As any Louisiana cook can tell you, filé (aka gumbo filé), a powder made by grinding sassafras leaves, is traditionally used throughout the state as a thickening agent for gumbo. It is also a central theme in a newly opened Tribeca restaurant whose name — Filé Gumbo Bar — tells pretty much all.
One unique feature of the gumbo served at Filé Gumbo Bar is that it is prepared in steam kettles like the ones used at Grand Central Oyster Bar to make its infectiously delicious oyster pan roasts. Another is that all gumbos will be finished with a dusting of filé powder and gremolata, a tribute of sorts to chef/owner Eric McCree’s grandfather, Aubrey “Tiny” Gaines, who finished his gumbo preparations that way.
Filé Gumbo Bar, 275 Church Street, New York, 917-540-6268.
Brooklyn Wine Fest Returns
The Brooklyn Wine Fest will return to the Brooklyn Navy Yard on Saturday, June 11, providing guests with an opportunity to sample hundreds of new wines from across the globe. A Brooklyn Wine Festival souvenir tasting glass will be included in the price of admission, as will access to live entertainment, food, and interactive games.
The event will run from 1:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased here for $39. Guests must be 21 or over and present a photo ID at the door.
The Brooklyn Wine Fest will be held at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Building 77, Brooklyn.
