A Foodie's Dream Come True

Last night, my husband and I attended the Black Tie dinner at the National Arts Club to honor Jacques Pepin. Chef Pepin was presented with our club's Medal of Honor For Excellence in the Culinary Arts. Included in the evening was a charity auction to aid The Jacques Pepin Scholarship Fund administered by The Culinary Trust.

I was first introduced to the Arts Club by my dear friend, Jane St.Lifer Kennedy. Thru her generous support and sponsorship, I became a member of this wonderful organization. Moreover, Jane is truly Miss Congeniality, but more importantly, was the auctioneer of last night's event. Mrs. Kennedy gloriously entertained us with her vibrant personality while conveniencing folks to buy more items to benefit the scholarship fund. She auctioned Chef Pepin's watercolors prints, his painted chef coats and a library of his books.

Last night, Jane, Matthew and I had such delight because we sat at the B table. We sat with many of Chef Pepin's friend including Chef Andre Soltner, Chef Jacques Torres, and Sarah Moulton. Also, sitting with us was Chef-Scholar Cathy Kaufman.

Although Chef Pepin was not cooking, he recipes were served. Joseph Fappaolo, the Executive Chef at the club prepared such fine food. We were served Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne, Lobster salad with tarragon accompanied by Domaine Laroche Chablis, Roasted veal tenders stuffed with proscuitto and porcini mushrooms accompanied by Embrix de Vall-Llach Priorat, and Chocolate roulade with fresh fruit accompaned by Presidential Vintage Port 1994.

Gifts Bags included Jacques Torres Chocolate, Illy Caffe, OXO International and BlackRock Investments.

All truly enjoyed the evening.