Experience Culinary Excellence at Selanne Steak Tavern: VIII by Selanne
If you haven’t had the pleasure of partaking in Selanne Steak Tavern’s exclusive culinary experience, VIII by Selanne, there’s still time! This indulgent twice-weekly summer dinner series runs until the end of December, and reservations can be made at selannesteaktavern.com. Guests are treated to an exquisite eight-course meal, complete with thoughtfully curated wine pairings and artisanal cocktails. Available on Fridays and Saturdays, this intimate dining experience accommodates only 20 guests, ensuring personalized attention to every element of the meal. Here’s an inside look at how the team creates these unforgettable dining adventures.
Expert Wine Pairings
The pairing of wine with food is an art form, meticulously crafted by advanced sommelier Vito Pasquale. His primary goal is to achieve balance, ensuring that every sip enhances the flavors and textures of the dishes. “I look at the menu as a whole,” Vito explains, aiming for a thoughtful progression in palate and weight. He considers the terroir of each wine, understanding how it interacts with the specific ingredients in each dish. The selection process is collaborative, involving tastings with both the chef and fellow wine experts. This dedication to achieving harmony in flavors elevates the overall dining experience, making every meal an exploration of taste.
Memorable Starters
The first course of VIII by Selanne sets the stage for the entire culinary journey. Executive Chef Vince Terusa emphasizes that the starters must not just tantalize the taste buds, but also introduce guests to the essence of what the series represents. For this, the team collaborated with local ceramic artist Kyle Caris to craft custom earthenware, ensuring that every detail is intentional. "I love to play with texture," Chef Terusa explains, noting that the aim is to surprise diners with intriguing ingredient pairings. The starter is designed to inspire excitement for the courses that are yet to come, transforming a simple meal into an immersive experience.
Exquisite Main Courses
When it comes to the main courses, Chef Terusa and his team dig deep into seasonal ingredients to create unforgettable dishes. The planning process is layered and nuanced. Each chef contributes their unique perspective, enabling creative freedom while still maintaining a cohesive story throughout the meal. "Plating is its own form of artistry," Terusa notes, highlighting that every element — sauces, spices, and garnishes — is chosen to support the main ingredient. This careful attention to detail ensures that diners are visually intrigued before they even take their first bite, amplifying both the anticipation and enjoyment of the meal.
Delightful Desserts
Desserts at VIII by Selanne offer a whimsical touch to the dining experience, providing an opportunity for creativity while evoking a sense of nostalgia. The dessert course aims to make guests smile, featuring creations that are both technically stunning and delicious. A recent standout dessert resembled a giant cherry, crafted from white chocolate mousse with a dark chocolate stem and a core of sweet cherry compote. This edible work of art was paired with a scoop of Japanese whiskey ice cream atop a five-spice chocolate “soil.” Watching the guests’ reactions—joy, awe, and curiosity—illustrates the impact of thoughtful dessert creation and encapsulates the overall dining experience.
Conclusion
The VIII by Selanne dinner series at Selanne Steak Tavern is a celebration of innovative cuisine, expertly paired wines, and nostalgic desserts. The collaborative efforts of the culinary team, from the sommelier to the chefs, ensure that each aspect of the meal enhances the overall experience. With limited reservations available, now is the time to indulge in this remarkable dining adventure. For more information and to make your reservation, visit selannesteaktavern.com. Experience the essence of Laguna Beach’s culinary craftsmanship and create unforgettable memories with each course. Don’t miss the chance to savor this unique gastronomic journey before it wraps up for the year!
