FOOD FOR FRIENDS
As the sun sets on a Burgundy vineyard, we join a family supper that features local seasonal produce and more than a little French flair
Making the most of local seasonal ingredients for a delicious supper.
When mother and daughter duo Marjorie Taylor and Kendall Smith Franchini set up The Cook’s Atelier in Beaune, an historic walled town in the heart of Burgundy, it was the realisation of a long-held dream. Originally from Arizona, the pair combined their love of food, wine and all things French to create their culinary boutique and French cooking school with the aim of teaching classic techniques in an approachable and convivial way.
Understanding the importance of using quality ingredients, they have nurtured close relationships with local farmers and artisan food producers, and enjoy the weekly ritual of visiting the local market to seek out fresh fare.
We join them here as they celebrate the long days of summer with a simple yet delicious alfresco supper in a Burgundy vineyard. The menu is inspired by the seasonal produce of Beaune and includes elements that can be prepared ahead of time.
If you’re planning on a hosting a dinner further afield than the garden, remember to pack an easily transportable folding table, stackable chairs, tableware and cutlery, linens, candles, buckets of fresh market flowers and a case of wine, not forgetting a grill for the barbecue. Offer your guests drinks while the food is being prepared, and light plenty of candles as the sun goes down. Enjoying a beautiful summer evening surrounded by the happy conversation of family and friends – what could be lovelier?