No kidding
November 6, 2007
A pal of mine has been trying to indoctrinate me into the more sophisticated elements of city culture. Little did she realize that it would so drastically backfire and end up fueling the baser elements of my nature.
The idea was to bring me into the world of fine cuisine, but in a sneaky, seemingly less pretentious way than dragging me to the new hip locales. You know the ones. Straining to be hip and different in the same formulaic way that all the other well-financed and highly promoted new joints are. Places with slick, urban facades and tastefully overblown decor. They are touted by those in the know, who are quick to drop the one-word name on you over a cherry-mocha-rumpletini at the 9-month old, though now hopelessly old hat, lounge you are lolling at. “Have you been to Fresch …. CrunKK …… Qwenshh ……. Hipp …….. Cavern ….. yet?”
In lieu of such trauma, She drops on me the concept of the underground dining scene. Maybe it really is no different, but there are fewer people and there are no lines. It’s a swell idea, all-in-all, if that’s your kind of gig. Gives some young, upstart chef a chance to hone some skills outside the confines of his restaurant. Brings the cost down for diners. Low-key social situation. You know, pre-made dinner party without the cleanup.
Chef Efrain Cuevas engineers just such a scene in town. You can dig it at the 24 Below site. It’s interesting, if nothing else. My pal put me on the mailing list and encouraged me to find an affair to my liking…or else.
I was not really interested, but felt pressured to at least play along. However, a recent event seemed perfect for me……a goat slaughter.
My friend was not amused, but I thought it was a good compromise. Hell, it would even encompass multiple evenings. Needless to say, I was sorely disappointed to find out that the Saturday event had to be cancelled (and my gal pal’s sigh of relief could be heard for miles).
I can’t say that I was surprised. Remember the disastrous promo stunt Sony did for God of War II?
I had dreams of my own backyard extravaganza, but I’m not sure it’s a viable plan. Rest assured, I won’t give up easily.
