Chef Joe Youkhan’s Pasta Pop-Up expressed talents of this top-notch chef

If you are a regular reader of my column, you know that I am a BIG fan of Chef Joe Youkhan. After meeting him for an interview at the OC Foodie Fest 2011, this talented chef has made gigantic waves in the Orange County food scene over the last two years starting with his Foie Gras Slider and Roasted Bone Marrow. What amazes me the most is that all of the food is created in a customized food truck. In June 2013, 3Twenty Wine Lounge hosted Chef Joe Youkhan’s Pasta Pop-up to show Los Angeles County what he is made of. The wine lounge is very cozy with some sidewalk seating for people-watching and interior seating for a more intimate experience. Edgar Poureshagh, ‘Court of Masters’ Sommelier and Owner, is always around when you have questions about the wine and what pairs best with your dish. The kitchen at 3Twenty Wine Lounge is small, but when you work in a food truck, you make it work. Chef Joe definitely worked it. Let’s take a look at these phenomenal dishes:

Our starters were paired with Marotti Campi Brut Rose from Marche, Italy. It is made from the Lacrima grape varietal. It was light-bodied, with strawberry notes, and rosy aroma. The bubbles were a refreshing palate cleanser before bites.

Arancini alla Bolognese were 3 crispy risotto balls stuffed with braised short rib ragu, provolone cheese, and San Marzano marinara sauce. These were also featured on Eat St. They were huge, enough to be on entrée on their own. The outside was a perfect deep, golden brown and crispy. The interior was like hitting the jackpot – al dente risotto, melt-in-your-mouth braised short rib ragu, and gooey cheese. Amazing as always! Thumbs up, way up!

To read more and see slideshow, please visit: http://www.examiner.com/review/chef-joe-youkhan-s-pasta-pop-up-expressed-talents-of-this-top-notch-chef

Mahalo,

OC Food Diva