Just in: La Bocca Urban Pizzeria + Wine Bar owner Julian Wright is getting the word out on his new weekly dinner parties. Last Thursday was the first one, and it was a success, so it looks like reservations are essential (call 480-967-5244; La Bocca is located on Mill Ave in Tempe, a couple doors over from Borders).
Here's what Wright had to say: Each Thursday, Chef Bruno comes up with a food and drink paring that matches a particular theme or region of the world. The food is different from what's normally served on our menu and changes every week.
This week is a French theme. We're serving a homemade chicken pate with a Cotes du Rhone red and Shrimp Bisque with Chateau St. Jean Chardonnay. We will have French music playing during dinner along with a French film. We will also be open late so socializing after dinner is encouraged.
The cost is $20 per person which is about a 50% discount for the items being served. The tasting items are small so ordering off our regular menu is an option after the tasting is complete. Regular menu prices apply.
I chatted with Wright after he emailed, and he also noted that next week's theme will probably be Italian or Latin. Either way, the local band Cascabel (they're great!) is scheduled to play that night from 9 p.m. to midnight, and the cost will be $25.
