Contrary to what some people think, I am not fresh off the farm. Unlike the content of this blog! So much happening in these initial weeks of the New Year. We have moved into a beautiful new home, and have what I would argue to be the most invigorating view in all of Los Angeles. It is so much easier for me to be creative and ambitious, what with all these negative ions coming off the Ocean and majestic vistas to fuel my reserve.
Dean celebrated his birthday, and we had lunch at Farm Shop in Brentwood, Here is the lunch menu. Dean ordered Poached Chicken Salad, and I ordered Potted Fresh and Smoked Salmon Rillettes. Fresh, fresh, fresh food – it’s a wonderful thing that has crept into my life after having moved to California, and it must be said that the West Coast’s dedication to fresh meats and produce is unparalleled. I know that I will always have massive respect for the bread basket that is the Mid-West, but there are some farmers out here that are really doing their homework when it comes to local, hormone free, and seasonal agriculture.
One such man was introduced to me by friend and chef, Ella Murphy, at the Sunday Santa Monica Farmer’s Market off Main Street. His stand was of modest size and contained mostly greens and herbs. But just as I was poking around the romaine, I witnessed what could only be described as an agricultural drug deal. Ella slyly asked the young horticulturalist as he leaned against his white van, “Do you have any?” He shook his head, “yes”, and scoped out the surrounding scene as he turned to reach into the van’s passenger seat to pull out a carton of one dozen eggs. “That’s all I have today.” Ella giddily jumped for joy, offered the monetary compensation and we stole away with our contraband of colorful orbs.
What, you may be asking, makes those eggs so special? Well, here are a few reasons. They were laid the day before, unlike the month-old eggs we buy so regularly from the grocery store. (That’s why there are still feathers and entrails on ‘em) The chickens that lay the eggs are free range, live on a diet of maggots and worms, and most importantly, have never been vaccinated. The yolks of these eggs are beyond my description. Rich and creamy, with a golden orange glow like the California sun, I am rendered nearly incapable of eating a grocery store egg ever again.
Ella and I have been doing a lot of cooking and hosting, and are planning a momentous Super Bowl Party, which will be documented, as well as the 3rd evening in our Confluence Series. Mad fun events and parties to come!
Up next on the blog-spectrum… FOOD PORN! Until then, sunny warm rays your way, Readers.
Love it. A good read!!
Thank you, Shanan! More to come…
What an amazing view! The organic decor is fantastic!
Thank you, Elliot!
I remember it well – gathering eggs on my grandfather’s farm and later when my dad kept chickens in town at our home. Nice pics, and thanks for the menu.