Octopus and New Plates by Shelby Hawthorne

This week we got our first delivery of plates from Shelby Hawthorne.  Shelby is a glass artist from Big Sur who is making custom glass plates and art pieces at her studio in Sand City.  When I first saw Shelby's work a few months ago I was intrigued by the effects that she achieved by firing different elements into the pieces of glass.  The finished plates had an incandescence about them that reminded me of tidal pools and abalone shells.  While too much pattern can take away from the presentation of a dish, Shelby created a series of plates that reflect her unique styling, while leaving a blank area for presenting the food.  I'm really happy with the way the first batch turned out and think it makes a stunning backdrop for a number of seafood appetizers.

Chef Ono has prepared a Baby Octopus with Riesling Marinated Apricots, Charred Shallot, Avocado and Black Sesame.