by Christina Waters | Feb 15, 2010 | Home, Movies |
A riddle in the key of repression – and destined to win a few Oscars.
“Director Michael Haneke believes that one generation’s moral decay is rarely eradicated, but lingers submerged in the collective unconscious until future events trigger its return. In a German village on the verge of World War I a series of random events ignites suspicion, violence and strange punishment. The ripening mood of paranoia and retaliation tears apart the village fabric, until the messes are covered up and control regained. As a forensic allegory of hypocrisy, longing, and disappointment, The White Ribbon owns a place in the short list of all-time unforgettable films.”
That’s how I began my review of The White Ribbon — you can read the entire piece in the current Santa Cruz Weekly. And no matter how many people try to scare you off, don’t miss this gorgeous and provocative film.
I’m so tired of people saying to me, “yes, but it’s in black and white,” as if describing some sort of physical deformity. (more…)
by Christina Waters | Feb 15, 2010 | Food, Home |
Here we are again, swilling the sushi and sashimi at Kawa Sushi (corner of Mission & Bay).
It’s pretty hard to beat the incredible protein & wasabi hit of this menu. Service is outstanding, the tables are generously spaced, and you can actually carry on a conversation over the Santa Cruz Roll, the tekka maki with shiso and a sashimi combo appetizer.
The $1 prices on small sakes during weekday happy hour add extra incentive to feast at this reliable sushi bar.
by Christina Waters | Feb 14, 2010 | Home, Wine |
Harlow Ridge. You’ve seen it. You’ve been tempted. You’ve walked on.
Reconsider. For $6.99 you could do worse. And you have.
This is a better-than-decent tipple, good for a handful of black cherries, a soupçon of cedar, even a hint of smoke. Light 12.5% alcohol, this is a solid pour to go with anything crying out for red wine.
Don’t expect layers of complexity. When chilled, however, it is surprisingly drinkable.
You’ll find it everywhere.
by Christina Waters | Feb 11, 2010 | Home |
Here’s the scoop –
This morning many of us woke up to an excited email from Joseph Schultz (see below), who has been involved in private discussions with many in the area about various templates for a new culinary showcase.
I’m not sure how this will work, and will keep you posted as it develops.
“Wokking Out of the Ashes—-India Joze
I was hoping to have an extended discussion of the whys and wherefores of restaurants in our society leading to a gentle nudge in the direction of expanding my visibility and cooking more often for more of you. Fortunately, events have overtaken me and it looks like India Joze may be opening at 418 Front Street, across from the Metro Bus Station, if I can raise funding quickly enough to avail us of this opportunity. To this end, I am offering $1200 worth of India Joze for $1000. This credit can be used for anything I do: restaurant meals, catering (weddings, anniversaries, birthdaze, memorials, fund-raisers), cooking equipment, food to-go (including a new extensive line of sauces and chutneys), special events and classes at my new location. In addition, your name will go on my online Wall of Early Adopters.”
Try joz@indiajoze.com if you’re interested in funding the latest spice trade from Joe.
by Christina Waters | Feb 4, 2010 | Home |
La Posta blew me away last week with the best, most satisfying dinner in town, thanks to new chef Katherine Stern.
Don’t even think twice, just get over there. Authentic Italian dinners made with complete confidence — amazing value for the moderate pricetag.
For mouth-watering details, read my review in this week’s Santa Cruz Weekly.
by Christina Waters | Feb 4, 2010 | Home, Wine |
Brad Briske (pictured here) still turns out astonishing dishes at Gabriella, which remains open (thanks to voodoo sacrifices and an astute tax attorney). We were once again rendered speechless by lunch last week showcasing designer pizza, hand-made cured meats and natural beef burgers. Oh and dessert of pound cake with orange zabaglione that was TDF.
Valentine’s Day at the Cellar Door. No prix fixe that evening, just romantic, candle-lit small plates by Charlie Parker, such as…. * Kumamoto oysters, with Meyer lemon granita & dill creme fraiche * Roasted lobster, artichokes, sunchokes & Buddha’s Hand * Bacon-wrapped galantine of rabbit, green garlic, young roots & prunes* vanilla-chocolate tart, burnt caramel ice cream & sea salt.
For even more romance, the Bonny Doon Vineyard folks are including live music by the Magnolia Jazz Band. Yes, by all means, make reservations.
Joseph Schultz is offering an intense,whirl-wind Greco-Turkish cooking course on Feb 23 at New Leaf on Ingalls St. 5:30-8:30pm, details at New Leaf website. Learn the tricks of the masters at this cooking class with the mastermind of the late lamented India Joze restaurant.
