Last week marked the grand re-opening of Hapa Grill, Ichiban Sushi and Mikado Cottonwood, according to the Watkins Restaurant Group. Didn’t know those restaurants were closed? Me, neither. Owner Christopher Watkins says via his press contact, “We are excited about our group of restaurants. Not only are we committed to producing the best sushi in Utah, but whether you are downtown, in Cottonwood or in Park City, customers can expect a high-quality dining experience.” Watkins has taken over Hapa, Ichiban and Mikado Cottonwood from Gene Kwon and his Latitude Restaurant Group. The press release I received from Watkins made mention of several “invitation-only events” to showcase “Utah’s finest sushi restaurants” but apparently I didn’t make the cut, since I just received an announcement of the invitation-only events but no actual invitation. Watkins says, “We have made some considerable improvements to these restaurants, and our aim is to continue to provide the best sushi dining experience for the community.” Hope so; we’ll see.
• You’ll be seeing red! On Thursday, Nov. 29, from 5-8 p.m., the third Annual Red Party to Benefit The Utah AIDS Foundation will be held at the Hotel Monaco—and you’re invited! “This year we are on fire!” says The Utah AIDS Foundation. That’s because this year’s Hot Red Party will feature sizzling hors d’oeuvres courtesy of red-hot new Bambara chef Dave Jones, along with fiery live performances by Incendiary Circus, a blistering balloon drop, prize drawings, a live auction and caliente appearances by the super-hot Cyber Sluts. Suggested donation at the door is a very cool $25, and 100 percent of funds collected will benefit The Utah AIDS Foundation. To RSVP, contact Rae Sombrero at 990-9729 or e-mail reline.sombrero@hotelmonaco.com by Nov. 27. Don’t forget to wear red!
• Quote of the week: It’s the tradition of the table where the Italians celebrate most of their triumphs and successes. —Mario Batali
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