When Mikel and I made the decision to open a restaurant, we knew that we would become part of a local network of philanthropy. We knew that the community would come to us for support and that we would be able to partner with a number of worthy charitable organizations in unique and creative ways. We have focused our support towards children, medical research and the local arts community.
This past week we were involved with three separate events.
RYAN HYDE FOR TEAM PHOTOGENIC © 2010
Poker Slam for Rise n’ Shine
On Thursday night, Pearl catered the annual “Poker Slam” at the Mercer Island waterfront home of local game inventor and philanthropist Rob Angel. Menu items included the “Full House” Wagyu Sliders, “No Limit” fresh seafood platter with gulf shrimp and Dungeness crab and the “All In” porcini grilled chicken. But this was much more than just a poker night on the lake… numerous guests arrived by boat, the vintage wine was flowing, several cigars were smoked. You see, Rob invites his close friends along with local celebs and sports stars to raise money for a great cause – Rise n’ Shine of Seattle. I was lucky enough to be hosted at the tables that night by Lakeside Capital, a longtime sponsor of the event. With a little bit of luck I did make it to the final table where we lost to a pair of 10’s. When all was said and done, Sean Hobday won the poker tournament, but Risenshine was the big winner – as they accepted donations of over $45,000. Thanks to Rob and all the participants for such a great night!
RYAN HYDE FOR TEAM PHOTOGENIC © 2010
RYAN HYDE FOR TEAM PHOTOGENIC © 2010
RYAN HYDE FOR TEAM PHOTOGENIC © 2010
Efeste Winemaker Dinner for Sacred Heart School
Friday night Pearl catered a Winemaker’s Dinner at the Efeste Winery in Woodinville as part of the Sacred Heart School 2010 auction. Efeste is a wonderful venue for these events and they are open for tastings on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Winemaker Brennon Leighton is doing amazing work and is busy collecting numerous accolades. Sacred Heart is a wonderful school on Clyde Hill and we have supported their cause for several years. I could tell this would be a great pairing before we had our first sip. The evening started with hors d‘oeuvres and wine in the kitchen and then moved into the beautiful barrel room for dinner. Guests were treated to four stunning Efeste wines paired with a delicious menu from Pearl: spicy ahi tuna canapés, roasted King Salmon with fresh favas, black angus tenderloin with bleu cheese demi glace and ginger-molasses ice cream sandwiches.
Wine Dinner for Special Olympics Washington Chapter
Saturday night at Pearl we hosted a Chef’s Table wine dinner in support of The Special Olympics. The kitchen team was on track that night, working alongside Wine Director Matt Davis to create a memorable evening. Appetizers included beautiful Kushi oysters paired with shiso mignonette. The salad course was a classic frisee salad with warm bacon vinaigrette with poached egg and goat cheese crostini, paired with the wonderful Chaleur Blanc from Delille Cellars. The fish course was wonderful Sablefish from Neah Bay, marinated in honey and miso and served with an intense “Namya” broth and Dungeness crab dumplings. For the entrée we paired our latest signature dish – Grilled Wagyu Sirloin with bleu cheese fritters alongside two wines; Dussek Cabernet from Woodhouse Family Cellars and the The Tsutakawa from aMaurice Cellars. WOW! What an incredible steak and two awesome wines.
Three events in three nights! I’m tired, but I feel good about supporting our community. I know that we can’t do every event, so I really give it my all for the ones we can.
– Co-owner and Executive Chef Bradley Dickinson
Bradley & Mikel's Restaurants 