Spend an afternoon with ADSW member Frank Morra and take a cross-country tour of the nation's legendary "Hot Spots" (with an occasional Dive). We'll examine menus from places like the Copacabana, the Stork Club, Toots Shor's, the Pump Room, Eddy's, the Dearborn Inn, and the Pig 'n Whistle to see how the Other Half used to live. Then we'll look at places where the millions ate: the Mayflower Coffee Shops (yesterday's Starbuck's), the Empire State Building Cafeteria, Arbaugh's, and Ritter's Diner. Guests who collect menus are strongly encouraged to bring them!

What's that—Turtle Soup for $1.50? We'll look at inflation and other social issues as well. Participants will get a handy Guide to Inflation that will assist in determining whether those prices were really bargains... Menus from the early 40s have all sorts of cryptic references to "OPA Ceilings", so we'll take a short side trip into rationing. Last on our social agenda, we'll take a look at the connection between high end restaurants and organized crime. (What did Jack Entratter, Sherman Billingsley, and Bernard Shor have in common?)

Next, we'll delve into the topic of Culinary Gymnastics—those dishes that were made at tableside like Caesar Salad, Crepes Suzette, and Cafe Diablo. You host will demonstrate all of these techniques for guests to sample. (Bread, cheese and fruit as well.)

Last but not least, guests may have their photograph taken on our authentic Stork Club set—bud vase, ash tray, oversized matches, dice, good luck penny and a telephone. We'll even make it grainy so that it looks like the real thing. Dress in vintage to make your photo all the more realistic, just like Nancy and Ron.

Every guest will receive a CD with all the menus to be discussed, a written version of the talk, and step-by step instructions for performing tableside wizardry.

Location: Northwest DC, near Chevy Chase Circle and the Avalon Theater. Full directions will be provided to all who register.

Date/Time:
October 13, 2007, 1-4pm

Order Tickets:
Tickets: $30 for the afternoon, including talk, culinary gymnastics, photo, and CD.

Please RSVP before October 1, 2007. Attendance is limited to 15, but we can schedule multiple sessions if demand warrants.

Order your tickets online at http://www.adsw.org/event/tickets.html with your Visa, Mastercard, or Discover Card.

Join ADSW and pay the discounted member's price for your tickets at most events. ADSW members enjoy many benefits. Membership costs $35 for singles or $50 for couples.

For More Information contact Karyn Jarboe at kjarboe@adsw.org or 703-864-7070.