Chefs of the Triangle

by Laura

I am one of those aspiring foodies who, a) doesn’t cook much, let alone in a gourmet fashion, and b) can’t afford to experience the best of fine dining. This is otherwise known as living in NYC but working for a nonprofit.

However, moving out of the city has both reduced my reliance on take-out and lowered the price point on restaurant outings.  Harold has also agreed to expand his efforts in the kitchen to go beyond stir fry and cheeseburgers.  So, there’s hope in sight.

This weekend I couldn’t resist attending an event featuring “Chefs of the Triangle“, a new collection of stories & recipes that define the local food scene.  Bill Smith, who runs Crook’s Corner, and Brett Jennings, who heads Elaine’s, were there to offer their perspective – and some samples. Fried green tomato gazpacho and decadent brownies aren’t the most natural pairing, but I wasn’t complaining.

The book lists a slew of places that I was largely unaware of as an undergraduate – many, in fact, weren’t around yet.  It seems that the Triangle food scene has also begun to include greater ethnic variety. Case in point:  I didn’t remember Thai food as being the region’s greatest strength – as in, I don’t think there was any within 500 miles.  Happily, it turns out that now there are several delish Thai spots to choose from, among pan-Asian and more experimental food.

In addition, regional establishments have been ahead of the farm-to-table trend for years. Bill Smith described relationships with growers that have lasted for decades. Brett Jennings praised their creativity in growing new and varied ingredients that help drive his menu choices.  He sees “Top Farmer” as being the next Bravo hit.

I have a fresh list of meals to fit into the calendar – starting with the banana pudding at Crook’s Corner.  Apparently the book reveals that it contains more cream than most have consumed in a lifetime – but, such is the price you pay when you’re determined to go about your culinary explorations with no regrets!