Bringing Sophistication Home: Creating The Perfect Tablescape

Entertaining in the home, some people love it while others avoid it like the plague. More likely than not, you will have at least one occasion in your lifetime where you will be hosting guests in your home for some type of formal dinner. You want this event to feel special in comparison to your weekly family dinner. As most of the evening will be spent at the table, it is important that your tablescape and setting reflect the mood that you are trying to set for the evening. Even the most simple tablescape, if done right, can convince Aunt Linda that there is no other way you would rather be spending your Saturday night.

First and foremost, you want to think about the linens you will be using. Unless you are working with a beautiful wood-grain table, consider using linens to give the room an elegant feel. To give the table some depth, layer a runner down the center of the table. The narrow strip of fabric will also act as a guideline as to where to place centerpieces and candles, ensuring that they are not in the way of guests enjoying their meal. If you are choosing a bold table linen, your runner should add a more neutral tone to the table. We love the look of burlap runners with bright floral contrasts!

There are two simple rules when it comes to selecting your floral centerpieces. First, bigger does not always mean better. You are much better off going with several small pieces than one large arrangement blocking the view of the unlucky guest seated directly in front of it. Varying heights add movement and flow to the table, just make sure that taller objects are either narrow or easy to see around. Secondly, keep in mind the seasons when choosing florals. Bright colors are great for spring and summer, while neutrals and deeper hues are perfect for fall and winter. If flowers are the focal point of your table, use small votive candles to create an elegant look without taking away from the layout.

Individual menus are a great way to personalize your table and share with guests the wonderful options that will be hosted throughout the evening. Here at L’Andana we use cream paper on metallic backing, hand tied with raffia to create simple yet sophisticated menus that compliment any table style.

When it comes to glassware, each setting should have at least one glass for water and a glass for wine. If there will be a toast during the meal, a champagne glass adds a touch of elegance to the setting. Flatware (forks, knives, spoons) should directly correlate to the courses that will be served. No need to overwhelm guests by overcomplicating the table settings. The goal is to have a table that is both functional and eye catching.

If arranged correctly, your tablescape will set the tone for a fantastic evening. And hey, if cooking for large groups is also out of your realm of expertise, at least it will give your guests another focal point for the evening!

 

It's Grilling Season: Preparing The Perfect Cut

If you are like us here at L’Andana, your Independence Day celebrations this year are going to center around food. And what food is more American than a tender, juicy cut of steak? We sat down with Executive Chef Marvin Posada and asked him to share all of his secrets to choosing and grilling the perfect cut of meat.

The first and most important step is to begin with the right piece of beef. Finding a local butcher is an investment that will be worth both your time and money. The USDA grades beef on three different levels, select, choice, and prime. Unlike your neighborhood supermarket, a respective butcher will have more access to prime cuts of beef. Prime beef is produced exclusively from young, well-fed beef cattle. Let’s just say this is not your grandmother’s meatloaf…

Another aspect of choosing the right steak is to determine the type of cut. For example, a filet cut is the more lean and tender of the options. However, Chef Marvin’s personal favorite cut is a Prime Rib Eye! He explained to us that the fatty marbling in this cut helps to give it the flavor that any steak lover craves. Chef Marvin says that to really bring out the flavors of this prime cut of meat, you want to use a simple seasoning and if possible, a wood-grill, which accentuates the flavor the meat.

Beginning with a room temperature steak, drizzle over a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper and lemon zest. Resist the temptation to fuss over the meat, to retain its juicy tenderness…hands off the merchandise. Grill on medium heat, turning 90° every 2-3 minutes. After the meat has completed a 360° turn, flip over and repeat. You will then move the steak to low heat, cooking 4 minutes per side. Let rest for 6 minutes off the grill, drizzle with olive oil and top with fresh parsley and sea salt!

Here at L’Andana we serve our steaks with a salt baked potato and grilled romaine with gorgonzola.  Although on the 4^th of July, you can never go wrong with a sweet ear of corn on the cob! We would love to hear about some of your favorite foods to fire up on the grill. Have a wonderful, safe and delicious holiday weekend!

White Sangria: The Perfect Summer Cocktail

Welcome to our Blog! We have decided to start this blog as a way to share the knowledge and expertise of all the wonderful people who make L’Andana all that it is! As a full service restaurant that specializes in private events, we feel that the experiences gained can be applied to any range of situations. Whether it be mixing the perfect cocktail, selecting the freshest fish, or party planning tips, we are here to help you bring five star quality into your own home! If you have any questions or topic suggestions, please feel free to send them our way!

 

White Sangria: The Perfect Summer Cocktail

This Saturday, June 21^st marks the official beginning of Summer! What better way to welcome beach season and backyard barbecues than a cool glass of Sangria! Here at L’Andana we have spent the past few years perfecting our recipe and we are here to share it with you. This recipe is all about the freshness and simplicity, making it the perfect addition to your next pool party or family get-together. The orange and pineapple juices eliminate the need for any additional sweeteners, and using liqueur in lieu of anything stronger is another reason your head will be thanking you in the morning!

When selecting your wine, you want to look for a dry, crisp option, as most of the sweetness will come from the fruit juices. Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc both work great as white options. No need to go too high-end, as you will essentially be changing the flavor of the drink as you add the ingredients. Feel free to switch up the fruit you add. Some of our summer favorites include strawberries, raspberries, and cherries. We always garnish with a touch of mint and voila- the perfect summer cocktail!

Here is the Recipe: (Makes about one gallon)

4 (750ml) bottles of dry, white wine

¼ cup Peach Liqueur

½ cup Orange Liqueur

1 cup fresh squeezed Orange Juice

1 cup Pineapple Juice

1 cup of Soda Water (optional)

Fruit & Mint for Garnish