Polo Grill Hosts "in Celebration Of Julia"

Benefit in Honor of Julia Child's 90th Birthday Special Guest John Mariani Joins Tulsa Chefs for Honorary Event

Polo Grill is in good company after being selected as one of only 20 restaurants in the nation invited to participate in the International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP) Foundation's celebration of Julia Child's 90th birthday. John Mariani, cookbook author and columnist for Esquire, Wine Spectator and Diversion magazines, will be on hand at Polo Grill to serve as host for the evening.
Bryan Close, will also join the celebration serving as the local VIP host. Mr. Close is a leader in the Tulsa community in assisting non-profit organizations on various levels.

Billed as the official birthday celebration, "In Celebration of Julia" will bring together some of the country's top restaurants for a nationwide birthday party on Thursday, August 1 at 6:30 p.m. to honor America's first lady of cuisine. The participating restaurants will create special dinners inspired by Julia's recipes or through her personal recommendations.

"We are honored to participate in this one of a kind event. Julia has done so much for the industry and inspired chefs across the nation," said Robert Merrifield, proprietor chef. "We can't think of a better way to celebrate her special day than by having John Mariani join us for this exciting evening."

Polo Grill's proprietor chefs Ouida and Robert Merrifield have created a spectacular six-course meal adapted from Mariani's "The Italian American Cookbook" and inspired by Julia's recipes. The meal is priced at $150, which includes wine, gratuity and tax. Proceeds from the event will benefit the IACP Foundation's Julia Child Endowment Fund, which provides scholarships for culinary training in France.

As always, the unassuming Julia was thinking of others, rather than herself. "I think it is a wonderful thing, but mainly because it is a fund raiser for the IACP Foundation," quickly adding, "And it's tax deductible, don't forget that. Raising money and having a good time are the best ways to celebrate."

Wolf Blass Wines is the presenting sponsor for "In Celebration of Julia." Additional sponsors are Saveur magazine, Land O'Lakes and the California Table Grape Commission.

Seating is limited, and the event is sure to fill up fast, so early reservations are suggested. To make reservations, phone Polo Grill at (918)-774-4280. For a complete list of the 20 participating restaurants, visit www.IACP.com

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The International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP) is a non-profit society of individuals employed in, or providing services to, the culinary industry. The association is dedicated to helping members achieve and sustain success at all levels of their culinary careers. The IACP Foundation is the philanthropic partner of the International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP) that solicits, manages and distributes money for education and charitable programs related to the culinary industry.

Editors Note: If you are interested in covering the 90th birthday celebration at Polo Grill, please e-mail Jamie Estes at jestes@hqtrs.com.


"In Celebration of Julia"
Julia Child's 90th Birthday

Polo Grill
Welcomes
John Mariani



Grilled Langoustine, Fennel and Orange Salad
Wolf Blass Gold Label Reisling 2001

Clams Casino
Wolf Blass President's Select Chardonnay 2001

Risotto with Oklahoma Corn

Lamb Chops with Lemon, Caper and Olive Sauce
Wolf Blass Cabernet Shiraz 2000

Filet Mignon with Local Tomatoes and Gorgonzola Salad
Wolf Blass President's Select Shiraz 1999


Panna Cotta with Passion Fruit
Wolf Blass Brut