Niki Cheng at the Canyon Ranch Luncheon in NYC
Tuscan, Arizona could certainly be one of the future go-to destinations for a week-long getaway. We briefly discussed planning a ladies’ trip out west for some pampering and rejuvenation which is much desired these days. A few days ago I had the pleasure of attending an exclusive luncheon organized by Canyon Ranch. Maria Bartiromo and Richard H. Carmona, the 17th Surgeon General of the United States hosted the private event. We were escorted into a lofty event space where the décor hinted a bit of Martha’s influence.
There I am, patiently waiting for the four course meal
Upon entering the sunlit private room we handed the outerwear supervisor our coats then received our place cards with poise and sipped on ginger tea before finding our table. A Canyon Ranch representative was strategically placed to dine with guests at each of the nine tables, including ours.
Trio of Soups: spring pea with mint, butternut squash, seasonal mushroom
The first course arrived in a shooter style trio of vegetable soups and I couldn’t refuse a glass of white wine to accompany the starter. The fresh heart of palm salad reminded me of my menu project course of scallop and quail egg. Microgreens and citrus vinaigrette are a marriage of good relations in my book of taste.
fresh heart of palm salad
The main entrée excluded those sinful carbs when replaced by sesame chick-pea puree beneath perfectly cooked Chilean sea bass and wilted greens. The happy fish and beans were served with grapefruit segments in a light citrus vinaigrette.
marine stewardship council certified chilean sea bass
I thought to refuse the chocolate cake at this point however, Fern Mallis didn’t seem to mind the calories and a split second decision was made after seeing her finish the cake. Or at least I suppose she did. I wasn’t looking in fact, being too consumed to finish mine, all except for a raspberry left at the end.
warm chocolate cake
Niki nor I won the raffle ticket for an all inclusive four night stay at the Canyon Ranch in Tuscan AZ. Our goodie bags were stuffed with spa essentials and a cookbook was later discovered. The home made trail mix turned out to be quite a hit with the two year old back at home the following day, thanks to the efforts of Canyon Ranch corporate chef Scott Uehlein who planned our delectable tasting and co-authored Canyon Ranch Nourish, indulgently healthy cuisine.
For reservations at Canyon Ranch properties call 800-742-9000
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