Though John and I love shooting weddings, and it is truly our passion…my other love is photographing food.  I enjoy shooting foodie events because the presentation is gorgeous, the guests are always gracious and in high spirits, and I pick up some education along the way.  This week I photographed two events.  The first was Thomas Keller‘s book signing at La Belle Vie, and the second was the private opening of Marin, the new restaurant in Le Meridien Chambers.

Thomas Keller’s new book, Bouchon Bakery, is so beautifully photographed and a true work of art.  His book signing drew in an enthusiastic crowd of long time fans and some of the most celebrated chefs in the Twin Cities.

Chef Mike DeCamp and his kitchen put together the most delicate bites of food.  There was so much variety and the guests were lining up trying to get a sample.

Andrew Zimmern came to the event to host the lively Q&A.

It was a lovely night!

Two days later, I was back among chefs and beautiful cuisine at Marin’s private opening.  The new decor of the space is comfortable and warm, the food is divine, and the farm to table style menu caters to all kinds of dietary restrictions, they even have the nutritional information on the menus…love it!  The bar is gin focused, with a cute periodic table of gins and flavors to add.  They grow their own garnishes right on the patio, and the bartenders are very informative.  Besides the main dining room and patio, there is a lower level library perfect for a romantic date or private party.  You can tell the spaces were lovingly planned.   This is a fabulous concept and I think this restaurant is going to take off!

Darling garnishes at the patio bar.