One week ago tonight I ate the best meal of my life. The best. I know that sounds like I’m saying a lot. And, I am. In fact, I don’t know that I could accurately put into words just how incredible my evening was at Chef Jason Quinn’s “i.o.” {invitation only} dining experience at the all-new 17-seat culinary theater, Playground 2.0, next door to The Playground in downtown Santa Ana, California. So, I will let the photos do most of the talking. Because, how better to describe the magic of a 23-course meal that transported us around the globe to the rarest corners of the culinary world than through photos?
That said, a few facts. When you go, you must TRUST {as the sign on the door says}. Chef Jason & his team {which consists of the ultra-talented Chef de Cuisine, Ryan Carson; Sous Chef, Max Hirsch; and Pastry Chef, Ashley Guzman} have a menu in store that will blow your mind. So, trust them. Trust & you will get to taste the likes of 100% certified Kobe beef imported from Japan, Jamon Paleta Iberico de Bellota (some of the rarest Jamon Iberico on the planet), Octopus direct from the Canary Islands, 148-year-old Geoduck Clams, the finest organic fruits & vegetables from Melissa’s Produce… the list goes on & on. It is an omakase-style foodie paradise.
i.o. will be every Thursday-Saturday and opens to the public tonight. When it’s not being used for i.o., the chefs at The Playground will be using it for pop-ups by their chefs and guest chefs, cooking classes, themed dinners and private dining
Wanna get on the invite list for i.o.? You can read all about it on their web site {click here}. However, in the simple words direct from Chef Jason’s mouth: “Best advice is be an ideal guest at The Playground.”
Feast your eyes below… bon appetit!
The i.o. team: Sous Chef Max Hirsch, Pastry Chef Ashley Guzman, Chef de Cuisine Ryan Carson + Executive Chef Jason Quinn
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