KEN SWARNER: A MOMENT OF UNDERSTANDING >>>
Reporters enjoy the privilege to share in the lives of the people we interview. We sit down, learn, explore, and delve into the backgrounds of private folks, searching for the themes, quotes and anecdotes that allow us to relate these people to you.
It’s fun.
I especially like moments when something is said and a complete knowingness between reporter and subject is instantly discovered.
I had that moment with Chef William Mueller this week. He was describing his artistry, searching for the perfect words to illustrate his passion for food, when he choose to draw reference to his role model â€"Chef Jerry, former executive chef at the Herb Farm in Woodinville and soon (as in this summer) to be opening Poppy in Seattle.
Mueller aspires to create like Traunfeld.
Instantly, a shared experience put Mueller’s words into crystal form. The Herb Farm happens to be where I had my best meal on this planet. Mueller completely understood me when I mentioned that to him.
While not in the South Sound, The Herb Farm remains close enough for those wanting to splurge on a nine-course (food and wine) dinner that boggles the senses in an atmosphere relaxed and comfortable. I still dream of those mussels sautéed like shish kabobs on skewers of rosemary sprigs.