Our Italian leftovers from last night sort of pale in comparison.

Today Chris and I skipped out of work early with a couple of friends from work and went to the Mario Batali fest at Salumi. The cramped quarters of Salumi didn't exactly work for how they had it set up, but the food was damn good. All you people that I mentioned it to months ago who didn't come along ought to be bitter and regretful that they didn't make it. Highlights included bruchetta with goat cheese, basil, and salumi; turkey meatballs in ragu; this fava bean and chicory side dish that was both light and savory; a very flavorful sausage and broccoli rabe dish; and finally, this moist anise biscotti-like cookie that was both light and decadent at the same time. All washed down with some lovely Masi. I wish we'd brought the camera, because this food was beautiful.

As part of the event everyone received Mario's new cookbook autographed, which he was willing to personalize for anyone interested. I chatted with him for a few minutes about the question I asked him when he did his online chat on egullet a few months back about where besides Salumi he likes to eat when he visits his family in Seattle. He looked wiped out -- book tours and cooking nonstop must take their toll -- but he was very gracious and friendly and willing to chat about his food.

It was definitely a great way to start the week!