EQ

EQ, at the Party Source, in Covington KY, 859-655-3650, bills itself as a cooking school and demonstration kitchen. It is really much more, as the following report will attest. They do have many events, however, open to all.
Marilyn and I were guests at a party on Saturday night, August 25. The Party Source had donated the evening to "The Cincinnati Wine Auction" with the proceeds going to charities. Our hosts had been the buyers. When I say EQ and the Party source went ALL OUT it is probably and understatement The EQ host and chef was John Stiles who is as knowledgeable as he is entertaining.
The following is the menu for the evening, including the wines, which were poured generously. All this followed an appetizer of 3 kinds of Quiche passed, while we were gathering, with glasses of Regaleali, a light Sicilian white.
Seared Ahi Tuna on Seed Crackers with Wasabi Cream; wine: Vilmart&Cie Grand Celler Champagne
Pellagrino's Portabella Mushroom with Fresh Mozzarella, Fiontina, Pancetta and Port Wine Balsamic Reduction; wine: Spinetta Barbera Superiore 2001
Warm Salad of Sea Scallops, Fingerling Potatoes and Cherry Tomatoes; wine: Brewer-Clifton 2005 Mt. Carmel
Opakapaka with Lobster Mashed Potatoes and Lobster-Pinot Noir Sauce; wine: Raphet 2003 Lavaux St, Jacques
Grilled New York Steak with Zucchini and Olive Bread Pudding and Roasted Corn Ragout; wine: Mondavi 2001 Reserve Cabernet Sauvigon
Chocolate Cherry Shortcakes, with French Vanilla Ice Cream; wine Royal Oporto 2000 Vintage Port.
After this recital I hesitate to comment, but I will briefly. The food was excellent, the wine outstanding, the service perfect, in timing and demeanor and the evening was something all involved in were delighted to be included.
I would guess most of the guest, 32 in number, were in their 40's and they went on to Brio's for coffee and whatever. we old folks were happy to drag ourselves home with belts and garments loosened.
It was an evening to remember and if you get a chance go to the Party Source and see for yourself.