Honoring A Culinary Icon in Huntington Beach
Beachwood Pizza and Beer, a staple in Huntington Beach, is paying tribute to the late Chef John Ash, famously known as the father of Wine Country cuisine, by introducing a special temporary menu from October 23 to November 2. The menu draws directly from Ash's renowned cookbook, From Earth to Table, allowing patrons to experience his culinary genius while celebrating his legacy.
Chef John Ash: A Legacy of Sustainable Cooking
Chef John Ash was a pioneer in the farm-to-table movement, advocating for the use of local and seasonal ingredients long before it became a culinary trend. His influence resonated throughout Sonoma County and beyond, setting a standard for sustainable and harmonized food and wine pairings.
“He was a man who used items that were in season all the time, and he really honed in on the ingredients he was using,” stated Ashley Arias, Beachwood's head chef. Arias crafted the new dishes inspired by Ash’s emphasis on using fresh produce and local wines. “I looked at what ingredients he was using and switched up some to create a new world cuisine,” she explained.
Featured Dishes Inspired by Ash's Cookbook
The limited-time menu includes three standout dishes that redefine comfort food while honoring Ash's philosophy:
- Earth To Table Sourdough Pizza: Topped with a Bechamel sauce, mozzarella, Dutch brie, Canadian bacon, portabella mushrooms, and caramelized onions. “It’s like putting a charcuterie board on a pizza,” Arias noted.
- Wine-Braised Chicken Orecchiette: A creamy pasta dish made with wine-braised chicken, herbed Shiitake mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan cheese—promising to be herby and savory.
- Spiced Wine Poached Pear: A dessert that embodies the essence of Ash’s teachings by using wine in the poaching process, resulting in tender fruit, rich in texture.
A Personal Touch from Beachwood's Owner
Gabriel Gordon, owner of Beachwood, shared his personal connection to Ash, recalling him as a guiding influence during his culinary journey. “John was definitely a celebrity chef, but to me, he was my best friend’s dad—and the person who first sparked my love for cooking,” he stated. This personal anecdote adds a heartfelt layer to the tribute, showcasing the influence Ash had beyond the kitchen.
The Continuing Influence of Wine Country Cuisine
Ash’s legacy extends far beyond his physical presence, as he impacted an entire generation of chefs. His techniques and philosophies, from advocating for sustainability to pairing food with local wines, continue to inspire local chefs. Beachwood’s homage reflects a broader movement within the culinary scene to recognize the importance of local and seasonal ingredients, a principle that Ash championed.
How to Experience This Tribute
For those in the Huntington Beach area, this limited-time menu not only honors Chef Ash, but also provides a delicious dining experience that encourages appreciation of sustainable practices in modern cooking. It is a call for the community to connect through food—tasting and celebrating life’s flavors while commending an influential figure in the culinary world.
Don't miss this opportunity to taste the dishes inspired by a culinary legend! Visit Beachwood Pizza and Beer at 5205 Warner Ave, Huntington Beach, from October 23 to November 2.
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