On the heels of receiving Wine Spectator’s ‘2022 Award of Excellence’, Bungalow Kitchen Belmont Shore continues its homage to the great wine-growing regions of the world with ‘An Evening of Food & Wine: Italy Edition.’ Held on Wednesday, August 17 at 7 p.m., the dinner will highlight Italy’s mountainous Piedmont region. Led by Sommelier Ryan Kraemer, the five-course, wine-paired dinner will lead guests on a journey through the incredible wines of Piedmont, exploring grape varietals like Arneis and Nebbiolo.
Joining Kraemer is importer Michael Levine. Together, the duo will explore six different grape varietals through wines from two of the region’s boutique wineries including, Montefiorito and Castello di Perno, both of which specialize in traditional wines with a modern touch. Winemaker Gian Luca Columbo – named Italy’s Best Young Oenologist in 2014 – leads production for both estates, crafting small-scale, terroir-driven wines.
“Our wine program ventures far beyond California, enticing diners from a global perspective, with considerable depth in Champagne, Burgundy, and regions throughout Italy and Spain,” comments Ryan Kraemer, who holds a Level III Certificate from the Court of Master Sommeliers. “Our ‘Evening of Food & Wine’ series allows guests to familiarize themselves with specific regions and develop an appreciation for lesser-known varietals.”
A luxe, five-course menu prepared by Executive Chef Elliot Drew boasts the flavors of Italy. Guests can look forward to an evening of Italian summertime specialties including, a classic Antipasti of charcuterie, Italian cheeses, arancini, and marinated summer veggies; refreshing Yellow Melon Gazpacho with Ricotta Salata, Prosciutto di Parma, and basil; Fusilli Alla Gricia with guanciale and pecorino; and Veal Braciole plated atop polenta and topped with Castelvetrano olives, pine nuts, and gremolata. The evening concludes on a sweet note with a rich Vanilla Panna Cotta topped with peaches, plums, and hazelnut tuille. Each course will be paired with Italian wines hand selected by Kraemer.
Priced at $195 (plus tax & gratuity) per person, reservations are limited and can be made online here. Through its series ‘An Evening of Food & Wine,’ The Bungalow Kitchen regularly hosts wine-paired dinners exploring specific wine-growing regions and regional cuisines throughout the world.
