v EDITOR’S LETTER
Compiling our annual food and wine issue can be hazardous to the waistline. With so much good food in and around Palm Beach, sampling not only is part of the research, it also is sheer delight—and worth all the extra sessions with the personal trainer. Our man on the dining scene, Mark Spivak, does the lion’s share of the tasting. Whether it’s a new restaurant or an old haunt, chances are Mark has been there, tried that. That’s why, every year, we ask him to compile his list of favorite dishes for our readers. “Foodie Finds,” on page 50, is a compilation of 20 amazing culinary discoveries, from the classics—say, the Duck Foie Gras Terrine at Chez Jean-Pierre or Arctic Char at Café Boulud—to the hidden gems, such as the Octopus Salad at the tiny Souvlaki Grill. Check out Mark’s list for 2010, and be sure to try some of his recommendations. You’ll probably find some new favorites. Mark also reports on the wine front, in “Steep Thrills” (page 72). Using his considerable knowledge of the wine industry, he unlocks the mysteries of collecting wine for both novice collectors and connoisseurs, pointing out in detail which vintages should be sought out now, and why. For lovers of Asian cuisine, we feature some of the area’s finest sushi, noodles, rolls and other treats from the East. “Asian Invasion,” on page 58, is our photographic presentation of such Asian favorites as RA Sushi’s Ra-llipops or Thai Jo’s whole fried American red snapper. The minimalist still life is so inviting that we guarantee you’ll be craving Asian tonight. The East also informs our fashion pages. Shot on location at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, “Now and Zen” is a contemplative take on the color and pattern prevalent in the spring collections. The tranquil nature of the gardens is the perfect foil for the fresh, bright dresses of spring. See the story on page 42. I hope this piques your appetite for the delicious morsels within. Enjoy the issue!
Daphne Nikolopoulos daphne@palmbeachillustrated.com
Behind the scenes: Echo’s Chef Josef Morer prepares a dish for “Asian Invasion” (left); our fashion shoot at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. 14
PALM BEACH ILLUSTRATED
ROBERT NELSON
In Good Taste