Kukla’s first love affair was with Greek food but she was also a huge fan of non-Greek culinary styles—as long as they met her delectable standards. She enjoyed watching the Food Network with Joanne’s stepson Danny when he was little, and her favorite TV chef was Lidia Bastianich on PBS—both Kukla and Lidia had a free hand with food…no cups or spoons needed! Their eyes did the measuring.
In Kouzina EXTRA! we’ll report on our food adventures and news—sometimes Greek, sometimes not…but always delicious!
Our focus today is on the new Chef’s Table at REIN at The Garden City Hotel (Garden City, NY). One evening a month, chef Michael Mandato and his staff prepare a stellar 5-course dinner served in the hotel’s main “kouzina” (kitchen).
Chef Mandato highlights seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, including fresh summertime tomatoes and herbs from the hotel’s garden, as well as cheeses and produce from east-end Long Island farms like Catapano and Goodale. For vegetarians, vegans and those with food allergies, the chef is happy to creatively, and deliciously, customize each course to diners' needs.
Up close and personal (in the kitchen) is the perfect way to watch the action while experiencing the smells and tastes of each dish as it develops and makes its way from the stovetop and oven to your table. A wine pairing for each course complements the presentation, making this an event to be savored in all its stages.
Following a generous hors d’oeuvres (coconut shrimp in green gazpacho, tuna tartar, duck dumplings) and champagne (Veuve Clicquot-Brut NV) introduction, we were seated and watched the elaborate menu unfold.
Here’s a view from the Chef’s Table:
Details for the next Chef’s Table menu on May 28 can be found on gardencityhotel.com. Call REIN at The Garden City Hotel at 516-877-9385 to make a reservation. Seating is limited so claiming your place at the Table should be done sooner rather than later.
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Until then~
Kali orexi! Good appetite!
Kelly