A Jew, an Atheist, and a Muslim Walk Into a Bar...

A Jew, an Atheist, and a Muslim Walk Into a Bar...

…and sit next to a Christian and a lesbian. They have a lively, lovely conversation – because they all know one another and are friends. THIS is an event Lula’s catered this past month. I didn’t think much of it at the time, until my friend and colleague commented how lovely this microcosm was and that this is how the world should be. I didn’t think much of it because this IS how my world is – I suppose because food brings people together. I absolutely love tasting and learning about other culture’s food and customs, and I guess this brings me closer to all kinds of people. I feel so RICH! So – today I share, with THANKSGIVING, a piece of my culture in the form of this raw stuffed turkey. Below, you get a taste of the highlights of our fantastic California trip – with reco’s if you’re ever OUT THERE.

Part I: Los Angeles - Uncles Blair and Gene Most important was just being with them. But I would be highly remiss if I didn’t recommend that you do not MISS The Hollywood Bowl (doesn’t matter who’s performing – just GO). You can take a picnic or pre-order fancy food there. Also, if you have the opportunity, visit Gwen – less than 2 miles from the La Brea Tar Pits (the pits are a MUST) – an understated but elegant butchery and restaurant owned by Curtis Stone and his brother Luke. If you’re a foodie you’ll know Curtis as the “aussie” all over The Food Network. Gordon and I shared the best bone marrow appetizer I’ve ever had, and I had the Homemade Swiss Chard Ravioli while G couldn’t possibly go for anything else other than a New York Strip. They offer Kobe and as well as other beef (remember Lula’s Blog primer “Wagyu/Kobe” ) ? and their service is friendly and impeccable.

Part 2: Joshua Tree National Park. I love the high desert and Joshua Tree did not disappoint. Endless desolation and beauty. We got our “hike” on and viewed stunning sunsets and were lucky enough to be there on JUST the right night when a confluence of galactic events made us able to see our own MILKY WAY GALAXY! But I’m all about the food so: There’s a greasy spoon that is a MUST. NOT. MISS. – The Crossroads Café. There is LOVE and TECHNIQUE in this kitchen. I had corn cakes better than mine, and that’s sayin’ somethin’. I’m working on it. Working with those fresh native chilis didn’t hurt. Also, Luna Sourdough – fantastic bread which you can buy whole or made into their sandwiches. Naturalives Spa where I spent an afternoon did not disappoint. Hey, we can’t be hikey/sweaty ALL the time!! Deep tissue work and an excellent facial with all natural ingredients.

Part 3: The culmination for winos…Temecula. We stayed at Churon Inn and Winery and would stay there again. Lovely – with a fantastic breakfast included on our private deck. Churon has one of the best Barberas I’ve ever had (even in Italy). We worked HARD for you and visited 11 wineries in 3 days. It was truly exhausting but delightful. Do you feel for us?!? Highlights (in other words where we spent a lot of money) were Doffo and Lorenzi for us (as far as wine). Doffo’s owner is a biker and there’s a fantastic collection of restored vintage motorcycles there. Mix Italian and Argentinian heritage for an excellent vineyard, and as you would expect – stellar Malbec.

Lorenzi was our favorite “sit and sip” spot – outside, small, great views (everywhere you go). Lorenzi offers a 90 point + tasting experience of their (all and only) estate grown wines with charcuterie included – which you need!! We fell in love. They’re small – no tour busses please.
We had been very excited to eat at Renzoni’s vineyard but that did not work out. We punted and found a VERY memorable Italian joint in a strip mall called Nonno’s in the town of Murrieta Hot Springs about 10 minutes away. We shared fried Artichokes, and I had Linguine con Vongole for which I had been JONESING for about 2 months and G got their fantastic Brodetto. We would go back in a heartbeat because I missed so many things I wanted to try – their homemade gnocchi and carpaccio are two that I missed.

Not only was I inspired (R&R, remember…Research and Revivification) by every place we went, but even on the PLANE I got a fantastic idea from an entrée they served (I’ll keep this secret till I work out my recipe). Which will be soon. Be on the lookout! Wishing you happy, merry, and everything in between! Xo - Lula

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About Chef Lori

Chef Lori Pierce, owner of Lula's, creates unique, boutique cuisine to impress your guests and clients in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area.  Our custom recipes and menus delight an intimate gathering of 10, a celebration for 100, and anything in between.

At Lula's, Love is ALWAYS our first ingredient!