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Dear Friends,
I realized long ago the chef world is predominately male, and perhaps that's part of what attracted me to it in the first place. But there are two women I want to introduce you to: Isaura Rojas, the pastry chef at CP's Wood Grill, and Susan Lassalette, our CPNV catering chef.
Isaura is originally from Oaxaca, Mexico. She is one of the most talented pastry chefs I have worked with. For November 1st, she created a delicious Oaxacan "Pan de Muerto," Day of the Dead bread. It is our featured recipe for the month. Talk about heaven! In case you're not familiar with the holiday, Day of the Dead is similar to our Memorial Day; families line paths to the cemetery with marigold blossoms and create beautiful altars filled with the favorite things of the deceased. A lovely tradition.
Susan joined us last February. She got me excited about catering again (the first job I ever had!) because she does it so well and makes it seem easy. She has worked in upscale restaurants in Northern California and New Mexico, and her creative talent and food are superb. She's amazing with holiday parties, so book your event before she's booked up!
The crowds have eased at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. While there last month, I was fascinated watching pelicans dive for fish, and I spied a large pod of dolphins swimming about 20 yards offshore. Bringing the season's best to the menu at Cindy's Waterfront, Chef Jeff has added winter squashes and greens. Come enjoy a leisurely lunch, with wine or cocktails, overlooking the marvelous sea life.
At Cindy's Backstreet Kitchen, we are featuring the wonderful flavors of the wood oven for this month's "Supper Club" (every Wed. & Thurs). Freddy Ambrosio and I have put together some terrific menus that feature the flavors of fall. The three-course meals are a bargain at $33, and dishes available a la carte as well. Attending any Napa Valley Film Festival screenings or events (Nov. 13-17)? Backstreet is just around the corner from the historic and beautiful Cameo Cinema.
Mustards Grill's Pour-Off Pair-Off (Thurs.) is all about "Pinot envy" this month - pairing our favorite Pinot Noirs with Burgundy-inspired dishes like Duck Confit, Pumpkin Soup with Gruyere cheese, Lobster Ravioli with fines herbes, Epoisses cheese, and of course, Beef Bourguignon. Earthy food and wine that's perfect for November.
Be sure to check out Flavor! Napa Valley (Nov. 20-24). On Saturday, Nov. 22nd, in honor of Mustard Grill's 30th anniversary, I'll demonstrate a few classics from my Mustards Grill Napa Valley cookbook at Beringer Vineyards. Please join me. (Includes tastings with wine pairings...).
Cindy's Shout-out - I was recently in Austin, Texas and food trucks are everywhere. La Barbecue serves "Cuisine Texicana" including a mighty fine brisket.
I want to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving. My restaurant family will be celebrating at home since all three restaurants will be closed, but we're open on Wednesday and again on Friday, so come on in and give the cook a break!
Gratefully,
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