Doors Shut - Still Worth Mentioning! (Vandaag)

After finding out via this Eater.com article, that Vandaag in the East Village had closed; I felt it was necessary to finally post my experience there.  While there, enjoying a nice lovely brunch and taking pictures of my food, our waitress even gave me a business card and asked that I send any good pictures.  Being the procrastinator that I am, I kept meaning to do so but just never got around too it.  I guess now is my chance!!!  

Vandaag is a Northern European, Dutch-ish restaurant.  The flavors and details that went into preparing the dishes was awesome. The food was great, Kevin can even be quoted as saying "I just want those balls all the time" - referring to the oxtail balls we ate.  If you like peas and cold soup, I found the Spring Pea soup to be delightful. 

 I even loved the way the tables were set up, with the flowers and the green carafe of water.

THE LAMB CHALLENGE: Shepard's Pie Recipe

Shepard's Pie!

As a part of the "Lamb Challenge" Kev and I had a few weeks back, I created an extremely delicious Shepard's pie.  Growing up my Grandma used to make, what she called, Shepard's pie - it was actually Cottage pie because it was made with ground or minced beef.  The "real" thing calls for ground lamb; so it was a no brainer to decide on this dish for the challenge.

I based my recipe on Danny Boome's Mummy's traditional recipe.  (When I asked my Grandma for her recipe, she told me the basics but then suggested using the "packet" from the supermarket.  Sorry Gram, I love your cooking but there was no way that was going to happen).