There is something so whimsically primitive about cooking over these magnificent embers. Although the flames do not “catch” you the heat still manages to challenge the cook against the fire, melting your fingertips into the flavorful union that is taking form. Innocent laughs and giggles from the kids in the background weave into the sounds of wine glasses being filled to the sound of a bluesy guitar.

This first dinner was inspired by traditional Italian dinners shared by friends and family on Sundays. I wanted to open my home to new friends and introduce them to our family in the best way I know how, with food. So, it seemed appropriate to end the evening with a final homage to Italian flavors, gelato, olive oil, chocolate, and coffee. Sipping on espresso and satisfying the palate on last time with Van Leeuwen’s vanilla bean ice cream, (which has been drizzled with luscious olive oil and topped with Mast dark chocolate shavings and a touch of Maldon sea salt), we agreed that the night had been a remarkable success.