On the Menu: September 27 to October 3

by jbfauthor on September 25, 2009

Here’s what happening at the Beard House and around the world next week: Tuesday, September 29, 7:00 P.M. Old World Opulence The Mercuri family name is synonymous with fine dining in Montreal, and Michele Mercuri—the man behind the luxurious fare at XO Le Restaurant—is no exception to the rule. Join us for a taste of his showstopping cuisine that earned a rare four-star rave from the Montreal Gazette. Thursday, October 1, 7:00 P.M. Pike Place Fish Feast There are few Seattle restaurant locations better than Pike Place Market, where chefs have access to just-picked Washington State produce, the finest artisanal cheeses, and seafood fresh out of the Pacific. Enjoy a taste of the area’s bounty when chef Chester Gerl of Matt’s in the Market prepares a phenomenal fish feast. Friday, October 2, 7:00 P.M. Modern Scandinavian Filled with gorgeous photography and mouthwatering recipes, The Scandinavian Cookbook by Trina Hahnemann captures the culture and cuisine of this dazzling region. We’ve asked Hahnemann, a highly regarded Danish chef, to design a menu inspired by her book that showcases the foods of the Nordic countries. Saturday, October 3, 7:00 P.M. Taste of Riviera Maya As executive chef of the stunning Royal Hideaway Playacar, Raul Vaquerizo oversees all six of the resort’s sophisticated gourmet restaurants. When this Spaniard cooks at the Beard House this fall, he will prepare an eclectic menu that reflects the vibrant flavors of the Yucatán as well as his international background. October 3 to October 10 Sail with Lidia Explore Italy’s culinary marvels with the woman who knows them best—JBF Award-winning celebrity chef and television personality Lidia Matticchio Bastianich. Ports of call on this luxurious seven-day Mediterranean cruise from Venice to Rome include a maiden call in Trogir, Croatia, the medieval town of Kotor, Montenegro, and Catania, Sicily, at the base of Mt Etna. Passengers will also spend a glorious day in Sorrento, Italy, the gateway to the ruins of Pompeii. For details and reservations, visit www.jamesbeard.org/events or call 212.627.2308. (Photo by Krishna Dayanidhi)