Chef Ari Kolender - The Merrywell Guest Chef Series [4 - 11 August 2016]
/
Acclaimed US Chef, Ari Kolender from Charleston, South Carolina, a city described as one of the finest food destinations in America and the birthplace of true southern cooking, has touched down in Crown Melbourne.
Kolender has shared the secrets of his famous fried chicken, considered among the finest in America’s south, and other mouth-watering dishes at The Merrywell which are now available until 11 August. Kolender’s visit is the first in a series of guest chefs and events to be held at The Merrywell in the coming months in celebration of iconic, and much loved, American cuisine.
Kolender, who was named a James Beard Award Rising Star Chef semi-Finalist while he was at the helm as Executive Chef at Leon’s Fine Poultry and Oyster Shop, a restaurant described as one of America’s best by some of the country’s most respected reviewers and publications, will provide guests the opportunity to enjoy his favourite dishes including:
- Anson Mills Skillet Cornbread, Jalapeno and Honey Butter
- Charleston Famous Fried Chicken with Hot Sauce
- Lady Peas with Relish, Quick chow chow, cumin and coriander
- Oyster’s Southside, Smokey Bacon, Worcestershire and Parmesan
- Pimento Cheese Dip, Saltines, pickled Cucumber and Green Onions
Kolender's Charleston Famous Fried Chicken with Hot Sauce stole our hearts. An absolute showstopper, each meaty morsel was crusted with a flavoursome spice mix and then perfectly fried to achieve a moreish crunchy exterior. AMAZING. The Anson Mills Skillet Cornbread is another must-have. Much more than just a side show, the cornbread had a crusty finish courtesy of being cooked in a hot skillet and was particularly memorable for its addictive sweetness and moist yet gritty texture.
In his cooking career, Kolender has worked in some of America’s most acclaimed kitchen’s including St Alban, Providence and Red Medicine (Los Angeles). Kolender was part of the stellar team who opened Charleston’s The Ordinary, which was quickly featured on Best New Restaurant lists in prestigious publications including Conde Nast, Bon Appetit and Esquire. Don't miss out!
