Saturday was predicted to be low to mid 80’s in the Valle and it was stupendous! Chef’s Roll hosted Chef’s Plate 4 at Deckman’s En El Mogor, Chef Drew Deckman’s idyllic rancho on the hill with long views through Valle de Guadalupe. Surrounded by El Mogor vineyards and perched on a hill, the pepper tree dotted piece of paradise mixed the sounds of wine glasses clinking, the chickens clucking, the smell of grilling meat, and the tunes of a live mariachi grupo serenading the ocean breeze that danced across the golden skies. Sorry…too much? Maybe things got away from me for a moment but REALLY…. Deckman’s En El Mogor is simply like a fairytale.
The Chef’s Plate event welcomed guests with a spread of Kumeeyaay Oysters served on the half shell, freshly shucked by Chef Drew Deckman himself. At check in, each guest received a wine glass to keep and use to taste the selection of Valle wines and spirits served during the dinner reception. The food was gloriously fresh from the farm… from the El Mogor farm. Now that is local!
Local San Diego & Baja food judges received dishes prepared on the spot by 3 chef teams. Three chefs, Miguel Angel Guerrero, Benito Molina and Drew Deckman mentored three talented chefs (Karla Navarro, Alfredo Perez & Fabiola Aceves respectively) in a flavorful cook-off! And the winner of Chef’s Plate 4… Fabiola Aceves.
The night ended with more music, dancing, cafesitos by the bonfire and warm fuzzies from the culinary experience and the friends who joined you. Deckman’s En El Mogor is a truly magical place and I was elated to enjoy the day/evening with others who have a deep appreciation for the food and drink. Salud.
Click photos to enlarge.
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