Amador Fork + Cork was born out of my love for entertaining. My philosophy is that life’s simple joys are shared around the table – whether with family and friends or with strangers that become new friends.

It starts when you open the door for guests, receiving – and giving! – a warm embrace while laughter starts to fill the space. Your guests’ arrival leads to exuberant conversations while discovering a new pretty cocktail and enjoying small bites, like popping deep fried anchovy olives into your mouth.

The process of gathering everyone around the dinner under the sparkly crystal pieces of a vintage chandelier hanging from an old oak. Dining al fresco is a family favorite, soaking up beautiful moments in California’s many fascinating landscapes we are so fortunate to have at our fingertips. A few of my favorite sounds around the table are the clinking of silverware on a plate, a heartfelt laugh during a conversation, asking about a newly discovered ingredient and the sudden quietness when people savor the food in front of them. The smile of seeing an edible viola tucked into your dish, smiling right back at you.

After carefully curating the menu and setting the table, I like to step back for a moment before a meal to appreciate beautiful dish and glassware. The simple joy of creating an ambiance where guests feel comfortable mopping up that last piece of goodness on their plate with a crusty slice of bread or with the tip of their finger.