Austin Foodie Bits – Week of April 19, 2010

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An outdoor table set with plates and red wineI’m still recovering from the epicurean extravagance that was the 25th Annual Hill Country Food and Wine Festival, but even though I’m still enjoying the memories of four wonderful days, it’s time to look forward to events this week and into May. This week’s events feature a bounty of feasting and learning opportunities. From a cooking class with the former chef to Princess Diana to winemaker dinner and an all day festival at the Hill Country Galleria, there’s a little something for everyone. Also, be sure to look forward to late April and early May for special events that celebrate local and sustainable food, including the Sustainable Food Center’s Farm to Plate fundraiser at Barr Mansion and a new series of Close to Home dinners from Chef Josh Watkins of the Carillon.

Be Spontaneous: This Week’s Events

  • April 20: Dinner with Jezebel – Chef Parind Vora, of local favorite Restaurant Jezebel, will share techniques and recipes for a seasonal menu that includes Cocoa Rubbed Braised Lamb Sauté, rispy Moulard Duck Breast, and Toblerone Hot Chocolate with Grilled Bread. $65/person. 6:30 pm – 9 pm. Central Market North Lamar. Reserve online.
  • [Value] [NEW] April 20: Dinner with the Robert Hall Winemaker – Don Brady, the winemaker for Robert Hall wineries, is a native Texan and graduate of Texas Tech University. In 2006 he was named the Central Coast Winemaker of the year and his wines have been served to Presidents and royalty. This week, he’ll be coming back to Texas to share a collection of his wines paired with a lovely dinner. You’ll be able to sample his style across varietals and learn about his approach and style. $30/person or $50/couple. 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Twin Liquors Hill Country Galleria. Reserve online.
  • [NEW] April 22: Go Texan Chef Showdown II – Enjoy an evening of Top Chef-style competition as three local chefs face off in a secret ingredient throw down. You’ll get to watch the action and sample the fruits of their labors. The participating chefs include Kevin Dee of Southwest Bistro, Tyler Johnson of the Limestone Restaurant, and Tim Chapel of the Hill Country Dining Room. $42/person. 7:00 pm. Call 512.480.2035 to reserve.
  • [NEW] April 22: Longoria Wine Dinner at Hudson’s on the Bend – Hudson’s on the Bend welcomes California winemaker Rick Longoria, a mainstay of the Santa Barbara county wine industry for a four course dinner paired with Longoria’s wines. Enjoy Lobster and Shrimp Salad, Duck Cracklings, Buffalo Strip Steak, and Plum Buckle all at the lovely Hudson’s on the Bend setting. $85/person. 7:00 pm. Call 512.266.1369 or e-mail hob3509@gmail.com for reservations.
  • [NEW] April 24: Spring Luncheon with the Royal Chef – Join Darren McGrady, Personal Chef & Former Chef to Princess Diana as he prepares for a culinary tour of Tuscany. He will treat you to Garlic Marinated Shrimp, Pan Seared Chicken with Salbitxada Sauce, Olive Oil Chocolate Mousse with Limoncello Panna Cotta & Rosemary Biscotti. You might even coax a story or two out of him as well. $65/person. 10:00 am – 12:30 pm. Reserve online.
  • April 24 and 25: Art City Austin Bistro – As part of Art City Austin, Edible Austin is teaming up with the Art Alliance Austin to showcase some of Austin’s best flavors. Enjoy good eats from the likes of G’Raj Mahal, Sugar Mama’s Bakeshop, Zhi Tea, and more as you explore the Art City Austin exhibits. Cesar Chavez in front of City Hall.
  • [FREE] [NEW] April 24: Twin Marketplace Springfest – The folks at Twin Liquors are hosting a Grand Tasting Tour featuring local wine and spirits in conjunction with the Lake Travis Spring Fest. Come enjoy the beautiful hill country and sample their many offerings. 12 pm – 6:00 pm.

Eat Well, Do Good

  • [NEW] May 6: Sustainable Food Center’s Farm to Plate Fundraiser – The Sustainable Food Center is hosting their third annual fundraiser at the historic Barr Mansion. Featuring the culinary creations of over 20 chefs, including Jesse Griffiths of Dai Due, Rene Ortiz of La Condesa and Josh Watkins of The Carillon, this event promises to be a beautiful evening focused on good eats and supporting local and sustainable food practices. $100/person. 6:30 – 9:30 pm. Purchase tickets online.

Plan Ahead: Events in the Next 3 Weeks



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1 Comment

  1. Cat / April 20, 2010

    Wow! I love Austin Foodie Bits so much….however, I fear this week’s events will not pair well with my summer diet 🙂