Vancouver's best-kept restaurant secrets

Toronto:

Directly from the Harbourfront Centre Press Release:

Fortune Cooking Food Festival Aug. 20-22, 2010

FOOD

Best Night Market Cuisine Revealed

Friday, Aug. 20, 8-9 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)

Vote for your favorite night market treat online and the winner will be invited to demonstrate their tasty night market cuisine on opening night of the festival! Will it be Smelly Tofu or Takoyaki (Japanese octopus balls)? Also, learn about Chinese food etiquette in partnership with Power Unit Youth Organization, organizers of the night market, Night It Up!

Just Desserts Market

Saturday, Aug. 21, 1–12p.m. & Sunday, Aug. 22, 12– 6p.m. (Ann Tindal Lawn/Sculpture Court)

Created specifically for the Fortune Cooking Food Festival, Just Desserts Market is where visitors can buy and sample an eclectic variety of Pan-Asian sweets, treats and desserts. With vendors representing Asian desserts in all their varieties, audiences are offered a taste of what the city has to offer from Canadian culinary artisans of Asian heritage.

Longo’s Fortune Cooking Iron Chef

Semi Finals: Saturday, Aug. 21, 1:30-2:30 p.m. & 4:30- 5:30 p.m. (Brigantine Room)
Finals: Sunday, Aug. 22, 2-3:30 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

Experience the high-stakes reality of modern gourmet cooking in this two-day competition as Toronto chefs of contemporary Asian cuisine compete against each other for Longo’s Fortune Cooking Iron Chef supremacy. The chefs competing are: Chef Sasi Meechai-Lim of Mengrai Thai Restaurant vs. Chef Winlai Wong of Spice Route Asian Bistro and Bar and Chef Manh Nguyen of Supermarket Restaurant vs. Chef Leemo Han of Swish by Han. Judges confirmed thus far are: Andrew Chase (Food Editor, Homemaker Magazine; Contributing Food Editor, Canadian Living Magazine), Matt Galloway (host of CBC Radio’s “Metro Morning”) and Susur Lee (chef and owner of Toronto’s Lee Restaurant, among others).

Dumplings to Desire: Mother’s Dumplings & Pork/Chives and Pork/Bok Choy Dumplings

Saturday, Aug. 21, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

This food series will explore dumplings and their various incarnations across provinces, countries and regions. Critically acclaimed Mother’s Dumplings teams up with the Chinese Canadian National Council Toronto Chapter to not only demonstrate how to create their favorite Chinese dumplings but also to tell fascinating stories about owning a dumpling restaurant in Toronto.

The Art of Hand-pulled Noodles

Saturday, Aug. 21, 3:30-4:15 p.m. (Redpath Stage)

Noodle specialist Chef Ken Sun demonstrates the fine art of “La Mian” (hand-pulled) and “Dao Xiao Mian” (hand-shaved) noodles along with musical accompaniment. Families are invited to take part in a handmade noodle-making workshop after the demonstration. Performance includes drumming and martial arts demonstration by Apex Shaolin Kung Fu Academy.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Jong Beom Park & Kimchi and Beef Dumplings

Saturday, Aug. 21, 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Jong Beom Park, of North York Man Doo Hyang, uses his traditional Korean culinary skills to demonstrate how to create Kimchi and Beef Dumplings.

Noodle Walk: Chef Marietta Murillo & Pancit Noodles

Saturday, Aug. 21, 4:30-5:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this series exploring the noodle, Chef Marietta Murillo, of Mayette’s International Cuisine in Toronto, uses her Filipina cooking skills to create Pancit Noodles.

Noodle Walk: Chef Anthony Lin & Hakka Chow Mein

Saturday, Aug. 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this series exploring the noodle, Chef Anthony Lin, of Danforth Dragon in Toronto’s Greek town, creates his famous Hakka cuisine, Hakka Chow Mein.

Healthy Contemporary Chinese Cuisine with Martin Yan

Saturday, Aug. 21, 7 p.m. (Brigantine Room)

The celebrated host of over 3,000 cooking shows broadcast worldwide, Martin Yan is a certified Master Chef, highly respected food consultant, cooking instructor and prolific author (over 30 cookbooks). Since his television debut in 1978 with the now classic Yan Can Cook, he has worked to

dispel the mysteries of Asian cooking by sharing his extensive knowledge of these excellent cuisines and the cultures that created them, accompanied by his trademark wit and sense of fun. In this intimate food demo, Yan uses a whole chicken to create three dishes: Chinese Chicken Salad, Refreshing Lettuce Cups and Three-Cup Chicken.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Tenzin Yewong & Tibetan Beef and Vegetable Momos

Sunday, Aug. 22, 1-2 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Tenzin Yewong of Tibet Café & Bar, located in Kensington Market, demonstrates how to create Tibetan Beef and Vegetable Momos.

Noodle Walk: Chef Minh La & Tasty Good Burritos

Sunday, Aug. 22, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)

In this series exploring the noodle and all its incarnations, Chef Minh La of Chino Locos fuses Tex-Mex with the Far East to create his house specialty, a burrito stuffed with Chow Mein noodles and fresh, traditional burrito toppings.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Mina Makimine & Lotus Root Dumplings

Sunday, Aug. 22, 4-5 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

As chef at the Official Residence of the Consul-General of Japan in Toronto, Chef Mina Makimine demonstrates her culinary skills while making the Lotus Root Dumpling. She has showcased her culinary artistry for various esteemed guests of the Consul-General of Japan including their Majesties, the Emperor and Empress of Japan. With generous support from the Japan Information Centre and Consul-General of Japan in Toronto.

Noodle Walk: Chef Nuit Regular & Sukhothai Pad Thai

Sunday, Aug. 22, 5-6 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace)

In this series exploring the noodle, Chef Nuit Regular, of the critically acclaimed Sukho Thai Restaurant in Toronto, uses culinary skills learned in Thailand to create Sukhothai Pad Thai.

Dumplings to Desire: Chef Robin Pradham & Bison-Kangaroo and Vegetable Momos

Saturday, Aug. 21, 6-7 p.m. (Lakeside Terrace Tent)

In this incarnation of Dumplings to Desire, Chef Robin Pradham of Rocky Raccoon Café, located in Owen Sound, demonstrates how to create his brand of Bison-Kangaroo and Vegetable Momos featuring local Greenbelt and international ingredients.

Greenbelt Farmers. Tasting Market

Saturday, Aug. 21 & Sunday, Aug. 22, 1-6 p.m. (Brigantine Tent)

Tables are set up featuring fresh produce from all over the Greenbelt. Produce is not for sale, but patrons can enjoy a wide array of samples.

FILM

The Killing of a Chinese Cookie

***Canadian Premiere***

Friday, Aug. 20, 7:30–9 p.m. (Studio Theatre)
In a film that takes a comical look at the origins of the Chinese fortune cookie, director Derek Shimoda examines the heated debate over the true origin of the treat, the mixing of eastern and western cultures that produced it, and the cookie’s rise from a simple pastry to a pop culture phenomenon. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Chinese Restaurants: Beyond Frontiers

Saturday, Aug. 21, 5–7 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

This film is a part of a 15-part documentary series that tells the story of the Chinese Diaspora through its most recognizable icon – the family-run Chinese restaurant. Filmmaker Cheuk Kwan travels to the cities of India and into the jungles of Brazilian Amazon to interview Chinese restaurant owners and learn about their experiences and the differences between foods from different regions. The screening is followed by an interview with associate professor Lily Cho of the University of Western Ontario, author of the upcoming book Eating Chinese: Culture on the Menu in Small Town Canada, and a question and answer session with Cheuk Kwan. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Kung Fu Chefs

***Canadian Premiere***

Saturday, Aug. 21, 8-10 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

Directed by Wing Kin Yip, this film follows the story of Wong Ping Yee (legendary Sammo Hung) as he is ousted from his village and finds his way to sisters in need of help with their restaurant. Here he finds a young chef, whom he trains to compete at the Imperial Palace for the title of top chef. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Agrarian Utopia

Sunday, Aug. 22, 3:30-5:30 p.m. (Studio Theatre)

Directed by Uruphong Raksasad, this award-winning film tells the story of two families facing seizure of their lands. They find themselves farming together on the same field, hoping to get through another rice-farming season, all while trying to grasp the ideology of happiness. Winner of the 2009 UNESCO Award at the Asia-Pacific Screen Awards. In partnership with the Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival.

Seattle:

Directly from the Blackboard Bistro Press Release:

Blackboard Bistro coming to West Seattle

Jacob Wiegner to open nostalgic “American bistro” August 13th

For Immediate Release:

Seattle, Wash., July 29, 2010: Jacob Wiegner, a chef who trained at Le Cordon-Bleu London,  worked in top kitchens in London and Florida, and has spent the past two years as sous-chef at Olivar on Capitol Hill, will open his own 40-seat restaurant, Blackboard Bistro, in West Seattle next month. The emphasis, Wiegner says, will be a nostalgic nod to the chef’s past, prepared with Northwest ingredients.

Superstitious? Not Wiegner. He is opening on Friday the 13th in a space that’s been a virtual graveyard for restaurants: Ovio Bistro, 02, Beato and Eness have all come and gone.  “Blackboard Bistro is here to stay”.

Wiegner’s philosophy is to focus on simplicity, technique and fresh ingredients. “I have worked in a variety of restaurants from French and English to Mediterranean, and I want to bring all this cuisine together,” he says. “This is where the idea of an American Bistro comes alive, a melting pot in all senses of the word.”

Blackboard Bistro will avoid a formal menu. All dishes will be listed on blackboards throughout the restaurant. The atmosphere will be casual and prices will be moderate so guests can return often.  While Blackboard is not setting out to be a “family restaurant,” Wiegner does want families with children to feel welcome. “We’ll have a three-course children’s tasting menu so families can share an entire mealtime,” he says.

Among the menu items Wiegner expects to offer:

Tomato and horseradish sorbet, warm goat cheese, arugula, confit tomato and garlic ($12)

Pork chili verde with cast iron corn bread ($12)

A classic Frogmore stew ($20)

Cherry upside down cake, cherry, white chocolate and ginger ice cream ($7)

The Frogmore stew (whole prawns, spicy house-made sausage, clams, fingerling potatoes, and corn on the cob), a South Carolina specialty, represents one of the American regional influences on Wiegner’s culinary personality. Other influences include his Pennsylvania-Dutch origins, his classical French training, and his formative years in England, New Zealand, Australia and the many parts of the United States.

He found his calling as a chef while working in restaurants in London. He worked his way up to Chef de Partie and Sous Chef at the famous oyster bar Bibendum, Sir Terrance Conran’s famous restaurant in Chelsea.

In addition to the blackboard items, Blackboard Bistro will offer a “name your price” tasting menu. Guests will name a per person amount (for example, $30), and Chef Wiegner will send out plates until the budget is reached.

Blackboard Bistro will have a full liquor license and offer a selection of Chef Wiegner’s favorite liquors, microbrews and wines. The bar will not offer complex cocktails; rather, a small cocktail list featuring half a dozen house drinks will be available.

Blackboard Bistro 206 257 4832, 3247 California Avenue SW. 98116. Open Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday from 11:30 AM to 10 PM, and until 11 PM on Friday & Saturday.
More information at  http://blackboardbistroseattle.com/

Blackboard Bistro Opening Menu

watermelon salad with feta, fresno oil and pumpkin seeds

8

slow roasted pork belly with frisee and deviled red beet egg

10

tomato and horseradish sorbet,  warm goat cheese, arugula, confit tomato and garlic

12

scallop ceviche with grilled corn and poblano, fry bread

15

beer battered okra with watermelon rind ketchup

6

roasted cauliflower, pine nuts and currants

6

pork chili verde with cast iron corn bread

12

gnocchi, house smoked trout, peas and mint

14

braised eggplant, oven roasted tomato and yoghurt

13

four sliders.  red wine and shallot, foie gras, truffle and blue cheese. shallot rings

12

pan fried halibut with sweet potato, brown butter, capers and oregano

18

Chicken and wild mushroom pie

16

frogmore stew. whole prawns, spicy house made sausage, clams, fingerling potato,

and corn served on the cob

20

tasting menu- name your price

Sweets

chocolate and peanut pasty, peanut butter ice cream and grape jelly

8

oatmeal cookie sandwich with rum raisin parfait

6

cream cheese flan, lavender cream and fresh berries

6

cherry upside down cake; cherry, white chocolate and ginger ice cream

7

cheeseboard with house made chutney and crackers

12

Directly from the Vovito Cafe Press Release:

Vovito Caffè & Gelato Comes to The Shops at The Bravern in Bellevue

In a region renowned for its coffee, what will take the ubiquitous drink to a new level? Java connoisseurs will find out July 30 when Vovito Caffè & Gelato officially opens in The Shops at The Bravern  in Bellevue, just off teh 110th Avenue arrival court.

Home to two of the region’s three Slayer espresso machines, the Italian-inspired specialty cafè will offer hand-crafted espresso, coffee and beans in Premium Blend and Single Origin varieties, as well as a full selection of gourmet teas and chai beverages.   Along with coffee and tea drinks, Vovito Caffè & Gelato will feature house-made gelato, sorbetto, a wide variety of paninis, salads and baked goods -– all made fresh daily.

The café will open at 6:30 am Monday through Friday (8:30 am on Saturdays and 10:00 am on Sundays) to satisfy coffee and breakfast cravings, including freshly prepared Panini breakfast sandwiches, pastries, fresh orange juice and gelato smoothies.

Vovito is a welcome addition to The Shops at The Bravern, which has been seeking a coffee purveyor.  “We’re extremely pleased to have Vovito Caffè & Gelato open at The Bravern,” said Mark Netherland, senior investment manager for project developer Schnitzer West, LLC.  “The quality of the product we can now offer visitors was worth the wait.”

Founded by Eastside entrepreneurs Ariff and Shairose Gulamani, Vovito Caffè & Gelato represents the third start-up venture for the couple.  It was a personal passion for unique artisan products that led the two to begin development of the Vovito concept a year ago.   Bellevue seemed the perfect location to launch their flagship store.

“We see Bellevue as the new hub,” says Ariff Gulamani. “It’s vibrant, it has the right demographics, and it has become the new center of activity for the region. We were very excited when we heard about The Bravern.  Its inviting, upscale environment is the perfect setting for our concept.”

Much like vintners and sommeliers, Vovito’s baristas will further refine the art of coffee, exploring the nuance of single origin sources right down to the farms or hillsides; to blending, brewing and extracting for various flavor profiles and themes.

“Vovito will offer the very best coffee for connoisseurs,” Ariff points out. “For us, this is an opportunity to build social connections around coffee while connecting people in the café with our sustainable business relationships with direct coffee farmer co-ops where we will source the world’s best coffee beans.”

After much recipe research, consultation with Italian Master gelato chefs and menu development, Vovito Caffè & Gelato will offer flavor-rich gelato and sorbetto made fresh daily. The café will open with 24 flavors of colorful gelato and sorbetto, as well as delicious gelato cakes. The gelato offering, says Shairose Gulamani, will accommodate customer preferences with new gelato flavors featured every month.  And there is a focus on fresh, healthy ingredients:  “Most people don’t realize that gelato has fewer calories and less sugar A006Ed fat than ice cream,” she explained. “It’s a great way to treat yourself.”

Vovito Caffè & Gelato will occupy 2,444 square feet in The Shops at The Bravern and seat approximately 35 inside the shop. Vovito Caffè & Gelato plans to open its doors July 25 with grand opening festivities set for July 30. Reflecting the Italian origins and artisanship of its signature products, Vovito Caffè & Gelato will feature Italianate design throughout, from the custom-made, curved gelato cases to the stone counters and stairs to the warm colors enveloping the interior design of the space. Comfortable and contemporary bar stools and ledges line the walls, with table seating provided for small or large groups as well as lounge chairs for a relaxed alternative. The café will offer free WiFi service and will be family friendly and wheelchair accessible.

Directly from the Scotiabank Nuit Blanche Press Release:

Toronto’s annual sunset to sunrise celebration of contemporary art returns on October 2, 2010 to mark a five-year milestone.

Discover art in galleries, museums and unexpected places. From building façades and city parks to alleyways and heritage buildings, choose from more than 130 destinations and chart your own path.  This year’s event will also present a series of special events celebrating the fifth anniversary and extending Scotiabank Nuit Blanche beyond one night.

Full details are available at www.scotiabanknuitblanche.ca.

Follow @sbnuitblancheTO on Twitter, or visit www.facebook.com/sbnuitblancheTO for behind the scenes information and updates as the event draws near.

Scotiabank Nuit Blanche is a signature event produced by the City of Toronto in collaboration with Toronto’s arts community.

City-produced exhibition highlights

The City-produced exhibition projects will be positioned directly on the Yonge-University TTC subway line. Yonge Street will be entirely closed to car traffic between Bloor Street and Front Street, giving pedestrians safe and easy access to the exhibitions.

Curator Gerald McMasters exhibition entitled “The Good Night” features 10 projects in and around Yorkville, from Yonge Street to St. George. Highlights include the Lower Bay Station, which will become an interactive landscape of light in Daan Roosegaarde’s installation “Interactive Landscape Dune”, while the Village of Yorkville Park will feature a billion-year-old chunk of the Canadian Shield transformed into the pulsing heart of Mother Earth by Kent Monkman’s alter-ego Miss Chief Eagle Testikle in “Iskootāo”.

Anthony Kiendl will curate seven projects along the west side of Yonge Street from Dundas Street to Queen Street West in Sound and Vision. Nathan Phillips Square will be transformed into a sensory oasis as Daniel Lanois prepares, produces and performs the soundtrack to a multi-channel, multi-screen media experience in “Later That Night at the Drive-In”. Atop the new Podium Green Roof at City Hall, Dan Graham’s “Performance Café with Perforated Sides” will feature one of the artist’s world-renowned reflective pavilions, beckoning as a space for human interaction on a grand or intimate scale.

Sarah Robayo Sheridan’s exhibition entitled “The Night of Future Past” will be located on the east side of Yonge from Carlton Street south to Queen Street. She will curate eight projects, including Ryan Ganders “Just Because You Can Feel It, Doesnt Mean It’s There”, which will set Yonge-Dundas Square ablaze in a social sculpture of ambiguous designation but of unmistakable scale and presence. In “Reunion” on the Ryerson Theatre Stage, the historic artistic convergence of the same name that occurred in 1968 will be celebrated and remounted by local and international performers influenced by the twin legacies of Marcel Duchamp and John Cage.

Christof Migone will curate 15 projects in the Financial District, straddling Yonge Street from Queen Street to Front Street. “Should I Stay or Should I Go” will feature Max Streicher’s “Endgame (Coulrophobia)”, which will either delight or frighten audiences who discover the giant inflatable clown heads wedged between two buildings in a back alley.

At Commerce Court, Davide Balula’s performance entitled “The Endless Pace” will feature 60 dancers mimicking the passage of time in a clock formed from human movement. Kim Adams’ “Auto Lamp” will become a beacon of light for night owls; a sculptural lighthouse on land at the corner of Yonge and Queen. At Brookfield Place, Martin Arnold and Micah Lexier have collaborated to present “Erik Saties Vexations” - two pianos playing a score simultaneously 840 times over 12 hours - the first time this difficult score has been played in such a way and in such short a time.

Community-produced independent project highlights

The community-produced portion of Scotiabank Nuit Blanche will feature new or existing installations created by cultural and educational institutions, neighbourhoods and individual artists that extend the boundaries of the event city-wide and showcase the diversity of Toronto’s arts community. Casa Loma, CN Tower, the Bata Shoe Museum, Ryerson University, TIFF and many more organizations are hosting important projects in their unique venues. Entire neighbourhoods like Parkdale, Liberty Village, Queen West, the Distillery District and the area in and around Trinity Bellwoods Park will feature multiple installations by local artists.

Directly from the Mission Hill Press Release:

Mission Hill Family Estate Awards Wine Scholarships
Les Dames d’Escoffier’s Annual Dinner Honours Student Culinary Education

OKANAGAN VALLEY, BC (June 30, 2010): Mission Hill Family Estate and Les Dames d’Escoffier BC Chapter (LDEI BC) acknowledged talented local women within the culinary industry when they awarded two bursaries at Les Dames d’Escoffier annual Induction and Scholarship Dinner, June 28, 2010.

Les Dames d’Escoffier is an association of professional women devoted to promoting the understanding, appreciation and knowledge of food, wine and the arts of the table. LDEI BC offers annual scholarships open to women of all ages, whether they are interested in beginning basic training in these areas or seek to refine their expertise. This is the fifth consecutive year that Mission Hill Family Estate has sponsored the wine scholarship.

“We are proud to partner with Les Dames d’Escoffier in supporting the advancement of women in the culinary field,” says Ingo Grady, Director of Wine Education, Mission Hill Family Estate. “Food and wine classes are part of our ongoing commitment to excellence in gastronomy, viticulture and vinification, and we fully support candidates who are keen to further their food and wine-related studies.”

“Scholarships are a big part of our mandate and we’re delighted with Mission Hill’s continuing support in our efforts to encourage and mentor women in the food, wine and hospitality industry,” said Les Dames Scholarship Chairman Stephanie Jaeger.

This year’s deserving scholarship recipients, Sheila Whitaker and Eliana Bray, are both currently employed by Firefly Fine Wine and Ales. Sheila has her sights set on undertaking the Master Sommelier Introductory Course, while Eliana is presently studying for a Wine and Spirits Education Trust Diploma, both courses are offered at The Art Institute of Vancouver, BC.

For more information on Les Dames d’Escoffier scholarships, please visit lesdames.ca/scholarship.htm.

ABOUT MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE
Mission Hill Family Estate is world renowned for its award-winning wines, stunning setting and architecture, and its Cuisine du Terroir-based Terrace Restaurant. The winery’s vineyards are located in five distinct growing regions of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. Reflective of the origin and unique character of the Valley and of the careful ‘pruning to bottle’ program, Oculus, our signature Bordeaux-inspired wine, represents the pinnacle in premium winemaking. Proprietor Anthony von Mandl and winemaker John Simes produce elegant internationally acclaimed wines with New World flavours and Old World refinement from this incomparable lakeside mountaintop winery. Visit missionhillwinery.com for more information.

Directly from the Bastille Cafe Press Release:

BASTILLE CAFÉ & BAR OFFERS PARTY CHOICES FOR JULY 14th
FESTIVE BASH PLANNED IN COMMEMORATION OF BASTILLE DAY- LA FÊTE NATIONALE

June 30, 2010 (Seattle, WA) – On Wednesday, July 14, 2010 Seattle-ites will gather to mark the 121st anniversary of the storming of the Bastille and the day the first Republic was formed, bringing forth France’s motto of liberty, equality, fraternity.   Ballard’s French hotspot, Bastille Café & Bar, is planning an evening of food, drink, music, and entertainment- complete with a burlesque troupe and can-can dancers- to mark the fall of the French Monarchy.  The festivities will begin at 4:30pm and last well past midnight.   Bastille Café & Bar is located at 5307 Ballard Avenue in Seattle and online at www.bastilleseattle.com.

For this annual fête, Chef Shannon Galusha and Chef de Cuisine Jason Stoneburner will offer a charcuterie and oyster station outside, and beer and wine will also be available.  Beer will be $3, wine by the glass, plate of charcuterie, or a plate of oysters will be $5.  Bastille will be offering the entire regular menu as well, though happy hour specials will not be available.

A dynamic selection of musical performers will help create the atmosphere of celebration- and take the party into the night.  From 6 to 9 guests can enjoy Djangomatics on the terrace, followed by Rouge in the Back Bar from 9:30 until midnight.  The evening will be topped off with a Burlesque Troupe performing at midnight in the Back Bar.

About Bastille Café & Bar
Bastille Café & Bar is open 7 days a week from 4:30 pm – 2:00 a.m.., with dinner service beginning at 5:30 pm.  Brunch is served on Sundays from 10:00 am-3:00 pm, and late-night dining is available until 1:00 am. (206) 453-5014

Directly from the Foodportunity Press Release:

Want to ask “Urban Pantry” author Amy Pennington which varieties of tomato to plant in your garden, or Ethan Stowell why he named his new restaurant “Staple & Fancy Mercantile”, or Jon Rowley if it’s really okay to eat oysters year-round? If so, you’ll want to attend the next Foodportunity. Amy, Ethan and Jon, along with restaurateurs Tamara Murphy, Brian McCracken, Dana Tough and Thierry Rautureau, will be on hand to share their know-how at this popular networking event for Seattle food professionals, on Monday, August 2, 2010 from 6p.m. to 9p.m. at Tom Douglas’ Palace Ballroom.
These chefs and food personalities will be available for questions and conversation in the lounge of the Palace Ballroom between 6:30-7:30 pm.

Thierry Rautureau, owner of Luc and Rover’s
Ethan Stowell, owner of Staple & Fancy Mercantile (coming soon), Anchovies & Olives, How to Cook a Wolf and Tavolata
Brian McCracken and Dana Tough, owners of Spur Gastropub and Tavern Law
Tamara Murphy, owner of the Elliott Bay Café (Pioneer Square and Capitol Hill locations) creator of An Incredible Feast, Burning Beast and author of newly released “Tender:  farmers, cooks, eaters”.
Amy Pennington, creator and owner of Gogogreengarden.com, UrbanGardenShare.org and author of newly released “Urban Pantry”.
Jon Rowley, James Beard Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America (the only inductee from Washington), SAVEUR Top 100, Contributing editor to Saveur and Seattle Weekly Pellegrini Award winner.
Tom Douglas, awarded National Restaurant of the Year by Bon Appetit magazine and a national James Beard nominee for Restaurateur of the Year, will provide his Palace Ballroom facilities to host the event and serve a selection of appetizers alongside several of Seattle’s most talked-about restaurants, including: Luc, Ethan Stowell Restaurants, Matt’s in the Market, Restaurant Zoe, Cantinetta, Taste and Fresh Bistro.

Beer and wine will be available from a cash bar, and a wide range of food products from local companies will be on display.

In addition, the first 40 Foodportunity ticket-holders to send an email to info@foodportunity.com will get a seat at the “speed networking” session, hosted once again by KOMO Restaurant Reporter and Seattle Weekly food writer, Julien Perry.

Foodportunity is open to food journalists, bloggers, public relations professionals, restaurateurs, farmers and all food-passionate people. Early Bird Admission is $25 (including all fees) General Admission is $30 (including all fees), through Brown Paper Tickets http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/113987. Buy tickets early as all past events have sold-out.

Palace Ballroom is located at 2100 5th Avenue in downtown Seattle. More information is available online at Foodportunity.com.

Directly from the Pepper Bridge Winery and Amavi Cellars Press Release:

Pepper Bridge Winery and Amavi Cellars announce June 11th Opening of Seattle-area Tasting Room

Pepper Bridge and Amavi Cellars, both highly-acclaimed Walla Walla Valley wine producers and grape growers, invite the public to the grand opening of their Woodinville tasting room on June 11th.  Located on the property of the Hollywood Schoolhouse, they will offer tastings from 12 pm to 5 pm daily.  Both wineries feature estate-grown, sustainably farmed, small-production wines that are noted for consistent quality in every vintage. Pepper Bridge produces ultra-premium, sophisticated Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, showcasing its Pepper Bridge and Seven Hills Vineyards. These two vineyards are recognized as two of the best in the state.  Amavi crafts elegant, approachable wines, focusing on estate-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, while also making very small lots of Sémillon, Rosé, and dessert wines. It uses grapes from other Walla Walla Valley vineyards in addition to the two mentioned above, most notably the prestigious Les Collines Vineyard.  Although they are two separate wineries, both are owned by a different combination of the same three families: the McKibbens, Goffs, and Pellets.

Jean-François Pellet serves as winemaker at both operations.  Norm McKibben, the managing partner for Pepper Bridge Winery, calls the decision to build a satellite tasting room on the western side of the state a natural progression. “By building a tasting room closer to a larger metropolitan base, we have the opportunity to introduce more people to Pepper Bridge and Amavi and the Walla Walla Valley,” McKibben says.  The wineries selected Stacy Luxich to serve as Tasting Room Manager. Stacy brings 22 years of experience in the hospitality/restaurant industry. “I grew up here in Western Washington and it’s a very exciting time for our wine industry,” says Luxich. “Pepper Bridge and Amavi are such high-quality producers, and I’m very proud to represent them.”  The tasting room is located at the Hollywood Schoolhouse on the northeast side of the intersection of 148th Avenue N.E. and N.E. 145th Street in Woodinville near other wineries including Bookwalter Wine Studio, Mark Ryan Winery, Ross Andrew Winery, and Alexandria Nicole. The wineries’ website addresses are, respectively, www.pepperbridge.com and www.amavicellars.com.

GK Media Inc is pleased to present a new feature article:

Food Seattle Select Guide: Melons the Versatile Fruit 

Directly from the Jackson-Triggs Press Release:

Jackson‐Triggs Estate Winery Dominates with more than 50 recent medals
The winemakers’ talent and toil continues to pay off

In Summary:

The winemakers of Jackson-Triggs wineries both in the Okanagan and in Niagara have been recognized with significant wins at the 2010 International Wine and Spirit Competition, the Decanter World Wine Awards and the All Canadian Wine Championships. Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate winemakers Derek Kontkanen and Brooke Blair along with Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate winemaker Marco Piccoli have much to celebrate after taking home more than 50 medals between them from these three prestigious International and Canadian competitions.  Jackson-Triggs is proud to have been awarded “Best Canadian Winery” an unprecedented 20 times in wine competitions – a feat no other Canadian winery can claim.

In Detail:

Due to a strong and unwavering investment in viticulture, winemaking, quality and people,  Jackson-Triggs Estate Wines has established itself as Canada’s leading and most distinguished wine producer, receiving “Best Canadian Winery” accolades an unprecedented 20 times in global competitions in England, Italy, the US and Canada.

These results are a testament to the hard work and depth and diversity of the viticulture team and winemakers in both British Columbia and Ontario. In Oliver, British Columbia, at Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate, Australian Brooke Blair and Canadian Derek Kontkanen make a powerful winemaking duo, while Marco Piccoli, from Italy, heads up winemaking in Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario. All three winemakers also agree that the wine starts from the ground up, and they spend much time in the vineyards with Aussie-born Frank Hellwig, who is responsible for Jackson-Triggs’ vineyards in both provinces, along with his crew of viticulturists and growers.

The three young and dynamic vintners, with an internationally-honed melting pot of experience, bring unique talents to each winery and have been steadily garnering awards and recognition around the globe. This past spring Jackson-Triggs Estate Wines have amassed a significant number of awards at three highly regarded competitions around the globe.

The International Wine and Spirit Competition aims to promote the quality and excellence of the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs and has been held in London, England since its inception in 1969. Thirty wines from both regions were awarded medals at this competition with Icewines from each winery capturing gold.  Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate had their Proprietors’ Reserve Riesling Icewine 2007 awarded, while Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate winemaker Marco Piccoli won gold for his Proprietors’ Reserve Vidal Icewine 2007 and Proprietors’ Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc Icewine 2007. Additional Best of Category, Gold, Silver and Bronze trophies were awarded.  From the Okanagan Estate, 19 of the 20 wines submitted were awarded medals, an amazing feat in any competition.  Many of the wines Jackson-Triggs is recognized for in Canada, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Merlot, and Shiraz, were also awarded amongst the world’s best.

At the 2010 Decanter World Wine Awards, also held in London, England, Jackson-Triggs Estate Wines faired extremely well, earning over two dozen awards making them the most awarded Canadian winery in the competition. Wines from all VQA tiers were awarded medals: from the Proprietors’ Reserve and Grand Reserve labels up to the SunRock and Delaine Vineyards wines.

This year marks three decades that the annual All Canadian Wine Championships have been held in Windsor, Ontario. Again, Jackson-Triggs Estate Wines were able to bring home an impressive 17 medals, garnering five gold medals all of which were for wines priced under $20.

These awards are a remarkable testament to the depth, diversity, and passion of the viticulture, winemaking, and entire team at Jackson-Triggs, and celebrate the team’s on-going commitment at Jackson-Triggs to craft wines of exceptional quality and value.

Directly from the Hotel Bellwether Press Release:

HAVE A WHALE OF A GOOD TIME AT HOTEL BELLWETHER

Bellingham hotel celebrates summer in the Pacific Northwest with wildlife watching adventure.

Bellingham, WA (June 2, 2010): The Hotel Bellwether, a European-style waterfront hotel located on Bellingham Bay, announces an adventurous hotel package that invites guests to set out to sea on a whale watching excursion on Bellingham Bay and throughout the San Juan Islands.

The “Whale of a Good Time” package includes a three and a half hour whale watching voyage offered in partnership with Victoria San Juan Cruises. Sighting experts help travellers see whales on more than 90 percent of the cruises. The tour takes guests throughout Bellingham Bay and the nearby waterways of the San Juan Islands in search of Orca whales, sea otters, seals, porpoises, Minke whales, and eagles. Passengers will enjoy a leisurely cruise, narrated by the captain, aboard a vessel with two viewing decks.

Rates for the “Whale of a Good Time” package, based on double occupancy, start at US $332 for a plaza view and US $380 for a marina view. A picnic lunch for two to take on the excursion can be included for an additional US$25 or a preset dinner for two for US$60.

“Hotel Bellwether is fortunate to have a location that offers outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travellers ideal access to hiking, biking, and sailing,” said Michael Herzog, general manager and partner at Hotel Bellwether. “This package captures the essence of a Pacific Northwest experience by offering guests the chance to see these iconic creatures and other wildlife up close.”

The “Whale of a Good Time” package is available daily beginning June 11 through September 6, 2010. For more information or to make a reservation visit hotelbellwether.com or call 877.411.1200.

About Hotel Bellwether
Hotel Bellwether is a waterfront retreat located in Bellingham, Washington. Wrapped around the scenic Bellingham Bay, the hotel offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of the Cascade mountain range and Mount Baker to the east and the spectacular San Juan Islands to the west, providing a European-style getaway in a quintessential Pacific Northwest location. Each of Hotel Bellwether’s 65 spacious guestrooms feature fireplaces, imported Italian furniture, marble and granite countertops, down pillows and comforters, a spacious jetted bathtub, plush cotton bathrobes and other luxurious comforts. Hotel Bellwether is located at One Bellwether Way in Bellingham, Washington, just 90 minutes from both Seattle and Vancouver, BC. The hotel is also accessible by boat and float plane. For more information visit hotelbellwether.com or call 877.411.1200.

June 6th, 2010 is the Taste Washington Wine Event.  For more information go to: http://www.tastewashington.org/

June 13th, 2010 is the Seattle Wine Awards. For more information please go to: http://www.seattlewineawards.com/

Directly from the Amavi Cellars Press Release

Walla Walla’s Amavi Cellars Invites Public to New Tasting Room, Event Center in the Vineyards

After seven years in its rustic, downtown Walla Walla facility, Amavi Cellars has announced a move to its new, contemporary tasting room in the heart of Pepper Bridge Vineyard near the Washington/Oregon border. The building features expansive Southeastern views of the Blue Mountains, vineyards and other agriculture. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a spacious elevated deck create a sense of intimacy with the surrounding rural area. A stunning, 20-foot-long zinc bar invites guests to gather and provides an exquisite platform for sampling the winery’s highly rated, estate-grown wines.

The new location is a realization of the owners’ desire to provide a better Walla Walla experience for its customers and to move operations closer to its estate vineyards. Referring to the vineyards as the “soul” of Amavi wines, Managing Partner Ray Goff says that it is the winery’s goal to honor and underscore the role of agriculture in fine wine. “In our previous urban location, we ran the risk of becoming disconnected from Mother Nature and the year-long process of creating each vintage,” Goff says. “Being among the vines produces a refreshing, humbling sense of awe — and a deeper appreciation for the wines our winemaker and viticulturist Jean-François Pellet crafts — that we would like to share with our guests.”

Goff adds that in addition to providing a better atmosphere, the new tasting room offers significantly more space and a layout designed for entertaining. “Hospitality is a cornerstone of our values, and we now have the appropriate venue for our events and for customers’ small weddings and business retreats.”

Seattle architect David Clinkston of Clinkston Brunner worked closely with the winery partners to create a building that tucks neatly into the hillside while simultaneously flaunting clean, dramatic lines. The wood, steel and glass building contrasts tastefully with the rolling hills and surrounding agriculture, inviting passersby to take a closer look. Landscaping is underway and will feature drought-resistant, native plants.

Owned by the Goff, McKibben and Pellet families, the winery is known for its estate-grown, sustainably farmed Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Sèmillon wines. Its single-vineyard Les Collines Vineyard Syrah has attracted particular attention from wine critics over the last few vintages. The grapes in the winery’s three estate vineyards — Les Collines, Pepper Bridge and Seven Hills — are certified sustainable and in high demand. In the overall wine market, Amavi Cellars’ wines are categorized as ultra-premium, yet they are commonly considered a value among their Walla Walla peers.

Located at 3796 Peppers Bridge Road in Walla Walla, the 1,000 square-foot tasting room and adjacent 500-square-foot conference room are complemented by a 500-square-foot elevated deck, offices, dry goods storage and wine-production areas. For information regarding corporate retreats, weddings and other high-end events, please contact Patty Lynch at patty@amavicellars.com or 509-525-3541.

Normal business hours are 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. daily.

Directly from the Tat’s Deli Press Release:

Grand Re-Opening, New Location
Tuesday, June 4, 2010

Tat’s Delicatessen

159 Yesler Way, Seattle, WA 98104

206-264-TATS

http://tatsdeli.com/

YOU ARE INVITED TO OUR:
Opening Reception Party on Thursday, June 3rd, 2010
Time: 6pm - 8pm
Ages: All Ages Encouraged!
Food and Refreshments will be provided!

All of us at Tat’s would like to thank all our loyal customers for their support over our first five years.  We would not be where we are at without the great word of mouth advertising!

We are very excited to announce the relocation of our new store in Pioneer Square at 159 Yesler Way, in April 2010.   The space will be even bigger and better than our old spot.  The new Tat’s Deli will seat 50 and we will feature the addition of Beer and Wine, as well as extended hours that will include dinner service and Saturdays!  We also offer catering as well as free delivery on any order for 10 or more.

About Us:

TAT’S East Coast Delicatessen was started by Brian Tatman & Jason Simodejka in the spring of 2004. Both Brian (Tat) and Jason grew up on the East Coast in the Philadelphia and New Jersey areas and moved to Seattle circa 1996. It didn’t take long to realize that Seattle wasn’t taking full advantage of the tasty culinary treats that their hometowns had to offer. After years of searching for the perfect location, testing recipes and coordinating vendors to supply us with truly authentic product lines, we finally began to realize our dream.

Now Tat has new co-owner Mike Sichel, who has been at Tat’s since its inception, and has stepped into Jason’s shoes now that he’s moved back to the East Coast.

We found a classic spot in Pioneer Square where we saw our opportunity to bring the tastes of home to Seattle. Through hard work, determination and support of both family and friends we began to serve Seattle a little taste of what the East Coast has to offer. We hope you’re ready!

Tat’s  Deli Grand Re-Opening!

For further information on the deli, catering or delivery: http://tatsdeli.com/.  For contact information: tat@tatsdeli.com.

Mission Statement:

TAT’S Delicatessen strives to be an authentic reproduction of the East Coast deli experience in both product and atmosphere. We are dedicated to providing a diverse menu of high quality eat-in, take-out and delivery meals using only the freshest ingredients, always served in a friendly, efficient manner.

Directly from the Metropole Press Release:

THE METROPOLE TAKES NEW SHAPE AS A COMMUNITY PUB

To Enrich and Benefit Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside

Vancouver, BC – Donnelly Hospitality Management, together with its charitable arm, the Donnelly Fund, is pleased to announce that the Metropole is re-launching as the Metropole Community Pub. The pub will donate 25% of its annual profits to organizations in the Downtown Eastside that are dedicated to making a difference.

The Metropole was established in the historic neighbourhood of Gastown in 1906 and is one of Vancouver’s oldest surviving pubs. DHM is proud that the Metropole remains a longstanding member of a community that has suffered many ups and downs.

In recent decades Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside has fallen on hard times,
experiencing the highest poverty, crime and drug-use rates in Canada. DHM Founder and President Jeff Donnelly believes that a healthy, vibrant community is essential to successful business and is passionate about supporting organizations dedicated to serving and enriching the neighbourhood and the lives of its residents. The Metropole Community Pub and the Donnelly Fund are currently assisting groups such as United We Can, the Downtown Eastside Women’s Center, the Vancouver Food Bank and Gallery Gachet.

The Metropole Community Pub will host the upcoming community event Mindscape: The Art of the Gallery Gachet Collective. The event will feature an art exhibit and auction that benefits the philanthropic initiatives of Gallery Gachet, a unique artist institution in Vancouver’s downtown Eastside. Mindscape: The Art of the Gallery Gachet Collective takes place on Wednesday, May 19, 2010 from 7pm – 10pm. Tickets are $10 and available at www.clubzone.com, at the Metropole Community Pub (320 Abbot Street) and at the door on May 19th.

Directly from the Blue Eyed Mary’s Press Release:

New Blue Eyed Mary’s Menu:

Starters

Asparagus And Wild Mushroom Soup $8

Greens With A Creamy Feta Dressing And
A Charred Lemon Vinaigrette And Savoury Baklava $9

Roasted Tomato, Spinach and Pancetta on Brioche
with Lemon Aioli and Basil Oil $11

Main Courses
Apple, Swiss Chard And Ontario Cheddar Ravioli
With Toasted Almond Salsa And Riesling Cream $19

Pistachio Stuffed Free Range Chicken Breast With
Carrot And Sweet Potato Tart And Maple Vinaigrette $22

Citrus Glazed Lamb Shank With
A Root Vegetable Falafel And Minted Yoghurt $24

Seared Sablefish With A Ginger And Lemongrass
Broth, Asian Greens, Mushrooms And Rice Noodles $25

Grilled Bison Flatiron Steak with Little Qualicum Blue Cheese Butter and Horseradish Mashed Potatoes $25

Dessert

Tin Roof Sundae $8              Chocolate Cream Pie $8

Lemon Cake with Lemonade Sorbet $8

Directly from the Road Apparel Press Release:

A Sinful Treat Chocolate Lovers Won’t Want To Miss

ROAD Apparel’s chocolate event is on! Shoppers will receive complimentary chocolate port and cheesecake tastings with a special musical performance by flamenco guitarist Andre Feriante during the limited time half-off sale.

Seattle, WA May 12, 2010- The local men’s clothing line ROAD Apparel presents “A Chocolate Lover’s Treat,” on May 26 and 27 featuring complimentary samples of chocolate port from Mission Mountain Winery, supremely decedent chocolate cheesecakes from The Confectional, and an exclusive musical performance by internationally renowned guitarist Andre Feriante. During the in-store event, shoppers will get a chance to take advantage of a buy one ROAD item, get one half-off sale.

The Mission Mountain Winery’s popular Cocoa Vin will be provided by winemaker Tom Campbell, who has received global recognition, winning over 100 medals for his exceptional wines. He is also the director of wine production for Woodhouse Family Estates in Woodinville , WA and Tanjuli in Zillah, WA. Visitors have come to visit the Mission Mountain Winery from across the map, including from all 50 states and 30 foreign countries.

To pair with the wine, guests will be able to try the popular Quadruple Chocolate cheesecake provided by the acclaimed specialty bakery in Pike Place Market, The Confectional. For this cheesecake, the dark chocolate is blended right into the batter with chunks of milk, white and an extra-dark chocolate added to the center for an extra chocolaty surprise and finished with a thick chocolate crust.

Internationally renowned virtuoso guitarist Andre Feriante will be featured on May 26 from 6-7 p.m. at the Seattle location in City Centre.  With over 20 years of performing, Andre Feriante has left his musical mark on the classical, world music, and fusion scenes. His latest album, “Bohemian Boulevard”, debuted at No. 1 on the world and ambient radio charts and went on to win “Best World Album” in the New Age Reporter’s 2006 Lifestyle Awards.

ROAD is known for coming up with enticing events for its loyal following.  Of course, ROAD is all about men’s apparel, but it doesn’t end there. From charitable work with the Hope Heart Institute to featuring musical performances in Benaroya Hall, ROAD once again proves its mass innovative appeal.

“As a company goal, we are constantly striving to bring consumers new shopping experiences. In fact, ROAD’s retail business model is rooted in bringing people and unique platforms together,” said Raj Shah, CEO of ROAD.

While guests enjoy the port and cheesecake, they are also welcome to shop at ROAD and participate in a special shopping offer- buy any ROAD labeled, regular priced item and get the second one half-off. This is a tasting that chocolate lover’s won’t want to miss and is a great offer for women and children looking for gifts in time for Father’s Day coming up on June 20.

ROAD will host “A Chocolate Lover’s Treat” at the Seattle store on Wednesday, May 26 and move the party to the Bellevue store location the following day. Both events will take place from 5-8 p.m.

Directly from the DHM Press Release:

Michael Knowlson Joins Donnelly Hospitality Management as Executive Chef
DHM Takes Pub Food to Fresh New Heights

Vancouver, BC – Donnelly Hospitality Management, the company behind Vancouver’s leading nightclubs and pubs, welcomes Michael Knowlson as the company’s newly appointed Executive Chef.

In his new role helming DHM’s talented kitchen brigade, London, England-born Knowlson is responsible for taking the pubs’ menus to a new level by creating simple-yet-inventive, well-executed pub fare. Knowlson is focused on showcasing high-quality ingredients that are fresh, local, seasonal and organic.

In keeping with Knowlson’s fresh approach to pub food, DHM is pleased to announce that all Donnelly Pubs are Ocean Wise and Green Table Certified.

DHM is committed to helping protect the environment through a variety of in-house programs, and is proud to be the nightlife industry leader in sustainability initiatives. The Donnelly Pub Group and Granville Room actively participate in the Vancouver Aquarium Ocean Wise Program, which encourages and promotes sustainable seafood options on restaurant menus, as well as the use of regional, in-season food products where possible.

As of May 14th, all Donnelly Pubs will be Green Table Certified, and have implemented extensive initiatives to reduce waste, conserve water and energy, and reduce pollutants. The Green Table programs include recycling of plastic, glass and paper products; installing energy efficient thermostats, lighting and timers; use of biodegradable chemicals and cleaning products; phasing out plastic materials and replacing them with recyclable materials; and increased staff awareness and training.

Executive Chef Michael Knowlson has served as Executive Chef at Bacchus Restaurant in the Wedgewood Hotel and at Sequoia Grill at the Teahouse in Stanley Park. Prior to moving to Vancouver, he served as Executive Chef of cutting-edge London restaurants First Floor and 192, along with the private Groucho Club, where he cooked for such notables as Bill Clinton, Tom Cruise, Julia Roberts and Al Pacino.

Donnelly Hospitality Management (DHM) is a creative and diverse management company. DHM owns and operates award-winning nightclubs: Pop Opera, Republic, Bar None, and the Modern; popular pubs: The Bimini, The Calling, The Library Square Public House, Smiley’s Pub, the Lamplighter, the Academic, and Cinema Public House; the popular cocktail lounge The Granville Room, and the Metropole Community Pub. The company’s attention to detail, impressive entertainment calendars, modern designs, community and charity support, and strict policies on patron safety have earned them a reputation as an industry leader in Vancouver. For more information please visit: www.dhmbars.ca

Directly from the Bastille Cafe and Bar Press Release:

SPRINGTIME BRINGS MONDAY FAMILY STYLE DINNERS, OUTDOOR PATIO DINING AND SEASONAL NEW DISHES TO THE MENU

DINERS WILL ENJOY TRADITIONAL FRENCH CUISINE FEATURING FRESH PRODUCE FROM THE ROOFTOP GARDEN AND BALLARD FARMER’S MARKET

May 6, 2010 (Seattle, WA)- April showers brings May flowers, along with an infusion of sunshine and the kick-off to a season full of delicious spring produce. On Monday, May 10, Bastille is launching the first of its bi-monthly family style dinners utilizing bounty from the Ballard Farmer’s Market, local farmers and Bastille’s rooftop garden offering herbs, produce and honey. Look for Washington State asparagus, rabbit, quail, spring onions and morels to take center stage. Bastille’s family style dinners will consist of a 3-course, 6-dish feast at their communal table for up to 18 diners, with one seating at 6:30 pm. The May 10th dinner will be $45 per person (plus tax and gratuity) with wine pairings available for an additional charge.

Starting May 10, weather permitting, Bastille’s patio will open to take advantage of those much coveted, beautiful Seattle days. Beginning in June, the patio will be fully enclosed making for comfortable seating during slightly chillier days and evenings, with sliding panels to let the sun shine in when it’s blissfully warm.

Bastille’s new spring menu takes its’ cues from seasonally available ingredients blended with traditional French Bistro fare.  Chef Shannon Galusha adds an array of salads including an Artichoke and Wild Watercress Salad –baby artichokes à la Grecque, green olive purée, pine nuts, hardboiled egg yolk,  Asparagus Salad with white anchovies, seven-minute egg, shallot vinaigrette, a sumptuous new sandwich; Brick-Pressed Pork Confit Sandwich- Carlton Farms pork, Gruyère & Dijon mustard with cornichons and aioli. Entrée selections will include a Spring Vegetable Ragout - Spring market vegetables with Olsen Farms potatoes & champignons, Lamb Paillard- Grilled thin-sliced leg of lamb from Martinez Farms with turnips, carrots & pearl onions and Braised Pork Shank- Carlton Farms pork, butter-braised spring onions, pea vines, pickled turnips & English peas.

About Bastille Café & Bar
Bastille Café & Bar is located at 5307 Ballard Avenue in Seattle and is open 7 days a week from 4:30 pm – 10:00 pm., with dinner service beginning at 5:30 pm.  Brunch is served on Sundays from 10:00 am-3:00 pm, and late-night dining is available until 1:00 am. (206) 453-5014 www.bastilleseattle.com

GK Media Inc is pleased to present 3 new Donnelly Pub Group Dine Out recipes:

Beef Carpaccio and Arugula Salad from The Calling Public House.

Maple Glazed Pacific Salmon from The Academic Public House.

Apple and Berry Pie from Cinema Public House

To download all of the recipes please use the recipe iPod guide or go to the Recipes page.