Lovely Liane Weintraub proved once again to be the hostess with the mostess as she orchestrated another unforgettable Odyssey Dinner to benefit the Los Angeles Public Library. Fresh from spearheading the splashy opening night galas for Disney Hall and a spate of other amazing events, Liane and hubby Richard opened the doors of their breathtaking estate to 30 very appreciative guests.
There was a definite November chill in the air as we pulled into the stately entrance of La Villa Contenta. But once inside, we were all snug as bugs in Chinchilla rugs.
After admiring an exquisite Pietra Dura floor that could have come right out of the Palazzo Vecchio, we gathered around the roaring fireplaces where servers made the rounds with flutes of champagne, melt-in-your-mouth salmon gallets, tender chicken skewers and tasty Roquefort tartlets.
The Weintraubs’ extraordinary evening was one of 50 private gatherings taking place across the city where guests paid up to $2,500 to dine in style and enjoy the company of an acclaimed author or best-selling scribe.
Our guest of honor was the gracious and charming Susan Fales-Hill, who penned a touching mother-daughter memoir called Always Wear Joy: My Mother Bold and Beautiful. “That was such a wonderful book,” guest Judy Telerico told the author. “It made me cry and reminded me so much of my own mother.”
At dinner time, we took our seats at an expansive outdoor table that was draped with a rich, Damask tablecloth, set with colorful cut crystal and topped by enormous specimen roses, fresh from the Weintraubs’ garden.
“Well, this is a far cry from most of my stops on the book tour,” Fales-Hill said as she expressed her appreciation for a magnificent evening. “I thank you all. It’s been a real privilege.”
As dinner was served, we tucked into a first class feast that brought you straight to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Chef Shannan Swanson Binder worked her epicurean magic beginning with a blue crab, avocado and frisee charlotte with grapefruit and Meyer Lemon. The sensational starter was followed by fresh white truffle risotto made with the tears of angels as we often say in Italia. The main course featured a melt-in-your-mouth, oven-roasted branzino with root vegetable ragout and wild mushrooms. It was all finished off with a trio of sweet créme brulee, hazelnut parfait and the most delectable poached baby pear you’ve ever tasted.
Just when you thought things couldn’t get any sweeter, we were serenaded by songbird Leata Galloway and her jazzy combo.
And with that, after an enchanting evening of wine, music and gourmet fare, we wandered off leaving Contenta molto contenta and wondering what delights lie in store in 2004.