Pickled beets with goat cheese, chives, and candied pecans. Catering source, unknown but it was delish.
Last week I had my first opportunity to attend the annual Umlauf Sculpture Garden Party. It was beautiful. I had actually never even been to the Umlauf Sculpture Garden before and I can't believe I've waited this long to go. After attending this event I can completely see the draw in holding your wedding there. The backdrop, during this time of year, is a lush green garden with a delightfully gurgling stream running through to a beautiful pond. Pepper in a few statues and an amazing, romantic setting is complete. In regards to the party, it is often compared to La Dolce Vita. I've attended both now and I have to say that the Umlauf event is my new favorite. La Dolce Vita, though a highly regarded event, is just a little too busy and the Garden Party was a bit more intimate, which I truly enjoyed. Both are truly lovely though. Now, on to the nibbles....
The food is in the order in which I ate, so you can go through the virtual tour with me. The vendors had such great signs I wanted to include them and each sign is posted before the food they served. We didn't eat at every booth so unfortunately, not all participated restaurants are included. Lets begin:
Of course I tried both flavors and they were creamy, light, and scrumptious. The perfect cool, sweet treat for the evening.
Unfortunately, I didn't get any picutres of the cookies but they were delicate and tasty. I love Walton's and highly recommend a visit for a good sandwhich and flaky, homemade pastries.
I loved the sound of the stream. I could have stood there forever, if only someone would have delivered all the food and wine to me.
Before the sun set the garden and vendors were so beautiful and charming. I was in love at first sight.
I didn't sample this but I heard it was delightful.
The quail was local so even though it was wrapped in bacon I noshed on it. (I was about to start getting some serious crap from Brent if I didn't eat something besides mouse and cookies.) It was okay. I think I'm losing my love for bacon.
Cant' remember any specifics on the wine other than the fact that I really liked it! I particularly like that it's from Oregon.. not exactly local but Texas wine just doesn't do it for me so this might be the closest I can get.
Tomato and Olive, Tarragon, Feta and gape stuffed Criminis. Boo-ya, so heavenly. I love when fresh grapes are paired with cooked foods and the burst of juice and flavor it can bring when combined together correctly.
Who doesnt' love some good ice cream? This was great with the perfect crunch.
Didn't eat this either. Rumor was that it photographed better than it tasted. It is quite colorful though.
This was Joe Dimaggio's and they made a special veggie portion for me. I loved that the cooked each sample to order and it really made all the difference in the world. It was so creamy, warm, and savory.
Another delicious wine I liked but can't remember specifics about.
Lovely orchestra that wisked the early evening into post-sunset satisfaction.
Whew, thankfully Texas gulf shrimp corn dog. Mmmm, mouthwatering.
I've blogged about Moonshine before here. We also had a chance to talk to the owner, Chuck and he was a great guy. Be sure to check out Moonshine's blog here.
Cookies definitely had that distinctive 'gluten-free' flavor but were tasty none-the-less.
Quina stuffed mushrooms were inspiring and I can't wait to create my own version.
Didn't eat the crab cake but I'm always gonna pimp Eddie V's. It will forever hold a special place in my heart after working there. Definitely try their Happy Hour some time!
I've blogged about Eddie V's before here. If you try to eat local they have a few flavors you can get like the gulf oysters, gulf shrimp, and gulf snapper (which is excellent grilled!). Their happy hour is the affordable way to go but I'm not gonna lie, their steaks are truly the best in town.. maybe I need to take in my own local steak so they can cook it up for me some time!
As the sun went down the lights and quaint setting made for a romantic evening and a great time catching up with old friends.
Some interesting auction items:
I won my own auction which was a raw cooking class from Beets Cafe! Unfortunately, I lost my paperwork so hopefully get that settled. Definitely keep an eye open for a blog on that class as I'm sure it'll be fun!
