ALL THIS WHILE BLUEEGRASS BLASTED IN THE NEXT ROOM >>>

Thursday, the Weekly Volcano Nosh Leaguers descended upon the Mandolin Café with one mission: Drink all the wine. Oh, and in our newly enlightened state, to learn a few things.

Owner Tom Montante and his wife, Kathleen, graciously hosted a tasting of Silver Lake Winery wines paired with Chef Emily's delectable appetizers.

We drank. We listened. We feasted. There were prizes. We drank some more. 

Tom, a board member at Silver Lake Winery, schooled us on the basics of wine tasting. I have to admit, I needed that. I know food, but wine is another story.

Luckily for me and the other Nosh Leaguers, Tom is a wealth of knowledge on food and wine pairings. "You want your wine to complement your food, not overwhelm it," he said.

First, a light and fruity pinot gris with ham, pineapple and marinated asparagus. Next, a buttery 2009 Silver Lake Chardonnay served with brie and apple-pear.

Then, the group's favorite wine of the night, a 2008 Glen Fiona Syrah, paired with capicola-wrapped goat cheese. A match made in heaven, I'd say. The rich, tangy cheese and salty, fatty charcuterie went perfectly with the syrah.

A light bulb went on in my head. So this is what it's supposed to taste like. Like peanut butter and jelly, the wine and food pairing just went together, easily, with no doubt.

Then, a heavier 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon that stood up well to the strong flavors of smoked Gouda and salami.

Kathleen Montante delivered the goods.

Nosh League members Ston and Jennifer Nguyen

Gen Obata ran a bluegrass jam next to the Nosh League wine tasting.

When I almost stopped counting, we ended with a spicy surprise: an Italian wine called Nero d'Avola, with a spot-on pairing of new-to-me Kasseri cheese and Kalamata olives. I made a mental note to search out this wine and creamy cheese of perfection to serve to all my friends.

After all was said and done, Tom's words were still in my mind. "There's only two kinds of wine: Good wine and bad. If you like it, it's good wine."

After all that amazing wine and food, it's all good, Tom. It's all good.

[Mandolin Café, 3923 S. 12th St., Tacoma. 253.761.3482]

LINK: Join the Nosh League

LINK: Like it on Facebook

LINK: Say "hell Yes" I want the Nosh League Newsletter

LINK: Past Nosh League event recaps

NOSH LEAGUE'S APRIL GATHERING >>>

Of course, as with most learning, it helps to take notes during wine tastings. Notes are absolutely essential if you want to remember what you liked, what you didn't like, and why. Everyone's method of note taking is different, but here's how the Weekly Volcano's Nosh League does it: They write down the vintage and name of the wine (and the region/country of origin, if necessary). After that, they take notes in five categories: color (judged against a white background, though in a pinch white light will do), nose, palate, finish and balance. As they swirl, sniff, slosh and sip, they take notes.

Then, most wine tasters spit the wine into the container or bucket provided (not into the water pitcher), rinse out their mouth and glass with some water, and move on to the next wine.

Nosh Leagues don't spit.

They drink.

All of it.

And that's exactly what will happen at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 12 when the Weekly Volcano's foodie group gathers at the Mandolin Café to drink the wine of Silver Lake Winery and nosh on Chef Emily's appetizers.

How do Nosh League events work? A chef, distributor or owner educates the group on what the Leagues sip and nibble, while Pappi Swarner distributes free door prizes. It's a thing of beauty. At the Mandolin in April, owner Tom Montante, a board member at Silver Lake Winery, will pour two whites and three reds as he explains the inner and outer workings of one of this state's largest wineries.

As always, the price tag for the night will be $15 a person.

The Nosh League is not just about food and drinks; it's an event. There's a pleasant communal aspect to the whole shebang. Join us.

To get in on this Nosh league event, RSVP on the Nosh League's Facebook.

To join the Nosh League, visit the Weekly Volcano Groups.

Read a recap of past Nosh League gatherings:

Social Bar and Grill

The Melting Pot

Affairs Cafe & Desserts

NOSH LEAGUE IN THE HOUSE >>>

Simple beer math: courtesy of the Weekly Volcano's Nosh league: winter is cold and alcohol makes you warm, so by way of booze logic, the Nosh League beer tasting Thursday at the Ale House is equivalent to the warmest snuggle-buddy in all the land!

A representative from Deschutes, New Belgium, Alaskan, American, Mac & Jack's and Widmer Brothers brewing companies will join the Nosh League Thursday to pour two beers each:

• Deschutes Hop Henge and Abyss
• New Belgium Dig and Cocoa Mole
• Alaskan Black IPA and Barley Wine
• American Breakaway and Brown
• M&J's Serengeti and Cascadian Dark Ale
• Widmer Rotator Spiced IPA and Brrrbon

Seriously.

For a mere $15, you will 12 receive healthy samples while noshing on appetizers and raking in the raffle prizes.

RSVP to Thursday's tasting here.

NOSH LEAGUE >>>

The Weekly Volcano's ever-expanding Nosh League will make a ruckus in University Place the evening of Thursday, Feb. 9. Members and newcomers will gather at 6 p.m. inside the Ale House Sports Pub & Grille to taste 12 of the 64 beers the joint has on tap  - while noshing on appetizers.

"I will assemble trays so that each individual is tasting the same beers to enhance discussion of likes (and dislikes if there is such a thing!)," explains Ale House owner Craig Dickens. "I can guarantee a wide variety of ales to sample, some common, some not-so common."

As the League sips, brewery representatives will discuss the history and beer-making processes.

Between sips, raffle prizes will be awarded.

As always, the price tag for the night will be $15 a person.

The Nosh League is not just about food and drinks; it's an event. There's a pleasant communal aspect to the whole shebang. Join us.

To get in on this Nosh league event, RSVP on the Nosh League's Facebook.

To join the Nosh League, visit the Weekly Volcano Groups.

Read a recap of past Nosh League gatherings:

Social Bar and Grill

The Melting Pot

Affairs Cafe & Desserts

SO. MUCH. FOOD. >>>

On Thursday, Jan. 12, 25 dedicated foodies and Weekly Volcano peeps gathered at Café Banana in Lakewood to sample an eye-opening variety of curry dishes and colorful cocktails. From a Massaman lamb curry to roasted chicken Kulumar to classic Penang, green and red curries, the choices were diverse, ample and delicious. It was an enormous amount of food. Many Nosh Leaguers took home piles of curry.

Proprietor Tony Wen provided a curry history lesson, noting trade routes and spice variations.

Accompany the five curry dishes and curry puffs, Wen poured very strong mango vodka slushies and blue rum drinks.

As the gathering wound up, attendees signed up for their Nosh League newsletter, gathered their raffle prizes and slowly moved toward the door. We're talking a lot a food.

Keep your eye out for future Nosh League events organized by the Weekly Volcano. Also, please rate the restaurants in our South Sound Restaurant Guide.

[Cafe Banana, 10115 S. Tacoma way, Lakewood, 253.589.4678]

LINK: More photos from Café Banana Nosh League event

LINK: Learn about Nosh League

WHEN CUPS RUNNETH OVER >>>

Anyone who has traveled to Southeast Asia knows it is a great place to expand one's culinary horizons. Even in a less exotic locale like Singapore, or a more impoverished region like Indonesia, the sheer variety of curries and rice dishes offered at one of the myriad "food courts" and open markets gives these countries an exciting culinary tinge.

Singaporean native Tony Wien's Café Banana Asian Bistro, located inside the Great American Casino in Lakewood, is modeled after such admiration for Southeast Asian flavors, with its "roots" in Malaysian, Thai and Indian cuisine. "Within the walls of Café Banana lie all the ingredients for an eating Oasis," Wien recently told us.

Wien is a bit of a historian when it comes to curry. He'll bend your ear for an hour discussing ancient curry trade routes, preparations and varieties.

Throw one of his exotic mango or sake cocktails, and five of his curry dishes, and we'll listen.

That's exactly what the next Nosh league will do at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12. We'll meet for a night of curry history, dishes and exotic cocktails. Wien is also throwing in a salmon dish. That's cool with us.

As always, the price tag for the night will be $15 a person.

If you would like to join us, RSVP on the Nosh League Facebook.

Nosh League

Thursday, Jan. 12, 6 p.m., $15
Café Banana Asian Bistro
10115 S. Tacoma Way, Lakewood
253.589.4678

LINK: First bite at Café Banana

SHARING >>>

Weekly Volcano Street Team leader Brandon Stephens attended his first Nosh League foodie group gathering Thursday at The Social Bar and Grill. Here's the report he filed.

Thursday, Weekly Volcano's foodie group Nosh League was back in action, this time gathering at The Social Bar and Grill - a place I been dying to try since I first heard about the communal restaurant this past summer.  Located on Dock Street at the footsteps of the Museum of Glass - with a view of Thea Foss Waterway - Social delivered on all levels.

Social's sleek layout resembles a commons-type environment - high ceilings and low dividing walls. The Nosh League gathered in the front dining room lit with candlelight.

As the last few late Nosh's trickled in, and raffle tickets passed out, our super friendly host and Social co-owner Philip Panagos launched into the night's schedule. He informed us everything eaten would be shared - food and drinks. I met several new people over shared doughnut holes and pitchers.

Pitchers of Sangria launched the sharings. Red sangria (Merlot, brandy and fresh mixed berries) and pink sangria (Zinfandel and fresh-cut melons) were the options. I went red, which happened to pair nice with the first appetizer of the night, doughnut holes.

Yes, doughnut holes!

Of course, these weren't everyday pre-frozen, bring to your Monday morning meeting doughnut holes. The cassava flower based doughnut hole carried a heavy texture - deep-fried and topped lightly with salt. 

Pappi Swarner ran the raffle. Although it's early November, there was already holiday spirit flowing through Social as one lucky winner snagged a groovy Frosty the Snowman lava lamp tie, perfect for an ugly holiday sweater party.

With the sangria pitchers emptying quickly (natch!), the room of 25 naturally or unnaturally came roaring to life. Raring for their first dishes, Social didn't disappoint. The way to this guy's heart is definitely shrimp, and that's what was delivered. The sautéed prawns in shells were a first for me. I didn't mind spending a couple extra seconds peeling off the shell, which helped trap that delicious flavor I adore. Delicious sautéed mushrooms with a paprika sauce, clams in Riesling and rustic bread, accompanied the prawns. 

Executive Chef Rodel Borromeo came out to greet the Nosh League patrons and speak on his inspirations for his dishes, which spanned Latin America, the Mediterranean and Asia. Chef Borromeo faired well on the floor, especially for a guy who does his best work behind the closed doors of a kitchen.

Sean Armentrout of United Way Pierce County gave a very brief presentation on helping the homeless. I texted "HOUSE" to 20222, contributing $10 to the cause. A few minutes later I scored a rad Warren Miller DVD during raffle round two. Just sayin'.

It was host Philip who dropped the most difficult question of the night. "Are you ready for some beer?" Thankfully it was a rhetorical question and the growlers emerged as if in a parade.

Out of the kitchen next were tri-tip skewers, stabbed with mushrooms, roasted red pepper capers and green onions, as well as a locally grown grilled chicken satay, fresh slaw and more of that amazing rustic bread. 

These final dishes were accompanied with a Predator Zinfandel, which had a peppery kick.  One bite of the roasted red pepper skewer, tailed closely by the Predator wine, let the spicy tastes linger for the rest of the night. 

As always toward the end of the night, Nosh Leaguers freely wandered from table to table before eventually heading off, chatting away as intended by our gracious host Social Bar and Grill.

I can't wait to come back and try the brisket, which I hear is the best there is this side of the Mississippi.

[Social Bar and Grill, 1715 Dock St., Tacoma, 253.301.3835]

LINK: Past Nogh League reports

LINK: Join the Nosh League

LINK: We're on the Facebook!

"N" IS FOR NOSH LEAGUE SAID CONRAD CORNELIUS O DONALD O DELL >>>

What if we've all been misconstruing Dr. Seuss? Suppose those green eggs and ham are, in and of themselves, neither here nor there, and the bottom line is rather their function within a particular context - in a house, with a mouse, on a train, in the rain? Perhaps what Sam-I-Am wishes for his tall-hatted pal (and, by extension, us) is the chance to expand his horizons more than his waistline - to enjoy not just a meal but a total dining experience, not simply cuisine but cuisine-in-a-scene - say, a communal dining experience with fellow foodies this Thursday at The Social Bar and Grill.

We meant what we said and we said what we meant. Nosh League's faithful will eat shoulder-to-shoulder one hundred percent!

Yes, the Weekly Volcano's foodie group Nosh League will gather Thursday in the open, communal and airy restaurant next to the Museum of Glass for a broad tasting of The Social's flavorful and eclectic treats from South America, Mediterranean, Spain and Asia, including: Grilled Romaine Heart Salad, Sauteed Mushrooms, Calamari, Ahi Poke, Clams in Riesling, Sauteed Prawns, Chicken Satay and Small Pork Tacos. Those who have eaten at The Social know these treats pack a spicy punch.

With the "sharables," The Social will bring sharable cocktails as well.  Pitchers of Sangria, growlers of beer and pitchers of mojito will decorate the tables and couple well with the appetizers.

As always, the price tag for the night will be $15 a person. 

If you would like to join us, RSVP on the Nosh League Facebook here.

Nosh League Sharables

Thursday, Nov. 10, 6 p.m., $15
The Social Bar and Grill
1715 Dock St., Tacoma
253.301.3835

LINK: Past Nogh League events

LINK: Join the Nosh League

LINK: The Social Bar and Grill is on the local Foodcaching app

DIP INTO SEDUCTION ... AND CHEESE AND CHOCOLATE >>> 

The Melting Pot in Tacoma was the Nosh Leagues' next outing. The drive wasn't as terrible as I imagined on a Thursday night at 5:30. The parking, however, was not pristine, circling around Tacoma streets trying desperately to find a spot NOT next to a stop sign or fire hydrant.

Of course, the parking lot designated for The Melting Pot was completely full, so I settled for the next best thing, a not-so-creepy alley. Soon I found myself venturing into a dimly lit restaurant.

The air of the old building was much more private and secluded than the last Nosh League gathering at Affairs Cafe, but the room quickly filled with guests apprehensively waiting (and by guests I, of course, mean myself) to dip into the delicious cheese trio fondue, the first course.

As the only Nosh Leaguer under 21, I was denied the wine. Instead, I ordered blackberry lemonade, which with much delight, was served with real blackberries crushed into the beverage.

This was my first time eating at The Melting Pot. Upon entering, I was prepared for the dipping pot of cheese fondue, due to hearsay from friends. The arrangement was an interesting dynamic; everyone at the four-person tables dipped into the same pot. I was sitting with many strangers. The waitress said teasingly that it was nice to be close to your guests when dining here; fortunately I have no boundaries when it comes to strangers!

Soon various raw veggies, apples and bread appeared on the table in front of me, along with a napkin filled with an assortment of jabbing devices.

Drowning the first piece of bread into the pot of cheese I almost drooled. I love cheese on almost everything. There is no judgment here for this cheese lover as I proceeded to mop up the excess cheese on the plate.

There were only two courses being served, so I wanted to get my fill of each. As I moved to the other types of food, visions of the raw veggies flying through the air filled my mind as I tried desperately to skew a carrot.

Looking around, I noted the 41 people crammed into a room meant for 40, the largest Nosh League gathering in its 14-month life.

During the intermission between courses, the prizes were handed out. This round: DVDs and tickets to Warren Miller's latest flick, a handful of Stink Cheese and Meat gift cards, and an XL Cat Daddy T-shirt were raffled (I'm told this is seriously awesome moonshine! Unfortunately, I can't verify this claim). But of course Irony got Her way and the only underage female got the extra large whisky T-shirt. The one time I win something! (It was a nice gift for my father.)

Before we were served the second course, chocolate fondue (my favorite!), we were given a little history lesson about the origin of fondue and the Melting Pot.

Apparently Switzerland invented fondue in the 18th century, and the first Melting Pot popped up in 1975. Soon after, the franchise began to grow in 1979. Now there are more than 100 locations, including International locations.

Tentatively listening, I realized I pay closer attention during a history lesson when it is discussing food I'm about to consume ... especially when the next dish is chocolate fondue with yummy treats to dip within.

I sensed no fear when poking into the cakes, brownies, and rice crispy treats. Just sheer bliss.

By the end of the night, my stomach was completely filled with cheesy, chocolaty goodness. It is a restaurant with much pleasure and no regrets. My, oh my do I love Nosh League food.

Next month's Nosh League event hasn't been confirmed. Keep an eye out on its Facebook page.

LINK: More photos from The Melting Pot gathering

OCTOBER FOODIE GROUP MEETUP >>>

We came across a 1970 Better Homes and Gardens fondue cookbook at our grandma's house. It reads like a commercial on Nick at Nite. Ladies of the household are advised to "experiment with these recipes and you'll become an effervescent, day-by-day fondue hostess." There are special sections devoted entirely to "Pert and Saucy Hot Dips" and "The After Ski Scene." Our mouths watered thinking back to our childhood fondue memories.

Inspired, the Weekly Volcano foodie group Nosh League will dip into the past with a cheese and chocolate tasting at The Melting Pot fondue restaurant Thursday, Oct. 13.

The Nosh League will stab its sharp prongs into Wisconsin Trio Cheese fondue - a blend of Fontina and ButterKase cheese coupled with the rich flavor of crumbled blue cheese, shallots, scallions and a hint of sherry. This will be paired with 2009 Cupcake Chardonnay from the central coast of California. 

The League will also enjoy a Dark Chocolate Flaming Turtle fondue - rich dark chocolate, caramel, and pecans are combined and then flambeed tableside. This will be paired with 2007 Ravenswood "Zen of Zin Old Vine" Zinfandel from Sonoma. 

As the League dips, Melting Pot General manager Josh Goffin will discuss the history of fondue, explain fondue The Melting Pot way, and talk wine pairing.

In between dips, raffle prizes will be drawn.

Fondue is not just food; it's an event. There's a pleasant communal aspect to the whole shebang. Join us.

To get in on this Nosh League event, RSVP on the Nosh League Facebook page.

To join the Nosh League, visit the Weekly Volcano website here. 

Dip Into The Past

Nosh League at The Melting Pot
Thursday, Oct. 13, 6-8 p.m., $15
2121 Pacific Ave., Tacoma
253.535.3939

LINK: http//www.weeklyvolcano.com/entertainment/spew-blog/2011/09/tacoma-Nosh-League-foodie-group-tasted-chocolate-at-affairs-cafe-and-desserts/">Recap of the last Nosh League event