How do you celebrate 4 years of marriage? The traditional gift is silk or flowers (maybe both), the modern is appliances. I don't know about you but a new blender doesn't really say I Love You. So, Cathy and I went to The Chef's Table for Dinner With The Chef. It was just a perfect experience for a couples dinner. There were only three couples in the large show kitchen so we got exceptional personal service. The Chef prepared and plated each course for us right there in the kitchen. The first course was a sampling of the crostini and bruschetta from the Martinis and Tapas restaurant, which is an enjoyable place to dine also, served with a glass of Francios Montond Rose Brut. I didn't get a picture of those, but I have some for the other SIX courses. That's right, it was a SEVEN course dinner built around some of the Chef's choice wines. Let the pictures begin!

red pepper bisque

Red pepper bisque, with Cycles Gladiator Pinot Grigio 2005


micro green salad

Micro greens, buttermilk blue cheese, mangos, and spicy walnuts, Morgan (Monterey) Chardonnay 2004

ravioli and scallop

Portabella and spinach stuffed ravioli with a shredded filo dough crusted sea scallop, Morgan Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands) 2004


salmon in filo dough

Filo wrapped marinated salmon, Cycles Gladiator Syrah 2004


rack of lamb

Rack of lamb, artichoke risotto, Julianed vegetable medley, St. Supery (Napa) Cabernet Sauvignon 2001


dessert

Chocolate ganache cake, Toblerone chocolate mousse, berry topped flan with lemon sauce on the side, Francios Montond Blanc de Blanc


All in all the food was great, the pairing of wines with the food was awesome, and the service was perfect. I can't think of a better way to celebrate a special occasion. I highly recommend this experience for all of you couples out there.