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2021 MICHELIN Guide to California Recognizes 114 Bay Area Restaurants

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SAN FRANCISCO (PRWEB) – The San Francisco Bay Area retained its distinction as the top destination in the U.S. for fine dining following the long-awaited unveiling of the 2021 MICHELIN Guide to California this month. The Bay Area enjoys the greatest concentration of Michelin three-star restaurants in the U.S. and the most Michelin-starred restaurants in California.

Six Bay Area restaurants received the coveted three Michelin stars in the 2021 MICHELIN Guide: Atelier Crenn, Benu, Quince, The French Laundry, SingleThread and Manresa. Eight restaurants were awarded two Michelin stars, including Birdsong, which added a second star.

Altogether, 50 Bay Area restaurants were awarded one or more Michelin stars in 2021, accounting for 56% of California’s 90 Michelin-starred restaurants.

Sublime Doesn’t Always Mean Expensive

While the Bay Area’s fine dining options stand out, visitors can experience plenty of mouthwatering cuisine at easily digestible price points. Michelin bestowed 64 Bay Area restaurants with its Bib Gourmand designation. This category celebrates restaurants offering “great food and value,” where a three-course meal can be enjoyed for around $40 or less, excluding tax and gratuity.

Out of the 147 restaurants in California receiving a Bib Gourmand, nearly 44% are in the San Francisco Bay Area, including 18 newcomers to the list such as Routier, Um.Ma and Dumpling Home.

The World’s 50 Best Restaurants

Only six U.S. restaurants landed on “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list in 2021 and three of them are in the San Francisco Bay Area. Benu and Atelier Crenn in San Francisco and SingleThread in Healdsburg ranked 28th, 48th and 37th, respectively.

San Francisco-based chef Dominique Crenn, owner of Atelier Crenn, Petit Crenn and Bar Crenn, also received this year’s Icon Award as “a true culinary leader giving a voice to the under-represented.”

New and Notable in San Francisco

The City by the Bay is a leader in culinary creativity, with chefs such as Dominique Crenn, Corey Lee, Brandon Jew, Ho Chee Boon, Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski leading the way. San Francisco’s innovative and diverse food scene is why the city is hailed as the “best foodie city” in the country by U.S. News & World Report. And even with the challenges of the pandemic, the city’s seen a slew of exciting restaurant openings in the last 18 months and many more are debuting soon.

A selection of restaurants that have opened or will launch soon include:

  • Mamahuhu, the casual eatery by chef Brandon Jew, opened in the Richmond in January 2020. His upscale Mister Jiu’s in Chinatown was San Francisco’s first Chinese restaurant to earn a Michelin star. Mamahuhu takes a modern spin on Chinese-American classics like kung pao chicken, mapo tofu and egg rolls, all with responsibly sourced ingredients.
  • The Anchovy Bar from Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski, the James Beard award-winning chef/owners of State Bird Provision, debuted in October 2020. Located in the Fillmore, the wine and seafood bar specializes in West Coast oysters, small fish and sustainably raised shellfish.
  • Showcasing the vibrant spirit of Peru, Jaranita in the Marina highlights popular Nikkei, Chifa, and Creole dishes. The Peruvian restaurant opened in January 2021.
  • Ernest, a new restaurant from chef Brandon Rice, opened in March 2021 in San Francisco’s Mission District. The market-driven menu features intense global flavors that reflect the way the chef loves to eat — fun and approachable yet refined “with elegant layers of familiar flavors done in a new way.”
  • The Tailor’s Son opened in March 2021. Located in the Fillmore, the cozy venue serves a savory menu of Northern Italian classics like risotto, fresh pastas, crostini, antipasti, and verdure and an extensive wine list highlighting the best biodynamic and organic wines from Italy.
  • Empress by Boon, the first solo project for Michelin-star chef Ho Chee Boon, the former international executive chef of Hakkasan, opened in Chinatown in June 2021. Housed in a former storied Chinese banquet hall that’s been exquisitely revamped, the restaurant features modern Cantonese dishes focusing on California ingredients.
  • Estiatorio Ornos, a Michael Mina Restaurant, opened in September in Mina’s former California Street flagship location in the Financial District. The restaurant brings to life the celebratory spirit of the Greek Isles, with flavorful Greek seafood dishes and relaxed Mediterranean-style hospitality.
  • Chef Tyler Florence’s first new restaurant in San Francisco in 11 years, Miller & Lux, opened in late September. Part of Thrive City, the development surrounding the Chase Center in Mission Bay, the 7,000-square-foot waterfront steakhouse was designed by global stylemaker Ken Fulk.
  • Boulevard, the 28-year-old San Francisco classic, reopened in September in the Embarcadero/Financial District with a new menu experience and a new look care of designer Ken Fulk. Serving quintessentially California cuisine, it now offers two dining experiences: an adaptable set price menu and an a la carte menu available at both the chef’s counter and the recently expanded bar and lounge.
  • Chef Corey Lee’s first Korean restaurant, San Ho Won, is slated to open in October in the Mission. Lee’s Benu was the first restaurant in San Francisco to receive three Michelin stars.
  • The Flour + Water Hospitality Group is targeting an October 2021 opening for its newest restaurant in the Mission, Penny Roma. The rustic Italian restaurant will feature an indoor-outdoor, open-kitchen space.
  • Friends Only from chef Ray Lee is slated to open in November 2021 in Lower Nob Hill. “Part R+D kitchen and part sushi speakeasy,” the 10-seat omakase bar will spotlight high-quality and highly seasonal ingredients on an ever-changing tasting menu.
  • Chef Erik Sun’s Pursuit, a 15-seat ramen bar, is scheduled to open this fall in SoMa. Diners will be able to nosh on noodles late into the night. There will also be a 45-seat section with a dedicated yakiniku menu featuring rarer cuts and dishes like kimchi fried rice with beef tongue.

The Most European of American Cities Embraces Al Fresco Dining

San Francisco’s outdoor dining scene blossomed with the creation of “parklets” over the last 18 months. Over 2,100 permits for in-street dining, sidewalk tables and other outdoor setups have been issued since early 2020 as part of a larger Pavement to Parks Program, which repurposes underutilized street space into neighborhood amenities. A vibrant success, the parklets will now become permanent fixtures. Given the city’s year-round temperate climate, it’s a boon for diners.

Eat Drink SF and SF Restaurant Week Run Concurrently This October

The Golden Gate Restaurant Association announced 2021 Eat Drink SF (EDSF) and SF Restaurant Week. Running from Oct.15 through Oct. 24, the concurrent programs will explore San Francisco through both indoor and outdoor dining and imbibing featuring prix fixe menus, chef collaborations, cocktail events and ticketed experiences. More than 150 restaurants are participating in SF Restaurant Week. Prix fixe menus range from $10 to $25 for lunch and from $25 to $65 for dinner. Find an updated list of participating restaurants at https://www.sfrestaurantweek.com/restaurants/. A full list of EDSF events is available at https://eatdrink-sf.com/2021-dining-events/.

About San Francisco Travel

The San Francisco Travel Association is the official destination marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco. Tourism is San Francisco’s largest industry. More than 25.8 million people visited the destination in 2019, spending in excess of $10 billion. More than 82,500 jobs are supported by tourism in San Francisco.

San Francisco is one of the metropolitan areas in the U.S. that has consistently kept Covid-19 largely under control. The COVID-19 Prevention & Enhanced Cleaning Guidelines put forth by the Hotel Council of San Francisco ensure that our hospitality businesses are adhering to the most elaborate cleaning and safety protocols. San Francisco Travel invites all visitors who are planning to come in 2021 to contribute their part to a safe and enjoyable experience by taking our Safe Travel Pledge at https://www.sftravel.com/article/take-san-francisco-safe-travel-pledge.

For information on reservations, activities and more, visit https://www.sftravel.com.

For more about San Francisco, follow https://www.facebook.com/onlyinSF/, https://www.instagram.com/onlyinsf/ and https://twitter.com/onlyinsf. Please use hashtags #sftravel and #AlwaysSF.

About San Francisco International Airport

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) wants you to Travel Well. SFO works with local, state and federal health officials to protect against COVID-19. Measures include enhanced cleaning protocols, hundreds of hand sanitizer stations, physical barriers, face coverings for everyone and physical distancing. To learn more visit https://www.flysfo.com/travel-well.

SFO offers nonstop service to Asia, South Pacific, Europe, Canada, Mexico and across the United States. For up-to-the-minute departure and arrival information, airport maps and details on shopping, dining, cultural exhibitions, ground transportation and more, visit https://www.flysfo.com. Follow us on https://www.twitter.com/flysfo and https://www.facebook.com/flysfo.

United Airlines is the preferred airline of the San Francisco Travel Association.

Discover Napa’s Rustic Elegance at the 10th Annual Taste of Atlas Peak on October 30th

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NAPA, CALIF. (PRWEB) – This year’s 10th Annual Taste of Atlas Peak promises to be a memorable tasting event as winegrowers, vintners, and wine enthusiasts gather to celebrate the rustic elegance of Atlas Peak Appellation wines and raise funds for a cause that is especially important to Napa Valley community members. In collaboration with the Napa Communities Firewise Foundation (NCFF), Taste of Atlas Peak will call on sponsorships and donations, in addition to ticket sales, to help support and sustain local fire-safety efforts. Net proceeds from this year’s event will be distributed through the NCFF to various fire safety projects, including fuel reduction, fire breaks, and the IQ FireWatch system.

The event will be hosted at the Silverado Resort & Spa on Saturday, October 30, 2021, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and feature an exclusive walk-around tasting, the opportunity to mingle with winemakers, and enjoy gourmet food pairings. Guests will also experience live music plus an auction of collectible wines, local art, lodging and dining, and other highly desirable lots.

For the first time in its history, Taste of Atlas Peak will join with the Napa County Board of Supervisors, Circle R Ranch, E. & J. Gallo Winery, Goldman Sachs Private Wealth Management, Marc and Lynne Benioff, and others to raise funds in support of various fire-safety programs. One of these programs is the installation of an IQ FireWatch camera at the top of Atlas Peak Road. IQ FireWatch is an artificial intelligence-based system that uses optical and heat sensors to detect fires day or night; it sends an immediate alert notification with images to authorities for rapid confirmation and proportionate response. The system will improve wildfire detection, help first responders to extinguish fires before they get out of control, and ensure that the public receives critical information in fire emergencies.

The fundraising effort comes on top of several new fire-safety additions to the county over the past four years. “This is a big step for the Atlas Peak Appellation and their collaboration with Napa County and the NCFF,” said Alfredo Pedroza, Chairman of the Napa County Board of Supervisors. “We are excited to bring wine enthusiasts to Atlas Peak to enjoy the wines of our county, while raising funds for a cause that will help protect the production of these wines, as well as the homes, businesses, and livelihoods of our community members.”

“We’re pleased to do our share as a friend and neighbor of the people of Atlas Peak,” said Chris Bailey, General Manager of Peter Read’s Circle R Ranch. “We need to do everything we can to fight fires and prevent damage to our community. We’re excited to partner with others to help ensure the IQ FireWatch system is installed and monitored. We think this is the best proactive measure to detect fires before they get out of hand, and we hope that others will join us in making this happen to protect Atlas Peak and the surrounding Napa Valley.”

“In cooperation with Napa County, many generous friends and neighbors, and the NCFF, our plan is to support and provide funding for the 24-hour monitoring of the IQ FireWatch system, which will help us protect and sustain our way of life on Atlas Peak,” said Peter Stoneberg, President of the Atlas Peak Appellation Association. With this early warning detection system in place, “it will minimize fires that could threaten the entire Napa Valley and beyond.”

Taste of Atlas Peak is the Atlas Peak Appellation’s premier annual event, offering guests an exclusive chance to taste premium wines from more than 20 wineries producing only the finest expressions from Atlas Peak terroir—all while raising funds to protect the vineyards, wineries, and local land. “We look forward to showcasing the best of Atlas Peak to wine enthusiasts from near and far at Silverado Resort & Spa,” says John Evans, General Manager. “Because many of the wineries in this AVA do not have traditional tasting rooms, this event truly is the best way to discover the rustic elegance of Atlas Peak.” Wineries will be offering exclusive bottlings not available anywhere else, and wine enthusiasts will have the opportunity to connect directly with the winemakers and vintners.

Participating Atlas Peak Appellation Wineries
Acumen
Alpha Omega
Antica Napa Valley
Atlas Peak Wine Labs
Burgess Cellars
Dos Lagos Vineyards
Hesperian Wines
Hill Family Estate
James Cole Winery
Jean Edwards Cellars
Llamas Family Wines
Lobo Wines
Prime Solum
Sequoia Grove
Sill Family Vineyards
Vin Roc
Williamson Wines

Ticket Information:
The 10th Annual Taste of Atlas Peak takes place on Saturday, October 30, 2021, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Silverado Resort & Spa, 1600 Atlas Peak Road, Napa, CA. Tickets are $150 per person. Visit https://bit.ly/EventbriteTicketsToAP2021 for full details and to purchase.

COVID Protocols:
Ensuring the comfort and safety of all attendees, wineries and event staff is a top priority. The event will be hosted outside on the veranda and will follow all California State and Napa County health guidelines and precautions. Masks will be required for unvaccinated attendees.

About Atlas Peak Appellation
Winegrowing families and winemakers have been growing grapes and making wines of renown in Atlas Peak since 1870. The committed and passionate locals on Atlas Peak worked to distinguish their rocky, volcanic landscape as a unique and singular place, and the appellation gained its official status in 1992. The association believes in community, preserving the land, fostering new friendships, and sharing the furrowed beauty of their grape-growing region with wine enthusiasts and collectors, and world travelers. The Atlas Peak Appellation works to promote the prestige and enhance the reputation of Atlas Peak wines, as well as educate wine aficionados about the rare and distinct wines that Atlas Peak produces. To learn more about the Atlas Peak Appellation, please visit http://www.atlaspeakappellation.com on Facebook.com/AtlasPeakAVA, Instagram.com/AtlasPeakAVA or twitter.com/AtlasPeakAVA

IL Tornabuoni, Florence’s Newest Five-Star Luxury Hotel from AG Hotels, Opening 2021

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ROME, ITALY, : IL Tornabuoni, a new five-star independent luxury hotel will open in 2021 in Florence, Italy. Located along Via Tornabuoni in the historic 12th century Palazzo Minerbetti, the elegant property proposes 62 stylishly designed rooms and suites in the heart of Renaissance Florence.
Owned by AG Group, IL Tornabuoni is part of the AG Hotels collection, a portfolio which includes eleven 5-star and 4-star boutique hotels in Florence and Rome. AG Group is Italy’s first Italian-owned and operated hospitality and tourism group, founded by President, Andrea Girolami, in June 2019. The formation of the AG Group brand, which takes its name from its founder’s initials (AG), was a merger between incoming tourism companies which Girolami had previously created and directed since 2000. Girolami brings over twenty years of experience in tourism and hospitality to AG Group whose capabilities include all aspects of in-house tourism demand with boutique hotels, DMC/ tour operator & event management, hotel consultancy, culinary outlets and retirement homes.
“I believe in Italy. This country is what I care about most. Since I was young, I have had a strong bond with hospitality and after graduating with a degree in economics, I launched myself in promoting our country abroad by traveling continuously. My mantra is – look to the future without ever forgetting history” says Andrea Girolami, Founder and CEO of AG Group. “Given the experience of this past year, we must rethink the future and find inspiration in a new Italian renaissance, a period in which tourism makes a difference. We inspire to bolster our team and our country through our devotion to beauty with IL Tornabuoni.”
Steps from the historic Ponte Vecchio and Arno River, IL Tornabuoni’s interiors were designed by Milan-based architect Andrea Auletta who has collaborated with Girolami on AG Hotels’ ten other properties in Rome. Each of IL Tornabuoni’s four floors were designed as an ode to the Renaissance period, embodying the city’s rich history and artistic magnificence by incorporating distinct regal and bold gem colors including vibrant teals, deep blues, sunny yellows, energetic vermillion and soft greys. Most rooms and suites offer two double beds for guests, a rarity found in much of Italy and Europe, along with grandiose bathrooms which recall the lavishness of ancient spas. The restored Minerbetti Palazzo has retained much of its heritage with state-of-the-art avant-garde interiors and the property’s opulent look and feel perfectly blends historic prestige with modern day beauty.
Guests of IL Tornabuoni are invited to enjoy three dining establishments located throughout the property. IL Magnifico Restaurant & Bistrot, situated on the ground floor, is a tribute to Tuscan gastronomic traditions with Executive Chef Massimiliano Mandozzi at the helm. Chef Mandozzi and his team will focus on local and seasonal ingredients for IL Magnifico’s ever-evolving menus, with a strong emphasis on vegetables including the famous cavolo nero (Tuscan black kale), legumes such as native cannellini beans, and local meats including as Sienese maialino (pork) and the famous Chianina (Tuscan cow). The restaurant’s Pietra Serena floors lend to the rich Florentine atmosphere while leather chairs in a harmony of grey and beige add warmth. IL Magnifico enjoys the soft play of natural light during the day and also boasts an intimate outdoor seating environment.
IL Tornabuoni’s Lucie Gourmet rooftop restaurant opens up onto the elegant Butterfly terrace overlooking Santa Maria Novella, San Frediano, the Ognissanti Church and the many other beauties in Florence’s Renaissance skyline. Designed in graceful pink and bold peacock, the indoor and outdoor spaces offer breathtaking views and a sophisticated setting to enjoy a convivial lunch or aperitivo with signature cocktails and refined dishes. IL Magnifico Café & Champagne Bar, located on the main floor, serves bubbles from only the most sought after Italian and French maison.
IL Tornabuoni invites guests to enjoy signature experiences including Champagne Afternoon Tea, Seven PM Sabrage ritual, L’A Friday Aperitivo, IL Magnifico Saturday Brunch, and delightful sweets at The Temptation Room at IL Magnifico. Additionally, IL Tornabuoni may organize unforgettable celebrations in the Cave wine cellar. A unique, private and intimate atmosphere tucked away in the heart of Florence, the Cave’s attentive staff can curate a special menu of wines and Champagne along with guided wine tastings for guests and small groups.
AG Group’s plans for the future include the addition of more luxury hotels to expand the AG Hotels portfolio. “Our development strategy for AG Group begins with Italy’s main cities of art including Florence with IL TORNABUONI hotel and then Milan, Venice and Rome for the lifestyle and luxury segments. We also feel Sicily, Puglia and Tuscany are important in the short term for new developments. We aim to offer our guests an even more attentive, professional service that is from the heart, as well as advanced technology especially for emerging markets,” notes AG Group’s CEO Andrea Girolami. “AG Hotels, our newest addition which was born two years ago as a rebranding of a group founded several years ago, is our priority and the values we strive for are those of excellence, performance, innovation, authenticity and craftsmanship to name a few.”
For more information on Il Tornabuoni, please visit https://www.iltornabuonihotel.it/ and follow on Instagram and Facebook.

GiangisKitchen.com Now Offering Live Hands-On Online Cooking Classes

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PHOENIX (PRWEB) – Anyone who aspires to become a kitchen gourmet and prepare delicious, fresh and healthy meals, snacks, appetizers and desserts for their family — and all while staying comfortably within their budget — can get the step-by-step guidance they need by enrolling in new live hands-on online classes offered by award-winning recipe blog GiangisKitchen.com.

Each class — which ranges in duration from 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours — is led by Giangi Townsend, the worldwide popular cooking blogger behind GiangisKitchen.com and author of the new eBook “Back to Basics: Cooking 101 – A Beginner’s Guide to Cooking”.

Currently, the roster includes classes on French Bistro cuisine, preparing Coq Au Vin Blanc using a pressure cooker, and more. There is also a fun and educational 5-day Children’s Summer Cooking Camp, and groups of parents can get together and schedule 3 or 5-day virtual children’s cooking classes at a convenient time during the summer.
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“The online classes are very practical, because I’m a big believer in learning by doing,” commented Giangi, who was named Best Food and Lifestyle Blogger — Southwest USA by CV Magazine. “And while we cover a lot of information in each class, the experience is fun, friendly and interactive. It’s a great learning opportunity for everyone, from those who are already comfortable in the kitchen, to those who are brand new.”

A list of all available online classes and registration information is available at https://www.giangiskitchen.com/cooking-classes.

Access GiangisKitchen.com is free, and no sign-up is required. The website also features money-saving offers and coupons, and is optimized for all screens including tablets and smartphones. Visitors can also subscribe to get a weekly recipe round-up delivered to their inbox.

Facebook users are invited to follow Giangi’s Kitchen at: https://www.facebook.com/giangiskitchen.

For all other information on GiangisKitchen.com, including advertising, marketing and media inquiries, email giangi(at)giangiskitchen(dot)com or visit http://www.giangiskitchen.com.

About GiangisKitchen.com

GiangisKitchen.com is a popular and award-winning blog that features simple, delicious, elegant and nutritious recipes, geared to everyone: working moms, dads, grandparents, empty nesters, teenagers, and anyone else with a desire to prepare a great evening meal for their family in just 30-45 minutes.

Gourmet Foods and Wines of Castilla y León

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If you’ve been paying attention to my social media as of late you should’ve noticed that I’m headed to Spain this summer, notably as I was offered a stay at Abadia Retuerta Domaine with my family. (I’ve already written a two-part story on their wines and their highly rated destination winery. After my visit I will be writing more in depth for SCV Elite Magazine.) So you can imagine my thrill to learn that GM Enrique Valera was going to be back in LA again before I would see him in Spain and I would have an opportunity to try more wine and foods from the region:

Hi Eve: I wanted to drop you a note because Enrique Valero is returning to Los Angeles for a special food and wine event that he thought you might enjoy: an exclusive tasting at the City Club, showcasing five top wineries and world-acclaimed gourmet food products from Spain’s Castilla y León región.  

Castilla y León, the largest autonomous community in Spain and home to over 60% of Spain’s heritage architectural and cultural sites, also produces 69 traditional food products, including roast suckling pig, Iberico ham and many coveted cheeses.  Winery principals and food producers will be on hand to discuss their products, and would love to meet you. Featured wineries include Abadia Retuerta, Cesar Principe, Dominio del Pido, Emilio Moro, and Pago de Carraovejas.

Well. Have to say for a small tasting event, I was very impressed with the quality of the food and wine from Castilla y León and am looking forward to our trip even more.

Food

Walking up to a table with a ham hock, a butcher and the sharpest knife to cut the slimmest samples of ham I thought, oh, it’s a prosciutto. Nope. It is Ibérico ham. Right off it looked redder and had slimmer veins of fat. I also learned that the ham had been aged for four years. On the taste: I loved the subtle slightly gamey flavor, and it was less salty and generally a stronger structure than Prosciutto. I liked it so much I went to the Fermin website to learn more – that information is at the end of this article.

Along with the ham there were four hard cheeses, from sharp to smoked, each was meant to sample with specific teas. I stuck to the wine for my pairing.

And I thoroughly enjoyed the cheeses and the ham together. 

Wines

Of the wineries, Abadia Retuerta, Cesar Principe, Dominio del Pido, Emilio Moro, and Pago de Carraovejas, I enjoyed them all. All of the reds were either 100% Tempranillo or a blend, the whites were also blends. Abaida Retuerta is already a favorite of mine, as mentioned above, but this time I also enjoyed many of the wines from the other wineries in the area.

These are the ones I hope to find again in Spain: Cesar Principe 2015 Tempranillo, Dominio del Pido 2018 Rosado and 2015 Ribera Del Duero Tempranillo, Emilio Moro 2016 Tempranillo and 2015 Malleolus Tempranillo, and Pago de Carraovejas 2016 Ribera Del Duero Tempranillo, Ossian 2015 White Wine and, of course, everything I can try at Abadia Retuerta Domaine.

From Fermin Iberico

Recognized as one of the 4 aces of global gastronomy along with caviar, foie-gras and truffles, FERMIN Iberico Acorn-Fed Ham is an authentic treasure from Spain. FERMIN is also distinguished as being the first Spanish Producer of Iberico meats to gain approval from the USDA.’

FERMIN acorn-fed, free-range ham comes from 100% IBERICO pigs. During the Acorn season (from September to February) known as Montanera, these animals double their weight on a diet based of acorns and grass. They go from 200 to 400 pounds!

Free RANGE: Our Grain-fed free range Iberico is 100% Ibérico, fed on grains, grasses and all that nature provides. Also known as the “Kobe beef of pork” because of its intense marbling, flavors and uniqueness, the FERMIN Iberico ham is the first authentic Iberico to enter the US market. Cured for a minimum of 36 months, this Iberico ham…melts in your mouth.

Grain-fed 50% Iberico: We cross a 100% Iberico pig with a 100% Duroc pig, and the result is phenomenal: An affordably produced, lower fat content product that maintains its characteristic visual fat marbling.

https://www.ferminiberico.com/

Eve Bushman has a Level Two Intermediate Certification from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET), a “certification in first globally-recognized course” as an American Wine Specialist ® from the North American Sommelier Association (NASA), Level 1 Sake Award from WSET, was the subject of a 60-minute Wine Immersion video (over 16k views), authored “Wine Etiquette for Everyone” and has served as a judge for the Long Beach Grand Cru and the Global Wine Awards. You can email Eve@EveWine101.com to ask a question about wine or spirits.

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay Elevates Rewards Members Program with Exclusive Global Cuisine Series

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HALF MOON BAY, Calif. (PRWEB) – The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay – the San Francisco Bay area’s premier luxury oceanfront resort – invites The Ritz-Carlton Rewards, Marriot Rewards and SPG Rewards members to embrace the elements of the coast with its “Global Cuisine Series” – an exclusive gourmet experience featuring interactive culinary classes and wine-paired luncheons with renowned California chefs. Returning for its second year in 2018, the exclusive one-day package will be an intimate experience limited to 16 guests and offered one weekend per month.

RCHALFM_00140Each retreat will consist of hands-on cooking classes in which guests will use locally sourced ingredients to craft dishes alongside the visiting chef. Guests will then have the opportunity to sit down with the guest chef and enjoy their meal in the intimate Library. Custom wine pairings from the resort’s sommelier will complete the experience.

In addition to the interactive activities, the guest chef will showcase two signature dishes on the Navio tasting menu in collaboration with Chef de Cuisine Jason Pringle for Friday night along with a pop-up station at Navio’s acclaimed Sunday Brunch. Guests may opt to reserve these experiences separately from the package.

The series will commence with visiting chef Tanya Holland of Brown Sugar Kitchen on the weekend of January 26, 2018. Holland is currently competing in the 15th season of Bravo’s “Top Chef”and is known for her role as a host and soul food expert on the “Melting Pot” series on Food Network. She is also the owner of the famous Oakland-based restaurant, Brown Sugar Kitchen. Featuring the best of soul food, Brown Sugar Kitchen brings together Holland’s passion for entertaining friends and family with her cross-cultural background.
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With celebrated dishes such as Holland’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken and Cornmeal Waffles with Apple Cider Syrup and savory Creole Shrimp with Cheddar Grits, guests can expect to embark on a culinary journey with a touch of modern Southern flair. Additional chefs will be announced in the New Year.

The 2018 Global Cuisine Series schedule is as follows:

  •     Friday, January 26 – Sunday, January 28 – Tanya Holland of Brown Sugar Kitchen
  •     Friday, February 23 – Sunday, February 25
  •     Friday, March 23 – Sunday, March 25
  •     Friday, April 20 – Sunday, April 22
  •     Friday, May 18 – Sunday, May 20
  •     Friday, June 22 – Sunday, June 24
  •     Friday, July 13 – Sunday, July 15
  •     Friday, August 24 – Sunday, August 26
  •     Friday, September 21 – Sunday, September 23
  •     Friday, October 19 – Sunday, October 21
  •     Friday, November 16 – Sunday, November 18
  •     Friday, December 14 – Sunday, December 16

The Global Cuisine Series package at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay will be offered on the Marriott Moments and SPG Moments websites where rewards guests will be invited to bid points to win this exclusive package. Each package will include an overnight stay, chef-led cooking class, luncheon, and $100 resort credit per night along with the resort fee and valet parking per night.

For more information, please visit http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/california/half-moon-bay/dining/global-cuisine-series.

About The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

Set atop a rugged bluff overlooking 50 miles of pristine California coastline, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is a 261-room spa and golf resort offering a relaxing and romantic setting. As the San Francisco Bay Area’s only oceanfront resort, the timeless estate provides guests with a relaxed yet refined experience for a romantic getaway. For more information, please contact The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay at 650-712-7000. For room reservations, contact your travel professional, visit ritzcarlton.com/HMB or call Ritz-Carlton worldwide reservations at 800-241-3333. Visit ExperienceHalfMoonBay.com to learn more about the destination.

Thoughtfully Introduces An Unforgettable Gifting Experience, Just In Time For The Holidays

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Irvine, CA (PRWEB) – Headquartered in Orange County CA, Thoughtfully launches the ultimate online destination for unique gifting. With the belief that a gift should last long after the wrappings have been torn away, Thoughtfully’s retro yet modern feel, holds true to the traditional values of gifting, while providing its online consumer with a shopping experience that is quick, on trend, affordable and convenient.

banner-hot-sauceFounded by Boaz Shonfeld of Modern Gourmet Foods, Shonfeld’s wealth of knowledge and experience spans over 20 years and has contributed to successful partnerships with brands such as Starbucks, Corona, Godiva and many others. With a unique understanding of gifting, Shonfeld has redesigned the process of gift giving, placing more focus on the stories behind the gifts and the memorable experience of receiving them.

Inspired by his passion for food and a love for travel and culture, Shonfeld journeyed around the world collecting mementos and creating memories. By the end of his journey, Shonfeld had curated a unique collection of souvenirs and memorabilia, each with a distinct story, all of which he soon realized made for a thoughtful gift. Thoughtfully is composed of individuals with a shared passion and appreciation for capturing special moments and creating a personalized and authentic gifting experience. The thought put into every gift is a direct reflection of the family dynamic within Thoughtfully’s small, but mighty team.

Each gift box is created with unique inspiration and arrives with an accompanying story for its recipient to enjoy, making it the perfect gifting option for the astounding 73% of shoppers who are seeking alternative ways to shop and opting for items that offer a more personal touch. With categories ranging from Him, Her, Holiday, Food & Bar, Birthday, Celebrate, Housewarming & Thank You, Thoughtfully takes the guesswork out of selecting gifts for loved ones. Trendy gifting items include “The Good Hurt Fuego” hot sauce collection set, and the “Saints and Sinner” whiskey set. Thoughtfully appeals to varying tastes, personalities, hobbies and interests offering practical and reusable items that can be leveraged all year long. Whether a gift with tastes of far off destinations or one that simply sparks memories of a special moment, each gift set creates a nostalgic and emotional experience which becomes a timeless keepsake.

Millennials remain the key demographic for online commerce. With over 82% of Millennial interests based in the digital landscape, Thoughtfully caters to the tech savvy millennial and the traditional online shopper. Thoughtfully’s user friendly website, side bar and filter options (i.e theme, occasion, gift type), allows shoppers to easily browse through with convenience and immediacy, eliminating the inconvenience of in-store shopping and DIY gift wrapping.

Forget brown postage boxes and plastic bags, each gift arrives beautifully packaged in a perfectly designed gift box ready to be opened and enjoyed. Unlike the traditional gift basket, Thoughtfully’s handcrafted gift sets embody the essence of gift giving, uniting the gifter and giftee through a story. Thoughtfully invites shoppers to partake in an authentic and personal gifting experience, one that emphasizes the amount of love put into a gift, and focuses less on the size of the gift. A gift that creates a lasting memory and says in no uncertain terms “You truly matter.”

For more information visit http://www.Thoughtfully.com

No Longer A Wedge Between Destiny: Wheel House Cheese Shop Marries Fromage with Wine, Beer & Cider

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(Culver City, CA), November 2015: What is wine without the cheese? Culver City’s Wheel House Cheese Shop asks the same question. That is why it is a serendipitous time for the cheese epicenter of the Westside to announce that it is now offering an array of rare and exclusive retail Wine, Beer and Ciders to pair perfectly with its vast assortment of fromage, charcuterie and other tasty treats.    

nWlYQDJpKx0dvaoLNbKEjcGtcyb-MZG0UAOPEYPJGXU,v1oYSd4oEASoC8aefMo9UBVzXjpZ7ahAkRXgdBt4p_k,0mwWaaCRFxfugI9LpuN0aWkridJHXitbW0HFrsZxszk Wheel House Cheese Shop is excited to introduce a well-curated retail selection of small-production wines, craft beers and artisanal ciders that have been carefully selected to pair beautifully with Wheel House’s world-class selection of cheeses. “Every wine, beer and cider was specifically handpicked based on its ability to pair with our offerings of cheeses and charcuterie,” says Wheel House Cheese Shop owner Alex Josef. “When you walk into the store and peruse the wine and beer, you will find that every bottle we offer lists its own tasting notes below it, along with what it best pairs with. Additionally, our cheesemongers are always happy to make pairing suggestions. This is meant to be a non-intimidating experience for everyone, beginner to expert.”

With an always evolving assortment of cheese (more than 100 selections representing at least a dozen countries), plus 15 to 20 fine cured meats and charcuterie items, dozens of gourmet accompaniments ranging from jams and spreads to crackers and pickles, Wheel House Cheese Shop has been the definitive source for all things cheese since opening in mid-2014. From the beginning, the ability to sell wine, beer and cider has been a dream of Josef’s and, now a reality; Wheel House Cheese Shop has taken its concept to the next level.

Currently, Wheel House Cheese Shop’s new offerings include more than thirty Wines, over twenty Craft Beers and three Ciders, though Josef plans to continually rotate and grow this collection.

Get vivacious over the vino, as among the more noteworthy Wines are the 2012 Irreverence Vintners Reserve Merlot from Napa Valley, which boasts a complexity that, Josef says “will restore your faith in this oft-maligned grape.” He recommends the wine be paired with the Cabot Clothbound Cheddar, a lactose-free cheese that is savory and slightly tangy with a smooth caramel finish; a combination that is sure to leave your palate pleased. Other wine and cheese recommended pairings from Josef are the sweet and mild Brabander Goat Gouda, whichgoes best with a light and fresh white wine like the Blondie Chardonnay because of the Gouda’s buttery flavor and texture. The best partner for the smooth triple crème Brillat Savarin, is the Ruggeri DOCG Prosecco from Valdobbiadene, a wine growing region that is located just below the Alpine areas of Veneto, which provides a perfect climate for a “cool” variety of grapes. This wine is light, bubbly and refreshing with a long fruity finish; the best relief from this Angeleno Autumn.

Pick a bottle (any bottle), because every kind of cheese goes well with any one of the new eclectic Craft Beer and Cider selections on offer. For blue-cheese fans, Josef likes to pair Stilton, one of the world’s most well-known and loved cheeses, with Galaxy White IPA, a spiced Belgian wheat beer from Anchorage Brewing Company in Alaska that is brewed with kumquats, coriander and peppercorns. A hearty cheese like Hook’s Ten Year Cheddar, with a full, rich and cheddar finish, goes best with the dry and tart Wandering Aengus Wanderlust Cider and the Maredsous 8 Brune, a Belgian Duvel from the Benedictine Abbey tastes great with Oma, a washed-rind cow’s-milk cheese from Vermont (a Wheel House staff favorite – and for good reason).

Wine and beer are not the only new things to consume at Wheel House Cheese Shop. A new menu includes a small set of made-to-order Sandwiches: a Caprese made with mozzarella, fire-roasted tomatoes and basil grown on the shop’s back patio; a Salami & Brie featuring Fromager d’Affinois and jalapeño jelly; and the Ham & Swiss made with French ham, Red Witch Alpine Cheese and grape mostarda. There are also three special Boards patrons can order to try out the shop’s special selections.  Guests can enjoy the Cheese Board with two cheese offerings, quince paste and specialty baguette slices; a Meat Board with three charcuterie selections, pickles, mustard and baguette; or the Wheel House, an indulgent board that combines both the cheese and the meat boards. Broaden the “Board” experience and try any one of the Sides, which includes Marcona Almonds, a Spanish Cocktail Mix, Olives, Cornichons, Gluten Free Crackers, Quince Paste or Bourbon Cured Dried Fruit.

While the eclectic selection of wines, beers and ciders are available for purchase on their own, do not miss out on the complimentary Weekly Tastings every Friday from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. “We plan to mix it up,” Josef says. “Sometimes it will be wine, other times beer, but it will always be something that pairs amazingly well with one of our cheeses.  At the end of the day, let’s face it, what better way to kick off your weekend.” Wheel House Cheese Shop will also incorporate their new retail beverage program into their scheduled cheese classes, special tastings and will also be offering lessons on perfect pairings for your special occasion (even if you are the only one at the party). The next session, Dairy and Vine 101, features a lesson on pairing wine and cheese (with plenty of samples of both) followed by Entertaining with Cheese: Building the Perfect Board hosted by Josef himself. Keep an eye on the Wheel House Cheese Shop Facebook and Twitter pages for announcements about future tastings and upcoming classes.

As the holidays approach, Josef plans to rotate his inventory frequently. “My goal has always been to be a pioneer with what is offered at Wheel House Cheese Shop. I want to keep the inventory ever-evolving, and always new and fresh so that guests have a reason to come back for more,” says Josef. Wheel House Cheese Shop will also be selling Gift Baskets and Specialty Platters with house-curated selections of cheese, charcuterie, wine, beer and cider that make great gifts or a perfect spread for a holiday party.

Wheel House Cheese Shop is very excited to introduce all of these new offerings and experiences. “We have been really well received by the community, and more people continue to discover us each day,” Josef says. Whether you are an expert or beginner who frequents fromage, vies for vino, is bent on beer or sighs over cider, Wheel House Cheese Shop is your one stop shop to impressing your friends, family, neighbors…or just you!

Wheel House Cheese Shop is open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm and Sunday from10:00 am to 8:00 pm; For more information, please visit www.wheelhousecheese.com or call 424.289.9167.

Follow Wheel House Cheese Shop on:

Facebook: Facebook/WheelHouseCheeseLA

Twitter: @WheelHouseLA

Instagram:  @WheelHouseLA

 

Wheel House Cheese Shop

12954 West Washington Boulevard

Culver City, CA 90066

T:  424.289.9167

http://wheelhousecheese.com