Since we opened in July 2003, David Anderson has served as a venerable Chef de Cuisine. David’s talents and energy have been critical to Lauro’s success. His previous experience at Southpark, Café Azul and Bluehour has served him well. I am extremely pleased that David has agreed to become Chef de Cuisine at Vindalho.

David begins his own voyage of discovery on September 16th, when he focuses on Vindalho. He will continue to work aggressively on menu development, perfecting recipes and experimenting with the rich flavor profiles available to us as we explore the food of South Asia.

David’s last day at Lauro is Thursday, September 15th. Visit us before then to congratulate David and to enjoy your favorite Lauro dish. Come in on Wednesday, September 14th for Indian Night – the featured items on Lauro’s Specials Board will all be previews of the new offerings at Vindalho.

Meet Our New Chef de Cuisine

I am also pleased to announce that we have hired an excellent new Chef de Cuisine at Lauro. You may have noticed Chris Meldrum working behind the counter for the last few weeks with us. Chris is a perfect fit – he is passionate about food and local products. He has built his career at neighborhood restaurants, primarily in Seattle, including La Fleur and The Asteroid Café. Chris is highly skilled in French and Italian cooking. He joins us from Genoa where he worked for 3 years.

The Latest on Vindalho

Creating a new restaurant can be an exciting roller coaster ride. We are going full tilt and it is so gratifying to see it all come together. Dedicated to the flavors of South Asia, Vindalho – Spice Route Cuisine - is slated to open on October 12th. The brand new building at 21st & SE Clinton, called Local 49, offers an ideal space with garage doors, huge windows, high ceilings and a courtyard. We are making it our own with a dramatic mezzanine, expanded bar seating, a tandoor oven and a high counter for pass-through from cook to server. We are committed to building green and we are proud to use renewable, recycled and natural products. Wool carpet, bamboo facings and innovative Paperstone counters will be enveloped in a strong palate of colors from nature and food: greens, browns, mustard seed, curry and wine.

Stay up-to-date on progress at Vindalho at www.vindalho.com. Log on for regular updates, photos and the inside scoop on this exhilarating journey.

Cooks & Books - A Special Evening at Lauro Kitchen

Lauro’s in the spotlight on Sunday, November 13th. We will participate in the Cooks & Books Visiting Chef Series. Television, cookbook and restaurant chef Michael Chiarello joins us for a unique, delicious and interactive evening. Chiarello is best known for hosting Napa Style and Easy Entertaining on The Food Network and as the founder of TraVigne Restaurant in the Napa Valley. Chef David Machado will create the dinner while Michael mingles with guests and talks about his new book At Home with Michael Chiarello. Michael will treat us to insights on how he cooks and entertains: with elegance and fun. During the evening you will enjoy a fabulous menu, wines, and you’ll be inspired to “think like an entertainer, but relax like a guest.”

$95/person. There will be two seatings: 5:00 and 7:30 by reservation only. Seats are limited; please make your reservation right away. Call 503.239.7000.

All courses, wine and a copy of Michael’s book are included in the price of the evening (gratuity additional). Learn more at Cooks and Books.

David Machado Chef and Owner Lauro Kitchen

Daren Hamilton General Manager and Partner Lauro Kitchen