New Year, new everything. There are the usual resolutions made every year, and sometimes a fun one you actually want to keep. On the North Fork, we take pride in our farms and food, craft vineyards, breweries, and distilleries, and everything that comes out of it. Luckily, the North Fork is community driven, and local chefs and vintners are willing to share their own tips and tricks, allowing you to recreate delicious meals celebrating the area’s bounty. Here are some limited-edition cooking demonstrations and classes going on this month.
Cooking Classes at Love Lane Kitchen
Perhaps you want to learn some new skills, or maybe you just want to take a fun class to break up the dead of winter on the North Fork. Regardless of your reasons, the winter cooking classes at Love Lane Kitchen in Mattituck are a favorite way to get out of the house. These hands-on classes guided by the restaurant’s own chef teach participants basic knife skills and safety while they prepare a fresh dish, and later enjoy as well. Think vegetable risotto, fresh pasta, crab risotto, and mushroom crepes. Classes are Thursday nights, $70 per person, and include a complimentary glass of wine or beer. Space is limited, so call for details and sign up asap!
Sundays with Grandma
When the world seems to shine like you’ve had too much wine, that’s amore. This is just one of many songs you’re guaranteed to hear winemaker Salvatore Diliberto sing at Diliberto Winery in Jamesport during their February and March pasta demonstration and wine pairing dinners. Sundays with Grandma features a four-course homemade meal paired with select vintages the winery produces. While Mr. Diliberto demonstrates how to make homemade pasta, just like grandma, guests will enjoy various homemade Italian dishes. It will make you feel like you’re back in your childhood sitting in Grandma’s kitchen. Dinners are $85 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required.
Couples Cook at Sang Lee Farms
Eating healthy can be a challenge, and in the New Year this very well may be one of your resolutions. Eating is a good thing – you need to do it to survive! So, give your body a healthy boost and nourish it with fresh, certified organic produce from Sang Lee Farms in Peconic. Not sure where to start? Join them for a couples cooking class on Tuesday, February 13. You’ll learn and make something that is not only delicious, but good for you with culinary nutritionist Stefanie Sacks. Local wine is available for those who wish. After you and your sweetheart finish the evening, all couples will enjoy a community meal and educational and inspiring conversation. Class is $250 per couple and registration is required.
Chef’s Table at The Halyard
Chef Galen Zamarra exemplifies living the best of both worlds in New York. The chef and owner of Mas (farmhouse) in Manhattan recently set up shop in Greenport with the opening of The Halyard at the Sound View, featuring local fish, produce, and wines from the North Fork and surrounding regions. Coupling food, wine, and education, Chef Zamarra is hosting cooking demonstrations and classes called Chef’s Table. On Saturday, February 10 the class will focus on oysters, with a conversation about these beloved bivalves and tasting of local varieties and various preparations. This will be part of a larger Valentine’s Day event, which is definitely worth checking out. On Sunday, February 25, Chef’s Table will feature a demo with braised short ribs with butternut risotto. Tickets are $35 per person, and includes a glass of wine. Reservations are recommended.
