The three chefs: Chef Maria, Chef Sofia and Chef Gina
Judy Ondina
Dean Martin serenaded us with, “When the moon.., that’s Amore” and aromas of pasta flourished in the air as the LOLs were recently greeted at an Italian Bistro (bella casa of Joan Krause). Four chefs met several times to come up with a culinary menu to make us swoon as we anxiously awaited the date for this Italian adventure. Guests were greeted by Chef Maria (aka Gayle Coe), Chef Sophia (aka Joan Krause) and Chef Gina (aka Mary Ann Carroll). Limoncello from the Amalfi Coast was served to each guest; a toast of Ciao Bella was given as we each raised our glass to partake of this piquant cordial. Appetizers of salami, prosciutto, olives, cheeses, fruits, nuts and crackers were accompanied by choices of red and white wine. The table was set to accommodate all of us; it was stunningly decorated with a white linen tablecloth, plates with red napkins holding first name initials of the lovely ladies in attendance, candles flickering and a vertical red floral arrangement in the center. Whiffs of basil, tomatoes, garlic and cheese enticed us to fill our plates with salad, pasta dishes, an Italian corn dish and warm bread sticks. As we sat at the lovely table there was a detectable silence as our chatter ceased while we enjoyed our first bites of the chef’s creations. Soon there were many toasts made, laughter and joyful conversation resumed! Oh, but wait, we were told the “pièce de résistance” was forthcoming in the dessert creation of Tiramisu, made by our very own Chef Aubrey! Ooohs and aaaahs were heard as we unanimously agreed that Chef Aubrey should get a patent for his recipe. As with any treasured evening, soon it was time to depart as the LOLs thanked the fabulous chefs and made their way home. We all were, if only for a few hours, certainly in a place that should take hours to find and thankfully only a few minutes from home in our community of Robson Ranch.