A fun-filled week for charities and a grand opening to boot
Spring is in the air, and there’s no shortage of events to mark the beginning of the 2015 season. Last week’s Let There Be Truffles event was sold out all three nights. Who knew there were so many ways to use the fabulous fungus? I also learned that most truffle oils tastes nothing like the real thing, and in fact, many truffle oils have never even met an actual truffle. So if you have an aversion to truffle oil, check out the real thing. I did, and was pleasantly surprised. And it all went to benefit our local Meals on Wheels Lewes-Rehoboth right here in Sussex County.
I’m usually the one who warns new restaurateurs not to jump the gun when setting their opening date. Liquor licenses, use and occupancy permits, contractor schedules and health department inspections can be a minefield of uncertainty when launching an eatery. Well, I jumped the gun in my column a couple of weeks ago when I proclaimed that the new Palate in Rehoboth would be open that week. Oops. But everything is finally in place, and last Tuesday night ran smoothly after a successful “friends and family” shakedown the previous Saturday. I was able to snag a seat at the copper-topped bar as Gary and Lorraine Papp alternately arm-wrestled a recalcitrant computer system and a small army of friendly (but still learning the ropes) servers. But, as the opening chefs of The Buttery and as well-respected caterers, their food was flawless - especially Lorraine’s desserts. Wait ‘til you taste her Limoncello crème brûlée! Palate is located in the old Capriotti’s spot in the Safeway Shopping Center. I promise they are open!
With Billy Lucas’ delicious Taco Reho Truck, the newly revamped Big Chill Cantina and the still-being-built Crooked Hammock brewpub, the Nage organization is branching out into all sorts of new ventures. But they weren’t too busy to hold their 7th Annual Wine & Food Festival last Sunday. I remember the very first one - some Nage regulars showed up, and that was pretty much it.
My, how things have changed. Not only were the main dining room, the bar area and the adjacent dining room packed, but boss Josh Grapski, his loyal crew, Echelon Custom Homes and Dover Rent-All set up a huge tent in the back parking lot. Wines from South Africa, the Pacific Northwest, South America, New Zealand and France were available for sipping in the tent, while in the main dining room, things were more Italian, Spanish and Californian. The fun thing about such an extensive tasting is that you can find your favorite, then stroll across the room and order it from Tom Poor’s Bin 66. Music in the dining room was provided by the talented Bruce Anthony, winner of Delaware Today’s Best Musician Award. If you haven’t yet heard this guy, treat yourself the next time you see him strumming and singing locally. You will not be disappointed.
In the side dining room (remember Afishionado Seafood that used to be in there?), Matt Reardon and pastry chef Dru Tevis conducted cooking demonstrations next to the silent auction table. It is amazing what Dru can do with plain ol’ sugar. Proceeds from this year’s Nage Wine & Food Festival went to Children & Families First, the Rehoboth Art League (they also had a display in the tent) and Children’s Beach House.
Several brand-new spots (and a few old favorites) are about to open, and I’ll keep you informed as the fun begins yet again in our very own culinary destination.
