Haven't posted in a while, sorry. So, Since Dec 4 2010 a lot has happened. My wife and I welcomed our first child into the world, a little boy, so we are stoked about that. January 20th2011 marked the 1 year date for Circa so that was very exciting. A lot has happened in this short year. The beginning of January I went and staged @ McCradys in Charleston Sc. What an experience!! McCrady's Chef is Sean Brock who was the recipient of the 2010 James Beard Award (basically the equivalent to the culinary Oscars) What a awesome place. I was exposed to some of the best ingredients, tools, equipment, chefs, procedures, technique etc in the world. These guys are amazing. The quality and discipline that goes into a days work is incredible. It was definitely a wake up call for the one's who want to excel in this realm. McCrady's is a must eat when in Charleston.
Another Great opportunity that I took advantage in March was staging in Chef John Shields kitchen @ the Town House restaurant in Chilhowie Va. John comes from a pedigree of great chefs, Charlie Trotter and Grants Achatz to name a couple. John was one of 2010 Food and Wine rising stars. He is incredibly talented and works with a great team. His pastry chef happens to be his wife, so he is lucky in that regard as well. Both of these chefs put a great emphasis on local everything. The term "farm to table" is becoming a little cliche' in my book these days. You have chefs using this term a little to loosely. These guys are 100% committed to the point were they are foraging on their own which is incredible. I can't say how much I learned on my short stints in both of these kitchens. Even though I drove over 1800 miles and worked over a 100 hours for free, this was one of best experiences of my life.
Circa 81 is partners in the "Carteret Catch" program here in Carteret County which puts a emphasis on buying and using local sustainable seafood. Circa 81 is also working closely with many local farmers in the county and as well as across the state to bring you, our guest, the best our region has to offer. This is our big focus this year and we hope that you would come and taste the difference. Make sure to say hello next time you are visiting. Gather,Eat,Enjoy-Clarke
