Boston’s Via Matta Restaurant hosts Chef Mark Strausman and famed restauranteur Pino Luongo for a very Special Wine Dinner and reception on October 11th — which sounds like a whole lotta fun! It’s in support of the release of their new book, “Two Meatballs in the Kitchen.”

Though Pino Luongo (the big guy) and Mark Strausman (the not-so -big guy) have been good friends and successful restaurant partners for years, they’ve spent decades arguing the merits of everything from ingredients to techniques and presentation, always with the goal of getting the very best out of Italy’s amazing cuisine. (Hey-no throwing those meatballs!)

On October 11, 2007, the award-winning Via Matta restaurant and long-time friend, Chef Michael Schlow, will host a dinner with the authors featuring selections from their new book paired with wines from Banfi Wines. The event will include a pre-cocktail reception, dinner, a copy of Two Meatballs in the Kitchen, as well as a meet-and-greet with Pino Luongo and Mark Strausman.

WHEN: October 11, 2007
6:30 p.m. Cocktail Reception
7:15 p.m. Seated Dinner

WHERE: Via Matta Restaurant, 79 Park Plaza Ave., Boston, MA 02116
T: 617.422.0008

COST: Tickets are $125.00 and include the reception and dinner, as well as a copy of Pino Luongo and Chef Mark Strausman’s book, Two Meatballs in the Kitchen.

MENU: All selections will be taken from Pino Luongo and Chef Mark Strausman’s new book and prepared by Chef Michael Schlow.

The Great Meatball Debate
A tasting of Pino Luongo’s and Chef Mark Strausman’s recipes.

Naked Ravioli
With walnuts, sage and butter

Oven-roasted Salmon on Savoy Cabbage

Coco Pazzo’s Grilled Marinated Hanger Steak
Chopped Roman Salad
Green Beans in Tomato Sauce

Warm Chocolate Pudding Cakes
Chocolate Biscotti
“Ugly but Good” Cookies

For more information, visit the Via Matta Website.
(Hey-could someone let me know what makes a cookie ugly?)