It was an honor to be asked to help with daughter Ashley's last catering job, held at Bluxome Street Winery in San Francisco. Since cooking is her forte and not tablescapes, she let me have creative license to do what I wanted to create a table setting in the huge warehouse winery.
The event was a gentlemen's luncheon for 12.
Everything had to be brought in. We rented the tables, chairs white linens, silverware and wine glasses. Her catering company, Tourshi Catering already had simple white plates.
I needed to warm up the all white look, yet keep it appropriate for men, so I just grabbed the newest burlap runner from my dining room table and my mercury glass accessories. For the centerpiece and inspiration for the table, I chose this silver wine bucket and filled it with white mums.
The thought at first was to have one long 16 foot table, but I ended up putting the tables side by side. The runner hid the seam. By doing this, twelve people can talk to one another easily, almost like a round table arrangement.
Wine barrels were moved closer, surrounding the table and creating a more intimate space.
Leather chargers make a nice contrast to the white plates and linens.
Lots of candlelight was necessary for ambiance and warmth.
Speaking of warmth, we also brought in a space heater!
Each plate got a menu.
While I was setting up the table, Ashley and assistant Amy were busy in the winery's kitchen preparing the meal.
I had planned to leave after setting the table, but was asked to stay and photograph the event for the winery.
After the gentlemen arrived, appetizers were passed and wine was poured.
"Ham and Cheese Hors d'oeuvres!" Caramelized onions, Iberico ham, Manchego cheese, on a toasted baguette.
Tuille crisps with beef tartar and wild arugula.
First course:
Wild mushroom risotto, mascarpone quinelle, white truffle drizzle, walnut and herbs.
Second course:
Braised beef short ribs on stone ground grits, garnished with horseradish, braised winter lettuces, pancetta.
Dessert:
Aaron's Mascarpone Cheesecake with poached quince.
Wine from the owner's own vineyard, a lovely Russian River Valley pinot noir.
The chef describing the menu.
Bluxome Street Winery is not open to the public yet. Scheduled to open in spring, they will be the first urban winery in San Francisco in 100 years! Located only two blocks from the SF Giants ballpark, it is an actual winery with tasting room and retail sales. It is also the perfect venue for catered events. For more information, please check out their website.
Also, be sure to check out Ashley's new website too, Tourshi Catering.
I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday.
On Friday, I'll join Designs by Gollum for Foodie Friday, and Cindy at My Romantic Home for Show and Tell Friday.
