you don"t need to save the crystal for a special day, even water tastes better in a "Fancy Glass"

Saturday, June 04, 2005

Renee’s good bye brunch

My bartender and friend Renee, will be leaving Japan and going back to work in Australia soon, so as a thank you and a goodbye... a group of us went to the fantastic weekend brunch at the French Kitchen; at the Tokyo Grand Hyatt. Made to order omelets, light as air French toast, a cheese buffet, homemade breads, salads, cut to order fresh fruits, dessert buffet… including some amazing figs! AND your choice of a 6 main dishes. We ate until stuffed. I especially liked the little mini foie gras crostini, and having a great cheese plate with a delicious bottle of Bordeaux white.

We started off with champagne, and ended with cappuccinos, espressos etc. and in between we generally made gluttons of ourselves. Renee and I revisited the whole macaroon issue… the Grand Hyatt Chocolate ones were a big hit. We were going to smuggle some out but ended up eating tons right at our seats instead instead.

The lunch was one of those leisurely meandering meals, more than 3 hours long, with conversation coming in and out of satisfied food noises. Fun to go out with restaurant people as they notice lots of the same things I do, service style, waiter screw-ups, and kitchen antics.

One of the fabulous things in the hyatt restaurants in this hotel, is that they went with very-very-open kitchens. This one you could see fully in to. Gorgeous and extremely clean. Warm woods, great lines of chefs and cooks, in pristine whites.

A very wonderful way to spend a Saturday afternoon. I will miss Renee but glad I could share this food day with her, Nathan, Terri, & Chris. More food adventures ahead I am sure- And thanks and best wishes to Renee- may the road rise up to meet you! see you soon down under...

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