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Apple strudel, or Apfelstrudel if you’re feeling fancy, is Austria’s dessert superstar with a storied past and tasty qui...
07/19/2025

Apple strudel, or Apfelstrudel if you’re feeling fancy, is Austria’s dessert superstar with a storied past and tasty quirks! Imagine a flaky, paper-thin dough wrapped around a sweet apple filling, kissed by cinnamon, and sometimes jazzed up with raisins or nuts. This treat proudly reigns as Austria's national dish, charming visitors in cozy Viennese cafes.

In Austria, special apple types dubbed "Strudler" are the secret weapon for crafting strudel perfection. While apple strudel steals the spotlight, its versatile dough also moonlights with savory fillings like spinach, cabbage, or even meat!

And here’s a juicy tidbit: Austrian families often guard their own secret Apfelstrudel recipes like treasure maps! Only passed down to future generations!

Fun fact: In 2015, Kaprun, Austria, rolled out a record-breaking apple strudel stretching an epic 752 meters (2,004 feet). Now that's a Strudel to remember!🤣

What an absolute treat it was to have a lovely sit down with Mr M.Vinothraja from Dinamani. I have always said that foo...
07/17/2025

What an absolute treat it was to have a lovely sit down with Mr M.Vinothraja from Dinamani. I have always said that food is memories and once again food has been an avenue to create a core memory here.

Our whole talk was that of friends, where the back and forth, whether it be intense topics or lighthearted observations of the everyday, was an absolute joy to experience.

The conversation was a winding street with hidden alleys where we explored various topics like zero waste, mindful eating, innovation being surmount but your roots being just as strong and the similarity we sometimes share when it comes to food no matter which part of the planet you belong to.

Come as strangers leave as friends is an ideology I absolutely believe in afterall it holds true that you are only as good as your last meal and it makes all the difference!

Thank you for having me Dinamani…this was such an amazing experience!

Do check out our whole tête-à-tête in the link below!🙏🏽😊🙏🏽

Interview link:
https://youtu.be/cQRlME76UCI
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Suzanne Lang is an exceptional mother who reached out to us to organize a celebration for her daughter, Annabelle's birt...
07/15/2025

Suzanne Lang is an exceptional mother who reached out to us to organize a celebration for her daughter, Annabelle's birthday. Annabelle is no ordinary teenager; she is a remarkable whiz kid who started her own party rental business, which she successfully sold before turning 17. Not only is she an outstanding baker and a perfectionist, but she is also set to attend the prestigious Carnegie Mellon University to study engineering.

For her birthday, Annabell envisioned a stunning pasta dish served on a parmesan wheel as the main highlight. They contacted us to help make this vision come to life, and specific plans were put in place.

However, St. Louis is known for its unpredictable weather, and we faced another tornado and heavy storms. Nevertheless, we adapted our plans to create a memorable experience for the graduate. With nearly 100 guests in attendance, we were fortunate to have our talented pasta chef, Angela, along with Carolyn, Rasmi, and the lively Maddie, who expertly handled the bar.

With a stunning imported wheel from Italy, we spent nearly 2.5 hours serving up delicious treats like Caprese Skewers , Arancini with truffle cream sauce and pasta, with the team operating at full capacity.

Now, cooking pasta in a cheese wheel is an indulgent and flavorful culinary experience that elevates a simple dish to a luxurious feast. This method involves using a large wheel of cheese, often Parmesan or Pecorino, as both a serving vessel and a flavor enhancer. The process begins by hollowing out the center of the cheese wheel to create a bowl-like structure. Once the pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, it is drained and placed into the hollowed cheese wheel. The heat from the pasta gently melts the cheese, creating a rich, creamy sauce that coats each strand.
This technique not only enhances the taste but also adds an element of theatrical presentation, making it a popular choice for special occasions and dining experiences.

Thanks Angie, Rasmy, Carolyn & Maddie. Special thanks to Suzanne and Annabelle for creating this beautiful opportunity.
Annabelle, we wish you a fantastic college experience.

📸 Beautiful pics by .epsteinlang 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

Sachertorte isn't just any chocolate cake; it's the rockstar of Austrian desserts! Picture this: a luscious chocolate de...
07/13/2025

Sachertorte isn't just any chocolate cake; it's the rockstar of Austrian desserts!

Picture this: a luscious chocolate delight with a cheeky apricot jam layer and a glossy glaze, always paired with a cloud of whipped cream.

But wait, there's more than just a sugar rush—there's a juicy story too! Created in 1832 by a 16 year old pastry wizard, Franz Sacher, for Prince Wenzel von Metternich, this cake comes with a slice of history.

The original recipe, a top-secret treasure, is still under lock and key at Hotel Sacher in Vienna. And oh, the drama! There was the legendary "chocolate cake war" between Hotel Sacher and Demel bakery over recipe rights. Spoiler alert: Hotel Sacher emerged victorious! Today, the Original Sachertorte is still lovingly handmade by the hotel's culinary wizards.

Now that's what I call taking an (actual) bite out of history!😄👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

To watch their kid graduate is an emotional and proud milestone in any parent's life. Having recently been in that posit...
07/11/2025

To watch their kid graduate is an emotional and proud milestone in any parent's life. Having recently been in that position myself, I can absolutely attest to that. But that is a story for another time😄

It was with immense pride and emotion, we had the opportunity to honor the remarkable Lavanya, a brilliant graduate embarking on her journey to the University of Pennsylvania to pursue journalism. This milestone is not just a testament to her hard work and dedication but also a reflection of the unwavering support from her family. Alpana Chandra, a cherished supporter and dear friend, has been an integral part of this journey.

To celebrate this momentous occasion, we've crafted a modern Indian fusion menu that mirrors Lavanya’s vibrant heritage and academic achievements. The menu beautifully blends culinary influences from both South and North India, featuring a global presentation and gourmet touches, perfectly suited for a chic and joyful graduation celebration.

The Menu:
* Signature Welcome Bite that were served on Edible Spoons
Amuse-Bouche with Tangy Tamarind Mango Chutney Sphere, Goat Cheese Mousse, Crispy Quinoa Crunch and Garnished with Edible Flowers in UPenn Colors (Blue&Red).
* Lamb Masala Sliders
Spiced Lamb Patty with Caramelized Onions, Masala Aioli,Aged Cheddar,on Mini Brioche Buns
* Lava Nya idli with stuffed sambar and gunpowder.
* Butter Chicken Nachos
* Paneer Makhani Nachos
* Truffle Arancini with masala tomato cream sauce

It was a wonderful celebration of an equally if not more wonderful person!The family and friends absolutely adored it everything we presented and we ourselves were pretty pleased with the outcome 😄😄😄

Congratulations, Lavanya, and a big thank you to Bree for organizing everything!

Frittatensuppe, Austria's superstar soup, is a bowl of warmth and nostalgia featuring its star performers: thinly sliced...
07/09/2025

Frittatensuppe, Austria's superstar soup, is a bowl of warmth and nostalgia featuring its star performers: thinly sliced pancakes known as Frittaten.

These pancake ribbons move around gracefully in a clear, flavorful broth, making it the ultimate comfort food and a staple on Austrian tables, especially as a Sunday starter.

The Frittaten are crafted from a simple batter of flour, eggs, and milk, cooked to perfection, then artfully sliced into strips. The broth, often brewed from beef or chicken, is seasoned with herbs and spices, creating a symphony of flavors.

This national treasure is savored with gusto all across Austria and rightly so🫶🏻♥️🫶🏻

When Airbnb had confirmed the reservation for Sadie and her friends, we needed to plan an exciting day full of fun and l...
07/07/2025

When Airbnb had confirmed the reservation for Sadie and her friends, we needed to plan an exciting day full of fun and laughter. With multiple activities lined up, the day promised to be unforgettable.

And it was unforgettable! Friends gathered around in a cozy living room, sharing stories and memories that seemed to sparkle with each retelling.

A playlist of upbeat songs played softly in the background, setting the perfect tone for an afternoon of fun and bonding. Each person in the room wore bright smiles and their eyes were filled with warmth and affection for one another.

Our playful yet elegant menu included:
* Creamy Lobster Bisque
* Beet salad with tangy goat cheese
* Juicy Filet mignon with crispy potato and apple tarts

The laughter and stories shared over the empty plates made the day even more special.

It was a celebration of friendship, a reminder of the strength and beauty found in the connections that lift and sustain them through life's journey.

A big thank you to Emilee for joining in and adding to the fun.

Thanks also to Sadie and Airbnb for making it all possible!

Ah, the legendary Wiener Schnitzel—a masterpiece of thin, breaded, and pan-fried veal goodness, hailed as Austria's culi...
07/04/2025

Ah, the legendary Wiener Schnitzel—a masterpiece of thin, breaded, and pan-fried veal goodness, hailed as Austria's culinary crown jewel!

This crispy delight is often partnered with some lemon and a sidekick of potato salad or buttery parsley potatoes. Known far and wide as the Wiener or Vienna Schnitzel, it's the Austrians' answer to fish and chips, making for a perfect casual lunch.

Fun tidbit: In Austria, "Wiener Schnitzel" is like a royal title—reserved strictly for veal. Dare to use other meats? You better label it right, like "Wiener Schnitzel vom Schwein" for pork. Long live the Schnitzel! 😄😄😄

Nisha and Sumit, our dynamic duo of cheerleaders, have been our ride-or-die supporters from day one, championing all sor...
07/02/2025

Nisha and Sumit, our dynamic duo of cheerleaders, have been our ride-or-die supporters from day one, championing all sorts of amazing causes. They are definitely on my list of people I would go above and beyond for!

So when Nisha got her sister Ritu in on the action to throw a bash for Ritu's hubby's big 5-0, we went in guns blazing!🥳

We knew it had to be legendary, so we embarked on a gastronomic odyssey inspired by his foodie adventures.

The menu was crafted to reflect the celebration of his life's travels, offering dishes that represent his journey from India to Texas, St. Louis, Chicago, and Florida.

Each dish held a special meaning, guiding guests on a culinary adventure from the roots of India to the rich, diverse flavors of the American states he has called home. This thoughtfully designed meal not only honors this significant milestone but also tells a delicious story through food for everyone to enjoy.

THE JOURNEY:
* Avocado Bhel Tartare With Tamarind Chutney (India)
* Texas-Style Grilled Chicken Skewers With Bbq Sauce (Texas)
* Crispy Falafel With Hummus (Middle Eastern/Indian Fusion)
* Chicken Tikka Masala (India)
* Cajun Grilled Fish Tacos (St. Louis/Florida)
* Masala Roasted Sweet Potatoes (India)
* Grilled Asparagus With Lemon Zest (Mediterranean/Florida)
* Chicago-Style Roasted Vegetables (Chicago)
* Mango Lassi Panna Cotta (India/Florida)
* Key Lime Pie (Florida)
* Deep-Dish Chocolate Chip Cookies (Chicago)

We had the talented magician, Chris Le Bou from Decoding Cocktails, who brought a fresh perspective to the world of beverages. Chris, I could really use a few of those mango lassi cocktails!😄😄😄

The guests absolutely adored all of it, making for a truly delightful evening.

A big thank you to Edina, Bree, and Carolyn for their invaluable assistance. As expected, Jill was fantastic as always. And Chris, once again, thank you for the incredible cocktails that blew our minds!

It was truly a lovely day! cheers!🥂

Æbleskiver (pronounced "EE-bleh-skewr”) are round Danish pancakes prepared in a special pan featuring half-spherical mol...
06/29/2025

Æbleskiver (pronounced "EE-bleh-skewr”) are round Danish pancakes prepared in a special pan featuring half-spherical molds.

The name translates to "apple slices," reflecting the traditional practice of incorporating apple slices into the batter. Although apples may not always be used today, these treats are celebrated for their soft, fluffy interior and crispy exterior, reminiscent of pancakes.

Typically served in sets of three, they are dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by jam or other fillings. Traditionally, they are enjoyed with gløgg, a mulled wine.

Fun fact:
Æbleskiver is believed to have originated with the Vikings, possibly as a way to regain strength after battles. The oldest known recipe dates back to 1703.

Ellie and Mike Braun, two of our most adorable clients, have always been a delight to work with. A few years ago, we had...
06/27/2025

Ellie and Mike Braun, two of our most adorable clients, have always been a delight to work with. A few years ago, we had the pleasure of hosting a celebration dinner for them, and recently, they reached out to us again.

This time, they wanted to organize a country-style auction dinner at their charming farmhouse, nestled just outside St. Louis.

As we arrived, we were unfazed by the challenges ahead and were warmly welcomed by Ellie’s friendly smile and embrace, accompanied by Mike's infectious enthusiasm.

It felt like reuniting with old friends, and together, we began to set things in motion.

Our menu for the occasion was made up of;

* Seared Scallop Spoons With Herb Gremolata
* Smoked Salmon And Avocado Canapés
* Half Cracker And Half Cucumber Whipped Feta & Roasted Red Pepper Tartlets
* Grilled Peach And Burrata Salad With Prosciutto And Mint
* Aged Cheese Board With Nuts, Pickled Vegetables, And Pear Slices
* Herb-Crusted Rack Of Lamb With A Red Wine Reduction
* Parmesan Roasted Artichoke Hearts And Heirloom Tomato Salad
*Rack Of Lamb With Cauliflower Purée Mixed With Garlic And Thyme
* Poached Pears In White Wine With Vanilla Bean Cream

The day was nothing short of spectacular. As the guests arrived, their faces lit up as they took in the charm of the setting. Laughter and the sound of clinking glasses filled the air and we couldn’t be more delighted.

Thanks to the unwavering support and hard work from Rasmy, Charles, and Eduardo, everything unfolded seamlessly.

The auction was a resounding success, with lively bidding and cheers echoing through the evening.


We even got to have a heartfelt and enlightening conversation about the incredible initiative that Ellie and Mike are dedicated to:

It's truly an admirable endeavor, and we felt inspired to find our own way to contribute.

Thank you, Ellie and Mike, for your warm farmhouse and the kindness in your hearts. Your dedication is genuinely moving 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

Say hello to Fiskefrikadeller, the Danish delight that’s like a fishcake’s cooler cousin. These sizzling pan-fried fish ...
06/25/2025

Say hello to Fiskefrikadeller, the Danish delight that’s like a fishcake’s cooler cousin.

These sizzling pan-fried fish patties are the star of the show, usually paired with tangy remoulade and creamy mashed potatoes. Made from ground fish like cod or whiting, they’re jazzed up with breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and a sprinkle of spices.

Fiskefrikadeller are similar to Fiskeboller, which are boiled fish balls often added to soups.

But unlike Fiskeboller, Fiskefrikadeller takes center stage as a beloved main course or sidekick in the traditional Danish feast!

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