LA in the Eighties: Looking toward Asia

Before Night and Market, there was Talesai. As you can see, it was always a family affair.  And always exciting.

And I had forgotten, until I unearthed these old menus, how interesting the food was at Chaya Brasserie.  Note that back then, early eighties, they felt the need to tell their patrons what pesto was. There is so much here I'd like to be eating right this minute.

Meanwhile, my kitchen is filled with interesting new products I'm testing for the annual Gift Guide.  Lot's of great stuff here; the Guide begins the day after Thanksgiving.