If we can call this the summer of the backyard (projects), then I must say one of the things I’d like our backyard to do is host dinner for twelve, complete with amazing food and wine, good conversation, seventy degree weather, and just enough breezes to keep the mosquitoes at bay. And it should also do the dishes afterwards. (Photos from the exact same event I just described, but a few blocks from my own backyard. Apparently the food was so good that any stealthy attempt at photographing the table by me just produced a bunch of people with their cheeks stuffed with food. It was that good.)
I would need some extra seating, so enter the latest thing I’m admiring:
It’s the Hanger Chair by Philippe Malouin via Remodelista.
There are many options for flat folding chairs, but I love the idea that these can serve as hangers and then come out to play for summer time al fresco dining. I first liked the idea that winter coats could hang on them, but then I pictured a pile of coats at the base of the wardrobe whenever a party happened. I think I might like the idea better that linen tablecloths or simple slipcovers could hang from them, and then you’ve got a ready-made party in a closet when the time is right…
…or when the mango is right. Yellow mangoes (not the more common green ones) served on a stick, with a slight crosshatch to them, sprinkled with chile powder, some lime juice and a little salt. According to our friends that made them, these type of mangoes are only found for around two weeks, twice a year, and you can get them at Jay’s. Hammer the sticks in, but peel and score them at the last moment before serving.
Mexican street food. Divine.
We were mostly hanging out, eating, drinking and enjoying the company, but we were also brainstorming for this year’s wine tasting / foodie feast that I talked about here, last fall. And while we were eating very specific, seasonal food on Sunday, we were getting inspired for September when the weather is likely to be just as nice. Speaking of extra seats for that event, there might be a few. Email me (address in sidebar) if you want more details.
