GOURMET
Gatherings

By Jenny Starr Perez

Paula’s Food Diaries Returns with Unique Flavors by All-Star Collaborative Chefs in an Exclusive Summer Series at Burlock Coast Seafare & Spirits.

Paula Da Silva

Chef Paula Da Silva: Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale. 

The excitement is palpable at Burlock Coast Seafare & Spirits, nestled within the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale. This summer, food enthusiasts are in for a treat as “Paula’s Food Diaries” returns with a vibrant lineup of culinary events led by the acclaimed Chef Paula DaSilva. This second annual series promises a delightful blend of flavors and experiences, spotlighting monthly dishes from some of the culinary world’s most renowned chefs.

The series kicked off in June with the legendary Chef Emeril Lagasse, whose Seared Scallops with Truffle White Bean Puree left diners in awe. Following this, the vibrant and dynamic Chef Lorena Garcia will take center stage in July with her Asado Negro Arepas, a modern Latin fusion masterpiece. Each dish crafted for Paula’s Food Diaries not only showcases the chefs’ unique culinary styles but also celebrates the rich tapestry of global cuisine.

This August, the series continues to dazzle with the introduction of celebrity chef and television personality Aaron Sanchez. Known for his dynamic culinary style and role as a judge on FOX’s MasterChef, Chef Sanchez brings his unique blend of flavors to Burlock Coast. His featured dish, Cobia Tiradito, is an artful composition of thinly sliced cobia paired with fresh Creole tomatoes, crispy hominy, and a vibrant array of seasonings dressed in a tantalizing tiradito sauce made with yuzu juice and white soy sauce. This dish promises an explosion of flavors that captures the essence of Chef Sanchez’s culinary prowess.

Something's Cooking

To kick off this exciting collaboration, Burlock Coast hosted a special event on June 27. Guests had the exclusive opportunity to mix and mingle with Chef Aaron Sanchez while enjoying an array of delectable bites. The evening’s menu featured Zarela’s Pineapple-Ginger Chicken Wings with Soy-Pineapple Glaze, Mixed Seafood Ceviche Negro with Citrus and Chiles, Seafood Stew with Coconut and Chipotle, Seared Salmon with Pumpkin Seed Mole, and Johnny Sanchez Brussels Sprouts Salad with Butternut Squash, Cotija, and Jalapeno Vinaigrette. The event included a copy of Chef Aaron’s memoir, “Where I Come From: Life Lessons from a Latino Chef,” offering guests a personal glimpse into his culinary journey. Chef Paula DaSilva, Director of Culinary and Beverage at The Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale, expressed her enthusiasm for the series. “We are thrilled to have talented chefs like Aaron Sanchez contribute their exceptional dishes to this season’s Paula’s Food Diaries,” she said. “Their innovative approaches and commitment to quality align perfectly with our mission to deliver unforgettable dining experiences.” As the series continues, guests can look forward to two more celebrated chefs bringing their talents to Burlock Coast in September and October. Each installment promises to offer a unique gastronomic journey, making “Paula’s Food Diaries” a must-attend event for both locals and visitors. For more information, visit burlockcoast.com.
Seared Scallops


Scallops: Emeril Lagasse’s Seared Scallops on white bean puree. Courtesy of Emeril's Restaurants. 

Asado Negro Arepas

Arepas: Lorena Garcia's Asado Negro Arepas. Photography by World Red Eye.