Birthday Dinner at Napa Rose

Earlier this year Marc and I attended a cooking class with the Executive Chef of Napa Rose at the Grand Californian. We had a good time then and it was mentioned that we should come back one day for dinner at the Chef's table.

For my birthday, I decided that would be an excellent idea. I made reservations and Marc, Kyle and Rhonda were there for a wonderful night of culinary delights!!

Chef Andrew came and greeted us when we first sat down. He asked each of us our likes and dislikes in which Marc and Rhonda offered their preferences. As oppossed to Kyle and I smiling and letting the Chef know to just "bring it on!" Chef Andrew turned to Marc, smiled and pointed his pen and said, "lamb, right??" "No way!!", answered Marc.

Off the Chef went barking orders to the sous chefs!!... and here is what we got:

First course
Jenny: Shrimp and Halibut cerviche with cucumber gaspacho
Marc: Rabbit Bratwurst with red cabbage slaw
Rhonda: Heirloom tomato salad with deep fried brie
Kyle: Seared halibut with lobster tempura

Second course
Jenny: Duck Confit
Marc: ??
Rhonda: White and Green Asparagus - 2 ways
Kyle: Braised beef with brocolli

Third course
Jenny: Mushroom soup with Capaccino foam
Marc: Red Pepper Soup
Rhonda: Red Pepper Soup
Kyle: Mushroom soup with Capaccino foam

Fourth course
Jenny: Seared Venison with Pea and Potato Salad
Marc: Peppered New York Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Rhonda: Braised Beef with Scalloped Potatoes
Kyle: Filet Mignon with Macaroni Cheese Rice

Fifth course
Jenny: Banana and Chocolate Shots
Marc: Vanilla Creme Brulee
Rhonda: Flourless Chocolate Cake
Kyle: Banana and Chocolate Shots

Goodness, that was awesome!! Bon Apetit everyone!!

A birthday to remember...

This year, the Fourth of July was on a Wednesday. I decided to throw a Birthday BBQ with a Hawaiian/tropical theme! Initially, I planned it to be an intimate set of two dozen of my closest friends. Well, after word got out and with nothing to do on a Wednesday, the invite list swelled to over 70+. Nevertheless, the day was hot, the food kept coming and everyone had a good time. Some of my swing dancing friends loving hauled in a beautiful wood dance floor.

I want to thank everyone who attend and made this day one to remember and a special thanks to Marc whom, without his words of love and encouragement on a very stressful day, I would not have survived this milestone occasion.

Also to Eunice, who kept me hydrated and, at one point, kept me from almost succumbing to heat stroke. Thanks sweetie!

Thanks again one and all for your cute cards and emails on my Birthday!

Love,

Jenn