Spring Market Dinner at Pappo’s

Last week I was fortunate enough to hear about Chef John Theil’s plans to develop a special meal based on the wonderful selections he found at the market that very morning. The invitation came with the evening's menu and a teaser picture showing part of the meal under preparation. In a heartbeat I came up with a reason requiring a celebratory dinner and called to reserve two of the 12 seatings.

Now, I’m no foodie, but I know a good meal when I eat one and this did not disappoint! The starter was a White Wine Braised Leek Crostini with Goat Cheese and Marjoram followed by a 7 Mushroom and Spring Onion soup. Now, I have to tell you, this soup was like nothing I’d ever had before. I’ve never been a big fan of mushroom soup but this had an earthy intensity that was amazing. We watched the couple next to us have the same physical reaction that I can only describe as a taste-asm when they dipped into their bowl of heaven. Next up was a wonderfully light salad with Cara Cara oranges, avocado, farro and a light vinaigrette. I can’t imagine a better salad to follow that amazing soup.

Then the main course arrived; whole grain polenta with a vegetarian choice of turnips, asparagus and red chard or duck sago with green garlic and parmesan. I went for the vegetables, my husband had the duck. All I can say is neither one of us offered anything up for the other to taste. We each protected our meal like a wild animal watching out for its young. Finally, my reason for eating any meal was set before us; dessert was strawberry shortcake with Whipped mascarpone and a balsamic reduction. The shortcake was exactly as it should be, far more biscuit than cake with the perfect blend of salt and sugar and the whipped mascarpone took the dessert to a whole new level.

Now, it may seem cruel to share this information with you after the evening was over, but I come with good news. Chef John will be serving a special spring market meal every Thursday for 12 very lucky diners to enjoy. The meal itself was only $35 per person, which is a remarkable value in my opinion. If you want to raise the level of the meal even higher, the chef has suggested wine pairings to enjoy with each course. So do yourself a real favor and call Pappo’s 510-337-9100 and Make your reservation while this wonderful experience is still available!