Dining with the Garden Fairies

It's the summer solstice.  The air is filled with the scent of jasmine and rose.  And, there is this magical place among the garden fairies floating in the air, where the ferns dance in the moonlight, the hostas are decked out in their tootoos, and the champagne bubbles are playing Chopin.

The table is set, the wine is poured, and dinner is ready to be served --

Inspired by the table setting? It's Costa Nova Friso Dinnerware.  As for that Fettuccine with Garlic Scape Pesto, the recipe is below.


Garlic Scape Pesto

12 garlic scapes, chopped (can be found at farmer's markets around the summer solstice)
1/4 cup toasted walnuts
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 ounces Parmesan cheese, shredded
6-8 large basil leaves
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt to taste

Place the garlic scapes in a food processor and pulse for 20 seconds.  Add the walnuts and pulse for 30 seconds.  Scrape down the sides of the bowl.  Add the olive oil and process for 15-20 seconds; you should start to see an oily paste forming.  Add the Parmesan cheese, basil and lemon juice and process until you get a smooth paste consistency.  Taste and adjust seasoning with salt.  Serve over fresh fettuccine.  This is also great over fresh goat cheese, or as the base for a tomato tart.  Enjoy!

An Evening at the Met Gala

The Gala at the Met is an amazing party. This year's event took place on Monday evening, May 1st.  While most eyes were outside on the Red Carpet, Caskata had their eyes peeled for a glimpse of the red tablecloths inside the Met’s Temple of Dendur venue. This year's event was created by celebrated New York event planner, Raúl Àvila, who has worked with Anna Wintour designing the interior space for the star-studded Metropolitan Art Meuseum Gala since 2007. Caskata’s Peony Blue plates were selected by Ms. Wintour for their striking blue floral design. We think the brilliant blue peonies that captured Ms. Wintour’s attention were indeed the focal point of the room.

Inspired by the table setting? It's Caskata Peony Blue. Need help with choosing dinnerware? View our helpful Dinnerware Resource Guide.

A Love Affair

I have been accused of having a love affair with French cooking. And, to say that I am passionately curious about food, French food, is an understatement.  It undoubtedly started in grad school when I purchased a used copy of Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child (which still sits proudly on my kitchen shelf). And, thankfully, Steve A., Mike E., Rob S., and Tom S. ate my early attempts eagerly which gave me motivation to do more.

That start has propelled me to today. For some reason, I romanticize French cooking and especially the French country kitchen which has a certain je ne sais quoi!  Yes, its a love affair.  I guess its the aura that it creates in my mind ... cooking in abundance with an endless supply of the freshest of green, fruits and more.  Artichokes just cut from the plant ... tomatoes still warm from the sun ... eggs just laid by funny, perky hens ... seafood straight from the fishing village, oh, the oysters.  Can you just see the images in you mind?  If not, let me help you with that --

Inspired by the bakeware and dinnerware?  It's Pillivuyt, and of course it's French.

As for that roast chicken above, it is one of my favorite things to cook.  Not only is it easy peasy, it goes great with a Chardonnay (I prefer Wente Riva Ranch, sorry its not French), and the carcass gets turned into great chicken stock (liquid gold).


Roast Chicken

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme
zest from one lemon
2 teaspoons sea salt

1 3-4 pound chicken
1 onion
1 carrot

Make the compound butter:  combine first 4 ingredients in a bowl and mash them together with a fork to make a smooth butter.  Set it aside.  Dry the chicken and remove any leftovers from the inside of the bird (you don't want to roast the neck, giblets and things if there in there).  Salt and pepper the inside of the chicken.  Using your fingers, gently loosen the skin from the breast starting at the bottom (the cavity opening) and working your way up the breast.  You will need to do this to each breast.  Be careful not to tear the skin.  Evenly spread the compound butter under the skin of each breast.  Now, use your buttery hands to spread a light layer of the compound butter over the outside of the chicken.  Salt and pepper the outside of the chicken.  Let rest one hour.  However, this is best done the night before and placed in the fridge with paper towels covering it.  This helps to dry the skin and season the chicken, creating an even crispier, browned skin.

When ready to roast, preheat over to 425 degrees.  Truss chicken.  Roughly chop the onion and carrot and place it in the center of a shallow roasting pan (I use my vintage Le Creuset oval gratin).  Place the trussed chicken on top of the chopped vegetables; this is the 'organic rack' for your chicken that adds flavor to the pan drippings.  Add about 1/4 cup or so of water to the bottom of the roasting pan, this will keep the chicken juices from splashing all over the oven (I hate oven cleanup) and will also keep the juices from burning.  Roast at 425 degrees for 30 minutes.  After 30 minutes, reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees and roast for another 30-45 minutes, depending on the size of your bird.  You will know it is done when the juices run clear.  Remove from oven and let it rest uncovered for 20 minutes (don't be tempted to cut into the bird sooner!).  Deglaze the pan and make a pan sauce and your ready to go.  And remember, save that carcass for a great pot of chicken stock.

Enjoy!

Daydreams by the Sea

Yesterday Spring teased.  Today Winter unleashed snow.  It's hard to focus.  Yes, it's March ... the time when it isn't Winter, but it isn't Spring yet either ... the longest month of the year ... a time for daydreams by the sea.

The warmth of the sun on your face, the feel of the sand on your feet, the smell of the sea in the air, dining alfresco at sunset.  A clam bake? Grilled fish, perhaps?  A lobster boil (now I'm hungry)?

How does my daydream by the sea look, you wonder --

Inspired by the table setting? It's Costa Nova Madeira Dinnerware.  As for that Spinach and Radish Salad, the recipe is below.


Spinach & Radish Salad

3 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon champagne vinegar
1 teaspoon honey mustard
salt to taste

8 ounces fresh spinach, washed and picked over
4-6 fresh radishes, sliced thinly
2 tablespoons shelled, raw sunflower seeds

In a large salad bowl, whisk together first 4 ingredients to make the salad dressing.  Dip a spinach leaf in the salad dressing, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.  Add spinach and sliced radishes to the salad bowl and toss to coat.  Sprinkle sunflower seeds on top and serve immediately.  Enjoy!

Gatherings with Family and Friends

The year is 1991, I've just moved into my house, the holidays are fast approaching, and I'm having my first dinner party.  I'm making Beef Wellington (what was I thinking!).  The table is set with vintage Limoges plates and a white linen tablecloth I scored from a local resale shop, the candles are lit and the flowers bright.  The CD player is playing Richard Marx.  Friends arrive amazed with the table setting and the menu.  Afterall, I was barely 27 and not in the house more than a week.

Yes, that Beef Wellington was not perfect, not even close; parts were overcooked and parts were still mooing.  The salad was dressed way too early.  But, the freshly made cream puffs were outstanding! The table setting (most definitely the wine) helped make up for the 'interesting meal'.  We had a great time with some good laughs and excitement over the future.   And so began my obsession with gatherings around food, friends, and family.

Even today, when we get together, we remember that first meal fondly and reminisce about where life has taken us. Today each gathering is a celebration, a time with family and friends.  My cooking has improved and my obsession with table settings has become an occupation.  I cannot tell you why, but I'm drawn to beautiful table settings and, to quote Einstein, "passionately curious" about food.

Inside or out, the food, the table setting, the wine, and the playlist make each gathering a celebration.  However, sometimes table inspiration doesn't come easily.  So here's a little help ---

The beaded edge of the White Pearl Dinnerware by Costa Nova splendidly sets off any meal.  Porto white stonewashed linen runners and napkins by Costa Nova add an elegant simplicity to the table setting without make it fussy ... no ironing needed here.  The eucalyptus and olive branch bough creates a understated 'low-rise' centerpiece that doesn't interfere with cross-table conversations and plays up the natural surroundings.

For an updated table setting, fold napkins in thirds and rest under the plates.  This dresses up the table edge and the napkin doesn't cover up the place setting.  Where guest sit at the table greatly influences the conversation.  Try not to seat couples next to each other to encourage conversation across the table.  Hand written place cards personalizes the table and encourages guests to mingle.

For the grande finale, make a celebration memorable with a stylized dessert table.  Family and friends can help themselves after the meal and it encourages lingering.

Simple desserts work best at large gatherings.  Here, rustic cakes and piped meringues are enhanced by the "white pearl" serving pieces ... almost too pretty to eat.

And, how about that playlist?  Here's a little help with that too ---


     Rod Stewart --- It Had To Be Your

     Joshua Kadison --- Georgia Rain

     Russell Watson --- Faith of the Heart

     Richard Marx --- Hands in Your Pockets

     Rod Stewart --- Embraceable You

     Bruce Hornsby --- Walk in the Sun

     Harry Connick Jr. --- Between Us

     Joshua Kadison --- Beautiful in My Eyes
   

{Resource Guide} Choosing Drinkware

We think of drinkware as jewelry for the table.  It can be simple and elegant or it can be drama and bling.  It should express your style as well as set the mood for your dinner or soriee. Below we've put together the most frequently asked questions we get in our shop helping customers choose drinkware.

What are the kinds of drinkware available?
You need drinkware for beverages, water, and wine.  Barware is an added plus if you entertain with cocktails and beer.

Stemware.  Stemware is used for wine, champagne and water. The size and shape of the bowl (the part of the stemware above the stem) determine its functionality.  As an example, a water glass usually has the largest bowl size, with wine being smaller (or you could use the water glass for a hefty pour of wine).  Champagne is usually served in a flute and would not be served in a water glass.

Barware. Highballs, rocks glasses, shot glasses, pilsners and martini glasses are all glasses used on the drink cart and are designed specific to a type of drink.  Their need and use is determined by how you entertain.


Do I want glass or crystal?
The type of material for drinkware is purely dependent on personal preference.  Some people prefer crystal for formal and holiday functions and prefer glass or crystallin for everyday use.  Or, some people prefer glass for both formal and informal entertaining.

Glass.  Glass is a classic option for drinkware and offers the most versatility in style and a lower price point.  Most glass drinkware is dishwasher safe.  (example, Casafina Glassware)

Crystal.  Classic crystal, also known as Lead Glass, is glass that is traditionally made with potash (salts) and lead and is known for looking much better than traditional glass.  We recommend hand washing crystal.  (example, Baccarat)

Crystallin.  Also known as “Cystal Glass, is the lead free variety of crystal. Barium, potassium, and zinc are used instead of lead. Like crystal, crystallin’s appearance is favored over glass.  (example, Simon Pearce Glassware).  Most crystallin is dishwasher safe, however we recommend hand washing large pieces.


What kind of stemware do I need?
We get this question on a daily basis.  The answer is it really depends on how you dine and entertain.  We recommend at a minimum a water glass and a overall wine glass per place setting.  If you enjoy more wines and their nuances then we suggest wine glasses based on their shape to bring out the best in a specific wine.

Red wine.  The bowl shape of wine glasses usually determines its use.  A wider bowl increases the surface area of the wine that's exposed to air and encourages alcohol evaporation, which allows the wine to oxidize and create the wine's aroma. Because so much of what you taste is informed by what you smell, the aroma of a wine can alter it's taste. To promote oxidation and improve the noise (aroma) red wine glasses usually have wider bowls.

White wine.  White wines, which are lighter than red wines, are best enjoyed with only slight oxidation.  Too much oxidation can begin to mask the nuances of the varietals. A narrower, taller bowl reduces surface area, thereby preserving the delicate bouquet of white wines. Champagnes also benefit from this shape, as they lose their carbonation when exposed to oxygen.


What kind of barware do I need?
Options include beer mugs, rocks glasses (or double old fashion glasses), martini glasses, shot glasses, and brandy snifters.  For cocktail parties, you may also need pitchers, carafes and decanters for serving drinks.


How do I care for my drinkware?
Most everyday drinkware is dishwasher safe.  We recommend the low heat setting with a non-acidic, non-citrus soap.  If you've ever wondered why your glassware is getting cloudy, that is the dishwasher etching the glass.  High heat, with citrus or acidic soap creates and etching environment for glass.  And once the glass is etched and cloudy, it cannot be removed.  Fine stemware should be washed by hand and dried with a lint-free cloth. We do not recommend using the dishwasher for any crystal stemware.  Never use steel wool or abrasives on your stemware.

Searching for drinkware?  See our recommended Drinkware Collection.

{YE Lookbook} Autumn Feasts and Gatherings

As the air cools and dining moves indoors, our thoughts turn to autumn feasts.  Winter squash, roast chicken, full-bodied red wines, and Holiday parties are in the air.  Celebrate autumn feasts with a collection of Juliska dinnerware that inspires the mood.

Get the Look:

1. Forest Walk Dinner Plates | 2. Le Panier Bright Satin Flatware | 3. Dean Water Goblet | 4. Pewter Stoneware Salt & Pepper Set | 5. Pewter Stoneware Sauce Boat | 6. Forest Walk Platter | 7. Forest Walk Party Plates | 8. Le Panier Almond Charger | 9. Pewter Stoneware Soup Tureen

Need even more of a Juliska fix?   View the entire Juliska Collection here.

Need help with choosing Dinnerware?  View our helpful resource guide.

Arte Italica Summer Sale Event

Arte Italica ... Irresistibly Italian! Arte Italica produces innovative hand-crafted tableware in pewter, ceramic, and glass. From flatware, to glassware, to dinnerware, Arte Italica tableware is handcrafted using techniques passed down through generations of skilled Italian artisans. Now at Yvonne Estelle's, save 21% all Arte Italica, during our Summer Sale!

above.  Arte Italica Tuscan Dinnerware

above.  Arte Italica Finezza Dinnerware

above.  Arte Italica Isabella Flatware

above.  Arte Italica Barware

above.  Arte Italica Bath

Need even more of an Arte Italica fix?  View the entire Arte Italica Collection.

Need help with choosing dinnerware?  View our helpful Resource Guide.

{YE Lookbook} Garnier Thiebaut Fall 2015 Collection

The Garnier Thiebaut Fall 2015 Collection is inspired by times of splendor; luxurious ornaments and lavish lifestyles. Dive into the magnificence of crystal chandeliers adorned with glitter. Feel the world of exotic flower bouquets and shimmering dresses. Admire the graceful walk of a leopard in a divine palace full of rich colors. Embrace the moment of warmth and happiness.

above.  Garnier Thiebaut Amours Brume

above.  Garnier Thiebaut Feline Acajou

above.  Garnier Thiebaut Savane Safari

above.  Garnier Thiebaut Noel Illustre

above.  Garnier Thiebaut Palace Rubis

Need even more of a Garnier Thiebaut fix? View the entire Garnier Thiebaut Collection.

Need help with choosing a tablecloth?  View our helpful Resource Guide.

{YE Lookbook} Beauville Spring 2015 Collection

The Beauville Linens Spring 2015 Collection is a riot of color, flowers and aquatic sea creatures.  Bring the outdoors in, or dine al fresco with the latest French fashion.

above.  Beauville Giverny Anise

above left.  Beauville Giverny Grey | above right. Beauville Giverny Lavender

above.  Beauville Aquarius Original

above left.  Beauville Aquarius Blue | above right.  Beauville Aquarius Coral

above.  Beauville Palais Royal Pearl

above left.  Beauville Voltaire Rouge | above right.  Beauville Voltaire Yellow

above.  Beauville Arne Linen

Need even more of a Beauville Linens fix?  View the entire Beauville Linens Collection.

{YE Lookbook} Garnier Thiebaut Spring 2015 Collection

Take a voyage of light and color with the Garnier Thiebaut Spring 2015 Collection.  Follow the birds in flight aacross the skies or discover the hidden treasures of journeys past.

above.  Hirondelles Boreal Tablecloth, Confettis Abricot Throw Pillow, Confettis Camelia Throw Pillow, Confettis Frambroise Throw Pillow, Confettis Tilleul Throw Pillow

above.  Mille Cubes Dusk Tablecloth, Confettis Camelia Napkins

above left.  Mille Colibris  Antilles Tablecloth, Mille Antilles Napkins, Mille Antilles Throw Pillow

above right.  Marie Galante Passion Tablecloth, Marie Galante Passion Napkins, Confettis Abricot Throw Pillow, Confettis Mimosa Throw Pillow

above left.  Mille Asters Piscine Tablecloth, Confettis Atoll Throw Pillows

above right.  Mille Panache Peacock Tablelcoth, Mille Panache Peacock Chair Cushion, Mille Panache Peacock Throw Pillow

above left.  L'ete Turquoise Tea Towel | above center. Envol Tropical Tea Towel | above right.  Le Printemps Azalee Tea Towel 

Need even more of a Garnier Thiebaut fix.  Visit the entire Garnier Thiebaut Collection.

{Resource Guide} Choosing Flatware

Sterling Silver?  Silver plate? 18/10 Stainless Steel? Pewter?  Today the choices for flatware can be overwhelming.  Not to mention that entertaining and dining style and trends have changed drastically in the last 10 years.  Below we've put together answers to the most frequently asked questions we get when helping customers select flatware.

What is Sterling Flatware?
Sterling silver flatware is made of at least 92.5% pure silver. Any flatware that is sterling will be stamped with the word “sterling”. Sterling silver flatware is very expensive and is considered to be the most elegant and formal of flatware. Sterling silver flatware has a warm glow and requires occasional polishing. The best way to keep sterling flatware lustrous is to use it regularly. For optimal care, wash sterling silver flatware by hand in hot water with a mild dish soap that does not contain lemon or citrus additives and dry immediately with a soft cloth.


What is Silver Plate?
Silver plate flatware is a less-expensive alternative to sterling flatware. Silver plate flatware has a layer of 100% silver coating another metal, usually nickel. The thicker the silver layer, the better the quality. Silver plate flatware has the same warm glow as sterling flatware and also requires occasional polishing. The best way to keep silver plate flatware lustrous is to use it regularly. For optimal care, wash silver plate flatware by hand in hot water with a mild dish soap that does not contain lemon or citrus additives and dry immediately with a soft cloth.


What is Pewter?
Pewter, a metal alloy, is made of at least 85% tin, with the remainder consisting of copper, antimony, bismuth. In colonial America, pewter was prized for its strength and durability. Pewter flatware has a rustic feel and beautiful patina. Pewter does not require polishing. For optimal care, wash pewter flatware by hand in hot water with a mild dish soap and dry immediately with a soft cloth.


What is Stainless Steel?
Most flatware is stainless steel. Stainless steel flatware does not rust or tarnish and does not require occasional polishing. Stainless steel is a metal alloy that contains a minimum of 10.5% chromium. To make stainless steel flatware, chromium is added to steel for strength as well as rust and stain resistance. Nickel, another metal alloy, is also added to the steel for its brilliance and lasting finish. The grades of stainless steel (18/10 or 18/8) refer to the amount of nickel added to the steel which prevents corrosion. The best grade of stainless steel is 18/10. Stainless steel flatware is dishwasher safe.


What is a 5-piece place setting?
A 5-piece place setting consists of a dinner knife, a dinner fork, a salad fork, a soup spoon and a teaspoon. Due to changes in entertaining and dining, a lot of flatware is now sold individually as well as a 5-piece place setting. People who do not tend to entertain so formally are now opting for an 'a la carte' approach to flatware and do not always purchase salad forks and teaspoons. However, the salad forks and teaspoons do double as dessert forks and dessert spoons and become part of the dessert buffet.

 When selecting flatware, think how you entertain.  Today, there are no strict rules.  And, if you need help, give us a call at 847.518.1232.  We're always here to help.

Searching for Flatware? See our recommended flatware collections.

{Resource Guide} Choosing Dinnerware

Porcelain? Stoneware? Earthenware? How do I choose? Today the choices for dinnerware can be daunting. Below we've put together the most frequently asked questions we get in our store helping customers select dinnerware.

What is porcelain?
Porcelain is a vitreous ceramic material made by heating kaolin to temperatures between 2,200 and 2,600 °F. Porcelain has a stark white appearance with incredible durability. Porcelain dinnerware is dishwasher and microwave safe; and, some is even broiler safe.  Hand washing is recommended for larger pieces, hand painted collections, or dinnerware with gold or platinum decoration. Items with metallic decoration are not microwave safe.  See our Caskata and Pillivuyt collections for porcelain dinnerware.


What is stoneware?
Stoneware is a vitreous or semi-vitreous ceramic made primarily from stoneware clay. Stoneware is fired at high temperatures. It is non-porous and so does not need a glaze. Stoneware is microwave, oven and freezer safe.  See our Casafina and Juliska collections for stoneware dinnerware.


What is earthenware?
Earthenware is a clay fired at relatively low temperatures and is more porous and less translucent than porcelain. Typically, earthenware is relatively thick and heavy, and, depending on the clay used, its natural color ranges from buff to red. A well-known characteristic of earthenware is that it is likely to crackle. This crackling effect is considered part of its beauty but does not affect its use. Most earthenware is dishwasher safe on low heat settings. It is generally not microwave safe.  See our Gien and Vietri Collections for earthenware dinnerware.

What is fine china?
Fine china generally tends to mean bone china which is a very fine, soft-paste clay that is made from several key ingredients, including bone ash. Considered by many to be the finest china available, it has great strength and chip-resistance. Bone china items may or may not be dishwasher and microwave safe.  Fine china is more expensive than porcelain, stoneware, or earthenware and is considered to be formal china.

What is a 5-piece place setting and do I want it?
A 5-piece place setting includes a dinner plate, a salad plate, a bread plate, a cup and saucer.  In today's fashion, must people are layering different dinnerware pieces together and the 5-piece place setting is not as popular as in the Downton Abbey era.  If you do not do a lot of formal multi-course dinners, you may not need a 5-piece place setting.  However, the bread plate doubles as an appetizer plate for cocktail parties.  The salad plate doubles as a dessert plate, and the cup and saucer become part of a dessert buffet.  Think about how you entertain to determine if you want 5-piece place settings.  Depending on how you entertain, you may even need additional bread or salad plates.

Today, casual dinnerware is more popular than ever.  People tend to be more interested in dinnerware they can use in many different settings and layer with other dinnerware selections and/or fine china pieces.  Casual dinnerware also costs less than fine china.

Searching for dinnerware?  See our recommended dinnerware collections.