frankly speaking

I was thrilled to be on the invite list for TRU’s 10th anniversary celebration. Great wine and passed small bites (LOVED LOVED LOVED the English Pea soup served in Versace Demitasse cups and the Foie Grais mousse on toast points). There were kitchen tours and cooking demo’s as well.

This is probably my all time favorite dining establishment. Shawn and I celebrated our 15th Anniversary here, and took our dear friend Margaret her for her big Bday a few years back. The food is amazing, but the presentations are what I really am blown away by. The Crystal Staircase of caviar is always such a treat. The service is beyond outstanding. We always order the “spontaneous tasting menu” as you never know what is coming next.

My ISES chapter met today at the Chicago Botanical Gardens (www.chicagobotanic.org) I have done numerous weddings at the Gardens, and am proud to say the first Commitment Ceremony a few years back. (Katie and Paula got married this year legally in Iowa, YEAH!) We enjoyed a tram tour and saw parts of the Garden I never knew existed.

We then enjoyed a presentation called “What color is your Brain?” by Shelia Glazov. (www.sheliaglazov.com) She then signed copies of her book. I am a cross between Blue and Yellow, but that doesn’t make me a green!

Then we enjoyed a great lunch by my colleauge Nit Vyas of Calihan Catering (www.calihancatering.com) It was as “spin” on Indian food, and served in a Tiffan, a 4 part, lunchbox (which is what Tiffin means in India) that is stacked similar to a Binto Box. The top one was a great salad of Tomatoes, cucumbers and onions. The second revealed an Indian Chicken Entree with rice. The Thrid was Salmon with string beans and lentil beans (which were spicy, not for me!) The last was a Blueberry tart, that looked good, but I passed on it. (Still watching!)

A great afternoon, even though chilly for June was enjoyed.

I was among the “chosen” to attend a wonderful evening courtesy of one of my favorite caterers n the city— Blue Plate. I have been working with them for years. And it was nice to be the guest for a change. So, their “Evening of Culinary Innovations” was the theme for the evening.

It was held at the Ivy Room at Tree Studios. Started in the courtyard with a great selection of passed HD’s and cocktails. I had my usual champagne. Both drink and eat–YUM.

We then moved in for dinner. Custom square tables of 8, with cool acrylic chairs filled thr room. Spheres of Peacock feathers hung above every table, along with a large center squared arrangment of purple sweet peas and green vibernum. Draping in Peacock blue and crystal chandeliers with purple shades (I think these were the same ones I used at my 5/9 wedding at the Four Seasons) flanked the perimeter of the room.

Dinner was a feast for not only the palette, but for the eyes. I always tell clients you eat with your eyes. The first course was a Gargouillou Salad of Fava beans, pea tendrils, asparagus, thumbelina carrots, popcorn shoots, pink peppercorns, edible flowers, with a carrot-ginger reduction. Along the rim of the plate were smoked Hawaiian Sea Salt, Meyer Lemon Compote and Toasted Flax seeds. This was one of the most unique salads I have ever had.

Entree was Pan Roasted Black Cod, Toasted Barley Risotto with Pickled Mushrooms, Baby Bok Choy and Miso. Again. wonderful.

Dessert (which I don’t eat anymore, only on vacation or very rare special occasions) was served via a buffet. Guests then danced to the Ken Arlen Orchestra (Another Frank Fav).

A lovely evening and real treat to be “on the other side of the fence”.

It’s really funny, my friend Joe and I last Monday were discussing why Bridal Gowns are not available for rent, like Tuxedos. I told him that there was one shop in Chicago many years ago, but it fizzled. The very next day I received an email announcing the Opening of BADC (Borrow a dress couture). I checked it out on Tuesday. I met with the owners Bree and Teonna. While I was really disappointed they are not carring wedding gowns (maybe one day), I liked what I saw. It could give many of Brides, MOG’s and MOB’s the chance to rent a designer dress, for a fraction of the cost.

They carry things that would be great for a Rehearsal Dinner or for Mom’s to wear. Or, great for 2nd time brides who don’t want to don a wedding gown again. Great labels of well known designers in a variety of colors, and styles.

There boutique is very simple, white walls, so the garments really stand out. I thought the pricing was reasonable. They carrry a select set of sizes, plus maternity.

The are located at 3221 N Sheffield, just north of Belmont. 773-904-8735
www.shopbadc.com