The Art of Saké Dinner with Monica Samuels

Have a seat and a Saké cup, we’re toasting the wonderful world of Saké with Monica Samuels! Join us in the Oscar Event Center on September 11, 6PM-8PM, to experience the delicious and versatile qualities of Saké with Japanese dinner pairings created by Chef Micheal Inferra & Chef Mindy Livengood.

Monica specializes in introducing Saké to those who are unfamiliar with it while her knowledge and passion make the evening enjoyable for connoisseurs alike. She is also the Samurai of recommending some truly outstanding non-traditional Saké pairings to everyone she meets.

Featured Saké

-Fukucho Seaside Sparkling

-Kawatsuru Olive

-Fukucho Moon on the Water

-Shiokawa Cowboy Yamahai

-Tozai Blossom of Peace Plum Sake

Menu

Kumo on “Ice”

Briny Pacific Northwest oyster splashed with a crisp strawberry thai basil mignette and accompanied by a coconut sorbet crown

Paired with Fukucho Seaside Sparkling

Herb Crusted Halibut with Olive-Yuzu Beurre Blanc Sauce

Served alongside a melon-pear and microgreen salad with citrus vinaigrette dressing

Paired with Kawatsuru Olive

Melon-Pear Cured Scallops with Fennel-Honey Emulsion and Citrus Foam

Served with microgreens, Japanese edible flowers, and finished with mineral salt

Paired with Fukucho Moon on the Water

Salt-Roasted A5 Ichibo Tataki

Served with ponzu dressed petite greens, Japanese whiskey pickled micro carrot, and bright passion fruit caviar

Paired with Shiokawa Cowboy Yamahai

Momiji Honey and Dango

Azuki red bean filled mochi dipped in local creamed honey

Paired with Tozai Blossom of Peace Plum Sake

One of the country's most accomplished Saké professionals - including being named "Top 40 Under 40" by Wine Enthusiast Magazine and holding the prestigious title of Saké Samurai. Monica's been in the Saké business for over fifteen years on both the hospirality side and as Southern Wine & Spirits' Saké Ambassador before joining the Vine Connections team to oversee the strategy, marketing, sales, and education of the Japanese Saké and spirits portfolio.

Over the past 25 years, Michael Inferrera has established a distinguished career across a diverse range of culinary experiences in entertainment, catering, and fine dining. He’s worked side-by-side with Chef Anthony Bourdain and crafted his skills under renowned Chef George Perrier. Look out for his culinary touch at future festivals and catering events!

The new Director of the Jungle Jim’s Cooking School, Mindy is a true force in the kitchen and beyond. Her wide-ranging background includes leadership roles in hospitality and public service—and an appearance as a contestant on the hit TV show Hell’s Kitchen! Her experience under pressure and in high-profile settings has helped shape her fearless, high-energy leadership style.

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