Community Dinner: Dreaming of Summer (First Seating)

In the middle the holiday entertaining season, it's tempting to let our minds wander to warmer times and memories of summer vacations. Foggy afternoons and the winter squash-filled gatherings can get monotonous. We invite you to join us at our communal tables and break bread with new and old friends for a menu inspired by an ideal July day in southern France. 

MENU

Pan Bagnat - oilve oil bathed sandwich, pressed overnight with basil, olives, eggplant, tomatoes, crunchy capers, roasted garlic
Caramelized Orange and Pesto Pasta Salad

Born in the Haight Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco, Mike Weller grew up in suburbs of San Jose, where he discovered cooking as his first profession and lifetime passion. After wandering through typical teenage jobs at pizza joints and ice cream parlors, Mike’s first “restaurant” job was with Sambo’s Coffee Shops, slinging hash and cooking eggs for the bar rush and Sunday breakfast crowds.  He moved on to help open several restaurants, attend the California Culinary Academy, and study under European chefs with Michelin backgrounds. Later, Mike served as an executive chef for catering companies, wineries and country clubs.  When his son was born, Mike transitioned his career into teaching, returning to the CCA where he eventually became the Executive Chef and Director of Academics.  Having taught for Le Cordon Bleu North America in both online and brick and mortar schools, Mike is thrilled to return to teaching in a neighborhood-based community.  When he is not teaching he tends to his backyard garden, helps his wife to can and preserve food, and loves to cook for his friends and family.