caseys's Profile
Top Chef Masters Semi-Final 3rd Round (spoilers)
I'm not a big fan if Chiarello either, but everyone here thinks he is just a TV chef. He graduated from the CIA and has been an highlly acclaimed executive chef for years, openining Tra Vigne in Napa Valley, a top rated restaurant. This may not exuse his behavior, but do remember he is more than a TV chef.
Beemster Graskaas cheese
It is a pleasent, mild cheese that I occaisionally enjoy as a nice change from more 'complex' cheeses. But it is also simply overly marketed by Beemster as being special and of limited production so as to increase demand (and price).
WTF Saveur: Tamale Tart?????
It is a recipe from Stephen Pyle's restaurants that he has served and highly regarded for years. It is perhaps a misnomer in that all it has to do with a tamale is the masa crust but it is none the less delicious at his restaurant.
Franschhoek
Would also highly recomend Reuben's, outstanding food and service in a relaxing atmosphere. The Tasting Room served excellent food and wine,. It seems to strive to be a three star type of restaurant it is rather formal compared to most area restaurants. For lunch I highly recommend La Petite Ferme.
Johannesburg staying one night at Intercontinental
We stayed there one night to recover from that same flight and actually had a very lovely dinner at the hotel.
Winelands-recommendations for winery visits
Boekenhoutskloof - outstanding Cabernet and Syrah. La Petite Ferme - great shiraz, and white blends, also serves some of the best lunch in the region.
oysters and seafood in Paris
Will be in Paris in a couple of weeks staying in the 5th. Need some recs for the best oysters and seafood in general while there. Doesn't need to be in our neighborhood and price is not a major concern, we are looking for the best overall experience.
Alphonso Mangoes in Dallas
The Plano Central Market has them. I assume the other locations would have them also.
