On the Menu: March 25 through March 30

by jbfauthor on March 23, 2012

Here’s what’s happening at the Beard House and beyond this week:

Sunday, March 25, 6:00 P.M.
Sunday Supper at Chelsea Market
Housed in a former biscuit factory, Manhattan’s Chelsea Market is now a bustling hub of epicurean shops and restaurants. For this annual Friends of James Beard Benefit, we invite some of the best chefs from New York City and around the country to prepare a lively family-style feast, which is held in the market’s lofty main hall.

Tuesday, March 27, 7:00 P.M.
Pensacola Celebration
In honor of Florida’s upcoming 500th anniversary, Pensacola’s top chefs have designed a menu that will feature modern interpretations of historical Florida recipes. In each dish, guests will taste the area’s rich culinary heritage, with its pristine native seafood, locally grown ingredients, and singular blend of Spanish and Southern influences.

Wednesday, March 28, 12:00 P.M.
Enlightened Eaters: Barry Estabrook
In his book, Tomatoland, JBF Award-winning food journalist Barry Estabrook investigates the sustainability of the fresh tomato industry, and reveals the staggering cost to the health of our environment and society.

Wednesday, March 28, 7:00 P.M.
Savoring Sanoma
Dreaming of a jaunt to the lush vineyards of Sonoma, or the rolling hills of Provence? Satisfy your wanderlust with this wine country–inspired dinner to fête the publication of Sondra Bernstein’s second cookbook, Plats du Jour. The tantalizing menu will feature seasonal cuisine that evokes the French countryside and the bountiful Sonoma landscape.

Thursday, March 29, 6:00 P.M.
Jazz at Lincoln Center
For the second year in a row, the James Beard Foundation Greens (foodies under 40) is linking up with Jazz at Lincoln Center’s own group for the under-40 crowd, Hang Set, for a spectacular evening of delicious food, stunning views, and great music. Guests will enjoy a pre-concert reception featuring some of New York City’s finest chefs, an array of delectables from Les Trois Petits Cochons, and cocktails by Purity Vodka. After the reception, attendees will be treated to a live jazz concert showcasing Big Band Hits.

Thursday, March 29, 7:00 P.M.
New York City Star
Its namesake chef may initially draw diners to the elegant, two Michelin–starred Gordon Ramsay at the London, but critics and food lovers return for the artful, French-inspired cuisine prepared by native Austrian Markus Glocker and pastry chef Ron Paprocki.

Friday, March 30, 12:00 P.M.
Great Neighborhood Italian Lunch
When Rubirosa opened in 2010, this cozy neighborhood gem reinvigorated Manhattan’s Little Italy with its fresh takes on classic red-sauce fare. Join us at this delectable lunch, where chef Albert Di Meglio, formerly of Osteria del Circo and Olana, will put his personal stamp on homey Italian favorites.

Friday, March 30, 7:30 P.M. through Sunday, April 1
New Jersey Food and Wine Festival
The 4th annual New Jersey Wine & Food Festival at Crystal Springs Resort is a celebration of wines and chefs from around the nation. Held at the state's only four-season resort, Crystal Springs, the weekend's events are designed to allow food and wine lovers to meet and mingle with chefs, winemakers, and fellow wine aficionados. The centerpiece of the Festival is the Grand Tasting, featuring 25 restaurants, 30 wineries, a VIP experience, a live orchestra, and an exciting silent auction. The weekend also includes a variety of dynamic chef- and winemaker-led seminars featuring award-winning small-production wines; a unique look at Crystal Springs's 120,000-bottle wine cellar; and tastings of chocolate, cocktails, rare Johnnie Walker whiskies, and more. This year’s festival will benefit the James Beard Foundation and Bocuse d’Or USA Foundation.