Having missed the last Asparagasm event, I was looking forward to ‘The Rites of May’, with much anticipation – and it did not disappoint! One thing you’ll notice is the 5-star service when you walk through its doors, being attended to by friendly staff at every turn, at venue Studio Gi, Hackney. The contrast of this East London studio space with elegant fine-dining table settings, where we enjoyed our meals by candlelight – made it warm and inviting. Guests were treated to a welcome cocktail – for this occasion, a ‘Maiden’s Blush’, containing fresh raspberries, lemon juice, Absinthe and Gin, courtesy of Pernod Absinthe. For wine, our glasses flowed with the Running Duck Chenin Blanc 2011 (a new favourite of mine!) throughout the delicious five course tasting menu. These courses were as much a celebration of the senses, as one of culinary creativity – each a treat in itself, to surprise and delight! The starter of White asparagus soup with toasted almonds, tantalised our tastebuds; whilst the second, Green and white asparagus terrine with salsa verde and pea shoots, left us wanting more – before indulging in the main Grilled English asparagus with chick pea chips and smoked tomato BBQ sauce (feast your eyes on the image above!). In fact, for this event, we worshipped at the altar of the asparagus, celebrating its versatility with asparagus featuring in every course in some shape or form! For desert, we ended our feast with a mouth-watering Lemon sorbet asparagus crisp and cassonade.
What makes Asparagasm’s events so much fun (wildly flowing wine and expertly mixed cocktails aside) is how well the concepts are put together. This time round, ‘The Rites of May’ was a folk arts theme with Morris-sey dancers, a hot new folk band, Yetti Love, and real ale samples brought up from the West Country, compliments of Stroud Brewery. To add to the fun, we were seated in long tables, to promote mingling with our fellow diners. One aspect I love is coming away with memories of lively and interesting conversations! With that in mind, I spoke with Asparagasm’s Founder, the inspirational Kate Lewis. We asked Kate – what was the last thing that made you stop and stare?
“There’s always some people that make you sit up and stare. There’s an almost extra-terrestrial quality to them as if they have infiltrated the human race in order to observe or take over. In the orbit of celebrity no one has made me stop and stare quite so much as the inimitable Grace Jones. I had the chance to meet her at a pal’s 50th and was dumbfounded by her presence, style and beauty. For a suspected alien she was very down to earth and unlike me to be starstruck, well it has to be said I was. Very. How rude indeed!”
What conversation will you be having at the next Asparagasm event?
To find out more about Asparagasm, and details of next event, see the information below.
I’ll see you there!
Asparagasm – Aspirational vegan fine dining for vegans, vegetarians and anyone
tips@asparagasm.com
www.asparagasm.com
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Kate Lewis. Info & Bookings: 07947 309066
