Windows Catering Launches "Windows After-Hours"

So you think you can cook!  Hmm,  that sounds like the name of a new middle America reality TV contest show.  Before someone runs to Fox with this, you can get a head start on your future fellow contestants (or just become a better cook) and better your skills here in your own backyard - and then you can enter a reality show.  Check out the latest press release passed to us from Windows Catering.

Contact:
Alina Zhukovskaya
5724 General Washington Drive
Alexandria, VA 22312
T: 703.752.9432
E: AlinaZ@catering.com

Windows Catering Launches “Windows After-Hours”
Unique group cooking classes that build stronger relationships with clients, co-workers and friends
Alexandria, VA – Windows Catering Company, launches its “Windows After-Hours” division that offers hands-on group cooking classes with world-class chefs – Pasquale Ingenito and Laurent Lhuillier. Companies looking for a way to build stronger relationships with their teams and clients can cook together and enjoy the fruits of their labor in one of Windows’ the state-of-the-art tasting rooms. “I feel like I am on the Food Network. This is very exciting!” commented a guest at the dessert workshop with Chef Lhuiller, 2005 USA Pastry Champion, who is a frequent guest on the popular cooking channel.

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Spring chickens…

Speaking of getting older, there are few birthdays from last week the Punch would like to mention: John Mason, Christopher Tavlarides, Danielle Spira, and James Augustus Seymour Gregg Van Wynen (yes, that is his name). This week we have Roby “Beard & Glasses” Penn IV, Ashley Gross, Robyn Bishop, Tricia Lilly and Wright Sigmund.  Whew!  Parties galore …

The Inn turned 30

Last Wednesday evening fans of the Washington, Virginia institution, The Inn at Little Washington, came out in droves (and with their checkbooks and credit cards) to pay homage to the “Pope of the Culinary World”: Patrick O’Connell.  But it wasn’t just those who worship the ground he walks on, although he truly deserves it - hey, thirty years for one place to be in business in the restaurant and hospitality industry as an independent proprietor and Chef is a LONG LONG LONG (did I say “long”?) time. Ask anyone who is in that world or who follows it. Those who are fans of the great work that Kate Roberts’ international non-profit initiative Five & Alive were in attendance as well.

(Pictured above: Patrick address his 500 fans, including the great Tim and Nina Zagat who publicly congratulated him; below: Washington Ballet dancers greet guests as the Dom Perignon VIP reception)

There were the who’s who of Washington society and media as well as a few local celebrity chefs like Vidalia’s RJ Cooper III (James Beard Award winner) and Restaurant Eve’s Cathal Armstrong (Rammy’s 2007 Chef of the Year).  There were also several luminaries and contemporaries of O’Connell himself.  This night was not only to celebrate 30 years of the Inn, but to honor many of the important people in the foodie industry who have pioneered the way for others and continue to do so, all so we can benefit.

(Pictured from top to bottom: The area’s more prominent Live Auctioneer gets the crowd riled up; Victoria Michael, Patrick O’Connell and James V. Kimsey; dessert anyone?; a natural born centerpiece)

The most exciting part of the night was the Live Auction, where 6 of the chefs who were on the list of honorees and were actually present (including Thomas Keller, Alice Waters, and Charlie Trotter), got up on the stage and playfully kept the bidding going by adding more and more to the prize.  Dinner for 4 at each of the chef’s restaurants was one thing (remember, you have to fly to most of these places) but how about the kicker that pushed the bidding war between two people over the edge:  A naked photo of Patrick O’Connell himself on the chair where he was interviewed for the movie of his history.  Wow. Would you pay $105,000 for that? Apparently someone did … and we thank him, as this money all goes to Five & Alive - an avenue for children five and under to stay alive in third world countries through clean drinking water, vital nutrition and vaccinations.

From the ornate gold frame on stage, to the natural centerpieces, to the many many many courses all paired with wines, to the very attentive service and everything in between, this event was absolutely one of the best in Washington.  The vibe in the air was so positive and joyous.  Everyone was so proud of Patrick, who was humble and honored.  He never once took credit for his success, he always came back to his staff and his team, which made him an even classier act.  We hear of great future ideas out there in Washington, VA and hope to see him again in 10 more years to celebrate.

P.S. - one question … where was the great Michel Richard? hmmm….

For more information on Five & Alive and how you can get involved, please to go http://projects.psi.org/site/PageNavigator/FiveAlive

Fashion For Paws - Recap

is on its way to you in the form of a video, thanks to Garrette Moore and DC Compass, however, for the 1100 attendees, this year the Washington Humane Society’s Fashion for Paws was a whole lot better than its inaugural year.  Of course, that is common for any event in this town, they only get better and better (hopefully).  The Italian Embassy was a gorgeous venue that was well fit for the stage, raised catwalk and tables (that were purchased for a premium price),standing attendees and sea of photographers. Tara deNicolas, Aba Kwawu (who dressed the models), Saks Fifth Avenue Chevy Chase, Toka Salon (who did hair and makeup - all though I went to Jean and Kari at Erwin Gomez, thank you!), all of the sponsors, the Italian Embassy, the Ambassador and his wife, and of course Chair Michael Saylor (who matched what the models raised), deserve a major thank you. 

All in all, this event raised more than any other event the WHS has produced, a whopping $255,000, with about 50 models walking, some with dashingly dressed doggies and some without. 

The question now still remains, “What Embassy next year?” As we found out from Ms. deNicolas, the WHS plans on doing the Embassy tour with matching theme in tow, which is a fantastic way to check out many of these majestic buildings. 

The video should be up this week …

Fashion for Paws - tonight (Sat) Italian Embassy

Great luck to all the “models” who will walk the runway tonight all in the name of the Washington Humane Society and its programs.  The fundraising models really outdid themselves this year, some pulling in over $10,000.  Congratulations in advance to the Washingtonian Model Citizens, male and female, who will be announced tonight on stage and crowned by Chair Michael Saylor.  About 1000 people will gather tonight at the Italian Embassy to see Saks Fifth Avenue Chevy Chase’s spring lines and doggies that we hope are all housetrained.  The reception starts at 7pm, so remember to take into account the strict security at the Italian Embassy … until tomorrow …

indebleu Chef’s Table reviewed

There are very few more decedent dining experiences to behold than the “Chef’s Table”.  Sometimes you luck out and get a multi-coursed meal prepared by several Executive Chefs at an event or fundraiser (oh the gluttony!) or even have a Chef in your own home ripping apart your kitchen before dazzling you and your friends.  Each of those are wonderful gastronomical moments to be sure, but I still rank a Chef’s Table within the Chef’s own restaurant high on the scale.

Tuesday evening, some friends and I got to take in both visually and physically, Chef Michael Hartzer’s talents at the one-of-a-kind Chef’s Table at indebleu.  The table itself is actually one-of-a-kind, as we were told there is no other table in the country that rotates from the dining room to the kitchen (your server uses a wheel to turn your table, not even a button, so it is low-tech, but provides entertainment because you watch him grunting away).  The nook where the table is located is away from the dining room upstairs, so it offers much privacy, low “mood” lighting by way of a stunning chandelier that appears to resemble a garlic clove, and a comfy semi-circle bench, versus chairs, so there is a true sense of intimacy.  While the table seats 6 comfortably, 4 is a nice number as well.  (Perhaps the only drawback of this table is when you want to book more than a group of 6 for a private Chef’s Table.) 

(Pictured above: my veggie dish, dosa with wild mushrooms, smoked paprika, asparagus, pea and ginger coulis and below: Chef’s awesome rack of lamb with stir fried baby bok choy)

Chef Hartzer prepared a 5 course tasting menu that screamed: “I am innovative, talented and love to create, hear me roar!”  It was as if the lion (soft spoken and gentle that is) was released (he received much of his training while working under Michel Richard at Citronelle).  The service was impeccable, and while we kept saying, “Turn us into the kitchen, turn us!”, our server smiled and said patiently, “Not yet! Soon.”  I am assuming that is part of the anticipation.  When the turning did happen, we couldn’t help but “oooh and awwww”, as silly as that sounds.  Don’t worry that you will be thrown around like the Teacup Ride at Disney.  The turn is nice and slow - no waves in your wine glass.  Then at the close of the meal, we were turned back again for our conversation to continue without having to watch the kitchen staff clean up. 

While I would love to go into every single bite of every course, I will spare you and give you some highlights, however, I would suggest to you 110% to book the Chef’s Table.  The entire evening was a perfect experience from the food, the presentation, the wine pairings, the service, the turning table, to the talk with the Chef.  DC Magazine didn’t rate it #1 for no reason.

(Pictured above: Duck two ways and below: a few wine glasses left on the table after we turned into the kitchen with Chef Hartzer on the move)

Highlights (please note, I was given Chef’s vegetarian courses which were really outstanding): butternut squash soup with lemongrass, pickled jalapeno and dried lentils which was paired with an ‘05 Alma Rossa Pinot Gris; Potato “Risotto” with peas and carrots paired with an ‘06 A to Z Chardonnay; Duo of Duck, slow roasted breast with brule’ oranges, orange duck jus and cashew crumbles and Roasted Fois Gras in a spiced port reduction with cocoa nibs and poached figs paired with ‘06 Shooting Star Blue Franc.  There was more more more (including rack of lamb and raspberry point oysters) but I would be remiss if I skipped mention of the dessert. 

We were presented four versions of indebleu’s meal closures: Tea creme brule’, mango mango, their opera cake and my personal favorite, “spaghetti and meatballs” (see the photo).  These were paired with ‘05 Pearmund Late Harvest Viognier.

All in all, it was one of the best Chef’s Tables I have experienced and my friends suggested the same.  You will be extremely full, extremely satisfied and extremely happy as you roll home. 

(Pictured above: indebleu’s traditional ice cream spaghetti and donut like meatballs and below: the stunning opera cake)

For more information on Chef Michael Hartzer’s Private Chef’s Table please go to www.indebleu.net.

(**indebleu is a Special Highlighted Partner of Pamela’s Punch**)

Fashion + Futbol: April 30th Many Hats Fundraiser at L2

The Many Hats Institute is a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the conditions of youth and children worldwide.  On the eve of April 30th 7pm - 9pm at L2 (3315 Cady’s Alley) in Georgetown, the MHI will host a fundraiser called “Fashion + Futbol”.  The money raised at this intimate event will be put towards youth sports, athletics, dance, and nutrition globally. 

Enjoy a night of Cabana Cachaca cocktails, lively spring outfits from two Georgetown institutions, Benetton and Sisley, and lite fare from Leopold’s.  A $40 donation at the door is requested and valet parking is available.

Please RSVP to rsvp@themanyhats.org or for more information, please go to www.themanyhats.org. 

New Chef at Hudson Restaurant & Lounge

It must be spring in DC.  Baseball, blooming cherry blossom buds, if-y weather and the executive chef shuffle.  But hey, that is what continues to make the culinary experience in the Nation’s Capital so interesting.  We are always on our toes waiting for the bigger and better and so happy when we receive it.

CONTACT:
Wendy J. Gordon
Flash Communications
202-412-6268 (cell)
202-776-0136 (office)

Alan Popovsky, owner of Hudson Restaurant and Lounge announced the appointment of Ryan Arnold as the new Executive Chef of the West End neighborhood restaurant.

Most recently of the Brasserie in New York City, Arnold honed his skills in kitchens from Paris to the North Carolina Hills at Bridge Street Café and, prior to that, a seven year stint in New Orleans, serving with William Wells both at Drake’s and at the city’s historic Yacht Club. 

Arnold brings his love of nature’s simple ingredients to Hudson’s menu where his passion for simple preparations and flavors, unencumbered by heavy sauces or artificial ingredients, shines through in dishes that will be recognizable and approachable, yet contemporary—“evolved American” cuisine.  Examples will include lobster risotto, oil cured tuna and grilled salmon with hearts of palm.  Dishes will change seasonally based on availability of ingredients and feature local products with an emphasis on the organic.  Arnold’s menu will be introduced at the beginning of May. 

Hudson is located at 2030 M Street NW and is open for lunch, dinner, late night dining and Sunday brunch—inside or al fresco, with hours on Monday-Thursday from 11:00 AM to midnight; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Sunday 10:00 AM to midnight.  For reservations or further information call 202-872-8700 or visit www.hudson-dc.com or www.opentable.com.
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Wanna play hooky today?

The long awaited opening of the Newseum (it seems like yesterday but yet 10 years ago that they closed down the Rosslyn site) in DC has finally come.  It is open today for free, so check out the seven layers of interesting content and delivery on 6th and Pennsylvania, NW.  If you have not yet been to The Source, we hear the leader of the “wolf” pack is in town for a few days.  By the way, if you miss today’s free museum day, you can come back tomorrow, but it will cost you $20 / adult.

After you spend the day at the Newseum, walk on up (it is rather nice out) to the Verizon Center to cheer on the Capitals as they enter the NHL Playoffs.  Be sure to wear your red - as tonight is another “Red Out” at the Center.   Rock the Red!

Local artist Howard Behrens at Broadway Galleries

In case you missed last Saturday’s “Meet the Artist” event at the Fairfax location of Broadway Gallery, we have a few photos for you to re-cap.  While Howard Behrens is locally based, he is a world renown painter - emphasis on the word “world”.  He receives his inspiration from his many global travels, capturing beautiful scenes for those of us who may never have the opportunity to visit these sumptuous parts of the world, on a canvas.

(Pictured above: the Fairfax gallery is filled with Behrens’ work and below: he and his wife Judi pose in front of one of his pieces)

For most of the early to late afternoon, Broadway Gallery’s friends and family, as well as Behrens fans, got to view his latest pieces and chat with the artist as well as his lovely wife Judi Behrens. 

Broadway Gallery, a full service art gallery, also offers art lovers other ways in which to mix and mingle with their peers.  Next Saturday the 19th, they will hold an “Appraisal Day”, again in the Fairfax location from 1pm-5pm.  Ben Hastings, a member of the International Society of Appraisers, will be on hand to give you and that piece you’ve always wondered about, a complimentary appraisal (limit 3 items per person, please).

But wait, there’s more!  April 25th is the gallery’s “Wine and Art After Dark” from 6pm - 8pm in Fairfax.  Taste wines from all over the world and lay eyes on lovely works while conversing with those who appreciate fine wines and art.  This is a free event and is sponsored by Broadway Gallery, Divas After Dark and the Traveling Vineyard. 

Please call 703.273.2388 for more information on any of these events, future shows and the galleries themselves or check out www.broadwaygalleries.net. Please tell them the Punch sent you!

(**Broadway Gallery is a Special Highlighted Partner of Pamela’s Punch**)