TLC's Dinner Takes All

Friends recently gathered at Cafe Drake to watch our basic cable debut, as a contestant on The Learning Channel's Dinner Takes All television series. The premise of the show is that hosts take turns cooking and dining at each other's homes, and judge the quality of the evening's fares whilst being taxied home. The experience was a mixed success: fellow competitors attacked the challenge with a zest for winning we couldn't quite muster (due to the seasonal heat in large part) and informed with less than stellar palattes; but Cafe Drake remained true to its core and dished up four formal courses based upon historical recipes from the files of the White House. The menu is below followed by a link to the show's website, where you can check the schedule for repeats, grab recipes and more.

From the White House of James and Dolly Madison
Spring Split Pea Soup with Ham and Green Onion Corncakes

From the White House of Ulysses and Julia Grant
Hearts of Romaine with Chutney Dressing and Gloucester Cheddar

From the White House of John and Jacqueline Kennedy
Filets of John Dory in a Green Peppercorn Sauce
Braised Fresh Artichoke Hearts

From the White House of Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter
Georgia Pecan Pie with Chinese 5-Spice Ice Cream

Show Cafe Drake some love at: http://tlc.discovery.com/fansites/dinnertakesall/dinnertakesall.html !!