Get 'Em While They're Hot!
Everyone knows that New Orleans is a breeding ground for some of the most impressive cooking in the nation, and ranks highly on an international scale as well. It's only fitting then, that we recognize up-and-coming talent in the culinary world and find a way to treat visitors and residents to an experience fit to blow minds and ruin ordinary meals for at least a month. I'm referring, of course, to the 7th Annual Chefs to Watch dinner event.
In just a few days, the Theatre at Harrah's New Orleans will be playing host to a dinner showcasing the abilities of five of the biggest splash-makers in the restaurant biz in the entire state. For these five, the battle is already half won, since this opportunity is a privilege awarded to chefs who were chosen as the best of the best of an extensive list of nominees. The honors of 2008 go to Chef David Bridges of Bella Fresca in Shreveport, Chef Jude Tauzin of Catahoula's in Grand Coteau, Chef Justin Devillier of La Petite Grocery, Chef Spencer Minch of Emeril's Delmonico, and Chef Susan Zemanick of Geautreau's -- the last three right here in the Crescent City.
This is going to be an event worth fasting for, with a five-course menu accompanied with wine pairings, and a cocktail hour with passed hors d'oeuvres at 6 30 PM. Enjoy finger foods like a Scallop and Tuna Tartare with Louisiana Caviar, Asparagus Quiche, and the romantically named Belle Encourse Beggar's Purse to live music, but make sure not to fill up. The menu reads as follows:
- Sauteed Gulf Shrimp with Roasted Creole Tomatoes, Arugula, and Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette
- Blue Crab and Summer Vegetable Soup
- Spinach Salad with Fried Oysters and Bacon-Blue Cheese Vinaigrette
- Canard et Conserve (roughly translated as "Canned Duck")
- Chocolate Cabernet Torte with Careml Ice Cream and Vanilla Tuile
Tickets are just $125 (all-inclusive) to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dine with the most shining stars of the Louisiana food industry, but the those tickets are as hot as the chefs themselves. Score one by calling sponsor magazine, Louisiana Cookin', directly 888 884 4114, extension 205.