Chef Chris Shepherd at Poole’s: An Invite from AC
Good morning friends!
On July 31st and August 1st, I’m thrilled to have my pal chef Chris Shepherd of Houston’s Underbelly restaurant joining us in Raleigh for a summer edition of Stir the Pot, benefiting the Southern Foodways Alliance's documentary film initiative.
If you haven’t had the chance to taste Chris' food, trust me when I tell you that you’re in for a serious treat. I first met Chris at a food festival and was immediately taken by his infectiously warm personality (and his amazing bear hugs). Then I got to taste his food at the SFA symposium and was simply blown away. Chris incorporates the flavors of the many different cultural communities of Houston—Vietnamese, Korean, Mexican, Indian and beyond—into one beautiful style of food that’s truly unlike anything else in the South. It’s uniquely vibrant, and so inspiring and generous in spirit.
On Sunday night (7/31), he’ll be cooking a 5-course feast at Poole’s ($150; tickets here) and the menu is simply gorgeous. Some of the highlights: Korean fried chicken lettuce wraps, Northern Vietnamese whole fish, braised goat and dumplings (pictured above), and of course, Texas barbecue. We’re bringing one of the most delicious food experiences in Houston to you here in Raleigh, and by eating it, you support the documentary work of SFA? That’s right… win-win!
Then on Monday night (8/1), we’ll be returning the favor with a potluck at Bridge Club. Join us in welcoming Chris by bringing a starter, side or dessert (I’ll be making the main course to honor some of the various meals that initiated Chris’ love-affair with community cooking). The team from Raleigh’s Neptune’s Parlour will be designing a signature cocktail for the evening, and Trophy Brewing will be pouring an epic beer. As always, our gracious wine sponsor, Eliza Kraft Olander will provide a table full of delicious wines. We’ll also screen the latest SFA documentary, and Chris will be around to give bear hugs and chat. It’s going to be an awesome night. (Tickets are $35 and available here.)
We hope you’ll join us!
AC + Team AC Restaurants
(Photos: Julie Soefer)