That’s a Wrap – FoodFilm Sowal Recap
Eat with your Eyes
Story by Sarah Murphy Robertson and Phil Heppding
Have you ever watched a dish being prepared and wished you had a bite at that very moment? Friday night’s kick-off for The Food Film Fest at Caliza in Alys Beach entitled “Taste of What’s to Come” was truly doing just that.
The backdrop for this special evening was the Caliza Pool – a stunning, sleek venue. The twinkling cafe lights, comfortable seating options, and joyful music set the stage for a fabulous springtime event.
Local and visiting chefs encircled the pool; offering interactive, interesting dishes to the enthusiastic foodie crowd. Signature Catering of 30A’s Chef Christopher Holbrook was wowing guests with his sushi and warm saki shot with a quail egg. This expertise and attention to detail was seen with all of the chefs bringing their “A” games.
Caliza’s own Kevin Korman offered a delicate and sweet sous vide scallop atop carrots and finished with a salty bone marrow crumble. It was dressed perfectly with an acidic vinaigrette. Seagar’s of course made steak for the party – a portion of New York Strip resting on a creamy potato puree with accompanying jus and beautiful mushrooms. And Bud & Alley’s Chef Phil McDonald served housemade sourdough topped with a crab salad: a lovely coastal bite with a home-crafted feel.
The three short films presented were selected to take the diner through a three course experience. They showcased the preparation of a rosemary-infused gin fizz cocktail, bacon wrapped steak, and a lovingly made doughnut.
This multi-sense event was truly something special as guests shared murmurs of delight sampling the films’ fare. The cocktail was made with distinct and smooth Louisiana’s own oryza gin, Kevin Korman’s team expertly seasoned and prepared the steak course, and Charlie’s Donuts made the airy, dessert confections just one hour before they were served.
Friday night definitely set the bar high, and anyone who attended the rest of the festival can attest that it was a weekend to celebrate culinary and cinematic creativity. Each are unique art forms on their own, and when brought together, enhance the other masterfully.
To see highlights of Saturday’s event, Roadtrip- A Southern Culinary and Spirits Experience please visit:
To check out our full interview with 2016 Food & Wine Best New Chef Michael Gulotta of Mopho in New Orleans, please visit:
To view our full interview with Chef Braden Wages of Malai Kitchen in Dallas, please check out:
