Amsterdam Foodie

Last weekend saw the success of the second of my autumn Hidden Kitchen events. As far as I know, there were no couplings as a result, but then again half the time I have no idea what’s going on in my own house… Romance aside, I think a good time was had by all, and I’ve had gratifying feedback – some of which I might quote at the end of this post for want of anywhere more logical to put it.

My biggest logistical dramas this time involved a lack of chairs (I really am going to invest in some for 2010, even if it does mean tripping over them around the house for the other 357 days of the year), my pesky pasta sheets sticking together (rectified by a slight menu alteration to pappardelle instead of open ravioli), and a whole heap of cancellations for the second event. Administrative nightmares were all averted at the last minute, however, and I had a full house both nights.

Photos of the event were taken by my friend Mehul, who makes it all look extremely professional and utterly delicious. Let’s hope it tasted as good as he makes it look…

Amster-bramble: house aperitif for autumn

Autumn cheer

Sausage and mash: Mairy is amused

Butternut squash, truffle goat's cheese, pappardelle with truffle dressing

Lamb tagine with prunes and chestnuts

Concentration for the first slice...

Pear and stem ginger clafoutis with orange vanilla mascarpone

Ending the meal with a glass of bubbly

“Thanks so much for hosting such a great event! I had so much fun and I thought everything was perfect. The food was excellent of course, fun company and the overall atmosphere was super. It’s definitely worth the money…” Anna

“It was absolutely wonderful; the food, the drinks, and the people. Hands down the best meal I’ve had in my nine months in Holland.” Nnennia

“The food was delicious, it’s great to meet new people, the atmosphere was good, it’s value for money, and I think you do the whole concept very well and professionally…” Nicola