Whim Dinner at Smolak Farm

After last year's amazing experience at Smolak Farms' Whim Dinner, Nick and I could not wait to go again this summer.  With a setting next to a pond, an apple orchard and farm animals, it's hard not to be sucked into the picturesque location.

Whim Dinner

This year, we were originally set to go at the beginning of August, but then the rain came and our diner was cancelled.  Luckily, we were able to reschedule for last week's dinner with Mary Dumont of Harvest.  With someone whose restaurant was at the beginning of the farm to table movement (years ago) we knew we would be in good hands.

Beautiful Center Pieces

As we waited for things to being, I was able to get an sneak peek at the dinner for that evening!

Pork Cooking Away...

The Scene

The menu began with a Grilled Peach Gazpacho with a lemon verbena poached Scituate lobster and a sprinkle of garden blossoms overtop.  The peaches were actually from Smolak Farm, which I thought was a nice touch.  I was unsure what this would taste like, but Dumont's reason for the dish (cool and refreshing soup on a hot evening) made it perfect for the occasion.  The peach base to the soup had so much depth for a fruit base - not smoothie-like in anyway.  The lovely piece of lobster was cooked perfectly and amazingly complemented the peach base.  You got a real smokey flavor from the grilling, which I loved.  The local garden blossoms were added because they completed the plating to make the dish more beautiful.

Grill Peach Gazpacho

For the entree we were served a summer herb and ginger braised heritage pork tenderloin with a smoked carrot and ragout of summer squashes, caramelized kale, red onion and a plum mostarda.  The pork was cooked perfectly and had so much flavor.  What really stood out for me on the plate, surprisingly, was the smoked carrots and squashes.  I loved it!  The carrot flavor was strong but the smokiness was wonderful.  I think I smeared every bit of food on my plate over it to make sure I didn't miss out on any.

Summer Herb and Ginger Braised Heritage Pork

For dessert we were treated to a blueberry and corn extravaganza!  The dessert had a cornmeal cake with a blueberry sauce (again, blueberries courtesy of Smolak!) all with housemade kettle corn and fresh butter and sugar ice cream.  This dessert was simple and fantastic.  The kettle corn on top was a fun touch.  The ice cream literally tasted like sweet, creamy corn you were eating straight off the ear!  The cake was light and the texture was great.  Overall, it was a perfect end to a delicious meal.

Blueberries and Corn

Once again, the Whim Dinner proved to be such an amazing night in a perfect setting with delicious food.  There are a couple of nights still to come, and if you have been meaning to buy tickets, you should.  It's totally worth the experience!