Luke Tullos, head bartender at Jolie's Louisiana Bistro, taught his first of hopefully many classes educating the public on the magic of liquor on March 10 at Cena. Luke Tullos, head bartender at Jolie's Louisiana Bistro, taught his first of hopefully many classes educating the public on the magic of liquor on March 10 at Cena.
Located at Bradbury Crossing in River Ranch, Cena is a unique concept. Owned by Billy and Lori Bragg and her sister, Karen Hail, it is cross between a bistro and a catering business, offering fare like soups, wraps and salads while also offering prepared family-sized entrees that are ready to bake. The food comes out to around $5 per serving and saves a busy parent all the preparation if they are short on time. Each meal's nutritional information is located on Cena's website so customers can make informed decisions.
A few times a month Cena offers cooking classes with differing themes. This time Luke Tullos ran the show and taught class participants about the spirit side of dining. The class was called "Bourbon: The American Spirit" and discussed how to make different drinks as well as the history, culture and geography of bourbon. This class paired the different bourbon drinks to meals. Tullos emphasized how bourbon is a distinctly American liquor. According to the Federal Standards of Identity for Distilled Spirits (yes, this exists), only distilled spirits made from at least 51 percent corn and with a proof of no less than 80 percent can be called bourbon. It must also be made it in the United States to be called bourbon.
If you have ever tended bar you know that the finer the establishment the tougher it is to coerce drunks into good - even merely decent - behavior. Tullos handled a drunkenly boorish customer with aplomb and a smile. This is the mark of a fine bartender.
These classes at Cena would make an ideal first date or a unique evening out. You are occupied yet you have something to talk about during and after your date. The $35 a head isn't bad for three courses, two or three drinks and a thorough education on bourbon.
The types of cooking and liquor classes vary month-to-month, so check Cena's website for the choices.