Archived Article By Tom Fitzmorris Originally published May 30, 2008 NOWFE's First Superdome Grand Tastings Best Food At The Wine & Food Experience I'm sorry I had to miss the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience's Grand Tastings this past weekend. (I had to be in Washington, D.C. for my son's graduation.) I've heard from a number of people that the Superdome--far from being an iffy place to stage the two days of eating and drinking--was, in fact, the perfect place. Just eliminating the crowding that has often characterized the Grand Tastings was a big plus. Also, the old problem of the food not lasting as long as the wine seems to be gone forever, now that it's not been noticed for three years running. And good food, too. There's a competition judged by a jury of experts, and here's what they came up with: Friday Grand Tasting Participants Best of Show. Melange at the Ritz-Carlton: Cajun spiced sesame crusted tuna loin Gold. Mr. B's Bistro: Pan-seared jumbo scallop with foie gras butter   Silver. Palace Café: Macadamia-crusted scallops with a coconut, lemongrass and New Orleans Rum emulsion Bronze. Red Fish Grill: Crawfish, corn and avocado salad Best Dessert. Marriott's 5Fifty5: Créme brûlée Saturday Grand Tasting Participants Best of Show. Rib Room: Gulf fish with Creole tomatoes Gold. Semolina's Bistro Italia: Ahi Tuna Italiano Silver. Zoë Bistrot: Roasted duck served with port poached pear sauce Bronze. Vega Tapas Cafe: Empanadilla de cochinillo Best Dessert. NOLA: Glazed Root Beer Pound Cake. Congratulations. . . and thanks! These restaurants are paid nothing to have their food passed out to the participants.  © 2008 Tom Fitzmorris. All rights reserved. news@nomenu.com