Fabulously Fierce Friends, Elsa

CQ writes: Elsa is a dear friend and former roommate.  We met around 7 years ago where she and I worked as waiters at Legal Sea Food in Boston.  She is an accomplished photographer, has traveled the world, and has a big heart.  She is currently works in an animal shelter where she finds homes for orphaned pets.


1. Who are your role models - food related or otherwise?

Anthony Bourdain, Steve Kohlbus, Greg Dickinson and anyone with a passion for adventure, food and fun.

2. What is your drink of choice?

Bombay Sapphire and Tonic or a glass of Far Niente Chardonnay or a glass of Rubicon Captain's Reserve Zinfandel

3. What is your favorite cookbook or other food related book?

"Kitchen Confidential" by Anthony Bourdain and the original "Silver Palette" cookbook.

4. What was your most memorable meal and why?

The first meeting of the short lived "Tuesday Night Supper Club" held, ironically, at The Fireplace, the meal Greg and I had at Meritage, dining at Chez Panisse and the first time we enjoyed All-U-Can-Eat BBQ at The Salt Lick.

5. What is your favorite kitchen gadget or tool?

Quality knives, you need to have at least one professional quality knife and keep it sharp.

6. If you had to make dinner with ingredients at your home right now, what would you make?

I just made turkey sloppy joes and they were delicious. But I leave the inventive stuff up to my hubby.

7. What kind of music do you like to listen to while you cook?

The Jesus and Mary Chain, The Killers, Michael Franti

8. What is your philosophy on cooking and eating?

Enjoy! Life is far too short to say no to appetizers and dessert....and by all means, DO NOT be afraid of steak tartare.

9. Are there any foods you can not stand to eat?

Seafood...I know, I know.

10. If you could use any super power in the kitchen, what would it be and why?

I would harness the rage of Gordon Ramsay and the grace of Julia Child.