In a Tribute to Robert Mondavi, Chef Michael Wagner Shares His First James Beard Menu with Patrons of Lola’s on Harrison during January and February

After a successful James Beard dinner in New York City on December 13, Chef Michael Wagner is introducing his “Contemporary American Comfort Dinner” at his downtown Hollywood restaurant, Lola’s on Harrison. The menu is a modified version of Wagner’s Beard House debut, which garnered great critical acclaim.

The four-course, prix-fixe menu features popular selections from the sold-out dinner, inclusive of an amuse bouche, an appetizer, an entrée, and dessert. Patrons may choose between a $35 food-only menu or a $55 food and wine pairing, featuring a selection of perfectly paired Robert Mondavi wines. The menus will be available January 15 through February 28, exclusive of Valentine’s Day.

Wagner was discovered by James Beard House representatives last year, and although only being open for less than a year, received the invitation to prepare a dinner at the famous Chelsea brownstone. At age 35, Wagner is among Florida’s youngest chefs to receive this honorable invite.

“I was truly honored to receive the invitation. It was exciting to have an opportunity to not only prepare this dinner in the most prestigious American culinary institution, but to be able to return and cook in my hometown of New York. I am introducing this winter-theme menu to South Florida to share with all our guests who could not make the trip to dine with us at the Beard House.”

Staying true to his signature cuisine, Wagner paired American comfort favorites with exclusive Mondavi wines in a tribute to both American icons James Beard and the late Mr. Mondavi. The Lola’s version of the James Beard experience begins with an amuse bouche of Boston Diver Scallops wrapped with crispy applewood smoked bacon, fresh mango and drizzled with an apricot-mango glaze. Next, Chef Wagner has paired a creamy Roasted Chestnut Soup with the Robert Mondavi Chardonnay Reserve 2006. The main course, New Zealand Lamb Chops topped with a fennel marmalade and citrus-mint yogurt sauce, finds harmony with the Robert Mondavi Merlot 2005. For a sweet ending, indulge in the Naples Concord Grape Pie with peanut butter ice cream and the Robert Mondavi Moscato D’Oro 2006.

To experience Michael Wagner’s James Beard House menu, call 954.927.9851 for reservations. To learn more about Lola’s on Harrison, visit www.lolasonharrison.com.

About Lola’s on Harrison

Lola’s on Harrison is located at 2032 Harrison Street in Hollywood, Fla. The restaurant is open for dinner Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 5-10 p.m.; Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5-12 a.m.; closed Mondays. Ample free parking is located behind the restaurant. All major credit cards accepted. For more information, call 954.927.9851 or visit www.lolasonharrison.com.