GDC Week 5: Kathy & Duong

Kathy with her sous chef "Adelaide" a.k.a Mom.
With just a few weeks left, the competition stiffens, expectations are higher, judges are more critical and with that... Gourmet Club has become one of the most highly anticipated events of the week! Hey, what can I say - I'm unemployed!!! :)

This past weekend, newlyweds Kathy & Duong had a high wall to climb. Not only did Duong dig a hole for them by exclaiming that all the previous week's were not "gourmet" enough, but Kathy (hardly able to contain her enthusiasm) sent out a menu just days before her sister Kim's dinner (alleged ill-intentions not confirmed :) To add injury to insult, Kim had surpassed all expectations and perhaps... even took a page out of Kathy's book!

(cue suspenseful music) :: dhan dhan dhan!!! ::

Now stuck with a very similar menu as Kim's surf-and-turf, Kathy and Duong had to find a way to make their's stand out!
No worries! Kathy, an expert in the kitchen, served scallop ceviche to start...
Note: On the pre-sent menu, it did say "Quick seared scallop with an edge." Hey, where's the "sear?" Guess it doesn't really matter since this was my most favorite appetizer in the competition so far!

Main Course: Wild Salmon & Steak seasoned and marinated in red wine

Note: On the menu, it did say, "Pear, spring mix arugula," but I'm assuming they replaced it carrots and green beans with pasta salad.

Dessert: Strawberries dipped in chocolate

AND Apple Crisps

Note: According to the menu, we were to have a choice between Apple Crisps or Champagne Cake, but +2 points for the ice cream and fresh baked apple crumble. I LOVE warm desserts partnered with ice cream!

So while I am being critical of their menu (I'm gonna' get it when it's my turn huh?) (it's what happens when you send out your menu in advance)!!!.. I have to say, the overall meal was very enjoyable and the service was the best and most thorough so far, with Duong making sure we all had drinks, taking our plates away once we're finished, and Kathy, despite having to do most of the cooking was totally relaxed and calm. We even got to take some of her famous carrot cake home as party favors! Nice touch, guys!