Feast: Tomatonista 2014

In 2011, my friend Liam began growing tomatoes in his backyard. He really got into it. Taking a class at Loveapple Farms, which provides the produce for the three Michelin-star restaurant, Manresa in Los Gatos, he decided to plant a number of different varieties. Most years since, we have gathered for a multi-course tomato dinner that I have put together.  

This year I had the pleasure of working with both my friend, Matt Medal, whose taste and understanding of beers is rivaled by none as well as Chad Eschman, who is the best mixologist I've had the pleasure to know. Their ability to pair is incredible. I've been fortunate to do several meals with Chad. 

Menu and Food by Jeremy Lum
Tomatoes Grown by Liam Dempsey
Photos by Chad Eschman

Amuse: Tuna Crudo with Tomato, Avocado, and Fried Shallot
Served with Matt Medal’s Beer Pairing

First Course: Tomato Soufflé with Tomato Cheese Fondue
Served with Presto Prosecco

Second Course: Tomato and Fruit Salad with Burrata and Walnuts
Served with Black Stallion Syrah Rose

Third Course: Deconstructed Ratatouille with Eggplant Puree, Zucchini Fritter, Tomato Steak, and Anchovy Butter
Served with Frog Leap Chardonnay 

Fourth Course: Jalapeno Chili Relleno with Tomato Sauce
Served with Cocktail by Chad Eschman 

Fifth Course: Red Snapper Tomato Aqua Pazza
Served with Cocktail by Liam Dempsey

Sixth Course: Quail Tomato Fricassee with Tarragon Buttermilk Biscuits
Served with Brunello Di Montalcino Ferrero 

Seventh Course: Braised Spicy Pork Ribs with Bitter Green Salad
Served with Signorello Syrah 

Intermezzo: Tomato Lime Granita with Strawberries

Eighth Course: Goat Cheese Panna Cotta, Olive Oil Gelato, Walnuts, and Tomato
Bon-Bon’s
Served with V. Sattui Madeira