Not Just Another Catering Blog

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from Blush Restaurant + Lounge

St. Paddys Day

 

St. Patrick’s Day In Santa Barbara is best at Blush!

Downtown Santa Barbara restaurant and lounge, Blush, will be holding a delectable dinner this Thursday, March 17th.  Blush’s dazzling outdoor patio is open to both children and adults, making it an ideal location to celebrate, Irish style!

Blush will be serving up a delicious Corned Beef and Cabbage dinner with $5 Jameson, Fernet and Beer.  The regular dinner menu will also be available, along with Blush’s handcrafted cocktails, such as the Blood Orange Bellini, Raspberry Mojito, Fresh Fruit Sangria, as well as award winning wines of the month.  The dinner is only $16 per person.

Music will be provided by DJ Darla Bea!  Guests will find that the five star gourmet dinner combined with the contemporary elegant atmosphere makes for an unforgettable dinner in Santa Barbara.

Planning a bachelorette party?

There’s nothing the Irish love more than a good party, and, as we enter into the wedding season, many brides-to-be begin to plan their bachelorette party festivities. Blush is the perfect place in Santa Barbara to host your bachelorette party: our location provides the ideal ambience for the event, both to party it up in our lounge and to take a break to relax on the outdoor patio by the fire pit after a refined, California-style dinner.

If you are considering Blush for your bachelorette party but are looking for a few ways to make the night a little more special, why not take some tips from the Irish – the masters at throwing a good party. Consider these essential elements of every Irish bachelorette party (called a Hen Party) that provide the formula for the perfect night:

Dressing up. In Ireland on summer weekend nights, you will see groups of women out for a hen party in full matching costumes! Why not incorporate a theme or costume items into your party? Many parties choose party favors such as fancy hats, wigs, matching outfits, or boas or sashes to mark themselves out. Or go all out! If you want a specific theme for your party, we can plan it with you.

The meal. In both Ireland and the U.S., the dinner is an important part of the evening where guests can mingle in a relaxed environment, get to know each other if they don’t already, and fuel up for the night ahead. In Ireland a popular choice would be the best local, elegant restaurant specializing in local seafood, a favorite among coastal communities like both Ireland and California. Our menu will cater perfectly to the tastes of your guests – enjoy some ahi tuna, scallops or salmon, and we also offer steaks, salads, vegetarian options, and late-night bites with oursocial dining menu.

The drinks. No bachelorette party is complete without libations! The Irish tradition is to take off after dinner and tour the local pubs, stopping for drinks in each one. But at Blush we have everything you need for the whole night – wine and cocktails, a fun atmosphere to party in our lounge and then a relaxing patio. We can even help you design custom cocktails for your Bachelorette party to really take the night up a notch.

The morning after. After a long night of fun, hen parties meet up in the morning for a full Irish Breakfast, the favorite weekend meal, and to recap stories from the night before. Blush serves a delicious weekend brunch to end the party the next morning and perk up your guests up with eggs, pancakes, sandwiches and drinks. Breakfast is the perfect way to end your party and send your guests on their way.

As bachelorette party season kicks off this March, take a tip from the Irish as you start to plan an amazing party! We have all the elements sure to make the party an event to remember: a fun atmosphere where you and the guests can dress up; a refined dining experience, featuring California seafood and other favorites; an extensive wine and cocktail list that can be enjoyed in our lounge or on our patio; and a perfect venue to finish the party the next morning with a delicious brunch. We can even work with you if you’d like to plan a specific theme or menu. Just like the Irish, we know how to throw a perfect bachelorette party at Blush!

 

Q: I am interested in throwing a Bachelorette party at Blush. How do I contact you?

A: Visit the Events page of our website at http://www.blushsb.com/events/ and fill out the event inquiry form to start the conversation with us about your upcoming event, or email [email protected]. For small parties or to reserve a table for dinner, call (805) 957-1300.

Q: How many people can you accommodate for an event?

A: We can accommodate up to 400 people when you rent out our venue for your next corporate event, holiday party, rehearsal dinner or private party. We also offer the back portion of our patio to rent for smaller parties of 10 or more.

Q: Can you cater to allergies and specific food requirements if I book my party at Blush?

A: Absolutely. Our chefs are happy to work with you to plan the menu when you host your party at Blush.

Posts you may have missed:

4 Ways to Make Your Valentine Feel Special With a Night Out

Upscale Santa Barbara Restaurant Offers Quintessential Bachelorette Party Experience

Top 10 Reasons Wedding Planners Love Blush

 

 

Eat Well... and Brush Well

Restaurant Management

Restaurant management is the profession of managing a restaurant. Associate, bachelor, and graduate degree programs are offered in restaurant management by community colleges, junior colleges, and some universities in the United States.

Administration
The Owner (or proprietor) is the person responsible for the business in general.

The General Manager or Operations Manager (may also be called the Managing Partner if he owns a stake in the business) is the person who operates the restaurant for the owner.

The Assistant Manager or Administrative Assistant (if there) manages the office and business aspect of the restaurant, is responsible for Human Resources (including payroll), financial and taxation documentation, and all record management.

The Host (or greeter) also awaits in the front.

Front-of-the-House Management
The Maître d'hôtel (or Manager) is entirely responsible for all front-of-the-house operations, manages staff who give services to customers and allocate the duties of opening and closing the restaurant. He or she is responsible for making sure his or her staff is following the service standards and health and safety regulations. He or she is the most important person in the front-of-the-house environment, since it is up to him or her to motivate the staff and give them job satisfaction. He or she looks after and guides the personal well-being of the staff, since it makes the work force stronger and more profitable, and works with other executive management officers such as the Executive Chef and the Owner.

The Beverage Manager (or Bar Manager, Bartender) is responsible for all the beverage, beverage service and bar operations of the restaurant. He or she reports directly to the Maître d'hôtel (Manager). Beverage managers order bar inventory, maintain and track inventory, issue bar stock, and schedule bar service personnel. Often a bar manager will have prior experience as a bartender. Often, a beverage manager will have extensive knowledge of beverages that include wine, beer, and spirits.

Back-of-the-House Management
The Executive Chef usually operates in corporate restaurant companies. They are entirely responsible for all back-of-the-house operations, and works with other executive management officers such as the Maitre d'Hôtel and the Owner.

The Chef de Cuisine (or Executive Sous Chef) manages the kitchen staff working in the kitchen and creates the menus in absence of the Executive Chef.

The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the restaurant . They create the menu and "specials" as well as order the products needed for the menu recipes. Managing the kitchen staff helps to control food timing, quality, and cost. Kitchen management involves, most importantly, cost control and budgeting.

The Sous Chef (or Kitchen Manager) oversees the daily kitchen operations. They also act as the Chef de Cuisine when that individual is not in the restaurant.

The Head Cook is the Head Preparation Chef who supervises food preparation (prep).

The Head Station Chef (or Head/Lead Line Chef/Cook) supervises the cooking or "work" of your menu order and the "push" to ensure your entire table will receive their order at the same time.

Source: Wikipedia

Santa Barbara Restaurant and Lounge: 4 Ways to Make your Valentine Feel Special with a Night Out

Happy Valentine’s Day from Blush Restaurant + Lounge!

The love of your life is sure to be foremost on your mind this Valentine’s Day. Words are nice, but actions certainly speak louder. One way to make your special person feel loved and appreciated on this day of romance is a night on the town. What could be more romantic than getting out of the house and having fun with your Valentine? Take the time to come see us at Blush Restaurant + Lounge  to get the sparks flying!

Valentine’s Day falls on Sunday this year, and this is a day of rest. Why slave over a hot oven when you can be out and about having the time of your life? Don’t make your partner spend hours cooking when you can come to Blush for a relaxing and romantic time together.

We are located in the heart of Santa Barbara, and we offer a refined social dining experience with a contemporary atmosphere. At Blush, you’re sure to have the best Valentine’s Day ever.

Celebrate your love with a night on the town

Start by making a reservation at Blush, one of the most romantic restaurants in Santa Barbara.  Listed below are a few reasons why you’ll love dining at Blush:

1. Delicious Food – Who doesn’t love a good meal regardless of what day of the week it is? Like the saying goes the way to a man or woman’s heart  is through the stomach. This is true for a holiday or a weekday! The most delicious dinners in town are right here at our Santa Barbara restaurant and lounge. Don’t forget to share a piece of cheesecake with your love!
2. Alcoholic Beverages – Have a little extra fun by ordering a bottle of fine wine. We have an extensive wine list and wine is for lovers! Check out our cocktail menu as well. Even if you rarely indulge in a mixed drink, this is the the day to go for it.
3. Atmosphere – Having a romantic dining experience is important to couples on Valentine’s Day.  The lights are Blush are turned down low and provide a warm, romantic feel.  You can count on having a night you’ll remember for many Valentine’s Days to come.
4. Special Attention – We know the importance of making a good impression on the love of your life. That’s why our staff is truly dedicated to making you feel like you’re the only one dining with us. We will cater to your desire while we’re smiling the entire time. Your wish is our command!

Don’t forget if you visit us during the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) we’ll give you 15% off your total bill!!

Valentine’s Day Events in Santa Barbara, CA

1. Take a cruise – Sail off into the sunset and enjoy the beauty of nature with your love at your side. Sunset Kidd has a 41 ft. yacht that holds up to 15 passengers. For the small price of $50, you can cruise and enjoy a wine tasting event on this unique day.
2. Deep sea fishing – If you’re both the sporty type, you may enjoy some time spent deep sea fishing. This isn’t your ordinary Valentine’s Day event, but it can be yours when you call 805-564-8419 today! Once you’ve had your fill of fish and fun, be sure to join us at Blush Restaurant and Lounge.
3. Horseback riding – Schedule a time for a tour of Santa Barbara by a horse! You can set the time, and the cost is only $85. The entire tour will take approximately 1.5 hours, and this is sure to help you work up an appetite!
4. Sammy’s wine tours are the perfect choice for a great wine tasting trip with your sweetheart.  Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez are home to some of the best wineries in California.

About Blush Restaurant and Lounge: At Blush Restaurant and Lounge we want you to impress your significant other on Valentine’s Day. We’re here for you, and we can meet any special request you may have. Come join us for a night of fun and entertainment.  Be sure to visit our website and like our Facebook page! Simply call us today to schedule your reservation at 805-957-1300.

Quote on Eating Well

Culinary Art and Related Careers

Culinary art, in which culinary means "related to cooking", is the art of the preparation, cooking and presentation of food, usually in the form of meals. People working in this field – especially in establishments such as restaurants – are commonly called "chefs" or "cooks", although, at its most general, the terms "culinary artist" and "culinarian" are also used. Table manners ("the table arts") are sometimes referred to as a culinary art.

Culinarians are required to have knowledge of food science, nutrition and diet and are responsible for preparing meals that are as pleasing to the eye as well as to the palate. After restaurants, their primary places of work include delicatessens and relatively large institutions such as hotels and hospitals

Below is a list of the wide variety of culinary arts occupations.

• Consulting and Design Specialists – Work with restaurant owners in developing menus, the layout and design of dining rooms, and service protocols.
• Restaurant management – Manage a restaurant, cafeteria, hotel dining area, etc.
• Food and Beverage Controller – Purchase and source ingredients in large hotels as well as manage the stores and stock control.
• Entrepreneurship – Deepen and invest in businesses, such as bakeries, restaurants, or specialty foods (such as chocolates, cheese, etc.).
• Food and Beverage Managers – Manage all food and beverage outlets in hotels and other large establishments.
• Food Stylists and Photographers – Work with magazines, books, catalogs and other media to make food visually appealing.
• Food Writers and Food Critics – Communicate with the public on food trends, chefs and restaurants though newspapers, magazines, blogs, and books. Notables in this field include Julia Child, Craig Claiborne and James Beard.
• Research and Development Kitchens – Develop new products for commercial manufacturers and may also work in test kitchens for publications, restaurant chains, grocery chains, or others.
• Sales – Introduce chefs and business owners to new products and equipment relevant to food production and service.
• Instructors – Teach aspects of culinary arts in high school, vocational schools, colleges, recreational programs, and for specialty businesses (for example, the professional and recreational courses in baking at King Arthur Flour).

 

Source: Wikipedia