BRING ON THE DUCK!

Our staff Christmas party was at Il Fiasco in Tacoma this year. Even though it was five days ago, it still seems like yesterday. And, the meal was so rich, I was full throughout the following day. I was in beer and meat heaven. There was good conversation, and it was fun, but my meal really was the standout of the evening for me.

It started with soft white bread with a good chewy crust that was dipped in garlic-infused olive oil. Next came appetizers: asparago arrostitio, "tender pan roasted asparagus, creamy gorgonzola & toasted pine nuts drizzled with balsamic & Austrian pumpkin seed oil" and antipasti Italiani, "an array of seasonal Italian meats, cheeses, & vegetable marinades." The asparagus was excellent as were the marinated tomatoes on the antipasti platter.

My entree was L’antara arrostitio, "tender duck breast roasted with a black currant & pomegranate port wine reduction with roasted chestnut ravioli." The duck was prepared medium, at my request, and was mouth-watering. The meat was slightly oily, juicy, and tender. The flavors of the black currants and pomegranate played nicely against the savor of the meat. The roasted chestnut ravioli was interesting. I probably would not choose ot eat it alone, but it played nicely with the flavor of the duck and the dark fruits. All of this was accompanied by thin slices of butternut squash, which helped to cleanse the palate and act as a bridge between duck and ravioli. I could have eaten my entree all night.

Dinner was accompanied by Samuel Smith's Nut Brown Ale. This was the perfect complement to the meal. The ale was a beautiful dark brown, with good lacing. The flavors were of roasted nuts, caramel, and an ever so slight hint of fruitiness. It was sweet and malty. The ale echoed the flavor of the roasted chestnut ravioli, brought forth more flavor from the squash, and played well off of the duck and its sauce. The currants and pomegranate helped pull even more flavor from the ale.

Dessert was Carlos' Killer Cheesecake, but by that time it just could not compare to the duck, ale, and company. The cheesecake wasn't very "killer," although, to be fair, its competition was stiff.

The wife and I had a great time, and it was nice to just enjoy a great meal without hurry or worrying about where we had to be next.