When it opened in September, 2007, there were just two cooks and two wait staff, no prep cooks and no dishwasher. Despite modest beginnings, the accolades came quickly.
We were treated to the ultimate dining experience by our dear friends Kent and DJ Nielsen, both chefs whose cooking school I attended in 1999-2001. This was their 22nd anniversary and their wedding reception was in the courtyard of The French Laundry! Our lunch ran nearly 5 1/2 hours and included a tour of the newly renovated $10M kitchen, wine cellar, private dining room, and a chance to meet Chef Keller. (Warning: This is a long post!)
It all begins with a ticket, an “é” ticket if you will. I was fortunate to book a seat at é to coincide with my trip to Las Vegas for a photo workshop. A week before my reservation, a gold ticket arrives in the mail admitting you to an evening of culinary delights. From there, the anticipation builds! (Warning, this post is long…)
Chefs Lon Symesma and Ryan Gorby serve up contemporary interpreations of the street food of Vietnamese and Singaporean hawker fairs. Both trace their culinary history to the venerable Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
Our Airbnb host recommended this pastry shop when we arrived in Barcelona. Located just a few blocks from our apartment, it offered a gorgeous array of taste treats!
When more than a few friends say this place has the best hot chocolate they’ve ever had, it becomes a “must do”! How can a simple hot chocolate be so stellar that it warrants rave reviews?
This spectacular public market (formally known as Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria) has been operating here since the 17th century. Then, as now, it showcases the freshest products from local farmers, butchers, and fisherman. Take a seat at one of the many bars and restaurants in the market to sample some of the best of Barcelona!