Food Raconteur

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As you probably know, we’re all about supporting various causes, and one close to our hearts is The Magic House.The Magi...
09/10/2025

As you probably know, we’re all about supporting various causes, and one close to our hearts is The Magic House.

The Magic House, which is the St. Louis Children’s Museum, is a nonprofit that offers all kinds of fun, hands-on learning adventures to spark a love of learning in kids of all ages. This museum isn’t just open to everyone; it also hosts field trips, family STEAM nights, scout programs, and summer camps.

This year, Kathryn Mihalevich snagged the auction dinner for eight guests.

Kathryn, who graduated from Glendale High School, went on to earn her degree at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. She didn’t stop there—she also attended Saint Louis University, where she got her law degree, plus a certificate in health care law and a master’s in health administration.
Now a well-known attorney, she picked out a delightful Caribbean-themed menu with seafood and greens that was just perfect.

We were all set for the adventure, and with our OG Rasmy by our side, it turned out to be a lovely experience. The house was not only beautiful and well-kept, but Kathryn and her husband, Mike also made us feel right at home, filling the place with positive vibes.

Our 5-Course Caribbean menu was made up of;
* Seared Scallops on edible spoons with edible flowers
* Callaloo Soup with coconut milk and smoked fish flakes
* Charred Octopus & Avocado Salad with citrus segments and coconut-lime dressing
* Grilled Mahi-Mahi with pineapple salsa, coconut rice, and sautéed greens
* Grilled Banana & Pineapple Rum Foster with vanilla ice cream

The Callaloo soup turned out to be a revelation and a big hit. We threw in some tasty taro leaves, sweet potato, okra, onion, garlic, and squash, and it came together into something truly enjoyable.

Seeing those empty plates and hearing wine corks popping was just pure joy( clap emoji)

Funny enough, 28 years ago today, I kicked off my culinary adventure, and guess what? The first thing I ever worked with was octopus! It felt almost surreal cooking octopus again after all these years, and it definitely put a smile on my face. Thanks, Rasmy!

And a big THANK YOU, Kathryn and Mike!

Dear Sip Nari Chai, your dream of sharing the soul-warming magic of perfectly spiced Indian chai in the Midwest is a bea...
09/07/2025

Dear Sip Nari Chai, your dream of sharing the soul-warming magic of perfectly spiced Indian chai in the Midwest is a beautiful gift to us all. Each cup you craft, bursting with roasted spices and heartfelt flavor, is a feeling that connects hearts and evokes home. Stay bold, keep brewing with passion, and your authentic chai will soon become a beloved ritual far beyond your corner.You’re not just serving tea—you’re creating memories. Keep shining!

Lamingtons are the rock stars of Aussie desserts—sponge cakes named after Lord Lamington, the Governor of Queensland in ...
09/06/2025

Lamingtons are the rock stars of Aussie desserts—sponge cakes named after Lord Lamington, the Governor of Queensland in the late 1800s. These tasty treats take a dive in chocolate and get a coconut confetti coat. Legend has it, the Lamingtons' chef, Armand Galland, invented them by accident when he dunked sponge cake in chocolate and rolled it in coconut to dodge a sticky disaster.

The classic lamington kicks off with a sponge cake square, gets a chocolate shower, and a coconut snowstorm. Some get fancy with a secret stash of cream or a jammy surprise like raspberry or plum, tucked between two cake layers before they go for their chocolatey dip.

This unofficial national cake is as Aussie as kangaroos, popping up at community shindigs and school fundraisers, charmingly dubbed "lamington drives." The recipe made its debut in Queensland Country Life back in 1900, and Aussies celebrate this sugary icon on National Lamington Day, July 21st.

Happy 18th to my ultimate rockstar employee and favorite human on Earth, Ritwik! Thrilled to be your boss, but even more...
09/02/2025

Happy 18th to my ultimate rockstar employee and favorite human on Earth, Ritwik!

Thrilled to be your boss, but even more thrilled to be your DAD!

Can't wait to witness your epic journey and celebrate your victories!

Cheers to you, Ritwik! 🎉🥂

Dr. Namrata Patel reached out to us to organize a cozy birthday celebration, having been referred by one of our delighte...
08/29/2025

Dr. Namrata Patel reached out to us to organize a cozy birthday celebration, having been referred by one of our delighted clients.
Her intention was to surprise her husband while also honoring her father-in-law’s birthday. What began as a modest gathering quickly blossomed into a grand event.

We were overjoyed to be part of such a joyous occasion, though I had just returned from a whirlwind trip to India the day before. Despite the recent travel, I was grateful that the flights were punctual, allowing me to manage my jet lag with ease.

Their family is filled with warmth and laughter, with three wonderful boys and their adorable little dog, Bheem, bringing the house to life with energy and joy.

We came up with some exciting fusion options for the menu, eager to add a special touch to the celebration.
* Waffle Vada Pav
* Chicken Seekh Kebab With Aioli
* Avocado Bhel Tartare
* Mango Pannacotta
* Kofta Curry With Assorted Breads
* Awadhi Dum Chicken

The guests were absolutely delighted, and we received some fantastic feedback. With our wonderful team consisting of Rasmi, Emilee, and Maddie, we faced the heat head-on, and the guests truly enjoyed every moment.

It was a lovely family gathering, surrounded by lush greenery. There were apricots, peaches, tomatoes, local vegetables, and herbs... I wish I could borrow that green thumb! But for now I will settle for the delightful company and lovely memories we got to create😄

Thanks for having us Dr. Namrata😄🥂

Capuns, the Swiss secret from Graubünden, are like cozy little dumplings wrapped in a leafy green hug!Imagine a playful ...
08/27/2025

Capuns, the Swiss secret from Graubünden, are like cozy little dumplings wrapped in a leafy green hug!

Imagine a playful Spätzle dough (think chewy, noodly goodness) stuffed with meaty delights like Bündnerfleisch or Salsiz, all snug inside chard leaves.

These tasty bundles get a steamy bath in broth and then are elevated with a glorious sprinkle of cheese and cream.

Traditionally, it's all about that dried meat, but modern twists might sneak in goodies like cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms.

But wait, Capuns aren’t just a dish—they're a hearty handshake between Graubünden folks and their alpine roots, proving that mountain living is both delicious and resilient!

They're a hearty hug from the alpine land, showcasing the Graubünden folks' knack for thriving in their stunning surroundings. These little parcels are a true testament to the region's rich culinary traditions👏🏽

Destiny weaves people together in the most extraordinary ways. Amisha, a gifted cook, has graced our incubator kitchen w...
08/22/2025

Destiny weaves people together in the most extraordinary ways.

Amisha, a gifted cook, has graced our incubator kitchen with her vibrant events. When she reached out to us to celebrate her dear friend's baby shower, it was a moment filled with warmth and anticipation. As the saying goes, “Your vibe attracts your tribe,” and Amisha's energy sparkled as she painstakingly curated a menu that spoke volumes about her love and devotion.

We were overjoyed to help craft an unforgettable celebration for Vaibhav and his wife.
Heartfelt congratulations on your precious first baby! YOU GUYS ARE GOING TO BE AWESOME PARENTS!

For this special event we decided on a Modern Indian Tapas & Dinner Buffet.

The Menu:

Appetizers:
* Mini Tandoori Chicken Sliders – With Mint Yogurt Aioli And Pickled Onions On Brioche Buns
* Paneer Tikka Skewers – Marinated In Spiced Yogurt And Grilled
* Masala Arancini – Risotto Balls Stuffed With Spiced Vegetables And Cheese
* Mini Pav Bhaji Tartlets – Savory Spiced Mashed Veggies In Crisp Tart Shells

Main Course:
* Malai Kofta In Cashew Cream Sauce – Soft Dumplings Of Paneer And Vegetables In A Delicate White Gravy
* Hyderabadi Dum Biryani – Served In Traditional Style With Raita And Mirchi Ka Salan
* Truffle Naan & Chili Cheese Kulcha – Assorted Artisanal Breads
* Roasted Cauliflower & Chickpea Chaat Salad – Warm, Tangy And Fresh With Yogurt And Pomegranate

Dessert:
* Gulab Jamun Panna Cotta

With the entire team working diligently to create something exceptional, I want to extend BIG thank you to Carolyn, Emilee, and Rahul for their invaluable contributions in bringing it to life.

We achieved a perfect delivery time as promised—something that has always been our strength—even on a sweltering 100-degree day. We also received wonderful feedback from the Vaibhav and from Amisha💗

Our hearts are filled with joy from the review and feedback, as they expressed exactly what we hoped to hear before embarking on a 10-day break. After tirelessly cooking non-stop, it was time for us to recharge. We look forward to collaborating with brilliant minds like Amisha. Always a delight. Thank you, everyone!🥂

Rösti is a classic Swiss potato dish that first sizzled its way into hearts as a breakfast favorite among farmers. Over ...
08/20/2025

Rösti is a classic Swiss potato dish that first sizzled its way into hearts as a breakfast favorite among farmers. Over the years, it has evolved into a cherished national treasure. This delightful creation is essentially a crispy, pan-fried potato pancake made from grated potatoes, and it's perfect as a side dish or paired with meals such as eggs, meat, or sausages.

Rösti traces its roots back to the 16th century in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, where it was initially served as a hearty breakfast for hardworking farmers. While it began as a morning staple, rösti now makes appearances as a sidekick to various meals, including eggs, meats, and vegetables.

The secret to a perfect rösti is its crispy, golden-brown exterior and its soft, slightly creamy interior.

Although the essential recipe is straightforward—potatoes, fat, and seasoning—regional twists abound. Some versions jazz things up with bacon, onions, or cheese for an extra flavor kick.

Here's a fun tidbit: the dividing line between the German-speaking and French-speaking regions of Switzerland, particularly around Freiburg, has been known as the ‘Röstigraben,’ or ‘Rösti ditch,’ since World War I. This quirky term is often used to highlight the cultural and political differences between the French and German-speaking parts of Switzerland.

Älplermagronen, commonly referred to as Alpine macaroni, is a beloved traditional Swiss comfort food. This hearty dish f...
08/16/2025

Älplermagronen, commonly referred to as Alpine macaroni, is a beloved traditional Swiss comfort food. This hearty dish features a delightful combination of pasta, potatoes, cream, and cheese, often accompanied by onions and served with applesauce. The name is derived from “älpler” (Alpine herdsmen) and “magronen” (macaroni).

This dish has its roots in the Swiss Alps, where herdsmen traditionally prepared it using locally sourced ingredients.

The classic version is all about the pasta, potatoes, cheese, cream, and onions, but you might catch a regional remix with bacon, ham, or other tasty extras. Think mac and cheese, but with a Swiss twist, where the applesauce adds a sweet-and-tangy punch to the savory party.

Oh, and fun fact: In the French-speaking corners of Switzerland, they call it ‘Macaroni du Chalet’! Bon appétit!

Ruby, a talented interior designer, has recently relocated from Los Angeles to St. Louis. She wanted to host an intimate...
08/14/2025

Ruby, a talented interior designer, has recently relocated from Los Angeles to St. Louis. She wanted to host an intimate gathering for her friends, and they were thrilled to accept, despite a few scheduling challenges due to other events. The venue was a stunning house—no surprises there, given Ruby's expertise in design.

The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with soft lighting casting a cozy glow over the carefully curated décor. Ruby's knack for creating spaces that felt both stylish and comfortable was evident in every corner of the home. Guests mingled easily, drifting from room to room, admiring the artful touches that made each space unique.

For this occasion, we aimed for an elegant appetizer-based dinner featuring:
- Mini Tandoori Chicken Sliders
- Paneer Tikka Skewers (Vegetarian)
- Masala Arancini (Vegetarian)
- Mini Samosa Cones (Vegetarian)
- Saffron Quinoa Pilaf
- Cardamom Panna Cotta with Rose Syrup
- An exquisite cheese board

With the capable assistance of Bree, everything went smoothly, and the guests thoroughly enjoyed the evening.

Thank you, Ruby!Your ability to transform spaces and create memorable experiences has left us eagerly anticipating your next event 😄 Until next time!

Basler Leckerli are traditional Swiss gingerbread biscuits from Basel, known for their hard texture and spiced flavor. M...
08/10/2025

Basler Leckerli are traditional Swiss gingerbread biscuits from Basel, known for their hard texture and spiced flavor.

Made with honey, hazelnuts, almonds, candied peel, and Kirsch, they are topped with a sugar glaze after baking. The dough is rolled out into a thin layer, baked, and then drizzled with a sugar glaze while still warm. Traditionally, it is cut into rectangular pieces.

These cookies have been a Basel specialty for over 700 years and are enjoyed year-round, especially during the Christmas season.

Basler Leckerli were first created by spice merchants in Basel and were mentioned in historical records as early as 1720, traditionally paired with spiced wine on New Year's Day. With their firm texture and complex flavor, Basler Leckerli are a classic treat.

Imagine a home nestled on five acres of lush greenery, offering stunning panoramic views of the Missouri River. That’s e...
08/08/2025

Imagine a home nestled on five acres of lush greenery, offering stunning panoramic views of the Missouri River. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Paul Kopsky’s residence, a place that perfectly embodies privacy and exclusivity. Built way back in 1926, this property was once a hub for St. Louis’ elite, serving as a social and sporting club.

But there’s more to this place than just its charm. In 1804, the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition made a stop at Tavern Cave, located right nearby in St. Albans, Missouri. Interestingly, William Clark's carved signature on Pompey’s Pillar in Montana is the only physical evidence of their journey. Amazingly, this house is perched directly above the cave, offering you not just a stunning sunset but a step into history itself.

Paul is an exceptional host, and every year, we have the pleasure of serving his fantastic group of friends. This time, we're kicking things up a notch. Imagine a jaw-dropping 40-ounce cowboy steak—holy cow! Ribeye for the gentlemen, all sourced from the incredible Royal Family Farming. It turned out to be a culinary masterpiece!

We also put together an elegant cheese board and crostini topped with smoked salmon. Meanwhile, our classy and charming bartender, Maddie, whipped up some amazing cocktails and kept the conversation flowing. Emilee was there to lend a hand with the dishes. It was a truly wonderful evening, complete with rosemary potatoes, grilled asparagus, and a decadent chocolate mousse cake topped with Bourbon whipped cream. The guys were definitely in a food coma!

Even though the weather tried to bring us down, a rainbow decided to pop up and join the fun!

Big thanks to you, Paul! You're an amazing host and such a wonderful person. I loved seeing the new carriage house you added.

And a special shoutout to Maddie and Emilee for all your support!👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

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