LaJolla Patch: Sustainable Food Gets ‘Berry’ Delicious

An 11-course dinner at a La Jolla Estate this weekend showcased sustainable food and plenty of berries. On Saturday, a group of 200 people gathered together at a La Jolla estate overlooking the ocean. They weren’t gathered to raise money for a cause or rally in support of a bill. Instead, the crowd was there to celebrate the simplest of pleasures-food. Cups owner Michelle Ciccarelli Lerach and her husband, Bill Lerach, both boast a love for sustainable food and the support of local farms. Their third annual Berry Good Night event, which took place in their backyard, featured 21 of the regions “socially-conscious chefs” who prepared an 11-course meal using local produce and farm-raised chickens, pigs, rabbits and even ox. The whole night exuded the farm-to-table concept, as farmers from the chicken ranches, farms and creameries ate among the seated guests and chatted about their food as it was placed in front of each hungry foodie. All ingredients used in each dish were sourced from ranchers, farmers and artisans within 100 miles. Of course, arguably speaking, the best part about the whole evening was the food itself. Each of the 11 courses incorporated berries, some from the Lerachs’ massive garden, which guests toured through with berry baskets before the dinner began. From first course to last, strawberries, blackberries and blueberries shared plates with poultry, pork and produce.