As much as I hate the term "foody", I'm not really sure what other word to use when it comes to describing myself and my ever growing, passionate appreciation for well made food. The preparation, presentation, creativity and passion that can be put into a dish that takes 3 bites to devour blows my mind. I was recently invited by my friend Willie Wagner to volunteer at an event that would leave any "foody" drooling. Headed by Efrain Cuevas, Clandestino Chicago Supper Club is an underground dining phenomena that is one of Chicago's best kept secrets. Basically, a hush location is chosen, a relatively small group (the dinners I participated in had about 25-40 guests) is gathered and a delicious gourmet, multiple course meal is prepared and served in a communal environment. I've only ever had the chance to enjoy the gourmet world sitting at the dinner table, but this time I got my hands dirty (that is if foie gras, tomato jam and pistachio petitza can be considered dirty). I was able to prepare these amazing dishes and take a few snap shots in between. Unfortunately, I'm not a real journalist and I forgot to get the full names of the crew and a menu of the dishes we were preparing. Forgive me, I was distracted by the little bits of edible heaven that surrounded me.
The main crew. Willie Efrain Lauren and Marielle.
Willie cooking up some polenta.
Chef Willie.
Marielle (sp?) making delicious sopes.
Efrain pouring some AMAZING cocktails. I believe it was jalapeno and lemon infused vodka with orange juice and pomegranate seeds. Funny how I remember every detail of the alcohol that was served...
Lauren preparing the amuse.
Little gourmet sausages fried in duck fat I believe. Drooooll.
Dandelion greens with squash, squash seeds and an amazing honey dressing.
Lovely three piece band.
This was by far my favorite dish. Duck, foie gras, tomatoe jam, brussel sprout crispies and some more that I can't remember but it was ethereal.
Dessert! Chocolate petitzas, with chocolate sauce, topped with an amazing cream.
A little sprinkle of fancy almond liqueur.
Clandestino!
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