My lucky life brings me so many wonderful experiences & last night I was privy to something very very special. My dear friend Laurie Gordon, whom I know through the Art Deco Society of California, invited me to a special dinner at Avalon. Avalon isn’t something known to the public, it is the residence of two very talented individuals - Barrett and AC. I was told the attire was to be “Deco Deluxe in a Black and B & W movie palette that includes Grays and Metallics”. Thankfully I had just the right thing to wear.
Laurie Gordon and Rick Fishman of Art Deco Collection
Stepping through the foyer, it is like walking, straight into the 1930’s and all in Black and White with shades of gray and hints of metallics throughout.
Myself on Right with Jemy on the left
Tucked into suburban Walnut Creek is a home you would not expect. It is a typical ranch style house that has been transformed into a beautiful Art Deco masterpiece inside. Stepping through the foyer, is like walking, straight into the 1930’s and all in Black and White with shades of gray and hints of metallics throughout. Laurie and her husband Rick Fishman own The Art Deco Collection and have helped the couple decorate their home with custom finished art deco era furniture from around the world. When Laurie first told me about their home, I knew it had to be amazing. It did not disapoint.
After first being greeted by two very adorable black and white Tibetan Terriers (Zindi & Zinita) we were welcomed warmly by AC & Barrett themselves. The cocktail hour was lovely as guests arrived.
Katrina & Heidi
A.C. Making cocktails
Everyone was impeccably turned out…
and we all had a lovely time either catching up or getting to know one another. The receiving room was stunning in shades of cream black and metallics, original art deco furniture, sculpture and art. At the end of the room sits a piano and next to it a bar. This home was definitely designed around entertaining. And entertained we were. Barrett sat down at the piano and sang to us all after a short quiz on home names.
Barrett at the Piano
On a side note, after viewing the most epic floral displays of orchids, I learned that orchids can be boarded when they are not in bloom -
This extends their life while they are cared for by professionals. When they bloom again the owners get a call and their blooming orchids are delivered home. Isn’t that fascinating and actually so practical since orchids can be somewhat temperamental.
Gorgeous place settings!
We were guided into the dining room and seated at a table for 10.
Each setting was furnished with an extraordinary amount of wine glasses, very crisp linen napkins and gorgeous silver charger plates, each with a different animal depicted in the Art Deco style. Every detail was seen to and it really was like stepping back into time. Even the music (first played on the Victrola and then from a vintage radio) was spot on. I had no idea what I was in store for next.
The menu was extensive - I believe 7 or 8 courses each with it’s own wine!
And every bite or sip was exquisite. I do not think I’ve ever eaten a more enjoyable meal. The company delightful & the food excellent. I think my favorite course was the Avalon Crab “Cocktail”, but really there was something special about every single piece of food I tasted. That might tie with the Petit Beef filet with Maple Bacon Onion Marmelade or perhaps the Pistachio Cake with raspberry Jam. Did I mention Caviar and Pate? Un Diner Art Deco was truly out of this world.
It turns out our two hosts run a catering business - The Avalon Diner! I should not have been surprised. Our dinner was so creatively thought out and perfect. Apparently the duo do meal delivery each week (accompanied by a song at your door), special events and then these very special dining experiences in their home.
Barrett with the cheese course!
If you would like to be included in their weekly newsletter which comes with music pairings for your meals (that is the only way to find out about their food and events) reach out to Barrett via email. And if you are wanting to host a lovely event and show off your vintage creations, I would highly recommend a special dinner at Avalon itself.
Until Next time,
xo Jennifer
