Former 10 Arts chef and onetime Top Chef contender Jen Carroll, is going to give a sneak preview of some of things she expects to serve at her still-in-the-works restaurant, Concrete Blonde, with an invite-only pop-up tonight at Mémé. The Insider reports that a deal to put the restaurant just a block from her former roost at Broad and Chestnut has fallen through, leaving Carroll and her backers back at square one. David Katz, who owns Mémé, offered Carroll his place for tonight’s exclusive dinner, since he’s typically closed on Mondays. Invitations have already been sent out, so if you didn’t receive one, you’re not on the list.
Not surprising is the selection of dishes she’s going to preview. Most of the plates are reminiscent of what Carroll served at 10 Arts. Among them are: fried Old Salt oyster with harissa and mint yogurt; lightly seared yellowfin tuna with radish cilantro and passion fruit vinaigrette; and black bass with spring vegetable ragout, potato espuma, and carrot buerre monte.
In recent months Carroll’s been spotted around town with a camera crew in tow, which we’ve learned is part of the production team Bravo’s trailing her with for the upcoming series Life After Top Chef, but it’s unclear whether or not cameras will be rolling tonight. Eater says they won’t, but the Insider reports that invitations sent said the dinner will be filmed, and guests will have to sign releases. So, if you’re going, be sure to look your best.
Chef Jen Carroll test-drives her menu [Insider]
Jen Carroll Previewing New Restaurant, Concrete Blonde [Eater Philly]
