Gastrosleuth DFW - The Wolfpack

## ✨ An Invitation to Culinary Enchantment: A Taste of Japan: An Exquisite Kaiseki Dinner! ✨
Dear Esteemed Friends,
Prepare to be whisked away on an extraordinary gastronomic journey! I am absolutely thrilled and honored to extend a personal invitation to A Taste of Japan: An Exquisite Kaiseki Dinner, a meticulously curated culinary evening designed to immerse your senses in the vibrant flavors, profound artistry, and cherished traditions of Japanese cuisine. This is more than a meal; it's an experience crafted with passion and precision.
### 🗓️ Event Details: Mark Your Calendars!

• Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM CDT (Please arrive promptly to savor every moment!)
• Location: The warm and inviting home of Chef Gary W. Irvin II in Lakewood

### 🌸 The Art of Kaiseki: A Culinary Masterpiece
Throughout this exclusive evening, we will embark on a graceful journey through nine exquisite courses, each a miniature masterpiece. Every dish is meticulously crafted to highlight the delicate balance of taste (味), texture (食感), appearance (見た目), and color (色) that defines the revered art of Japanese Kaiseki. It's a seasonal symphony for your palate, a testament to culinary harmony.
Each course has been thoughtfully paired with insightful wine suggestions to perfectly complement and elevate your dining experience. Should you wish to bring a personal touch, you are warmly invited to bring your favorite adult beverage; I’ve even included some delightful wine recommendations below for your inspiration! 🥂
To ensure your utmost comfort and enjoyment, I will also provide a selection of freshly brewed artisan coffee, fragrant teas, and refreshing lemon water.
I eagerly anticipate sharing this truly special evening with you—a harmonious blend of extraordinary food, engaging conversation, and a vibrant celebration of global flavors. Your presence would make this occasion even more memorable. Please let me know if you can join this unforgettable experience! 🙏
### 🍣 The Kaiseki Menu: A Culinary Odyssey
Prepare to be captivated by a culinary journey through the exquisite world of Kaiseki, where each dish is a delicate balance of taste, texture, appearance, and color, reflecting the season and the chef's artistry.

1. Sakizuke (先付) - Amuse-Bouche

• Dish: Seasonal Vegetable Terrine with Yuzu Vinaigrette
• Description: A refreshing and vibrant overture to our meal, showcasing the bright, crisp flavors of seasonal vegetables delicately set in a shimmering clear dashi gel, all brightened with a zesty, aromatic yuzu citrus dressing.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp, bone-dry Sake (e.g., Junmai Daiginjo) or a lively, mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc.

2. Hassun (八寸) - Seasonal Delicacies

• Dish: Assortment of Grilled Mackerel with Sansho Pepper and Edamame Puree with Ikura
• Description: A visually stunning presentation of small, seasonal bites. Savor perfectly grilled mackerel seasoned with the unique, aromatic tingle of sansho pepper, alongside a velvety edamame puree crowned with glistening, jewel-like salmon roe.
• Wine Pairing: A refreshing Grüner Veltliner or a light-bodied, elegant Pinot Noir.

3. Mukōzuke (向付) - Sashimi

• Dish: Chef's Selection of Seasonal Sashimi (e.g., Tuna, Yellowtail, Scallop)
• Description: Experience the pristine freshness of the sea with the finest cuts of raw fish, expertly sliced and elegantly presented with freshly grated wasabi, authentic soy sauce, and delicate garnishes, truly highlighting the natural, pure flavors.
• Wine Pairing: An elegant Daiginjo Sake or a dry, unoaked Chardonnay.

4. Wanmono (椀物) - Soup

• Dish: Clear Clam Soup with Mitsuba and Yuzu Zest
• Description: A comforting and exquisitely elegant clear broth, rich with the pure essence of fresh clams, delicately garnished with fragrant mitsuba leaves and a whisper of refreshing yuzu zest. A true soul-soother.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp Fino Sherry or a light, aromatic Albariño.

5. Yakimono (焼物) - Grilled Dish

• Dish: Saikyo Miso Glazed Black Cod
• Description: A classic and universally beloved dish featuring tender, flaky black cod, perfectly marinated in sweet Saikyo miso and grilled to a beautifully caramelized, savory-sweet finish.
• Wine Pairing: An inviting off-dry Riesling or a rich, subtly oaked Chardonnay.

6. Takiawase (焚合) - Simmered Dish

• Dish: Braised Daikon Radish with Shrimp and Snow Peas
• Description: Gently simmered daikon radish, absorbing the rich, umami flavors of dashi, served with succulent shrimp and crisp snow peas, showcasing a delightful interplay of harmonious textures.
• Wine Pairing: A smooth Junmai Sake or a dry Chenin Blanc.

7. Agemono (揚物) - Fried Dish

• Dish: Tempura Assortment (Shrimp, Lotus Root, Shiso Leaf)
• Description: Lightly battered and deep-fried to golden perfection, offering a delightful, airy crunch. This exquisite assortment includes succulent shrimp and delicate seasonal vegetables like lotus root and fragrant shiso leaf, served with a dashi-based dipping sauce.
• Wine Pairing: A celebratory Sparkling Sake or a dry sparkling wine (e.g., Brut Cava).

8. Gohan (御飯) - Rice Dish

• Dish: Seasonal Mixed Rice with Mushrooms and Ginger
• Description: Fluffy steamed rice cooked with an earthy medley of seasonal mushrooms and aromatic ginger, offering a comforting and flavorful staple. This course is served with classic miso soup and an assortment of house-made pickles (konomono).
• Wine Pairing: A light-bodied Sake or a delicate Pinot Noir.

9. Mizumono (水物) - Dessert

• Dish: Matcha Panna Cotta with Red Bean Paste and Fresh Berries
• Description: A smooth and creamy matcha-infused panna cotta, beautifully complemented by the subtle sweetness of traditional red bean paste and a vibrant assortment of fresh, seasonal berries. A perfect, elegant conclusion.
• Wine Pairing: A delightful Sweet Plum Wine (Umeshu) or a sparkling Moscato d'Asti.

### 🎟️ Secure Your Seat for an Unforgettable Culinary Experience!
Join Wednesdays Angels & Chef Gary W. Irvin II for An Evening Celebrating Japanese Cuisine—a night promising exquisite flavors, masterfully paired wines, and warm hospitality that you won't soon forget! Spaces are limited, so secure your experience today.
### 💰 Ticket Options:

• ✨ Prepay & Save: Secure your exclusive ticket in advance for just $49.95 per person.
• 🚪 Dinner Night Ticket: If paying on the night of the event, tickets will be $59.95 per person.
• 📝 RSVP Option: Prefer to hold your spot? You can simply RSVP to reserve your seat now and decide on payment later!

### ⚠️ Important Reservation Policy: Please Read Carefully

• Non-Attendance Fee: Please note: if you RSVP but do not attend the event, a $100.00 reservation absentee fee will apply. This fee must be paid before attending any future events hosted by Wednesdays Angels & Chef Gary W. Irvin II. Your understanding helps us manage our events effectively.
• Changes & Cancellations: You are welcome to adjust your RSVP up to 48 hours prior to the event. After this window, your reservation will be locked to ensure fairness in seating availability and to allow for final preparations.

We eagerly look forward to hosting you for an incredible evening of fine dining, delightful company, and shared appreciation for the culinary arts! 🍷✨ Let's create beautiful memories together.
Enjoy your authentic Kaiseki experience!

## Mesob Melkam meaning a good basket: A Journey Through Ethiopian Flavors

Tuesday, October 14, 2025, | 7:00 PM Private Residence – Lakewood, TX (Address shared upon RSVP) BYOB | Wine Pairing Suggestions Included
✨ Step into a world of vibrant spices, tradition, and communal joy. Join Chef Gary W. Irvin II for an immersive five-course Ethiopian dining experience where every dish is a chapter, every bite a celebration. Gather at the chef’s home around a shared mesob (woven basket platter), and enjoy a soulful evening of culture, connection, and culinary exploration.
Expect low, golden lighting and the hum of traditional Ethiopian melodies. Guests will dine seated around communal platters tapping into the spirit of a traditional gursha-filled gathering.
To accompany the meal, I will also provide a selection of coffee, tea, and refreshing lemon water for your enjoyment.
### 🥬 Course One: The Welcoming Scoop
Ayib Be Gomen & Azifa Your first embrace of Ethiopia’s earthy freshness.

• Ayib Be Gomen: A cool crumble of homemade Ethiopian cottage cheese folded into garlicky sautéed collard greens. Herbaceous, tangy, and unexpectedly soothing.
• Azifa: A lively green lentil salad brightened with lemon, mustard, jalapeños, and fresh ginger. Tart, spicy, and full of texture.

📍 Served on pillowy injera and presented in a central mesob for scooping. 🍷 Wine Pairing: Grüner Veltliner or Albariño – light, citrusy, and vibrant.
### 🌈 Course Two: The Vibrant Trio
Fasolia, Keysir Wot & Shiro Wot A vegetarian celebration of color, depth, and tradition.

• Fasolia: Green beans and carrots sautéed with onions, ginger, and garlic. A gentle sweetness that refreshes the palate.
• Keysir Wot: Lush beetroot and potatoes slow-cooked in berbere and turmeric—earthy, peppery, and jewel-toned.
• Shiro Wot: The heart of Ethiopian comfort. Creamy roasted chickpea stew, rich with niter kibbeh and deep berbere spice.

📍 Generously ladled onto a fresh injera-lined mesob—tear, scoop, repeat. 🍷 Wine Pairing: Dry Riesling or aromatic Sauvignon Blanc to cool the spice.
### 🍖 Course Three: The Protein Powerhouse
Doro Wot & Kitfo Two icons of Ethiopian cuisine, bold and unapologetically flavorful.

• Doro Wot: Ethiopia’s legendary chicken stew. Slow-cooked with caramelized onion, berbere, garlic, ginger, and finished with a hard-boiled egg nestled in its deep crimson sauce. Smoky, spicy, and soul-warming.
• Kitfo: Silken hand-minced beef, kissed with mitmita and niter kibbeh. Served raw (terah), lightly seared (leb-leb), or fully cooked (yebesele)—you choose. Luxuriously buttery, deeply spiced.

📍 Presented with reverence on the communal platter—this course anchors the feast. 🍷 Wine Pairing: Syrah or Tempranillo—bold, spicy reds that complement intensity.
### 🔥 Course Four: The Spicy & Savory Interlude
Tibs & Gomen The sizzle and snap of the sauté pan meet the calm of leafy greens.

• Tibs: Flash-seared beef or lamb cubes tossed with peppers, red onions, rosemary, and garlic. A carnivore’s celebration of heat and aromatics.
• Gomen: Simmered collard greens, deeply comforting, offering a gentle counterweight to the richness of the Tibs.

📍 A textural shift and flavor crescendo—served hot and ready for scooping. 🍷 Wine Pairing: Zinfandel or Cabernet Franc to match the char and spice.
### 🍮🍮 Course Five: The Sweet Conclusion
Buna, Bessobela Honey Cream, & Kolo A harmonious finish blending ritual, richness, and tradition.

• Buna: The Ethiopian coffee ceremony remains a cornerstone—a hand-roasted and brewed experience perfumed by wafting frankincense. Served in elegant sips meant for storytelling and reflection.
• Bessobela Honey Cream: A silky dessert inspired by Ethiopian flavors—infused with bessobela (Ethiopian sacred basil), this delicate cream is layered with spiced honey, a hint of cardamom, and a crisp sesame tuile. It’s floral, aromatic, and deeply comforting.
• Kolo: A light and crunchy snack of roasted barley or wheat, served in small bowls for casual nibbling.

📍 Served in two stages: first the plated cream alongside coffee, then kolo passed around as conversation flows. 🍷 Suggested Pairing: Let the buna shine—this final act is all about grounding and gratitude.
### 🌟 Immersive Touches

• Warm water bowls with lemon at the table for handwashing
• Gentle instruction on eating with the right hand and the tradition of gursha
• Fresh injera replenished between courses
• Storytelling and aromas to guide the senses
• Cultural playlist of soft traditional Ethiopian music
• Mood lighting and candlelit accents for intimacy and grounding

💌 Tickets Required – Seating is limited for this one-night-only experience. Come hungry. Leave connected.
Secure Your Seat for an Unforgettable Culinary Experience!
Join Wednesdays Angels & Chef Gary W. Irvin II for An Evening Celebrating Ethiopian Cuisine—a night of exquisite flavors, masterfully paired wines, and warm hospitality.
### 🎟️ Ticket Options
Prepay & save – $39.95 per guest Reserve your seat in advance and enjoy exclusive savings.
Evening-Of Admission – $49.95 per guest Prefer to decide day-of? You're welcome to join us—pending availability.
RSVP-Only Option Not quite ready to commit? RSVP to express interest and hold a tentative seat. Please note RSVPs do not guarantee entry. Once 20 tickets are sold, we’ll close registration to protect the intimacy and flow of this extraordinary culinary evening.