once again

Collaboration is usually the thing that inspires me to create something new. I met Alissa Rothman while collecting materials for my pandemic archival book in 2020 and we became friends. I knew she would be a good collaborator as we both are devoted to slow food and the farmer’s market.  After seeing her ceramics I knew I wanted to do a dinner that featured her pieces. So after a few dinners at my house, we came up with an end of summer menu and an idea for ceramics wine cups that our guests could take home. We hosted the dinner in Palms, Los Angeles, at the same house I hosted my first pop-up at, in September 2017. After 5 years of cooking as a private chef and at a couple restaurants, it was very exciting to host again at this space - a culmination of sorts. This al fresco gathering of new friends and old friends after a lack of this type of event felt so good. I can’t wait to do more soon.

Poster designed by my mom, June Stoddard

Eggplant croquettes with lemon

Grape and herb foccacia with cultured butter and sungold jam

Shaved zucchini and tomato salad with bread crumbs, toasted hazelnuts, mint, and celery vinaigrette

Peach frangipane tart
with chamomille whipped cream
(that turned into butter accidentally!!)