Eat, Play, Learn Luncheon a Big Hit

Chef Dean Carvalho

The first of three festive luncheons  (auction items sold multiple times at La Luz's fundraiser last year) known as "Eat, Play, Learn" was held last week at Rancho Mineiro, the Brazilian-inspired estate of Scott Smith and Marcelo Defreitas (indefatigable "Copacabana" and now "Noche en  Casbah"party chair).. 

With the ladies assembled at the large dining table set impeccably with silver and antique china, Arden Kremer led them through a tasting of a flight of premium olive oils.  Kremer is a professional olive oil judge and wife of former LL board member Phil Coturri.

 Dean Carvalho, who has taught at HomeChef in San Francisco and Ramekins in Sonoma (he was also visiting pastry chef at General's Daughter while Lisa Vitale was away having a baby) was the event's main attraction .  He entertained and demonstrated cooking techniques and professional "insider tips" as he prepared the luncheon.  Karen Adelson served as his right hand gal -- as  Kimberly Blattner said,  "She's as efficient as an OR nurse." 

 The menu included: Chilled pea shots with spicy crab; scallop, arugula and lemongrass pot stickers; and a deconstructed "NOT"  lemon meringue pie-- a luscious confection of toasted phyllo dough and lemon curd served with muscat wine.  Over the top moment was realizing and toasting the birthday of La Luz ED Yvonne Hall!

Arden Kremer conducting olive oil tasting

Holly Kyle learns flipping technique