Sara Kramer Talks Mediterranean Exploration Menu For NYCWFF

Sara Kramer, the talented chef who left Glasserie in Greenpoint earlier this year for two new projects in Los Angeles will host the Mediterranean Exploration dinner on Saturday, October 18 at the International Culinary Center with chefs Michael Solomonov and Einat Admony. We spoke with chef Kramer about the creation of a collaborative menu and the growing awareness of Middle-Eastern cuisine in America.

This interview is part of a series of interviews highlighting the chefs of the Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival.

What's the inspiration behind the menu that you are preparing for your NYCWFF dinner?

The menu is collaboration with Michael and Einat. It was so fluid for us to build a cohesive menu despite it coming together from three different perspectives. We all have Middle-Eastern food styles, so that's certainly part of it, but more so that they were both so accommodating and generous.

What's the one thing you want people to take away from your dinner?

That Middle-Eastern cuisine is a major contender in our nation's culinary landscape today and undoubtedly will be for years to come.

What do you consider to be your best creation ever?

What's the best thing you've ever cooked? This is impossible to answer! Distinct dishes fulfill such different purposes. I will say, people did love my rabbit dish at Glasserie.

What's your favorite kitchen tool (beyond your knife)?

Favorite kitchen tool, aside from a knife, would have to be a sharpie. I love a good label.

The Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival benefits hunger-relief organizations – do you think that chefs have a social responsibility beyond simply feeding people honestly and well?

I do think chefs have a responsibility beyond simply feeding people honestly and well. We are often on a figurative stage, and as with anybody with a microphone, we can be heard. It is our duty to call the public's attention to issues surrounding food and it's availability, and lack thereof, in the world, and certainly in our own backyards. We can't hit people over the head with it, but we can help to inform and encourage responsible conversation surrounding social and environmental issues.

Tickets are available now for Mediterranean Exploration with Michael Solomonov, Einat Admony and Sara Kramer: Part of the Bank of America Dinner Series.