leaves for the chefs in the kitchen at Girasole. After completing four years at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, Haley is returning to Girasole with a fabulous 5-course meal, finishing with a dessert of lemon cornmeal cake and olive oil gelato. Girasole is a small family-owned restaurant located in the heart of Shadyside in Pittsburgh. Its charming European-style atmosphere complements the innovative and traditional cuisine which features seasonal menus, and includes appetizers, salads, pastas and daily meat, chicken and fish specials. Call 412-682-2130 for more information.
Girasole in Shadyside - 10 years old & going strong!!
March 07, 2010
Charleston Dining Rocks!
Charleston South Carolina that is... OTM is here for the 5th annual Food & Wine Festival, a magnet for food & wine enthusiasts from around the country - we met a foursome from Cleveland last evening. Star attractions included OTM's good friend Daniel Boulud and star Pastry Chef-Restaurateur Elizabeth Falkner of Citizen Cake & Orson, San Francisco. We found time to visit what local's name as the latest & greatest eatery, Amen Street, where Chef Todd Garrigan is playing to a packed house - emphasis is on the freshest possible seafood. Mike Lata of FIG and Sean Brock of McCrady's, everyone's to pick for the city's best, were so busy we didn't even have chance to say hello. We did hook up with Frank McMahon at Hank's Seafood (after failing to include this in previous visits). This 10-year-old Seafood Bistro was packed, and we can tell you why - traditional (and a bit untraditional) seafood preparations are just great! The best Bouillabaisse broth we've tasted in decades is just one example. Sommelier-Manager Joey Ryan took great care of us and Frank found time to help us choose our menu. Listen for our interview with Frank and other conversations in next week's program. Thanks to Laura Bright of Maverick Southern Kitchens for finding us a spot to do some interviews during a delicious (and boisterous) Low Country Breakfast. Mark your calendars for next March to head for Charleston and enjoy what is fast becoming one of America's best Food & Wine celebrations. On a sad note iconic Restaurateur and Opera singer Robert Dickson is closing his restaurant in June after 34 years of delighting the palate and ears - do go here before June for a unique experience!
February 13, 2010
Dateline - London is for Lovers!!
Close OTM followers will know that being in London for Valentine's Day is our tradition for more than a decade. So despite 3 feet of snow in our home town and some travel planning ingenuity - here we are again. We'll be spending Feb 14 with cousins who live here, because they tell us V-Day menus lack gourmet interest.
But in the days before OTM has been out and about as usual. Corrigan's Mayfair was superb, living up to all the accolades and awards they've received. Richard C is in fine form, as you'll hear in the Feb 21 program, and Chris MacGowan's lusty food is all that it was at Lindsay House. Octopus Salad with Black Truffle shavings, long-braised Shin of Beef with Snails in Spinach sauce and an inspired portion of Peppered Bone Marrow, Goose Fat fried Potato Chips to die for and much more....
Sir Terence Conran is a serial restaurateur with 51 openings "under his belt", and his latest venture Boundary does not disappoint. Peter Prescott, his partner, helped create and now runs this multi-function/purpose establishment in a lovingly restored industrial building in previously gritty - now trendy Shoreditch, just over the eastern boundary of the City of London's financial district. Chef Ian Wood is master of Boundary's Basement fine dining room - and in season Rooftop Grill, with the Albion Cafe and Bakery at street level in between. OTM overdosed on native British Oysters here, and at Corrigan's so our Zinc level is where it needs to be for the 14th. Ian is a Charcuterie Master as well. Heirloom breed Manx Loaghtan from the Irish Sea's Isle of Man was a Lamb-lover's delight. Oh and by the way you can stay at Boundary in elegantly designed rooms all with great views over the city.
Oz (Hobart, Tasmania) native Paul Merrony and spouse-partner Tracey serve a packed house at Giaconda Dining Room on tiny Music-instrument intensive Denamark Street on the edge of the West-End Theatre district and Soho - hearty dishes with Offal features like Tripe & Kidneys plus Seafood which arrive overnight from England's SW fisheries. Michelin noticed and gave them a Bib Gourmand designation.
And in the cosmopolitan Notting Hill-Bayswater area, native-Syrian Mohammed Bader-Alden Antabli serves outstanding Lebanese-Syrian specialties at Al Waha, widely praised and award winning - and OTM now knows why!! And creditable Lebanese wine is the beverage must. Come with a group to enjoy bounteous meze and grilled mains - or as we did enjoy a table for 4 entirely covered with delicious dishes. Stylized Arabic sayings by Lounner al-Shaarani grace the walls.
OTM doesn't "circle back" often, but our good friends Sam & Eddie Hart demand an exception. Back in 2004 one of our very first "out of studio" interviews featured their Tapas restaurant Fino, and we returned to catch up with the Harts to find all was the same if not better. Sam & Eddie, we congratulate you on this, plus Barrafina and Quo Vadis. Pork belly to die for, Fried Artichoke Hearts, Calcots a mysterious seasonal Catalan vegetable similar to a Green Onion on a bed of Romesco sauce, great Quail Ann ate single-handed and a fine Ribera del Douro red recommended by Anna Mateo who just happens to be from Vallidolid.
And we're not done yet, today we join Bernard Yeoh to sample new dishes at Kai Mayfair.
So be sure to tune in February 21 and 28.........
February 07, 2010
Saints Rule, was there a Secret Ingredient?
OTM Congratulates the Superbowl 44 Champions!!! "Back in the day" it was rumored that the great 1950s Hungarian National Soccer team fortified themselves with Goulash at half-time in their matches. Was there a similar Culinary Secret behinds the Saints' Success? Perhaps we'll never know - but a visit to the Crescent City is recommended nevertheless. We love NOLA and plan on attending the 2010 New Orleans Wine & Food Experience in May - there must be a culinary equivalent to successful recovery of a 2nd half on-side kick-off, and we can't wait to find out what it is!!!
January 21, 2010 Winner: Damon Dyer - New York City MONTE CASSINO 3/4 part BÉNÉDICTINE Liqueur 3/4 part Yellow Chartreuse 3/4 part Fresh lemon juice 3/4 part Rittenhouse Rye
Shake, fine strain into a chilled coupe (or small cocktail glass). Lemon twist garnish. Fan Favorite: Brandon Clements - San Francisco GREYHOUND'S TOOTH 3/4 part Russian Standard Platinum 3/4 part Grapefruit juice 1/3 part Lemon juice 6 drops of house-made grapefruit bitters 3/4 tsp sugar
Combine all in mixing glass. Add ice and shake vigorously. Strain into
Benedictine's 500th Birthday, We'll Drink to that!!
In commemoration of the 500th anniversary of its creation, BÉnÉdictine liqueur, together with Esquire magazine, launched a search for the Alchemists of Our Age, mixologists who embody the same spirit and innovation as Dom Bernardo Vincelli, the creator of the French elixir. After a cross-country search, five mixologists were chosen by BÉnÉdictine Global Brand Ambassador, Ludovic Miazga, and on January 13, 2010, New York's Damon Dyer was chosen as the Alchemist of Our Age. Dyer's cocktail, The Monte Cassino, is an impeccably nuanced combination of equal parts BÉnÉdictine, Yellow Chartreuse, fresh lemon juice and Rittenhouse Rye. In his cocktail, which was named for an ancient and resilient Benedictine monastery, Damon opted for simplicity over extravagance. Other contestanrs were Boston's Jackson Cannon, New Orleans' Daniel Victory, Chicago's Lynn House and San Francisco's Brandon Clements, whose Greyhound's Tooth was crowned Fan Favorite. Those Monks would be proud!!
3/4 part BÉNÉDICTINE Liqueur
chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with thick cut grapefruit twist.
January 12, 2010
Quince Restaurant San Francisco-"In Residence" Program
It didn't take Chef Michael Tusk and new Wine Director David Lynch very long to come up with an innovative "extracuricular" series of food & wine events. Only recently re-opened at grand new digs in Jackson Square, Quince just announced an exciting program to help cheer you through the winter months. Too much detail to include here - just imagine exciting combiantions of foods & wines with an Italian flavor and call Quince for details - 415-775-8500. Hurry because the first event featuring wines from Joe & Lidia Bastianich's Italian vineyards is January 21. We've been to this vineyard and tasted all the wines - and you'll be in for a treat! Quince's website www.quincerestaurant.com says it's still under construction, but we're sure that will change soon.
January 05, 2010
Tragic accident takes the lives of two sons of Chris & Deanna Bailey of Vermont Smoke & Cure
OTM joins the entire food business community in expressing our sadness at the
tragic death of Solon L., 12, and William T. (Liam) Bailey, 10, sons of Chris
Bailey of Vermont Smoke & Cure, and his wife, Deanna. The boys died in
a house fire on Christmas morning. In lieu of flowers, the family requests
that donations be sent to the Beauregard Foundation: Solon and Liam Bailey
Memorial Fund, c/o Chrysalis Ventures, 101 S. Fifth St., Ste. 1650, Louisville,
KY 40202. Donations will be used for nonprofit, children's education programs in
Central Vermont that were favorites of Solon and Liam. Further details
and the link to a guest book for messages to Chris and Deanna can be found
at www.legacy.com/obituaries/timesargus/obituary.aspx?n=solon-l-and-william-t-bailey&pid=137884805.
January 02, 2010
2009 was a great year for Barry Sterling & Iron Horse
OTM thought you'd love to see Iron Horse Vineyards 2009 seasonal message - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_80R6hbEtv4 . We'd like to add our congratulations to Barry on his 80th Birthday and Iron Horse on its 30th anniversary of great sparkling wine making in Sonoma County's Green Valley. Here's to you Barry, and our best wishes to your wonderful wife Audrey and Winery President Joy. We must come and see you again soon. Not familiar with Iron Horse's fabulous sparkling wines? Try some soon and you'll become an enthusiast like OTM.
December 31, 2009
Roma's GHVV-style personified!!
Grand Hotel Via Veneto - luxury personfied too!! OTM is just back from "the Eternal City" where we had the pleasure of reacquainting with Cinzia Fanciulli, now General Manager at THE swankiest hotel on Via Veneto, Italia's swankiest street. The best word to describe GHVV - WOW!! And to echo the twinkling black interior Domenico Maura "Head Barman" of the Time lobby bar serves a Black Martini. His grand libation features black olives from Taggiasche, near Genova, and is a tribute to famed bartender Martini Armaditaggia. GHVV takes La Dolce Vita to a new level. For details and reservations, www.ghvv.it.
December 10, 2009
Oysters for the Holiday's !!!
OTM "Oyster Hero" Jon Rowley just reminded us about Taylor Shellfish Farms
ultimate holiday gift for oyster lovers. Celebrate the holidays like the French
with oysters on the half shell. Give as a gift or order for yourself four types
of oysters in the shell (Olympia, Kumamoto, Totten Inlet Pacific and Totten
Inlet Virginica), just harvested from Taylor oyster beds in the legendary,
nutrient-rich waters of South Puget Sound. Gift boxes are shipped directly to
the recipient's door for festive tasting, comparing and sharing with friends. An
unprecedented holiday opportunity for half shell enthusiasts. New this year, for
those who would like to settle in with their favorite oyster, we offer gift
boxes with only Totten Inlet Virginicas or only Kumamotos.
*Each Holiday Oyster Gift Pack includes an oyster knife, shucking instructions, oyster guide and Jon Rowley's essay "Art of Eating an Oyster"
For those whose holiday traditions include oyster stew, oyster dressing, scalloped or fried oysters or gumbo, Taylor also offers freshly shucked Pacific oyster meats by the pint and half gallon, plump, firm and sweet. Order by the pint or half gallon for holiday stuffing, oyster fry, scalloped oysters, oyster stew or gumbo. Different size meats available.
To order Holiday Oyster packages visit www.taylorshellfish.com or call (360) 432-3341.
December 06, 2009
Denny Mike Sherman on The Today Show Monday next
Check out OTM's interview with Denny Mike about his great BBQ rubs & sauces, and look for him with Meredith, Matt & Al on Monday morning.
November 30, 2009
Wine Enthusiast 2009 Wine Star Award Winners, On the Menu
OTM is always delighted when our guests receive well-earned recognition. Among these just-announced awards are Mezzacorona, European Winery of the year - hear Winemaker Lucio Matricardi, program date January 29, 2009; Yalumba, New World Winery of the year, hear Jane Ferrari, April 27, 2008; Innovator of the Year, Wine Library TV, hear Gary Vaynerchuk June 22, 2008. Congratulations to these worthy winners, and award sponsors Southern Wines & Spirits.
November 29, 2009
OTM Loves Italy - You Can Too!!
So much so that OTM will be spending Christmas in "The Eternal City". Perhaps you can join us there - let us know!
But whether you can or not, make a note of 2 special wine events, exclusively for Wine Professionals, for tasting Tuscany's great reds - organized by OTM's good friend Melanie Young and scheduled for February 1 in Chicago & February 4 in NYC. Get more details at www.italianwinemasters.com, or call 212 620 7027.
November 11, 2009
November 8 program is now available!!
Enjoy Valencia and listen for more again next Sunday.
November 09, 2009
Glitch in Valencia programs
The November 8 program now in OTM Archives was intended for broadcast November 15 - which is why you'll hear us refer to it as our second program about Valencia. The correct November 8 program will be up there soon, and we'll let you know. In the meantime we're sure you'll enjoy listening to just a part of our Valencia adventure.
November 07, 2009
Valencia, wonderful Valencia!!
OTM is just back from a great 8-day stay in this fascinating city, a curious
combination of history and modernity, and some great gastronomy too! Be
sure to tune in to the November 8 and November 15 programs for insightful
interviews with just a few of the delicious dining experiences that Valencia and
the surrounding countryside has to offer. Founded by the Romans, conquered
by the Moors then liberated in 1239, expanded by returning rich Spanish
colonians in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and spruced up for the 2007
America's Cup sailing event, there's so much to see and do OTM is already
planning when to go back to the places that we missed - in particular Alicante
and its surrounding villages where there are more dining adventures to be
had. We'll be adding some OTM Favorites soon so that you can retrace our
steps.
October 26, 2009
Arrop Richard Camerana, Valencia, Spain - open 15 days & OTM was there!
Another "scoop" for OTM! Chef Ricard Camarena & his wife Mari Carmen were already well known for Arrop in Gandia, a small town south of Valencia. After 4 years of planning & construction aRC opened in a sleek mirrored space nestled in the remains of the 11th century Moorish city wall. Valencian gourmets have already discovered this exciting new dining experience; now OTM is letting the rest of the world know. Expect individualistic dishes intersecting traditional ingredients and the latest cooking techniques, and outstanding service. It's so new taxi drivers don't know where it is! www.arrop.com for details of both aRC Valencia and Arrop Gandia which will stay open. Listen for our interview with Chef Ricard in an upcoming program.
October 22, 2009
Plum at Eastside Pittsburgh IS OPEN
Despite the smashed front entrance (hit by an out of control van) owners Kathy Ye and George Lee Plum is open and flourishing. We had a great dinner there last evening. They're busy so be sure to make a reservation and tell them OTM sent you. http://www.plumpanasiankitchen.com/, 412 363 7586
October 21, 2009
October 18 program now up in OTM Audio Archives
We traced the problem to a family illness crisis with a member of the OTM production team. The program is now accessible.
October 19, 2009
Technical problem with October 18 program
Please accept our apologies for unavailability of this program. We are working to correct the problem and will announce when it is up.
October 15, 2009
The 3rd Annual Pittsburgh Whiskey Festival, November 13, your lucky day!
The 3rd Annual Pittsburgh Whiskey and Fine Spirits Festival is back bringing you
the world’s best spirits, great food, fun and entertainment. Friday the 13th has
never been as lucky! You get a chance to gather with all your friends and take
in a dose of Pittsburgh’s own stimulus package. No better place to get your
weekend started than the home of the reigning Super Bowl Champs! On Whiskey
Festival evening, Heinz Field becomes the site of Pittsburgh’s hottest happy
hour with a dazzling array of whiskeys, vodkas, gins, rums and tequilas from
around the globe. Cocktail competitions, silent auctions, and special lounges
will be set up for your enjoyment. Like Jim Beam? You can hear the OTM interview
with his great-grandson and current Master Distiller Fred Noe at OTM Audio
Archives program date October 25 2009, and November 30, 2008, and
better STILL (emphasis added and pun intended) meet him in person at this
year's event. A beautiful view of the city, some of the finest spirits and foods
available -what better way to spend your Friday evening? Tickets are $85 in
advance and $95 at the door. Until October 16th get 1/5 off the
price. That’s $70 for those of us that slept during math class. Get
your tickets at http://www.blacktieticketing.com/ptfestival/
Proceeds benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
October 14, 2009
Double your fun in Pittsburgh in November - Passion for Wine, November 7 and The Pittsburgh Whisky Festival, November 13
Listen to the October 18 and October 25 programs at OTM Audio Archive to learn
more about these 2 great events, and check the separate OTM News items for
details. Join the fun! OTM will see you there.
October 14, 2009 A Passion For Wine is an annual celebration that features fine wines donated from renowned restaurants, wineries, vineyards, private collectors, and celebrities auctioned to benefit CF research. Held at the beautiful PPG Wintergarden, Saturday, November 7th, guests will enjoy the exquisite cuisine of Sonoma Grille paired with wines from Two Angels, Gloria Ferrer, Chateau St. Jean and Freeman Vineyard & Winery, music and more. Over the past ten years the efforts of A Passion for Wine have raised over $1,000,000 for cystic fibrosis research! Join OTM for a Great Party and a Great Cause. For more information and tickets go to https://www.cff.org/Display/dsp_EventMasterHandler.cfm?idEvent=12577&idFieldOffice=69, or call (412) 321-4422.
Indulge your love of the at A Passion for Wine, November 7, PPG Wintergarden
October 13, 2009
Bar Boulud, NYC, October 27 -
OTM's good friends at DANIEL, Bar Boulud and db Bistro Moderne are sharpening
their knives in preparation for the annual game celebration, made entirely with
D’Artagnan game meats. Join Ariane and Daniel, who will serve not only as hosts,
but as guides through the forest and field, the lore and flavors of the game
feast. It all kicks off with a 6.30PM cocktail reception with a buffet of fall
game charcuterie, followed by a four-course dinner resplendent with pheasant,
elk, quail and red leg partridge, to name just a few favorites. The wines, with
an emphasis on the Burgundy region, will all be poured from rare large format
bottles. The feast will conclude with dessert and actual games. $180 per person,
plus tax and gratuity. For more information or to reserve, contact Kathryn
Brennan 212.595.1313 x 161 or kbrennan@danielnyc.com
October 09, 2009
Robert Parker's Wine Bargains available November 3
OTM listening Wine-Lovers, get your order in now at OTM Bookshelf for this
first ever publication by the so-called "Emperor of Wine". OTM has a
pre-release copy but of course we're sworn to secrecy about what wines are
included. Given Parker's influence prices can be expected to go up for
wines that are included, so $17.99 for an early copy might be a good
investment. If you want to know more about RP, listen to OTM's interview
with Parker biographer Elin McCoy, OTM Audio Archives Nov. 20, 2005.
October 07, 2009
Seeing Stars in NYC - Bravo Daniel!!!
Great news for OTM's good friend Daniel Boulud - a 3rd Michelin Star!!!
Daniel joins Jean Goerges, Le Bernadin, Masa & Per Se in this elite
category. Other "winners" include Alto rising from 1 star to 2 and Corton
making a debut in the guide with 2. Gordon Ramsay London hung on to its 2
stars. Alain Ducasse's Adour and Del Posto both slipped from 2 stars to
1.
Jean-Luc Naret, Michelin spokesperson says of Daniel "The main difference is consistency. His cooking has really been excellent this year." OTM agrees - we enjoyed a magnificent meal (served in the newly expanded and delightful bar) in July. We also had fun at Daniel's latest NYC venture DBGB, which has not been popular with some reviewers - we recommend it - Bar Boulud with Pittsburgh native Damian Samsonetti in the kitchen and Cafe Boulud are also great choices. All this and Daniel is just an all-round nice guy - who says they don't finish first?
October 02, 2009
Quince, an OTM favorite in San Francisco just reopened at a new location
OTM's good friends Lindsay and Michael Tusk, owners of SanFrancisco's critically
acclaimed Quince restaurant have opened their much-anticipated Jackson Square
location. Quince in Jackson Square is a more spacious, comfortable expression of
the previous PacificHeights location, offering an elegant, contemporary dining
experience. The new restaurant is located in a 1907 brick and timber building at
the corner of Pacific Avenue and Montgomery Street in San Francisco’s historic
and vibrant Jackson Square neighborhood. Another old friend of OTM, Italian wine expert David Lynch, has created a wine
program to showcase Italian varietals from small, lesser-known producers from
Northwest Italy rounded out by a wide selection of French and domestic wines.
Lynch’s focus on Nebbiolos - particularly Barbarescos, Barolos and other
Piedmontese wines – have been chosen for their singular quality as well as
value. The restaurant’s new bar features an Italian-inspired cocktail program as
well. Visit www.quincerestaurant.com
for more information. We can't
wait to check out the new Quince in person, but you can be sure it's great if
you get there before we do. Lindsay, Michael & David - OTM wishes you the
very best for a successful launch.
October 02, 2009
Good News & Bad News - always the good new first
OTM is delighted to hear that Fabio Trabocchi is back in the Kitchen, taking
over the helm at The Four Seasons Restaurant. We're sure he'll be a magnet
for discriminating diners. Our favorite Trabocchi dish is "Father's Pork
Chops" from his cookbook, but we'll be by the Four Seasons soon to find out what
treats he's offering there. We also hear the The Lever House restaurant
reopened. We saw the name of the Chef somewhere, but can't find it just
now; we also heard where Brad Thompson moved after the Lever House closing, but
that info's in the same place - missing. Best wishes to Karen & David
Waltuck of beloved Chanterelle, may it RIP in the hearts of all those who loved
it, including OTM. Also RIP to Tribute in Chicagoland, which announced its
closing ahead of the bad news about the 2016 Olympic Games site selection.
We believe these two sad events are connected only by their geographical
proximity.
September 29, 2009
The Allison, Newberg OR, an OTM
OTM always likes to discover and bring you new developments in food, wine and travel, and we found an unexpected treat during our current trip to Portland. The Allison, Oregon Wine Country’s first ever full service resort, opened officially last Friday, and OTM was there yesterday. It's much more than a luxurious place to spend the night while touring the area. Chef Nathan Lockwood's local, sustainable ingredient-based cuisine is a delight for both the eye and the palate, and the 15,000 sq. ft. Spa is as large and luxurious as the guest room area of 85 rooms and suites. Decades of planning have culminated in the creation of a fabulous destination, with perfection in every detail. We can't wait to return and enjoy staying for a few days. Just a 35 minute drive from Portland (with Peter at wheel on an unfamiliar route), The Allison is ideally situated for a visit to the delightful Oregon wine country. In a couple of words - GO HERE! You'll be able to hear OTM's interviews with General Manager Pierre Zreik and Chef Lockwood in an upcoming program.
September 26, 2009
Ingredients, the Film - a timely Documentary about "Local Food"
OTM just talked to Portland star chef Greg Higgins about this film that he helped create, and which premiered yesterday in the "Rose City" of Portland OR, where OTM is right now doing a fine dining tour. The web site http://www.ingredientsfilm.com/ says "American food is in a state of crisis. Health, food costs and our environment are all in jeopardy. A movement to put good food back on the table is emerging. What began 30 years ago with chefs demanding better flavor, has inspired consumers to seek relationships with nearby farmers. This is local food." Watch for Ingredients on your local PBS station, and in the menatime find out more on the web site. You'll be able to hear OTM's interview with Greg in an upcoming program, together with our interviews with Portland's other top Chefs.
September 20, 2009
More info. for G-20 visitors to Pittsburgh
Due to space constraints some information Ann prepared was not included in
todays' Tribune Review article. OTM is pleased to provide this
below. Welcome to Pittsburgh, we're sure you'll enjoy your visit.
Green Dreams
Chefs everywhere buzz the words: fresh, local,
sustainable, organic, all-natural. But
The Pines
Tavern, in Gibsonia, held “dinners in the fields” before national media
grabbed at the phenomenon. big Burrito Corporate Chef Bill Fuller recalls that,
early in 1997, he addressed PASA to facilitate Penn’s Corner Farm Alliance, a
cooperative of farmers in
Of course
Day-Parts
Breakfast is a keen sport here. For those who like funky and Formica,
there are diner-esque places like DeLuca’s, Jo Jo’s and Ritter’s. On the campaign trail,
President Obama enjoyed Pamela’s so
much he invited owner Pamela Cohen to cook her pancakes for a Memorial Day event
at the White House.
Recommendations for Sunday Brunch always point visitors to the grand buffet in the Grand Concourse, a restored gilded age P&LE Railroad Station. While the setting is magnificent—marble, stained glass ceiling, palms—if you’d prefer to avoid steam table cuisine, check out Casbah instead. Sunnyledge, in a former Shadyside mansion, sets a classy historical backdrop.
Expect restaurants to be crowded at 7-8 pm, when everyone wants to eat, and don’t expect massive options in late night dining. Count these on one hand. Restaurants in the Cultural District may offer pre-show and post-theater menus—but only when shows or concerts are running. Best to check.
Other Quirks
On the other hand,
September 11, 2009
Let's hear it for OTM's good friend Mike Novak
Congratulations to Mike Novak and his team at The Pines Tavern, in Gibsonia,
PA, on being named a 2009 Santé Restaurant Award Winner for Sustainable
Restaurant. Santé, the Magazine for Restaurant Professionals, created the Santé
Awards as a way of recognizing excellence in restaurant food, wine, spirits, and
service hospitality. The Santé Awards program is the only peer-judged restaurant
and hospitality competition in North America. The Culinary Hospitality Award for
Sustainable Restaurant honors restaurants and professionals that exhibit
outstanding achievement in sustainable culinary service and hospitality. The
Pines Tavern got additional accolades for their sustainable agricultural
achievements. So do check out The Pines' great wine list and dishes based on
produce from their lovely garden . For further details visit www.santemagazine.com
and www.thepinestavern.com.
September 05, 2009
Check out 2 recent photos of Co-Host Ann, more pics to come soon
We appreciate Joanne Stultz-Dauer of the Tuscan Inn, Pittsburgh and Greg
Silva of Manresa, Los Gatos CA for sharing these recent photographs.
We're going to start rebuilding OTM in Pictures very soon.
September 03, 2009
Nate Appleman - San Francisco's loss is NYC's Gain
It seems like only yesterday that OTM sat down with Nate Appleman at SPQR in San Francisco, sampled the lusty Italian fare that established SPQR and A16 as Bat Area favorites, and talked about future plans like an A16 namesake in Japan. So it was quite a surprise to read that Nate has moved to NYC, where he's signed up as Chef-Partner with Keith MacNally at Puliono's Bar & Pizzeria, ste to open in December on The Bowery. Chef Nate is reported to still be working on Pulino's menu, but initial indications include "whole animal" butchery and the signature hearty, down to earth dishes so popular at A16. OTM is glad Nate will be closer, and the Bowery & Houston location seems like a great choice - right in the same neighborhood as Brad Farmerie's Double Crown and Daniel Boulud's DBGB.
August 25, 2009
Wild about Game Festival, with Chef Chris Cosentino, Mt. Hood OR, September 27
San Francisco based Chef Chris Cosentino, Incanto is his Noe Valley food haven, loves Offal, but he also loves Game. So if you're into Game, or just "Game for a good time", check out the Wild About Game Cook-off coming up at The Resort at the Mountain near Oregon's Mount Hood just outside Portland, September 27th. Chris heads a of judges including Seatle restaurateur Tom Douglas who'll assess the Game cooking skills of some of the NorthWest's "Top Toques". OTM is still trying to figure out how to fit this into our schedule, it sounds like so much fun. For more information go to www.nickyusa.com
August 18, 2009
We love Daniel Boulud - Check out his Culinary Empire at The James Beard House & you will too
Perhaps Daniel is no stranger to you too. Regardless, if you can find time to be in NYC on September 14, the James Beard House has arranged an evening you won't want to miss. And if you've never experienced the range of dining delights Daniel has created, all the more reason. A very special group of Chefs from several DB restaurants will be presenting a very special menu, in celebration of their very special mentor! Daniel himself notes "It is a rare privilege to have so many of my finest chefs cooking under one roof". He compares it to culinnary equivalent of a family reunion. For further information and tickets call the Beard House, 212-627-2308 or go to http://jamesbeard.tix.com/event.asp?event=210940. For more information about Chef Daniel and his restaurant family, www.danielnyc.com.
August 15, 2009
The Stately Homes of England......... You can enjoy them as OTM has done
These are the first words of a ditty by Noel Coward or somebody like that. What fun to experience for yourself the comfort and elegance of yesteryear, but with every modern luxury and modern cuisine to match. It's one of OTM's favorite things, and we just returned from a tour we'd like you to know about. We started out at Cliveden (pronounced Cliffden for the siting on high ground above the River Thames. History at Cliveden begins with George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, something of a lady's man in the 1660s - movie versions of The Three Musketeers have Villiers connected with the Queen of France. Today's structure dates from the 1850s, and its elegance today a tribute to the Astor family and Von Essen Hotels. Amidst all this history Executive Chef Chris Horridge, formerly of The Bath Priory, is inventing and serving modern food with an emphasis on local & organic that brings the hedgerow to your plate. Cliveden is only 15 minutes by car from Heathrow, 45 minutes from Gatwick, and they'll send a Bentley to pick you up or drop you off - a great fitst/last night stopover. www.cliveden.co.uk.
Move directors looking for a beautiful English Village backdrop have selected Castle Combe in the Southern Cotswolds several times, and when you visit you'll know why. Better still The Manor House offers a combination of traditional historical accomodation, ultra modern plumbing and fine food that's hard to beat, even if it rains all day, as it did when OTM stopped by. It's less than 2 hours west of London by car or trainwww.manorhouse.co.uk. Or as nine paries did on the same day you can drop in by helicopter.
Speaking of helicopters, how about using this as a way to drop in for lunch? A mysterious but obviously wealthy Russian did just this while we were staying at Gidleigh Park and he brought his children along. Snuggled as it is on the edge of Devon's Dartmoor National Park, reaching Gidleigh along the narrow lane from the village of Chagford is a challenge for nerves and steering! Recently renovated with new rooms added to the faux Tudor half-timber mansion, Gidleigh offers the ultimate country experience for the energetic who seek to commune with nature on foot, or the indolent, like OTM, who just enjoy the view. Super-chef Michael Caines, MBE, just celebrated the 10th anniversary of his 2nd Michelin star. We've tried it before, and can report that it just keeps getting better! www.gidleigh.com.
If you have a really good GPS (our Garmin came up trumps) you'll find Percy's Country House & Restaurant in West Devon even though the most direct country road is closed to traffic. Here Tina & Tony Bricknell-Webb serve delicious meals based on crops and animals grown on their estate, and you stay in ultra-modern rooms built in what was once a ruined barn. Increbibly energetic Tina somehow managed to find time to write a cookbbok, to be published in September, and Tony will not only serve you, he'll offer you the opportunity to invest in one of his racehorses. And he'll make sure that seafood lovers get the best by making an early morning drive to the fishing village of Looe. Hope for fine weather so that you can tour their estate and admire their agriculture and animal husbandry first hand. www.percys.co.uk. And enjoy!!!!
August 14, 2009
250 Year Old Guinness - now that's well aged beer!
Brewers of the iconic Stout (very dark beer!) don't rush into things, befitting a business that started brewing in Dublin, Ireland in 1759. Draft Guiness back in 1967 was their only previous "innovation", unless you count Harp Lager (which Guinness fans certainly don't).But celebrating a quarter century of it's signature Stout, Guinness is launching a 250th Anniversary version. Peter will admit to not having tried it yet, but his confidence is high that this will become another favorite. Ann is less excited since her Guinness habit was always to mix it with Champagne as "Black Velvet". Funny thing, when Peter received his BA at Cambridge, Dermot Guinness (a descendant of the founding family) was standing right next to him, being a classmate at St. Catharine's College and "alphabetically adjacent" as we're sure you can figure out. And a piece of advice for travelers to Ireland - if you've tried and enjoyed a mixture of Guinness Stout & a lager or ale, don't order it in Dublin as a "Black & Tan", call it a "Mother-in-Law" (stout & bitter, you get it?) If you want to know about Black & Tan, do a web search, or just drop us an email or tweet.
August 08, 2009 A collection of Pittsburgh’s finest chefs gather on Wednesday, September 2, 2009 to share their favorite recipes in a culinary competition for prestigious "Best Dish" honors.
Join OTM at Savor Pittsburgh, South Side Works, September 2
Participating Restaurants Include (as of July 1, 2009): Bella Vista Ristorante Italiano (Mt. Washington), Bettis Grille 36 (North Shore), Bravo Cucina Italiana (Cranberry), Capital Grille (Downtown), Church Brew Works (Lawrenceville), McCormick and Schmick's Seafood Restaurants (Downtown at Piatt Place and SouthSide Works), Mitchell's Fish Market (Mt. Lebanon and Waterfront), Morton's The Steakhouse (Downtown), Nemacolin Woodlands (Farmington), Palate Bistro (Downtown), Pizzutti's (Shadyside), Red Room Cafe (East End), Salt of the Earth, Silk Elephant (Squirrel Hill), Scoglio's (Robinson), Sonoma Grille (Downtown), Tusca (SouthSide Works) and The Tuscan Inn (Allison Park).
Jim Lokay of KDKA will emcee this incredible event. Throughout the fesitivites, culinary creations will be judged by a panel of local food critics and other celebrity judges, including OTM Co-host & Fanfare Magazine columnist Ann: Victoria Bradley, WHIRL and Edible Allegheny; Christina French, TABLE Magazine; Rick Sebak, WQED-TV; Bruce May, Pittsburgh Magazine; Chef Ray Wesolowski and Chef Art Inzinga, Pennsylvania Culinary Institute; Margi Schrum, Nancy Anderson & Marlene Parrish, Pittsburgh Post Gazette.
The American Respiratory Alliance is the premier lung health organization in Western Pennsylvania since its establishment in 1904. The Alliance originated as a grass roots society to fight tuberculosis and has evolved to offer programs for adults with chronic lung diseases, children with asthma and their parents, adults and adolescents who would like to quit smoking, health professionals who require the most current information on tuberculosis, influenza, and other lung diseases, as well as anyone wishing to learn more about their lungs and how to keep them healthy. For more information, visit www.healthylungs.org.
In addition to McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant and SouthSide Works, Savor Pittsburgh is sponsored by IKEA, TRANE Clean Effects, Asthma Institute, C.S. McKee, Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Dollar Bank, Green Grocer, Capital Wine & Spirits, Frank B. Fuhrer, Ketel One Vodka, WHIRL Publishing, Edible Allegheny, Comcast and WWSW-FM.
Tickets & More Information: There's a VIP Champagne Reception inside of McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant from 5-6 p.m. which gives guests the opportunity to mingle with celebrity judges and hors d'oeuvres. Tickets for the VIP Champagne Reception and Savor Pittsburgh are $75 per person. For Savor Pittsburgh tickets are $50 per person, and the event begins at 6 p.m. For more information or tickets please call (724) 772-1750 or visit www.savorpgh.com. And well see you there..........
August 07, 2009
Attention Asian OTM Listeners - Fine Dining for a Worth Cause!
The Miele Guide is launching a very unique charity drive, The Miele Guide
Restaurant Month, in August 2009 is planned to raise funds for the United
Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to combat hunger and poverty within the
region. As the very first independent restaurant guide for Asia, The Miele Guide
aims to provide recognition to well deserving chefs and restaurants in Asia.
Through this month-long initiative, 57 restaurants in China, Hong Kong,
Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand & Vietnam, a
majority of which are listed in the 2008/2009 edition of The Miele Guide, will
be offering special set menus or promotions unique to Restaurant Month. Fifteen
percent of revenue derived from these special menus will be donated to the WFP.
These proceeds have been earmarked for WFP’s activities in Timor Leste, one of
the poorest countries in Southeast Asia. According to WFP, it takes only US$50
to feed one child a year. We hope our target amount of US$200,000 raised will
therefore be able to feed 4,000 children this year. We hope you'll consider
supporting this worthy cause while enjoying some great dining! Formore
information about The Miele Guide Restaurant Month, go to www.mieleguide.com/restaurant-month.
July 23, 2009
Can't Keep Those NOLA Chefs Down - Tory McPhail & John Besh in the News Again
America’s finest chefs showed their skills in seafood preparation at the 2009
Great American Seafood Cook-Off, held Saturday in New Orleans for the sixth
straight year. The event, which has featured both up-and-coming and celebrity
chefs over the years, underscored the importance of cooking with domestic
seafood and encouraged the use of products from sustainable fisheries.
McPhail’s winning dish was a "Creole Seafood Mixed Grill," which combined Louisiana sheepshead, shrimp and crabmeat. Earning second place, New Jersey’s Fischbach prepared Pan-seared Viking Village day-boat sea scallops with creamy chili-herb grits, warm "pickled" root vegetables, smokey apple wood bacon, micro greens and corn volute. Hoogerhyde of Alaska captured third with Wild Alaska King Salmon with cranberry-infused birch syrup molasses and Susitna Valley hash of potatoes nested in Alaska summer greens.
Grape Expectation Staycations Besh Steak Highlights the Flavors of Napa
and Sonoma at Two Intimate Wine Dinner. The team at Besh Steak has arranged
"flights" to the vineyards of Northern California in the form of two midsummer
wine dinners - no plane tickets required. On Wednesday, July 22, sommelier Jeff
Gulotta will toast Napa with bottles from the acclaimed Bouchaine Winery. On
Wednesday, July 29, he'll take guests on a tour of the Sonoma countryside with
wines from Frei Brothers. Wine is an integral aspect of any meal at Besh Steak,
but each of these four-course prix fixe menus designed by chef de cuisine Jared
Tees will focus on the magic of a good pairing. Both dinners are $75. Seating is
limited to 35 guests; for reservations, call 504-533-6111.
Chef John Besh has
also unveiled a four-course tasting menu at Restaurant August for $40, a price
that invites guests to indulge in a meal of a lifetime. The special kicks off
with a menu that’s pure Besh, contemporary French with accents of southern
Louisiana: Warm Salad of Pied du Veau with crispy veal sweetbreads and
fresh hearts of palm; Silver Queen Corn "Riz en Boule" with pecan wood
bacon, cipollini and chanterelles; Hand Rolled Spaghettini with clams,
mussels, and blue crab with spicy tomato and fresh basil; and Napoleon of
Nougatine with Valhrona chocolate bavarois and salted toffee ice cream. The
tasting menu will change, as all do at August, according to the pick of seasonal
produce. It launches Friday, July 24 and continues through Wednesday, September
30, 2009.
July 16, 2009
Rebuilding the Website
Work continues - check out OTM in Print, OTM in Pictures, OTM Bookshelf (still a work in process, but growing daily). Let us know if there's anything special you'd like us to add.
July 10, 2009
Emily Luchetti Dessert Recipes Online-Yums!!
OTM's old friend, James Beard Award-winning pastry chef and best-selling author, Emily Luchetti has just announced the launch of her new website and blog, emilyluchetti.com. The new web site features free recipes, baking tips, cookware reviews, entertaining ideas and more. After publishing multiple cookbooks and developing thousands of recipes over
the years, Emily says she thought "it would be helpful for people to be able to find baking
tips and inspiration on-line and all in one place," She's launched www.emilyluchetti.com to help the dessert aficionados find useful information about the best new baking products, tips and tricks and seasonal dessert recipes. Among many features are a seasonal selection of delicious recipes, the latest baking trends, Emily's blog and ideas for the home pastry chef, both the beginner and the seasoned professional. The site will also
feature instructional video so visitors can learn how to make desserts the
Emily Luchetti way. At OTM we say "Go Em!!".
July 10, 2009
OTM Highlights are BACK, OTM in Print coming next
We've brought back some our favorite tracks for your instant enjoyment.
Just click the OTM Highlights tab to find some of the world's most
interesting Chefs, Winemakers and other interesting characters. Peter's now hard
at work adding links to our Print Features. There's still more clean up to
do, but we're delighted that OTM is BACK!! We hope you are too.
July 09, 2009
OTM Audio Archive restored back to 2005!
We're sure you'll appreciate the time and effort that its taken to get this done. 2004 programs will be added soon. Since manual entry of the Descriptions was required, the possibility of error does exist. If you find something you suspect is a problem please email us so we can investigate & correct .
July 03, 2009
"Hot off the Presses", OTM in NYC
OTM just returned home from the big Fancy Food Show in NYC earlier this week, and Ann is working on an article summarizing her thoughts. Next Sunday's program includes 3 interviews about interesting & different products that we found. And we dined at some great new places, the newly reopened, relocated Aureole, Bar Blanc Bistro & Daniel Boulud's newest, DBGB. Interviews at all 3 are in next Sundays' program. Be sure to check them out by listening, then heading there on your next NYC dining plans.
June 25, 2009
OTM Audio Archives recovered back to June 2007
We'll be recovering the complete Archive ASAP. We appreciate your patience while this work is under way. Please try the new SEARCH function by keywords like restaurant name, city, state, chef or celebrity name - just enter the word(s) that you're interested in, and away you go....... You'll get Google references and a click through for any applicable programs.
June 23, 2009
OTM is BACK!!!!
We're recovering from a devastating Technical Problem. The News is Good!!!. OTM Audio Archive is live for the last year's programs, and we'll be rebuilding the history back to January 2004 within the next few days. We're adding a new Search capability that will enable you to explore OTM "in depth", Google-style. OTM in Print, OTM Pictures and Bookshelf will follow, then the Favorites. Until these are complete please use Email, Twitter or Facebook for recommendations on items of specific & immediate interest. There are Buttons for all of these on our Home Page.
Listen to On The Menu now!
1) Audio Archives of Past Shows
2) Podcast
Check the OTM Audio Archives for the latest available programs.