Piacere's Eat Local Challenge

The Eat Local Challenge

The Bay Area is the birth place of the local food movement. Chefs like Alice Waters introduced Americans to the concept of eating locally and the importance of sustainability. These values are core to Chef Miriam Russell-Wadleigh at Piacere.  Using fresh local ingredients is part of her kitchen’s daily routine. But every Thursday from May-September during the San Carlos farmer’s market, Chef Wadleigh REALLY puts these values to work with Piacere’s Eat Local Challenge!
The Piacere Eat Local Challenge, which began as a way to embrace the San Carlos farmer’s market  on Laurel Street  and has been  featured CBS 5’s “Eye on the Bay.”  The concept is simple; customers  shop the farmer’s  market and then bring  in ingredients the they have purchased.  After a table- side chat about likes and dislikes, Chef Wadleigh takes the bounty of fresh ingredients into the kitchen and returns with an inspired two-course family-style meal. “ I’ll use every ingredient they give me”, she says. “Often folks will bring in unusual items that they don’t know how to cook, so they get a bit of an education.”   Wadleigh will often supplement some of the ingredients, which are largely produce. Meats, seafood, or poultry can be incorporated in the dishes if that’s a customer’s preference.
The Eat Local Challenge has a loyal following, and each year the word of mouth spreads. It’s equally popular with kids and adults and it’s a great family outing. “Parents have discovered it’s a great way to expose their children to the exploration of food,” Chef Wadleigh says. “When families walk the market and choose ingredients, they get wonderful, personalized culinary adventure. What better way to spend time together.”
The 2012 Piacere Eat Local Challenge books  eight personalized meals each Thursday, through September 20^th. Customers are encouraged to call ahead to reserve a space. Large groups are welcome. The two-course family style customized meals are $32.00 per person for adults and $10.00 per person for children. For reservations or more information call (650)592-3536 or visit www.piacererestaurant.com