From the Chef’s Table

Recipes That Set the Standard

Cook Like a Michelin-Star Chef! This section is made for true gourmets—people like you. I go to great lengths to convince the world’s best chefs to share their most guarded recipes. I plead, negotiate, and sometimes resort to a little creative persuasion—all to bring you the chance to recreate dishes worth traveling across the globe for.

These recipes aren’t always easy. Some require real skill, and a few are downright impossible. I call those “minced unicorn” recipes and mark them with a special sign. But for a true food lover, no challenge is too great, right? 

Plăcintă is a traditional Eastern European pastry, known for its flaky layers and delicious fillings. This version, with cottage cheese and fresh greens, brings a light and savory twist to the classic recipe. The creamy cheese blends beautifully with aromatic herbs like dill and parsley, creating a comforting yet refreshing...
Armenian trout fillet is a flavorful, delicate dish that highlights the natural taste of fresh trout. Seasoned with traditional Armenian spices, herbs, and lemon, it's versatile in preparation—pan-seared, grilled, or baked. Paired with roasted vegetables or a salad, it’s a healthy and delicious choice for any meal, from casual dinners...
The Manhattan Cocktail with a Hint of Smoke is a bold twist on the classic. The smooth mix of rye or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters is enhanced with a subtle smokiness, from smoked wood chips, peaty Scotch, or a smoked glass rinse. Ideal for sipping by the fireplace or...
Smoked Mozzarella or A Farewell to Arms is a dish that feels like literature on a plate. The creamy mozzarella, gently smoked, becomes rich and nostalgic, much like Hemingway’s classic. Whether melted on rustic bread, in a salad, or paired with tomatoes and olive oil, it’s a simple yet bold...
A true gem of British comfort food, Staffordshire Oatcake, Sir! is a dish that warms both the belly and the heart. Originating from the Staffordshire region in England, these soft, chewy oat-based pancakes have a delightful nutty flavor and are often served with hearty fillings like cheese, bacon, and sausage....
Smoked Chanterelle and Porcini Salad with Garlic Chips and Thyme Oil is a celebration of rich, earthy flavors that truly shine in the colder months. The smokiness of the chanterelles pairs perfectly with the robust flavor of the porcini mushrooms, while the crispy garlic chips add an irresistible crunch. The...
Croquettes with Haggis offer a crispy twist on a traditional Scottish favorite. These golden croquettes are filled with flavorful haggis—minced meat, oats, and spices—and have a crunchy exterior that contrasts with the rich filling. Paired with tangy sauce or mustard, they make a great appetizer or snack, especially popular during...
This Salad with New Potatoes and Apple-Flavored Smoked Salmon is a perfect blend of earthy potatoes and smoky, fruity salmon. The creamy potatoes complement the delicate, sweet salmon, creating a refreshing, light dish ideal for spring or summer. Simple yet sophisticated, it’s perfect as a lunch, appetizer, or dinner starter,...
The Silver Carp Fillet with Carrot Ratatouille on Reddish Carpaccio is a refreshing and elegant dish that combines delicate fish with vibrant vegetables. The silver carp fillet, lightly seared or baked, pairs beautifully with a colorful, aromatic carrot ratatouille. The dish is completed with the crisp, peppery bite of thinly...
Goris baklava is a delicious twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, known for its layers of delicate phyllo pastry filled with a rich mixture of crushed nuts, typically walnuts or pistachios, and sweetened with a fragrant syrup. The syrup, often made with honey, sugar, and a hint of rose...