Domenica Opens!!!!!!!

posted 28 August 2009 | by lucascuccia

New Orleanian’s have been excited at the re-opening of the Roosevelt Hotel. Chefs John Besh and Alon Shaya are in that number. For over a year, Alon has been on an Italian countryside trip. It wasn’t a vacation mind you. He spend a year embracing all aspects of the Italian culture from a culinary point of view. In the many months leading up to the restaurant opening, he and I have have many meetings and discussions about the fresh produce needs he required. Let me emphasize the word “Fresh”. He wants not only the finest quality but he has demands for an eclectic mix of Italian style fruit and vegetables. As a main ingredient, he plans on using a large volume of Heirloom Tomatoes. He also is requesting Italian baby peppers and treviso radicchio. The last item is a long leaf variety of radicchio.

When I was over there, Chef Alon gave me a tour of a place under construction. While the place was still at the studs stage, he pointed out to me the large bar, modern kitchen, and generous dining room area. It will be a beautiful place to have a wonderful dining experience. While work doesn’t give me much time to return to the home of my ancestors, I sure that dining at Domenic will at least remind me of the culinary culture.