Those of you who have been hanging around these parts for some time know that on occasion I get together with my incredibly talented friend Chef David Kinch of Manresa Restaurant in Los Gatos, and we collaborate on a meal together. He cooks and I pick a bunch of wines that I think people might enjoy drinking while they eat what I maintain is the best cuisine in all of Northern California.

It’s been a while since we’ve done one of these dinners, but I’m pleased to announce a very unique event that we’re simply calling The Sake Dinner.

The idea is simple. I choose some of the best sakes in the world, and based on some discussion and tasting with me, Chef Kinch cooks an unbelievable meal designed to complement them.

I’ve always loved the Japanese influence in David’s cooking, and given that he recently spent some exploring Japan again, I can’t wait to see what he comes up with for this feast. I’m also especially excited at the caliber of sakes that we’re planning on pouring, which are going to be truly phenomenal.

This dinner is not being marketed or advertised anywhere public except for the Manresa mailing list and here on Vinography. So you’ve got a shot at reservations if you want them.

The nuts and bolts of the dinner: a special 8-course feast that will likely feature some heavenly raw fish in ways that only Chef Kinch can do it, coupled with 8 or more phenomenally good and interesting sakes from among my favorites in the entire world.

Cost per person is $325, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 10, and reservations are available by phone at 408.354.4330.

As with every dinner I do at Manresa, I will be on hand to tell the stories of these sakes to those that are interested and make sure your glasses are full. Just eight weeks ago I presented a well received sake seminar at the Aspen Food and Wine Classic, so my sake jokes are all well polished (to the daiginjo level).

Wait for it….

OK. I promise: no jokes at this dinner. Just serious sakes, and unbelievably good food.

I hope to see you there.

Manresa and Vinography present: The Sake Dinner
Wednesday, September 10th, 2008
Seating begins at 6:30 PM
Manresa Restaurant
320 Village Lane (just off North Santa Cruz Avenue)
Los Gatos, CA 95030
408-354-4330

$325 per person gets you an eight course meal with sake pairings. You pay tax and gratuity. Reservations are required, and this event will most certainly sell out.