As independent local restaurants continue to feel the pressure of rising costs, competition from out-of-state hospitality groups and diners who are increasingly watching their wallets, it’s important that we all continue to think about the “old reliables” that may have fallen off the dining rotation. Tomorrow is never promised, and the closing of so many stalwarts in the market should give us all pause.
One that comes to mind is Miel, Seema Prasad’s wonderful French-inspired West Nashville bistro. Lord willing, Miel will celebrate 18 years of great food this fall — a number that is achieved through consistent excellence in the kitchen. Some great chefs have worked at Miel, including Deb Paquette for a short stint, Andrew Coins and the current top toque, Jason LaIacona, the latter of whom has put out consistently excellent food while maintaining an admirable focus on sustainable practices.
Since the beginning, Prasad has worked with local farmers and purveyors to plan her seasonal menus around ingredients at their peak freshness and ripeness, a very French ideal of cooking. To celebrate the high season of Middle Tennessee farms, Miel has planned their 11th annual Harvest Dinner for Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 6 until 8 p.m. at the restaurant at 343 53rd Ave. N.
The evening will begin in the garden as a nod to where all Miel’s great menus emanate from. After enjoying a nonalcoholic shrub, the party will retire to the dining room for a multicourse feast featuring the bounty of the fields. Here’s a sneak peek at the menu to get you excited:
Course 1
Summer Salad
Cucumber, black garlic vinaigrette, red onion, sesame
Cucumber Water
Course 2
Consommé
Sweet Corn, carrot, peas
“Art Orange” Passione Natura, "Vino Macerato," Italy NV
Course 3
Jerk Cabbage
Red + Green Cabbage, Caribbean flavors, 6hr braise
Pineapple + Gunpowder Tea Shrub
Course 4
Moussaka
Mushroom, Zucchini + Eggplant, tomato béchamel, Mediterranean spices, 36mo gouda
Fig, black pepper, and olive Shrub
Course 5
Tart Tatin
Peach, cantaloupe, mango
OK, so maybe the mango in the dessert isn't local, but I’m betting it will be delicious!
Tickets for the Miel Harvest Dinner are $95 (plus tax and gratuity), and optional beverage pairings are also available for purchase. Hold your spot in the garden and at the table by making reservations at Tock and congratulate Seema and her team on the upcoming anniversary!
