As a NYC transplant to Hayden, Idaho, I am always searching for the best places to eat! I am elated to have found my all-time FAVORITE foodie experience right here in Idaho at Candle in the Woods. Chef Dave Adlard is amazing! His nine-course food-and-wine experience was absolutely incredible. Chef Dave carefully crafts each course and pairs it with the perfect glass of wine. My evening of casual elegance began by being picked up in a limousine (King's Limousine is top notch), which is always a great way to start the night. I immediately was introduced to seven new friends who were just as excited as I was to be a guest of Chef Dave for the night. Upon arriving at Chef Dave's home in the woods, we were greeted with a bubbly glass of champagne while he gave us a brief description of the evening's agenda and his upcoming ventures, followed by a tour of the best room in the house—his personal wine cellar. It houses not only a collection of wines that most people only dream of, but has some of the rarest antiques and collectibles that are just as fun to look at as the wine.
I love appetizers, so the Amuse Bouche was a perfect way for me to indulge in many of Chef Dave's talents. The huckleberry jam that was served with the asparagus in prosciutto and goat cheese really gave the asparagus the perfect savory flavor. The cornets that held the tuna poke melted in my mouth while the Monte Cristo with chipotle maple syrup was definitely a perfect combination. Intermezzo No. 1: The prawn ravioli in Sambuca cream was plate lick-able; yes I said it, and I am not ashamed! It was so yummy, and since I felt so comfortable amongst my new foodie friends, it just felt natural. The surf and turf must be one of Chef Dave's signature dishes as it was divine in both taste and presentation. The lobster—cooked directly on a block of Himalayan salt—was so fabulous, I may just buy a block of my own and try it at home. I have to say that I already felt like my taste buds were having the time of their life when we were given a palate cleansing that felt like a party was taking place in my mouth. This sorbet included sparkling sugar that reminded me of pop rocks that I ate when I was a child. It was the perfect way for all of us to prepare our palettes for the main event.
Intermezzo No. 2: Cioppino! This medley of seafood was fabulous, served in a savory broth with homemade bread, was nostalgia-like; I just had to ask for seconds. I am not one for dessert, but these cute little lemon doughknots were delectably light treats I could probably get addicted to if I had the chance. The evening ended with more wine, a signature game around the pool table, and of course our limo drive home!
This evening of fantastic food, wine and friends was simply one that I will remember and share with my friends who enjoy fine cuisine as much as I do. My recommendation is that if you love delicious food—and you probably are if you are reading this—then it is time that you discover Candle in the Woods for yourself. Each dinner is unique and incorporates the freshest ingredients as well as the inspiration Chef Dave has for the evening. For more information on how to arrange your evening of casual elegance, visit CandleInTheWoods.com. Follow Candle in the Woods on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Candleinthewoods