Hello friends & family,
Mother's Day is this Sunday, May 8. Be sure to make your reservations, it's one of the busiest restaurant days of the year.
I was thinking of my Mom when I made recently currant scones and drizzly homemade strawberry jam. I used to make it for her. In honor of her, it is this month's recipe.
Strawberries are in peak season right now. I shop for berries that are red all the way through. I think the smaller berries taste better. Look for delicious fraises du bois or wild strawberries-a treat if you can find them.
For locals, on Friday, May 6 the St. Helena Farmers Market begins its 30th year with new hours, 8am-1pm. On July 8, Jim and I will be at the market for our annual chef's demonstration.
We have switched breads and buns to The Model Bakery run by the Mitchell-Hanson families. Both restaurants now have 100% organic buns and table breads that are truly delicious.
For Mustards Pour-Off Pair-Off Friday's, the theme is "where the wild things are." King Salmon is back, along with hard to find seasonal and wild treats like morel and porcini mushrooms, and nettles. I remember wild nettles as a bush I ran through in shorts as a kid that made me itch. Properly prepared by Michael and his crew, it is delicious.
For those attending the BottleRock concerts May 27-29, check out the Mustards Grill food stand. Michael will be serving slow smoked Snake River Farms American Wagyu beef brisket sandwiches, and slow smoked Snake River Farms American Kurobuta pork sandwiches, both washed down with a prickly pear limeade. Rock on.
Thinking about future vacation plans? John and I are joining Tor and Susan Kenward of TOR Kenward Family Wines on a very special Crystal Cruise to South America in March, 2017. Check it out and consider coming with us. We would love to have you aboard.
Lastly, on Monday night Sean, Patrick, Jim and I attended the 26th annual James Beard Awards in Chicago. I was one of 5 finalists for Outstanding Restaurateur, it is truly an honor to be nominated. Unfortunately, I did not take home the medallion this year. I started my career in Chicago and love visiting the windy city. I saw lots of friends, and we all had such a fun time.
Thanks for your support.
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