FG Lunch Brigade - Special Birthday Lunch Edition

"Neither rain, nor sleet, nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds"

--- The Postman's Oath

"Neither rain, nor hail, nor long tram lines stays these women from the leisurely completion of their celebration lunch"

-- The Foodie Girl's Oath

And that's why I love them*.

A birthday toast as the rain pours down outside.  FG10 (far left, only one eye showing) actually braved death by flying in from Seattle during some of the worst turbulence she'd ever experienced to be here for the lunch.  People were praying and shrieking. (On the plane, not at lunch)

A little something from the chef.  The lobster filling was tasty, but the wrapping was thick and far too chewy.

Other than the name, the menu was full of creative options.

I was very happy with my choice - sea scallops with fresh pea risotto, Parmesan crisps, and pork belly.  It tasted just as good as it looks.

House-made cannelloni - filled with a variety of fresh vegetables 

Sweet potato ravioli with squid ink and kale.  Of course we shared so everyone got to taste all the dishes, and this my favorite bite of the day.

The food was beautiful and well prepared, the service was gracious but quite slow.  Mostly we didn't mind.  We're a chatty bunch, there was a storm to watch outside, and we had recipes to share.  I'd asked everyone to bring a favorite, and as we went around the table, our cries of "ooh" and "That sounds amazing!" and "Did you say caramelized bread pudding?" began to draw stares from some of the other patrons around us**.   Yeah, we were the fun table.

Our waiter set the tray in front of me, complete with a birthday wish in chocolate. Although they got points for plating, we were not impressed with the desserts themselves.

I was, however, deeply touched by all the love around me that afternoon.  I'm one very lucky FG!

Cheers to good friends!

* That, and the fact that they don't seem to understand the meaning of "No gifts, please."
 

** For all you virtual FGs, here are the recipes:

From my hostess:

Recipe for a Great Friend

1 c. barley (solid and earthy)

2 c. rice (to make it all nice)

1 dash of chili (to spice it up)

4 or 5 bay leaves (to bring in nature)

1 c. beans (to smooth things out)

1 Tbs. garlic (to make it unique)

4 c. of water to blend everyone's special ingredients for friendship

Boil for a while, then simmer for hours over wonderful conversation.

Amazing Crescent Coffee Cake

Holiday Eggs

Goat Cheese Crostini with Fig Compote

Hannah's Favorite Cranberry Salad

Roasted Brussel Sprout Casserole

Shot and a Beer Pork Stew

Energy Squares

Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Cannoli Cream

Caramelized Bread Pudding with Chocolate & Cinnamon

Cry Baby Cookies 

Erma's Gluten-Free Lemon Roll

Did you notice that they have got us covered for breakfast, lunch, dinner and especially dessert? ( In case the fancy place you go for lunch doesn't do such a good job on that...)