Dining among the Stars

kiwi-with-a-camera — Wed, 27 May 2015 08:03:25 GMT

As my small RV chugs into the sleepy Californian town of Yountville, my heart quickens. Tonight I am ditching my shoestring travelling ways. Digital moths are to be set free from my bank account. The word “budget” pushed deep into a dark corner of my mind.
I'm excited but slightly skeptical. Would reputation live up to expectation? Visions of slimy cold fish eggs on giant white plates tease my thoughts. It was to late to worry now. The French Laundry restaurant, with its three Michelin stars, is waiting for me.

Entering through its small blue door is like stepping into a film set. Strategically placed lights illuminate white tabletops with a warm heavenly glow. Dark wooden pillars and stone covered walls give its small interior a natural feel. The atmosphere inside is quietly alive with conversation. Well-dressed American’s sit excitedly, trying to act casual as waiters float around the room. Like smiling phantoms; appearing at tables only when needed and never longer.

Once seated at my table my first dish quickly arrives. Instantly my pre-conceived concerns evaporate. Smells are smile inducing and flavors eye widening. Caramelized sunchoke soup is liquid heaven. Charcoal-grilled spiny lobster with tomato confit dances happily from the plate to my pallet. At each bite of Japanese wagyu beef I stop, close my eyes, and savour every morsel. It ceases to be food and becomes art, a masterpiece on my tongue.

Then it arrives.

In my dish a small, golden, lightly fried brain. No bigger than a fig, sitting upon a yellow mound of scrambled bantam hen egg, in a puddle of jet-black truffle oil. I’m slightly taken back. I’m not too familiar with the taste of brain. I take my weapon of choice. A spoon. Slowly I apply equal amounts of each ingredient. Upon tasting my initial hesitation melts away into ecstasy. Its earthy and smoky, creamy and gamey yet subtly sweet. Only three components, but all working in perfect unison. It's the best dish I have ever eaten.

Upon leaving I can’t stop smiling. My funds were depleted but I didn't care. I had gone in expecting a fancy meal but came out enlightened, my perspective on food forever changed. Upon opening my RV door I stop and take one final look back at that small beautiful building. Famous to some; waiting to be discovered by most. Steeping inside my dark home on wheels I wonder where the other "French Laundry's" out there are? Quietly waiting to transport their next travelling victims away, into food paradise.

Photos: My Scholarship entry - My Day at Murawai

kiwi-with-a-camera — Sat, 22 Nov 2014 16:23:00 GMT

I'm just a regular Kiwi guy with a love for photography and story telling. I love a photo's ability can capture a moment in time, to be forever relived by the viewer. I have a real hunger to learn and believe that I have raw talent as both a photographer and storyteller, but am now longing to be taught and guided in the right direction. This is what I am looking to gain from this scholarship, to further my skills and creativity by learning from a seasoned professional like Jason. Having had no proper training, just my own learning, I would seize this opportunity with both hands! Being from New Zealand at the bottom corner of the world, traveling overseas has always been fascinating to me because we are so far away from any where else! Having just recently returned from my OE my passion for photography and travel has just exploded, having seen and experienced the wider world in all of its beauty! My aim is to someday become a photo-journalist, using my photos to convey places and situations that words just can't express. I am always up for a challenge and am not afraid to hard-work to achieve my dreams. All I need now is a opportunity like this one to get me going!