Although it is hard to believe that it's the last week of September already, this month's Long Table Dining Series has come and gone. If you are unfamiliar with what the Long Table Series is, I'm going to break it down for you.
On the last Wednesday and Thursday of every month at Bridge Street we host a four course meal accompanied with three wine pairings all focused on a particular region of Italy. The tables seat 24 guests and reservations are a must (to reserve email longtable@primastrada.com). The entire thing is reasonably priced at $50/person (not including tax/tip) and is a great way to meet some new adventurous people! Who wouldn't like to enjoy a dinner with guys like Mark and Jean, who were at last night's Long Table.
This month's region of choice was Sardegna, one of Italy's Mediterranean islands. To begin the night, diners were treated to an Insalata Pomodoro with heirloom tomato, shaved percorino, red wine vinaigrette, basil, and red onion. I managed to snap a photo of Andrew bringing one over to the table before it was devoured. This course was paired with a Cannonau di Sardegna from Santa Maria la Bombarde.
Next on the menu was Calamari Ripieni, which is squid stuffed with anchovy, breadcrumbs, pecorino, garlic, and parsley served with salsa verde. For this course the wine was Vermetino di Sardegna from Argiolas.
And just like the rest of Italy, Sardinians love their pasta. The calamari was followed by a hand made Malloreddus, which is a saffron pasta with sausage and tomato sauce. The sausage was gorgeous, with a slight hint of orange flavour coming through. The chefs work hard to get the pasta to the table while guests sip on a Montessu from Argicola Punica.
And what meal would be complete without a little something sweet? To finish off the night, diners indulged in some Torta di Mandorle which is an almond cake with a berry compote.
Are you left feeling like you missed out? Have no fear because the Long Table Dining Series happens every month! Next month's region will be Umbria and will be held on October 26th and 27th at Bridge Street. (Insider tip: Oct. 27th will also be our Conservation Candlelight Dinner with BC Hydro. We will be conserving energy by lighting the room by candles!) It is bound to fill up quickly so once you know are committed to attending email longtable@primastrada.com to reserve your spot! Hope to see you soon!
Of course, many people took the opportunity to dine al fresco. What could be better than listening to Mother Mother and eating a Margherita? 
A couple lucky Facebook and Twitter followers got a free Prima Strada bandana. Check out Bridge Street regular Chris rocking his bandana in the beer garden. Looking good, Chris!
The best part about Rifflandia was that there were so many different venues. Although the usual haunts hosted concerts, this was my first time going to the Phillips Brewery for a concert and it was amazing! I got there just in time to see KO put on an amazing show for the near capacity stage/loading dock set up. 
And for a day that started off pouring rain, Sunday quickly became my favourite. The sea of afternoon partiers grooved to De La Soul as a final farewell to Rifflandia. The worst part is that I'm already looking forward to Rifflandia 5. Only 364 days and counting! See you all there!
My fellow Rifflandians, if you are giddy about the festival (like me) than no doubt you have already picked up your classy wristband. With Rifflandia kicking off tomorrow night, its time for everyone to put it in high gear! 
And although we were too busy to visit most of the other tents, luckily nice people like Gary from Driftwood stopped by our tent to bring us goodies! All in all, it was an absolutely fabulous day!
