Her husband Matthew approached me about six weeks ago and asked if I had a Chef friend that I could recommend to prepare the dinner. He was great about insisting that I not even think about it because he wanted Lisa and I as guests and not working. For those who cook, and those who are married to us know, it's not about the work, it's the way we express our love through our food. Cooking Christine's dream dinner was not work, it was an honor. After some discussion and compromise Matthew acquiesced, if and only if I brought some help to allow for Lisa and I to enjoy the dinner as much as the rest of the guests. I then went out and put together a "BIG NIGHT DREAM TEAM". The first element was my bestest Sous Chef/Pastry Chef ever Wendy Matthews. Rounding out the team was Josh and his beautiful fiance Erin who attended to all the guests food and beverage needs and then Josh rocked it out American Idol style on the Mike.
The guest begin to arrive in their finest threads.
Wendy, Erin, and Joshua. It was amazing how well all of these guys pulled together. Our first time working as a team in smoking hot, tight kitchen and it was like we have been doing it for years.
Searing Foie Gras
A five star table and backdrop for dinner.
The guests take their seats and await the birthday girls arrival.
Matthew escorts his beautiful bride.
First Course: Decadence - Seared Foie Gras with Carmelized Watermelon and Pickled Pearl Onion, Foie Gras Creme Brule with fresh berries, Foie Gras Terrine, Black Truffle on Sourdough Crisp.
Christine and her best friend Pam showing off the Threads!
Matthew rocked out the grapes, and nailed every wine pairing!
The birthday girl's sister Dori and her Swayzesk husband Rich.
As we dipped into twilight the barn started to glow, or was it just the wine talking.
Second Course - Seared tuna caparcio with heirloom tomato and oil cured olive compote, smoked olive oil, balsamic must and baby basil.
Christine and I watch Wendy genache the German Chocolate Cakes.
Entree: Herb and Pepper crusted Petite Filet with Sweet Corn and Lobster Risotto, Haricot Verte and a Roasted Wild Mushroom Glace du Veau.
Shane and Allison. There is no better feeling for this cook, than watching, and listening, to Shane eat my food. I have never met anyone who loves food more!
LuAnn and Dana enjoying a pause in the feast.
Christine's favorite - German Chocolate Cake - Wendy Rocked Out!!!!!!!!!
Lisa and Christine getting ready for some serious dancing!
Joshua laying down the Vibe for all the couples in the crowd.
And then we danced the night away!
A big thank you to Matthew for allowing me to add my personal gift to Christine in the form of this dinner, and it was amazing to see how much he did to make this a perfect night. I cannot think of a better way for great friends to celebrate a special day! Happy Birthday Christine!!!!
