Monday, Monday...

The opening session today was an outrageous display of lights and videos with a song and dance routine from well known caterer Meryl Snow and Jack Milan.

The keynote speaker was featured Top Chef contestant Carla Hall talking about her experiences, her love of food and her journey in the catering biz.Lunch was delicious and entertaining! Experts from across the world sat at each table, talking about their region, business and experiences while we dined on:

Seafood Ceviche in shot glasses, with a red curry lime marinade
Asparagus Citrus Salad with toasted almonds and manchego cheese
Filet of Beef with Horseradish Crust bathed in a red wine shallot demi glace
Ginger Scallion Potato Spring Rolls
Shittake Chipsand la piece de resistance, a macaroon tower doubling as the table centerpiece.
Not bad for a Monday lunch, don’t you agree?

The catering director for Penn State happened to be seated at my table, so there was some football conversation going back and forth. Despite his cajoling, I firmly maintained my position... GO BLUE!
After another six hours of sessions, dinner was at Serendipity 3 just outside of Caesars Palace. The decor was incredible, like a dream. Bright pinks and blues, candy themed everything, quirky waiters and delicious fare!We savored burgers n’ fries, an open faced brie and turkey sandwich on cranberry walnut bread and a super fluffy beautifully prepared omelet. We spiced up our sweet potato fries (always a fav) by requesting some mayo, into which we doused lots of hot sauce for our very own dippin’ sauce.
After dinner, we headed to the VIP room of Eve, Eva Longoria's nightclub and lounge. You can see her touch in every part of this place- from the eclectic bathroom design to the impeccible chandeliers... right down to the cocktail napkins, marked with her signature kiss.As we danced the night away to San Franciscan band, Liquid Blue, we felt like rock stars... or maybe movie stars...