This is the LAST food post about Vegas Uncorked,but the best meal! Last Sunday morning, we slept in (gambled until 2 AM last night), had some coffee in our room, got ready for brunch, and checked out of the Paris. It was Brad's REAL birthday, as well as Mother's Day.
Top Chef host and head judge, Tom Colecchio, is the winner of 5 James Beard awards, and the founder and co-owner of 13 Craft restaurants across the country. He grew up in an Italian family in Elizabeth, NJ. Shortly after the 9/11 attacks, he was part of a volunteer army serving food to rescue workers at ground zero.
After our first two "Tom sightings", it was lovely to walk into Craftsteak, and be greeted by a warm smile, and a "Nice to see you again" from Tom in his white chef jacket.
Of all the weekend activities, we were most excited about this brunch event! Brad thought it was nice of Tom Colecchio to throw him a birthday brunch.
We were served mimosas or Bloody Mary's upon entry.
If you are hungry, I suggest coming back at another time. This was quite a spectacular meal! We were seated at a table for 10, and each course was served "family style". Tom spoke about his mother, a cafeteria worker, and growing up in an Italian family. He spoke about hunger in the world, and encouraged us to "give back" by donating to help feed families in need.
The first course was wonderful. I did skip the pickled egg, but the lobster was divine, and I had two servings of the porchetta and mostarda!
First Course
Scone Basket, Crème Fraîche, Market Preserves
Seasonal, Fresh Fruit
Pickled Farm Egg, Roasted Beets, White Anchovy
Chilled Maine Lobster and Artichoke Salad
Wild Arugula, Shaved Pecorino
House Made Porchetta, Mustard Fruits, Chicory Salad
Second Course
Belgian Style Waffles, Warm Fruit Compote
Sous Vide Eggs, Asparagus, Morels, Ramps
Wagyu Skirt Steak, Salsa Verde
Crispy potatoes with creme fraiche and caviar
Braised Kurobuta Pork Belly, Maple Glaze, Garlic Scapes
and then because we loved it so much...MORE pork belly
Creamed Spinach Gratin
Dessert
Frozen Chocolate Soufflé
Honey Panna Cotta, Blackberry Preserves, Grains of Paradise Macaroon
Lemon Verbena Pavlova, Strawberry Sorbet
Fresh Fruit Tart, Crème Fraîche
Since I seem to be collecting photos of chefs, here I am with Executive Chef, Matt Seeber.
It was a fabulous brunch, and an excellent way to celebrate Brad's birthday!
Comments (6)
I agree. That seemed to be a fabulous way to celebrate a birthday! Belated Happy Birthday to you both!
Posted by Eden | May 18, 2009 8:41 AM
Posted on May 18, 2009 08:41
OMG! I am drooling!
You must have been stuffed by the time brunch was over. I know I would be because I would have to taste everything!
Posted by nancyhol | May 18, 2009 9:25 AM
Posted on May 18, 2009 09:25
That does look like a wonderful brunch. I'm not sure what looks best, but those crispy potato cakes with creme fraiche and caviar are calling my name.
Posted by Cindy Ruth | May 18, 2009 11:33 AM
Posted on May 18, 2009 11:33
Wow, what a meal! I think it's so neat how you had seen him before and that he "knew You". Very cool and what a nice birthday meal for Brad. Great photos. I'm hungry too but could not resist reading this.
Posted by Barb Cabot | May 18, 2009 12:23 PM
Posted on May 18, 2009 12:23
This is definately one time I wish I had been there! The food looked heavenly.
Posted by Kendall | May 18, 2009 12:25 PM
Posted on May 18, 2009 12:25
Wow, that all looks incredible -- including the chefs. Maybe it's time to do a handsome chefs calendar?
Posted by sandrac | May 19, 2009 8:17 AM
Posted on May 19, 2009 08:17