My Birthday

For my birthday, Marcel took me to dinner at Simpatica Dining Hall. Chef Scott Ketterman started the dinner by talking about the Dining Hall and the prix fixe menu for the night. He described how he was inspired by the produce our local farmers are harvesting right now. The food was excellent and we enjoyed the beer and wine selection as well, one of which was the Domaine Seigneurie Saumur-Champigny. Yes, that was really the name of the wine and we just had to try a glass. It reminded us of Italy where the first course is usually pasta (!), followed by meat, salad, then dessert. Actually prix fixe menu is very common all over Europe, as well as commual seating. Overall, it was a great experience but it sure is not the same as satisfying a craving when ordering what you feel like eating at that moment or getting to try your dinner companions’ plates.

Saturday, October 17th

These pictures were taken using a Blackberry phone so they don’t have the best lighting.

Wood-Smoked Quail with Quince, Apple and Chestnut Stuffing over Frisee

Braised Pork Shoulder with Six-Hour Creamy Polenta, Young Carrots and Gremolata

Rustic Bartlett Pear Tart with Mascarpone Gelato

My co-workers had a cake for me but sadly could not find me when it was time to cut it. They celebrated without me and 15 minutes later, I showed up when everybody was leaving They also gave me a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

Red, White, and Green

Birthday Cake

My friend Sokbun also treated me to a wonderful seafood lunch at Fong Huong Palace. No picture but the image of that sizzling seafood plate is ingrained in my brain

Thank you ALL for the greetings, cards, e-mails, gifts, cash (!), and the wonderful food.