Monday, November 1, 2010

Rising Stars Revue Gala: Part 1

The atmosphere at the Rising Stars gala was all smiles.  The chefs were excited to show off their dishes and humbled from being honored with the Rising Star Awards.  Not only was the food amazing, but the views at the Charlie Palmer Steak House are unbeatable.  This year marked the 3rd Rising Stars in DC and the event was a huge success!  There is no doubt that these chefs will be the future leaders of the culinary scene.  

Emily and I didn't waste any time...we went straight to tasting dishes and drinks.  I asked the chefs, "how did you react when you found out you won the Rising Star Award?"  We got some great responses below.

We began our tasting with Hawaiian Hearts of Palm Salad, Thai Basil, Cucumber, Mango, Coriander Berries, Basil Seeds, Heirloom Tomato Water, and Hearts of Palm Sorbet from Benjamin Lambert, Restaurant Nora.  

When asked about the award, Ben said, "Most of the people in DC didn't even know who I was.  I'm stoked."  His dish paired beautifully with a 2009 Christian Lauverjet Sancerre Moulin de Vrelliere wine.  I've only been to Restaurant Nora once for a bridal shower luncheon, but now I want to go back for more!

Dupont Circle
2132 Florida Ave NW
Washington, DC 20008
www.noras.com 
Restaurant Nora on Urbanspoon

Karen Urie Shields, Town House Restaurant (Virginia), made Parsnip Candy, Coconut, Yeast Sponge, Banana, Maca Crumbs, and Lemongrass.  
She said she was really excited about winning. 
 
Next we met Greg Engert, Birch  and Barley and ChurchKey (Washington, DC).  He showed us some beer pairings with the chefs' dishes.

Logan Circle
1337 14th Street
Washington, DC 20005
www.birchandbarley.com 
Birch & Barley on Urbanspoon


This was just the beginning... More about the Rising Stars Revue tomorrow.

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