dineLA Chef Roundtable

I have the greatest friends. No, really, I do. Remember how I went to LudoBites 4.0 twice because my friends made reservations?

Well, it happened again.

The ever awesome Amber made a reservation immediately for dineLA Chef Roundtable at REDCAT and was kind enough to include this fatty in her lucky party of four.

Can you believe this panel?

Wolfgang Puck, Karen Hatfield, Joachim Splichal, Susan Feniger, Josiah Citrin, Mark Peel!

A piggy's dream.

There they were.

Right in front of us.

Among other things, the chefs spoke of their inspirations and mentors, the business of owning and running a restaurant, and the importance of good product.

Amber, Ann Marie, insomniac, and I listened intently. Geeks R Us.

Here's where I get even geekier. The chefs answered one audience question -- what do you cook at home?

Guess who asked that question? I did! I did! We were giddy when my card was picked from the stack!

Here are the chefs' answers to my question:

Puck needs his cappuccino.

Hatfield says that baking at home is torture.

Splichal talks about his twin boys and vegetable garden.

Feniger enjoys having a vodka soda and grilling.

Citrin likes cooking things in one pot.

Peel has fallen in love with his pressure cooker.

But wait! There's more!

After the panel discussion, we were treated to tasty tidbits from Starry Kitchen, including black pork belly banh mi, Asian sesame slaw, jap chae, a cool fruity dessert, and the oh-so-delectable famous crispy tofu balls.

We kept going back for balls. We loved the balls.

Susan Feniger did, too.

Here is Starry Kitchen telling her how to make them.

Amber loves Susan Feniger!

Amber loves Mark Peel and Wolfgang Puck!

Ok, we all do.

Thanks so much for a great night.