Spike: I Wasn't Aloof
Spike was just relaxed and enjoying himself at the Food & Wine Classic.
What’s up? I’m writing to you all from Jakarta, where I unfortunately cannot watch Bravo TV. Come on Indonesia, step up the cable programming! I am counting the hours until I get back to DC and watch the show with my family. Although I expect a bunch of phone calls from my mom and sister, who will undoubtedly give me an earful.
Aspen was such a blast. Cooking for the Food & Wine crowd is amazing -- the event is filled with chefs and members of the food media that I truly respect. A million thank yous to Dana Cowin for the amazing opportunity. Being a part of the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen was such a highlight for me this year. Feel free to invite me again Dana!
When I arrived in Aspen, I felt so preoccupied with the chaos surrounding the restaurant openings in DC, that having an escape -- where I was even able to go whitewater rafting and hiking -- was awesome. Aspen is such an incredible place that combines upscale with down-to-earth people who love nature. Despite being such a relaxed city, Aspen is dynamic and I can’t wait to go back.
Chances are, I might have come off as aloof in Aspen, but it was just the opposite. What you can’t see is that it was really a great relief to step away from the restaurant stress going on back in DC. Aspen allowed me to take a much needed deep breath and recharge before returning home to opening up my family’s second Good Stuff Eatery.
I owe a huge thank you to my partner in crime, Andrew Kaplan. Kappy is the ultimate sous-chef. He took care of my prep for the event and, more importantly, my sanity. Because of him, my dish reflected the vision in my head and I owe Kappy big time. Thanks for making it a stress-free trip man!
