The StarChef’s International Chef Conference featured chefs from all over the world showcasing the latest culinary trends. Here’s a quick roundup of some of my favorite finds from ‘15, and where you can taste restaurant trends locally!
RAMEN
Ramen is here to stay, and includes more originality when it comes to ingredients. Westchester’s very own Chef Mogan Anthony (Village Social in Mount Kisco) competed in the StarChef’s Ramen challenge.
TASTE THE TREND Anthony’s MURA Ramen + Gastropub not only showcases his playfulness with ingredients, but also features his noodle-making skills!
VISIT MURA pops up every once in a while, and tickets go fast, so keep an eye on the MURA Facebook page.
STRETCHING SUSTAINABILITY
“Farm to table” is so 2014. This year, chefs from all over the world are focused on the almighty locally-sourced vegetable. Sustainability is key and chefs are befriending farmers or even going as far as opening restaurants-farms. It doesn’t get any more local.
TASTE THE TREND Chef Eric Gabrynowicz (Restaurant North in Armonk) and restaurateur Stephen Mancini recently opened Market North, with responsible sourcing and local ingredients in mind. Here, Gabrynowicz offers a more casual experience, including many takout options.
VISIT Market North 387 Main St., Armonk, 914-273-3773, www.mktnorth.com
CLASSIC COCKTAILS ARE KING
Gin, rye, and whiskey sales are on the rise and it’s no surprise why—mixologists are creating new spins on old favorites like Manhattans, Old-Fashioneds, and Negronis.
TASTE THE TREND The Mill offers incredible cocktails served in a Brooklyn-vibe tavern. Don’t miss the Pumpkin Spiced Negroni. Oh, and did I mention the $30 whiskey flights?
VISIT The Mill 583 Warburton Ave, Hastings-On-Hudson, 914-231-7772, www.themillhastings.com
IT’S SMOKY
Smoke isn’t just a cooking technique anymore. It’s a flavor. Smoked dishes are popping up on menus everywhere, especially in hearty, comfort food.
TASTE THE TREND You can find smoke all over Chef Chris Vergara’s menu at Harper’s. Smoked pumpkin is served as a side dish and you can find house-smoked sausage in the Monkfish Stew. Smoked Pork Shoulder is served with sauerkraut and potatoes as well.
VISIT Harper’s Restaurant and Bar 92 Main St., Dobbs Ferry, 914-693-2306, harpersonmain.com
