Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/456364
this James Beard Award-winning chef would even care to make with what is prosaically defined as "a social gathering at which an informal meal is ser ved from the back of a parked vehicle, typically in the parking lot of a spor ts stadium." Oh me of little faith! Whiffs of fire-grilled hot dogs and sizzling sausage filled the air around the outdoor deck. Cheerful fans were betting on the impending game while munching on huge bowls of home- made kettle chips. As much as I knew about tail- gates, so far this seemed pretty typical. Opening the door and stepping onto the bottom level of the 17,000-square-foot, three- tiered space, nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to experience. Loud, lively music and what seemed like a dozen HD screens airing pre-game highlights set the mood, while 49er cheerleaders mingling with guests let us know that we were in the ulti- mate fun zone. Diane Mina, Michael's wife and creator of her own signature Bloody Mary, was pouring gener- ously from the bar. Her extraordinary libation combines home-grown, fresh-squeezed tomato juice and aromatic herbs with a secret spicy concoction. Garnished with speared green olives, peppers and prosciutto, this meal-in-a- glass has gained a devoted following. Beside the bar, providing a salty pairing for a spicy Mary, were country ham sandwiches with Hanging out with friends on an NFL Sunday, 49er fans enjoy pre-game highlights on several surrounding high-definition TVs, in an upscale, game-themed environment. Casual seating and an open kitchen give guests a sneak peek of menu mise en place. 172 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 1 5 Celebrity Chef Jose Andres (right, with Mina) personifies the joy of food with friendship.