Tuesday, June 12, 2012

In This Issue

Manresa's 10th Anniversary
Manresa in the News
Love Apple Farms
"Mr. McGregor's Garden" Cocktail Recipe

Manresa's 10th Anniversary

Clockwise from top left: Michael Cimarusti, John Shields, Karen Shields, Carlo Mirarchi

Someone asked me the other day, “Do you look back?” With Manresa’s tenth anniversary just weeks away, it has definitely been a time of reflection. But the truth is, I haven’t really looked back on anything. We’ve always tried to move ahead whether it was the menu, wine program, or a big step, like the renovation and bar program that added a new dimension and level of comfort to the restaurant.

This July, we wanted to celebrate but felt one night just wasn’t enough. We are excited to host three “Cooking with Friends” dinners during the week and bring back some of Manresa’s alum for the weekend. I’m really excited to welcome some amazing colleagues from around the country for the “Cooking with Friends” dinners. Each night will be a different and unique experience, with Manresa offering new dishes each evening to complement the guest chefs’ dishes.

Michael Cimarusti from Los Angeles’ Providence will join me in the kitchen on Wednesday, July 11. Michael is not only an amazing California chef, but he is a great friend. I’ve never had the opportunity to cook with him and am excited to be in the kitchen together. I am really looking forward to welcoming John and Karen Shields, formerly of Town House in Chilhowie, Virginia, on Thursday, July 12. I’ve been impressed with their values and what I’ve seen them do in Virginia. Finally, my great friend Carlo Mirarchi of Roberta’s in Brooklyn will join me in the kitchen on Friday. He continues to expand the possibilities of American cuisine and I’m looking forward to collaborating with him.

The week of Manresa’s anniversary will be something truly special. While I’m sure it will be filled with a lot of “I remember when…” stories, we’ll all be looking ahead, planning what’s next. We look forward to celebrating with you. —David Kinch

For reservations, please call 408.354.4330.

Manresa in the News

 
Wall Street Journal gets into the Northern California food and drink scene and includes Manresa! Check out Jeff Bareilles' secret to making Manresa’s cocktails here and what makes the Bay Area a “culinary capital” and “pioneering food region" here.


"Garden to Glass" photo by Lori Eanes

Summer of Love


Love Apple Farms gives you plenty of reasons to get outside this summer! For the gardener, brush up on your tomato knowledge with the ongoing Tomato Masters series. For the artisan, explore canning and aromatherapy classes. And, for the food aficionado, don’t miss the farm lunches and dinners or its Iconic Chefs Dinner series, welcoming Michelin star Chef Dominique Crenn of San Francisco’s Atelier Crenn on Sunday, June 24. The summer continues with a special cooking class and book signing with author, food writer, broadcaster, and Food Network “The Next Iron Chef” judge Simon Majumdar on Saturday, August 4. Click here for more information and reservations.
Photo of Cynthia Sandberg by Lane Johnson, courtesy of Eucalyptus magazine

"Mr. McGregor's Garden" Cocktail Recipe

 
Try Manresa's tall, cool, and refreshing tribute to Mr. McGregor's Garden—without losing your jacket and shoes.

Mr. McGregor’s Garden
2 strawberries
4 cucumber spears
Dash cherry bitters
Dash lemon bitters
1 1/2 ounces Pimm’s #1
1/2 ounce corn whiskey

 • Place strawberries, cucumber spears, and bitters into a pint glass and muddle for 15 to 20 seconds, crushing the cucumbers while turning the strawberries into a pulp.
• Add the remaining ingredients, fill with ice, and give a hard shake for 20 seconds.
• Strain over ice in a glass garnished with cucumber wheels and a lemon wheel.