On the Menu: February 20 through February 26

by jbfauthor on February 18, 2011

Here’s what’s happening at the Beard House next week: Wednesday, February 23, 12:00 P.M. Beard on Books Ten years ago, former New York Times Magazine writer Molly O’Neill embarked on a cross-country journey to investigate the so-called “end of American cooking.” Instead she found scores of Americans making daily tributes to their cultural and filial histories through food. Ten years, 300,000 miles, and 5,000 interviews later, O’Neill has compiled the recipes she gathered from across the nation in One Big Table: A Portrait of American Cooking.  Part cookbook, part historical record, One Big Table chronicles not just what we eat, but why—from foraged dandelion and spring garlic salad to pueblo tamales and Rice Krispies treats. Wednesday, February 23, 7:00 P.M. Big Easy Bacchanalia The folks behind NOLA institution Commander’s Palace are wowing diners with the playful Creole cuisine of their new spot, Café Adelaide. Chef Chris Lusk, who credits the Palace with honing his culinary chops, adds Asian influences to the restaurant’s dishes for a nuanced and layered approach to traditional Southern food. Thursday, February 24, 7:00 P.M. Chinese New Year Jade Asian rises above the plethora of Chinese options in Flushing, thanks in large part to Asian culinary expert Peter How. For this special New Year’s celebration, How will deftly balance modern technique and flavors with classic Chinese traditions, something he learned from his years in the kitchen with Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Friday, February 25, 7:00 P.M. Italian Inspired, Locally Grown Gramercy Tavern and Craft empire alum Christopher Albrecht uses the Garden State as inspiration for the Italian, seasonal dishes at Eno Terra. New Jersey–grown and –raised products, many from small family farms and ranches, will take center stage at this abundant Beard House feast. For details and reservations, visit www.jamesbeard.org/events or call 212.627.2308.