The Red Rooster Cookbook: A Party, Recipes, & A Whole Lotta Inspo!

If you've been following the blog for a while, then you're likely aware of a few of my favorite things, places and people.  As things go, there's no doubting that books--particularly cookbooks--hold a dear place in my heart and food journey.  And favorite places can never be a topic without New York City being squarely on the list.

Then there's the matter of favorite people.  Over the years, we've done our fair share of highlighting the work and genius of internationally acclaimed chef, restaurateur, author and all-around-dynamo, Marcus Samuelsson.  So when the opportunity presented itself to combine all three during a recent evening of celebration, naturally I couldn't resist.  The fete was a private soiree to celebrate the launch of the Red Rooster Cookbook: The Story of Food and Hustle in Harlem.

Although it seems like only yesterday that Red Rooster opened its doors to the world, now in its sixth year, the restaurant has cemented itself on the Harlem--and New York--food and entertainment scenes for many years to come.  Like most great memories, I still recall the excitement of my first visit (a hot summer's night with faulty air-conditioning that somehow didn't matter, Questlove spinning in the basement now known as Ginny's Supper Club--music has been a staple of the venue from the very beginning--and a vibe that radiated community, pride, and, yes, a whole lotta hustle.)

Several years and visits later, that initial excitement was as palpable as ever, not only for me, but for every person who showed up to participate in this moment of celebration for Red Rooster, Chef Samulesson--and Harlem, itself.  A night to remember unfolded with words of recollection and gratitude from the founders, the local community, and well-wishers from near and far.  Exceptional music, food and ambiance rounded out the occasion in true Uptown fashion.

Back home, with my own personal copy in tow, I'm excited to take in more of the inspiration and legacy found between the pages of this cookbook.  (I already have my eye on a recipe and playlist, or two, to break it in.)  And as the Red Rooster story continues to evolve, I look forward to every delicious nuance.

Happy Eating! 

Buy the Book

'Yes, Chef' Author Dinner with Marcus Samuelsson

Yes, Chef Author Dinner with Chefs Hopkins and Samuelsson

From the moment I learned of Chef Marcus Samuelsson's plans to publish his memoir (about two months or so prior to the release date), I was eager to dive into the life journey of the ever-inspiring and dynamic chef.  Yes, Chef: A Memoir hit the market on June 26th and, thanks to a pre-order sale, I had my copy in hand a day later.  My anticipation had steadily risen as I took in select excerpts and interviews by the Chef/Author, but nothing prepared me for the truly engaging and heartfelt story that I would encounter between the covers of this book.  

A tale of life in its fullness--chronicling family, food, sacrifice, triumph, failure and renewal--this memoir delivered more than just an inside look into the demanding, often brutal, world of food and fine dining, but, more significantly, it shared, in very personal terms, the astounding journey of Chef Samuelsson.  A journey that, at times, seemed equally impossible and probable, giving a face and pulse to the universal experience of pursuing a dream and passion, with all the joys and pitfalls that accompany such noble pursuits. 

So when the Yes, Chef book tour landed in Atlanta via the sold out Author Dinner at Restaurant Eugene, hosted by James Beard Award Winning Chef, Linton Hopkins, on this past Monday night, I was eager to see, hear and taste.  To see the camaraderie and fusion of two culinary masterminds who are devoted to their craft and communities.  To hear from Chef Samuelsson about anything and everything that has impacted his remarkable journey to date.  And to taste the flavors of Sweden, Ethiopia and America beautifully mastered by Chefs Samuelsson and Hopkins.  And what I actually saw, heard and tasted--experienced--went far beyond.

The Dessert Course: A Land of Honey

I had the privilege of being seated at Chef Samuelsson's table, along with two other guests, and we reveled in the "up close and personal" benefit of talking with him about everything from family reunions, to his mentor, Leah Chase, to the thrust of Red Rooster Harlem, to his visit earlier in the day with young teens and aspiring chefs at the Atlanta City Council, and much more besides.  But we didn't keep him all to ourselves.  In between courses the Chef made rounds to visit with the guests at other tables and have similar exchanges.  

Breaking bread with culinary greats, meeting new people who share my passion for food and cooking, taking in an exceptional meal in a beautiful restaurant, and creating lasting memories rarely occur all at once, but that night they did. 

My autographed book and menu (keepsakes!)

Thanks to Restaurant Eugene, Chef Hopkins and, of course, Chef Samuelsson, for a foodie night to remember!

Click here to see more photos from the special evening.

Happy Eating!

Cars & Cuisine: The Cadillac Culinary Challenge Test Drive

BBQ Braised Short Ribs, Spicy Carrot Pecan Salad, and Collard Greens

On the heels of what was a most fun--and long overdue--return to my alma mater for our annual homecoming game and festivities on Saturday (we won!), came a beautiful Sunday afternoon indulgence of sleek, luxury cars and scrumptious, succulent cuisine aka The Cadillac Culinary Challenge Test Drive.

With the beautiful Fall weather as the backdrop, it was an afternoon of pleasure for the senses--especially the palette.  The Cadillac sponsor wowed with its fleet of cars ready for the ooing and ahhing and test driving, while also bringing together world renowned chef, Marcus Samuelsson, and local culinary talent, Kenneth Bills, Chef Partner, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Atlanta, for an engaging culinary challenge.

Despite its billing as a culinary challenge/competition, what actually took place was more of a lively (and friendly) celebration of each chef's cuisine, highlighting the secret ingredient, pecans, along with a big heaping of audience participation.  The mutual respect and camaraderie of Chefs Samuelsson and Bills was also evident.  

And the eats?  They were phenomenal.  Chef Samuelsson owned the savory side of the challenge with an amazing dish comprised of BBQ Braised Short Ribs, Spicy Carrot Pecan Salad, and Collard Greens.  (I was one of two fortunate guests to land the full serving of this melt-in-your-mouth delicacy (pictured above), in addition to the tasting samples enjoyed by all the event goers.)  On the sweet side of things, Chef Bills served a decadent Chocolate Pecan Turtle Pie that had self-avowed "non-pecan pie eaters" confessing their conversion!  (Unfortunately, I managed to devour my pie before getting in a photo.)  In the end, both chefs dished up good eats that showcased pecans deliciously.

To cap off the wonderful event, guests were given complimentary copies of Bon Appetit magazine and the recipes for each chef's creations.  I can't wait to recreate them at home.

With a fully satiated appetite and a gorgeous sunset on the horizon, I was ready for my test drive spin in the new Cadillac Sedan.  It was the perfect ending to a superb event--and weekend. 

Happy Eating!

P.S. Enjoy additional photos from the day's festivities below--and let me know how you most like to serve up pecans.

Me and Chef Samuelsson of Red Rooster Harlem

Chef's Station

Chefs Marcus and Kenneth

 

Inspire So Others Can Aspire: A Video Interview with Chef Marcus Samuelsson

As we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. today, I'd like to share a video interview from the Atlanta Post with Chef Marcus Samuelsson, on his new restaurant, Red Rooster Harlem --including his mission to "inspire others to aspire".  As an American who was born in Ethiopia, raised in Sweden and immigrated to the United States, he is an example of what realizing the American dream should ultimately be about:  inclusion, diversity and giving back. 

Red Rooster Harlem Set to Open!

There's much ado about Harlem.  Red Rooster Harlem, that is.  For months, inquiring minds have wanted to know the answer to this simple question: "When will Red Rooster open?".  While reassuring us that the day and time were sure to come, celebrated Chef and Owner, Marcus Samuelsson, has been quiet on the specifics.  Until now.  And finally, we have an answer.  The long-anticipated restaurant opening will occur just in time for the holidays and give patrons, near and far, the taste they've been longing for.  Read more about the opening--and get a sneak peek at the menu--from today's New York Times Diner's Journal.

Alas, I'll have to live vicariously through those who are fortunate enough to get in on what's sure to be a spectacular opening weekend until my travels bring me to the Big Apple next.  And I'm thinking that it won't be long.

Congrats to Chef Samuelsson, Chef Bergquist--and the entire Red Rooster team!