Macy’s Culinary Council Event Recap

A little while ago I told you about an amazing event Macy’s would be holding. As part of their ongoing Culinary Council event series, Chef Takashi Yagihashi would have a cooking demonstration and book signing. The event came up quickly and was the highlight of my week last week!

It was thankfully a beautiful fall evening in metro Detroit. Mom and I watched the sunset as we drove out to Macy’s Somerset, though we didn’t see the solar eclipse. We unfortunately arrived a few minutes late – traffic is a beast at that time of night, so we didn’t get a seat, but I really think that was for the best. I was more able to move around and take some awesome photos to show all of you.

The Macy’s associates were very helpful and accommodating, making sure everyone got a sample of the dishes Takashi made. He made three different dishes: Jordi, Spanish Omelette, and Sautéed Chicken Livers with Bacon. The Spanish Omelette smelled wonderful, looked great, and tasted even better. I can’t wait to make it myself – it is totally something I can see serving for dinner one night soon.

Takashi has a great personality. He kept the mood light, took questions from the audience, and talked about being on Top Chef Masters and Top Chef Duels. He lost both (I really think he should have advanced further in both!), but he has a great attitude about it, telling about the time in a light-hearted way.

The demo was over before I knew it, and it was time to meet Takashi. We made our purchase (just a hint: it’s something you all are going to enjoy as a giveaway this holiday season :)), and waited in line to meet the Chef. He made sure to take a few minutes with each person, personalizing their book and chatting with them. He was not in a rush at all, such a refreshing thing for an event like this. We talked to him about Top Chef and Tribute, the local restaurant where he used to be executive chef but closed soon after his departure. He said someone suggested he buy it and make it a world-class restaurant again. I think that’s a great idea.

The night ended so quickly but was a blast from start to finish. Mom and I wondered around Macy’s, beautifully decorated for the season, as well as the mall, which also looked so pretty and was nearly empty. I’m already pumped for the next Macy’s Culinary Council event!

Disclaimer: I was paid to promote and attend this event, but not to write a recap post.  I only did so because I had such a wonderful time!