On the fateful evening of Thursday, October 22nd I attended Tender: Stories of Love And Meat presented by:
Schweid & Sons
666 16th Street
Carlstadt, NY, 07072
http://schweidandsons.com
My life was changed forever. The five films presented were diverse and juicy tales of how we prepare, grow, and buy our meat. Each short story plays alongside a menu item that was featured in the movie. As the servers rush down to your aisle with a tray that you pass along to your neighbor on the honors system sizable portions literally, allow you to be a part of the excitement. Special guest appearances were made by Scott Morales of Taylor Cafe (http://texasbbqposse.blogspot.com/2010/12/taylor-cafe-your-chance-to-attend.html) and Kent Black of Black’s Barbecue. Their film Central Texas Barbecue was a succinct point of view piece detailing pit masters in their element doing what they do best, make food. As the opening line states, “when I die, I want to be cremated and have my ashes thrown in the pit.” This is the level of dedication that these men have to their meats, and the process of grilling ain’t no joke. Describing their BBQ as religion and food as a family, entirely sums up what makes the evening so special.
Food brings us together; it is the heart of memories and the warmth of holidays. When we make food together, we become community and The Food & Film Festival demonstrates the many ways in which we come together to do just that.
One of the highlights from Central Texas Barbecue. A smoky, rich brisket barbecued to perfection.
Brilliant Brisket!
The other films of the evening were fascinating, and one short documentary stood out, in particular, Course of Food directed by Oklahoma City’s own Christopher Hunt. The piece follows subject, pig farmer Andy Bowmen, who by plaid-laden appearance would be labeled a hipster farmer of sorts, however, is truly a Renaissance man attempting to unite his small community in Oklahoma to adopt a benevolent philosophy in the way they raise and appreciate their locally grown food and livestock. The emphasis of the evening was attempting to appreciate better our food as exhibited in Pig Not Pork. Focused on an artisanal butcher based in Maine as he attempts to create a presence in his community harkening back to the days where everyone knew their butcher, and he was almost like a member of the family.
Festival Director, George Motz has indeed created an evening of edible memories. The excitement continues into the after party, where film festival guests are ushered toward an area filled with live music, samples of EVEN MORE FOOD, and a bright, warm atmosphere where filmmakers and guests alike mingle and talk about one of their favorite topics: delicious noshes.
Just like an old fashioned in a bottle! Yes, please.
Chunky cheese and crackers from Iron Station located in Brooklyn, NY. Cheese Wiz doesn’t stand a chance next to these snacks.
Fresh soft tacos in action. You could add your own garnish. I chose zesty cilantro and a splash of lime juice. Presented by Tortilleria Nixtimal, this is a stop on the food tour that you will have to take.
No BBQ event is complete without a raucous, plaid draped band with an upright bass. I need more cowbell!
Fresh donuts from Leske’s Bakery.
Leske’s Bakery
7612 5th Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11209
http://www.leskesbakery.com
Max & Mina’s, an explosion of flavor
Max & Mina’s Ice Cream
7126 Main St., Flushing, NY 11367
http://www.maxandminasicecream.com
Even though we were to maximum capacity, my friend Caitlin and I couldn’t help but sample the certified Angus beef sliders from Schweid & Sons, prepared by Schnippers. Juicy and perfect, they were more than a slider, alone those “small burgers” could qualify as a meal. We really truly are such dainty broads, ain’t we?
It wouldn’t be fair if I didn’t mention the generous open bar provided by festival sponsors In The Raw, as well as liquid treats from NY Distilling Co. and Bruce Cost, with wine by One Hope. Bite size slices of Acme Smoked Salmon paired beautifully with Black Rooster Rye Bread. Black Rooster hand slices their loaves thinly to perfection.
Nothing spells Thursday night like wine, juicy mini burgers, and movies about chowing down.
The Food and Film Festival is an evening not to be missed. Now in it’s 9th year and celebrating its new home, the AMC Empire 25 as fine wine, gets better with age. Part entertainment, artisanal edibles, and good company it’s a fantastic, joyful event to put on the calendar now. This time next year you could be swimming in perfect portions of pork shoulder. Just make sure you have the right attire, you’re going to need the extra loose holiday jeans for this one. Stay tuned tomorrow as I detail my adventures on Friday evening’s event: Food Porn. I’ll let your imagination run wild with that one……
