Fall Food Preview: La Dolce Vita At AMoA Laguna Gloria On 10/14

As ACL hits Austin this weekend, it is easy to forget that the Fall gala event season is already upon us. Tonight's Tour De Vin at Whole Foods kicks everything off, but next week brings us one of Austin's biggest food, wine, and charity events of the year: The Austin Museum of Art's 21st Annual La Dolce Vita party. Held each year on the grounds of the museum's original Laguna Gloria location overlooking the lake, the event couldn't be more picturesque. The party is an amalgam of gourmet food, fine wine, cocktails, and the aforementioned fairytale wedding setting.

When you're splurging to attend a charity event, most people want to feel confident that they'll love the food and drink on offer. In terms of libations, there's quite a bit to choose from. Spirits will include 1921 Tequila, Deep Eddy Vodka, Graham's Texas Tea, Paula's Texas Orange, Republic Tequila, Savvy Vodka, Tito's Vodka, and Treaty Oak Platinum Rum. If you've not already noticed, the spirits are mostly local, and will be available to sample in a special "spirit lounge" with specialty cocktails. For those who need something fancier, single-malt scotch will also be available in a "Scotch and Cigar" lounge for a slight upcharge.

The wine also features a Texas focus, as 11 of our state's wineries will be on hand pouring samples of our state's fast-growing viticulture. Local favorites including Becker, Fall Creek, Spicewood Vineyards, and Duchman Family Winery (formerly Mandola Family) will all be in attendance. If you're more fond of old-world wines, a selection of international wines (to be announced) will be provided by Twin Liquors.

But what about the food - the marquee attraction of the party? Judging by the chefs and restaurants on hand, the AMoA has a lot of fans in Austin's restaurant community. Some samples of what will be available to taste:

• El Arbol's mini lomito roasted prime rib eye with aioli, red pepper, chimichurri and crostini.
• The Carillon's butternut squash lobster bisque.
• Jack Allen's bacon-wrapped quail with peach and jalapeno jam.
• Ranch 616's famous venison frito pie.

Other participants (there are 50 restaurants serving) include Bess, Cover 3, The Driskill Grill, East Side Showroom, Eddie V's, Fleming's, Imperia, Jasper's, La Sombra, La Condesa, Moonshine, NoRTH, Paggi House, Parkside, and Siena. For more information on the event or to purchase tickets, call 512-495-9224, extension 223. All proceeds benefit the Austin Museum Of Art's education programs.