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Food Blog

Cantinetta Luca's Third Annual Heirloom Tomato Dinner

As the heirloom has become an institution, Swank Farms and its third generation growers have become a favorite source for local chefs.

When it comes to great restaurants in Carmel, Cantinetta Luca and sister establishment Aubergine have become reader favorites (and for very good reason).

And as anyone who has ventured into a wine dinner with Thomas Perez knows, he is a perennial favorite for best wine director-by-the-sea.

So when they all get together, and throw in some of the best chefs from David and Kathleen Fink's Mirabel Hotel & Restaurant Group—namely Jason Balestrieri (Cantinetta Luca), Ron Mendoza (Mirabel), Craig DiFonzo (Cantinetta Piero) and Randall Hane (Aubergine)—you're looking at one of the favorite nights to be alive.

The $95 all-inclusive action starts with a tomato reception at 6:30pm. I could go on, but a peek at the menu makes more sense. (Call 626-7880 lickety split like.)

Welcome Hors d’oeuvres paired with 2005 L’Hereu de raventós I Blanc - Cava - Sant sadurni D’Anoia - Penedés - España

First Course Tomato Gelée Cuttlefish Ceviche, Fennel, Yuzu Zest by Randall Hane, Aubergine at L’Auberge Carmel paired with 2007 Schlosskellerei Von Schubert - Maximin Grünhäuser - Riesling-Kabinett - Herrenberg - Ruwer -Germania

Second Course Pasta e Pomodoro Spaghetti, Tomato Crudo, Garlic, Mozzarella Cheese, Basil by Craig DiFonzo, Cantinetta Piero, Yountville paired with 2008 Torre Rosazza - Friulano - Colli Orientali del Friuli - Italia

Main Course Guanciale di Maiale alla Milanese Crispy Pork Cheeks, Heirloom Tomatoes, Rucola, Summer Truffle by Jason Balestrieri, Cantinetta Luca, Carmel paired with 2008 Kellerei Terlano - Lagrein Rosé - Alto-Adige - Italia

Dessert Green Tomato Ice Cream Tomato Conserve, White Chocolate, Herb Salad by Ron Mendoza, Mirabel Restaurant Group, Carmel paired with 2009 La Spinetta - Moscato D’Asti - Bricco Quaglia - Piemonte - Italia

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