Jean Louis Palladin Tribute Menu and Cookbooks
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Tuesday, November 29th, 2011
It’s now officially the holiday season, with Christmas less than one month away. Need a gift idea?
Jean Louis Palladin cookbooks are now available for sale at MICHEL in Tysons Corner. The cookbook was originally published in 1989, with recipes that revolutionized the way chefs and food lovers viewed fine dining in America, and is now out-of-print. The book includes photographs by world-renowned photographer Fred Maroon and a limited quantity will be on sale for the whole month of December.
The Jean Louis Palladin cookbooks are $50 each and 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the James Beard Foundation so you can help support the mission to celebrate, nurture and preserve America’s diverse culinary heritage and future. Both Jean Louis Palladin and Michel Richard have received the James Beard Outstanding Chef Award.
And in collaboration with the cookbook deal, MICHEL will serve a Jean Louis Palladin tribute menu from December 6-10. Michel Richard honors the legendary chef with a six-course prix-fixe menu, featuring: Quail Eggs with Smoked Salmon in Brioche; Chestnut Soup; Terrine of Foie Gras with Black Truffle Tricolor Pasta, Prosciutto and Fresh Herb Tomato Sauce; Fricassee of Snail with Crispy Sweet Breads, Mirepoix, Chanterelle Mushroom and Shallot Sauce; Roasted Duck Breast with Date Puree and Date Sauce; Chocolate Pasta with Mocha Sauce and White Chocolate Curls and Petits Fours.
And, of course, Jean Louis’ famous Brioche with Anchovy Butter will be served with the meal. After the tribute menu’s completion on December 10, special items from the menu will remain on the regular a la carte dinner menu through the rest of December.
The Jean Louis Palladin tribute menu is $150 per person and is available from 5:30-10 p.m. Tuesday, December 6-Sunday, December 10.
MICHEL by Michel Richard is located at The Ritz-Carlton in Tysons Galleria (1700 Tysons Blvd., McLean; 703-506-4300; www.michelrichardva.com).
-Julia Harbo
Del Ray’s Pork Barrel BBQ Opens Today!
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Tuesday, November 29th, 2011
Image: Rebecca Armendariz/TBD
In 2008, Pork Barrel BBQ founders Heath Hall and Brett Thompson released their company’s first product – the All-American Spice Rub. The brand has grown and, since 2009, Hall and Thompson have entered a competition barbecue team in contests, beginning with the Safeway National Capital Barbecue Battle in D.C. They even have their own fragrance – “Que.”
The Alexandria restaurant, which opens today, is another first for the company.
The first Pork Barrel BBQ restaurant opens today at 2300 Mount Vernon Avenue in the Del Rey neighborhood of Alexandria. It’s been over two years since the venture was first announced in August 2009.
Also news is that they’ve brought aboard former Evening Star Café chef, Will Artley, as a consultant to share his knowledge of operating a restaurant and even offering tweaks to the side dishes — including what co-owner Brett Thompson calls an “off-the-charts” rendition of mac-n-cheese.
Pork Barrel BBQ Ribs!
Northern Virginia has been waiting a long time for great BBQ, and I, for one, am looking forward to filling that BBQ void with sumptuous pulled pork, ribs, brisket, chicken and special recipe sausage and sides like BBQ baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad, corn salad and mac & cheese!
Opening today! Go get your BBQ on!
Pork Barrel BBQ Restaurant - 2312 Mt. Vernon Ave, Alexandria
Visit their Facebook page or website for more information!
– Jennie Whistler
Beer Dinner at Del Ray Pizzeria
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, November 28th, 2011
Photo Credit: Del Ray Pizzeria
Tomorrow night, November 29, Del Ray Pizzeria will be hosting their Beer Dinner with the theme of “All Things Virginia.”
The prix-fixe meal will serve five courses, each paired with a different Port City beer. The courses include:
-Virginia Ham and Sweet Potato Biscuit with Brown Sugar Dijon
paired with Port City Optimal Wit
-Virginia Oyster Chowdah
paired with Port City Essential Pale Ale
-Virginia Rockfish with Virginia Crab over Smith Family Farm Sausage and Grits
paired with Port City Monumental IPA
-Smith Family Farm Beef Short Rib and Cipollini Onions with Potato Puree
paired with Port City Porter
-Virginia Sweet Potato Pie with Pecan Crunch and Marshmallow Brulee
paired with Port City Tidings
The dinner is $49 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. For tickets, call 703-549-2999.
Del Ray Pizzeria is located at 2218 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria; www.delraypizzeria.com.
-Julia Harbo
Fairfax Restaurant Wins National Contest For Cheeseburger Recipe
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Monday, November 28th, 2011
US Foods and the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board today announced the winners of their first-ever Wisconsin Cheeseburger contest. US Foods customers nationwide were eligible to submit recipes from June 1 – July 31 and 15 winners were selected for their trend-setting cheeseburgers.
Among the winners?
Fairfax, VA restaurant Guest Services, Inc. has won for its entry the “Sheboygan Brat Cheeseburger.”
This burger is perfect for block parties, nights at home, or even brunch! Just top with slices of Nueske’s ham and a fried sunnyside-up egg and serve with a tall bloody Mary.
Visit the website for the complete recipe!
Guest Services, Inc. was one of 15 winners selected for their trend-setting cheeseburgers. Winners were chosen based on creativity, originality, innovative cooking techniques, use of current industry trends and the inclusion of Wisconsin cheese.
“We love the enthusiasm of our customers across the country as they entered their mouth-watering cheeseburger recipes in the competition,” said Eric Cronert, vice president of brand marketing, US Foods. “We saw a lot of great, original submissions from innovative chefs in the industry who continually surprise and delight diners with delicious, flavorful dishes.”
The winning burger recipes were from restaurants around the country:
· Branch Bistro and Catering, Springfield, Mo. – “Inside Out Bloody Mary Cheeseburger ”
· Naifeh’s Deli & Grill, Cushing, Okla. – “The Nearly Perfect Tabouli Cheeseburger”
· The Help Desk, Kosciusko, Miss. – “Bohemian Cheeseburger”
· The Grand Oasis, Mobridge, S.D. – “South of the Border Cheeseburger”
· Ginger Cove, Annapolis, Md. – “Asian Pork Cheeseburger”
· Papa Mojo’s Roadhouse, Durham, N.C. – “Cheeseburger Po Boy”
· Red Robin Restaurants, Allentown, Pa. – “Kobe or Not Kobe Cheeseburger”
· Addison’s – An American Grill, Columbia, Mo. – “Super Deluxe Happy Fun Time Cheeseburger”
· Spirits Pub & Grub, Cary, N.C. – “Firecracker Cheeseburger”
· Shepherd University Dining Services, Shepherdstown, W. Va. – “Medical Alert Cheeseburger”
· Big Dog’s Brewing Co., Las Vegas, Nev. – “Black Angus Cheeseburger”
· Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery, Chapel Hill, N.C. – “Poblano Cheeseburger”
· Guest Services, Inc., Fairfax, Va. – “Sheboygan Brat Cheeseburger”
· Barcelona Tapas Restaurant, Indianapolis, Ind. – “Barcelona Cheese Cheeseburger”
· Lumberyard Taproom and Grille, Flagstaff, Ariz. – “Vietnamese Cheeseburger”
Winners receive an all-inclusive trip (including transportation and lodging) to Wisconsin for a chef tour at a Wisconsin cheese manufacture plant, with hands on cheese training including beverage and culinary pairings with cheese.
To see all the winning recipes and whip one up yourself visit www.usfoods.com!
About WMMB
Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board is a nonprofit organization of Wisconsin dairy producers that promotes the consumption of milk, cheese and other dairy products made in America’s Dairyland.
– Jennie Whistler
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, November 25th, 2011
Black Friday or Wine Friday?
I’ve never been a Black Friday shopper. I just don’t understand the allure of waking up at 3am to get packed in with crazed consumers- all who are willing to knock you over for a laptop. From what I’ve heard, it can get pretty brutal out there.
That being said, I’ve also heard you can buy a 42” flat screen LCD TV for about $200. So I guess there are two sides to everything.
However, even the promise of moderately priced electronics can’t convince me to get up that early. I’ll be relaxing with leftover turkey sandwiches and a glass of wine, thank you very much. And here are some wineries that are opening their doors with specials and tastings- and you don’t have to wake up at 3am to enjoy them!
Barrel Oak Winery, 3623 Grove Lane, Delaplane
Time: 11AM – 5PM
BOW reopens on Black Friday (after a brief respite) all decked out for the Holidays! Our tree will be up, the fire will be lit and happy faces will be abound! We’ll have several vendors inside and out…so come on out after you brave the early (early) shopping, have some delicious Virginia wine that only Barrel Oak can do, pick up some unique gifts for your friends and family and hang out with us as we start the stretch run into December!
Bogati Bodega & Winery, 35246 Harry Byrd Highway, Round Hill
Time: 6PM -9PM
Start your weekend with a glass of wine on our deck overlooking the pond while listening to original live music. The Bodega captures the energy, passion and atmosphere of South America. Try our gourmet flat bread pizzas (meat lovers or vegetarian) and other light food options are available for purchase.
Desert Rose Winery, 13726 Hume Road, Hume
Time: 1:00PM – 6:00PM
For the busiest shopping day of the year, come to Desert Rose for the unexpected and unusual gift choices. Select from beautifully wrapped wine gift packages or have one custom made while you wait. Choose clever horseshoe art, Desert Rose buckles and Wine Candles. Then relax with a glass or bottle of one of Desert Rose’s exceptional wines!
Gray Ghost Vineyards, 14706 Lee Highway, Amissville
Time: 11AM – 6PM
Kick off the holiday shopping season in style at Gray Ghost Vineyards. Enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and browse new gifts for the holidays. Live music by Valerie VonFange 3:30 – 5:30 pm.
Little Washington Winery, 72 Christmas Tree Lane, Washington, VA
Time: 11AM-Sunset
Come for a special holiday tasting, a cup of warm mulled wine, a special bonus bottle deal and some very unique holiday shopping in the Gallery at Little Washington Winery! We’ll be making Yule log centerpieces at 2pm. And we have the perfect holiday gifts for everyone, including the wine lover, on your list.
Paradise Springs Winery, 13219 Yates Ford Road, Clifton,
Time: 11AM – 9PM
Progressive shopping specials, raffle giveaways, Sparkling Wine Tastings, and more. The earlier you come, the better the deals! Raffle to take place every hour. GREAT Prizes will be given away ALL day including t-shirts, private barrel tastings, dinner at Chima Steakhouse, gift cards, and more!!! Make sure to Follow them on TWITTER to get access to some secret deals! (@ParadiseSprings)
– Jennie Whistler
After Turkey Thursday Comes Black Friday
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, November 25th, 2011
Occasionally Cake holiday goodies
Are you one of the obsessed Black Friday shoppers waiting in line at 3 a.m. this morning?
If so, all the power to you. I, on the other hand, can 100 percent guarantee that I’ll be passed out in my bed in the heaviest turkey-gravy-stuffing-pie food coma of the year as I sleep in, dreaming about eating leftovers for breakfast.
Either way you choose to spend your post-Thanksgiving Friday morning, a couple of Friday mid-day treats await you.
The Little Washington Winery will be serving a special holiday tasting with warm mulled wine and bonus bottle deals in the Gallery from 11 a.m. till the sun sets (that’s 4:53 p.m. for you less abstract minded). At 2 p.m., they’ll be making yule logs — because on post-Thanksgiving Friday, Christmas season also officially starts.
Occasionally Cake in Alexandria will be serving free hot cocoa and coffee as well as a 20 percent discount on holiday cakes and cookies (to name a few: vanilla chocolate-chip pound cake, brown sugar pound cake with Virginia whiskey glaze, pumpkin pound cake with maple glaze, peppermint candy-cane cake truffles, hand-decorated sugar cookies, chocolate-dipped macaroons, gingerbread men, and sugar plum, gingerbread pumpkin pie, candy cane and Mexican hot chocolate cupcakes).
-Julia Harbo
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, November 24th, 2011
Today’s our day, Gut Checkers. A national day devoted to food — turkey, stuffing, gravy, more gravy, buttery bread and mashed potatoes, pumpkin and pecan pie….
So far, my Thanksgiving is looking a little something like this:
and this:
and this:
and this:
I suppose it’s not really all about food, but counting your blessings — in one way or another.
Whether you’re feasting on turkey, ordering Chinese takeout, stuck at work, taking care of a sick child, inching through traffic, pounding back more beers than you can keep track of, or making sure your grandmother doesn’t pound back one too many, be thankful.
Happy Thanksgiving!
-Julia Harbo
Happy Thanksgiving Gut Checkers!
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, November 24th, 2011
Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays; not just because you can eat and drink all you want and no one’s allowed to say anything or give you dirty looks.
Although that’s part of it.
But mostly because it brings back such wonderful memories of being a kid- the excitement of traveling to see family; the rich smells of roasting turkey wafting through the house; the warmth and coziness we experience when we feel truly safe and thankful. That’s what it’s all about- feeling grateful, giving thanks for things we sometimes take for granted and sharing that gratitude with those we love.
And also for eating like you’ll never see another meal again.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
– Jennie Whistler
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, November 23rd, 2011
There’s no denying it: pumpkin pie is a must-have Thanksgiving dessert.
If you don’t like it, I don’t like you. Okay, that’s a little harsh. I still like you — I just like pumpkin pie more.
This year I decided to try a “skinny” version of pumpkin pie. I don’t usually like the term “skinny” — and, personally, I don’t see the point in making “light” versions of Thanksgiving foods when you’re unavoidably going to be consuming nearly 4,500 calories throughout the day — but quite frankly, this recipe just seems easy and there’s no evaporated milk involved!
The other thing is that I’ve completely given up on using pre-made pie crusts. Ever since my Aunt Carol gave me the best, easiest recipe for homemade pie crust (with only four ingredients!) I can’t do it any other way. And the feeling of pride is incredible.
Aunt Carol’s Pie Crust
(Makes two crusts)
-2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
-1 teaspoon salt
-1/2 cup olive oil
-1/4 cup milk (any kind)
Mix together flour and salt. Measure milk in a measuring cup and pour the olive oil into the milk, but don’t mix or stir it at all! Pour the milk and olive oil into the bowl of flour and salt, and mix all together with your hands. Shape the mixture into two balls, wrap in saran wrap, and let sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.
When ready, roll out the balls of dough on a lightly floured surface and place in a pie dish.
Image: hd connelly/Shutterstock
“Skinny Pumpkin Pie”
From Skinny Taste
-15 oz. canned pumpkin
-2 tablespoons light butter, softened
-3/4 cup light brown sugar, unpacked
-1/2 cup fat free milk
-1 large egg
-2 large egg whites
-1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
-1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix together your pumpkin puree and butter in a large bowl, then add the rest of the ingredients and beat until smooth. Pour into the pie crust and bake at 350 degrees for 60 minutes.
Of course, serve with whipped cream and/or ice cream.
Enjoy!
-Julia Harbo
Mon Ami Gabi’s New Seasonal Menu
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, November 23rd, 2011
While Mon Ami Gabi is known for their classic French cuisine and flavorful dishes, what sets them apart is their ever-evolving menu featuring new takes on traditional dishes.
And with winter upon us, Mon Ami Gabi has recently introduced their new winter menu utilizing the best ingredients of the season. With a chill in the air it is only natural that we seek heartwarming and comforting foods- which is why Mon Ami Gabi is serving up hearty, “stick to your ribs” dishes that will leave you nothing short of satisfied.
For those that enjoy starting a meal with a warm cup of soup, Mon Ami’s Four Mushroom Soup is the perfect choice. Looking for something a tad lighter? The Endive and Bosc Pear Salad, complete with Maytag blue cheese, honey roasted bosc pears and house vinaigrette is both satisfying and delicious.
Indulge in items such as Roast Chicken and Frites, and classic Beef Bourguignon—served table side with paparadelle noodles.
In addition to the fantastic items featured on the menu every night, Mon Ami Gabi is also serving up some very special Plats du Jour. Start your week off right and enjoy classic Coq Au Vin on Monday nights; on Wednesdays, guests can enjoy savory Burgundy Short Ribs served with pommes puree and sautéed shallots and mushrooms; and Sundays feature delectable Beef Wellington—baked to perfection in flaky puff pastry, topped with bordelaise sauce and served alongside sautéed spinach.
Go here for the full “Plats du Jour” menu.
Although these dishes may be filling, be sure to save room for dessert as Mon Ami Gabi is offering several new sweet treats to end your meal. Apple Tarte Tatin, Pear and Cranberry Crumble and Warm Chocolate Pudding Cake await you!
And for les enfants? Mon Ami Gabi is offering an all new “Little Frites” menu featuring kid-friendly options such as Pasta with Tomato Sauce, French Bread Pizza and Chicken Fingers and Frites—all served with a side if sliced apples and green beans.
Bon appetite tout le monde!
Mon Ami Gabi, 11950 Democracy Drive, Reston.
For more information, or to make a reservation call (703)707.0233 or visit them online at www.monamigabi.com.
– Jennie Whistler