Last night I attended a Secret Supper Soiree Speakeasy tour, one of the playful events in this years Dine Out Vancouver Festival 2012. This was the first time that I was able to attend a Swallow Tail event and I was looking forward to discovering each of the secret locations we were going to visit. We all boarded a pink double decker bus and we were whisked off to secret location #1 for a celebratory cocktail followed by two mini-courses.
This secret location was filled with history, some sharp objects and many memories; I have always wanted to visit but never had a chance too until now.
Beet and Blood Orange Granita
Tomato Consommé Soup
The first was a small salad Beet and Blood Orange Granita, BB microns, pomegranate seeds and the second a Soup tomato consommé, picked cauliflower and Hijiki seweed.
Back on the bus and we were on our way to secret location #2 to eat and sip on wines that were paired with the appetizer, entrée and dessert. This secret location was very unique and a surprise as I had never heard of the place before until now.
Poached Hens Egg
Pitt Meadows Flat Iron Steak
Riesling Baba
Executive Chef Andrea Carlson formerly of Bishops created a wild food inspired menu, the first at this 2nd location was the Poached Hens Egg, forest mushroom, red wine reduction Appetizer, followed by the Pitt Meadows Flat Iron Steak, potato pave, root vegetables, mountain huckleberry & rosemary jus Entrée and lastly the delicious Riesling Baba– orange blossom, semifreddo, persimmon, pistachio.
A talented group of dancers entertained us all through dinner swing dancin’ and all dressed up in 1930’s garb.
This two-act tour is the best way to explore the city’s culinary secrets and tantalize your taste buds! The theme was 1930’s Speakeasy, I wore a Stetson Hat that was given to me by my father and it was from the 1930’s which fit the theme perfectly. Dress as fancy as you like! Five courses, four libations, two secret locations.
Vancouver-based Swallow Tail Tours is owned by Chef Robin Kort who is also a trained Sommelier, the BC VQA Wines were well paired with the evenings food courses. If there are any spots still available in this years’ Dine Out Festival 2012, I urge you to reserve your spot and enjoy this wonderful speakeasy dining tour.
By: Richard Wolak