Do you remember the movie Big Night that came to area movies in 1996? It was about two Italian brothers Primo (Tony Shaloub) and Secondo (Stanley Tucci) who try to save their failing Italian restaurant with one special night – the Big Night when a famous singer, Louie Prima, was to dine at their restaurant. Big Night took place in the 1950’s, a cult film that has you drooling from the appearance of the risotto, suckling pig and the infamous Timpano. Watch the video attached to this post.
Timpano – my story
Over the many years I have been part of a local culinary sorority, women in the food service industry and we would create various themed dinners. Yes, you guessed it, it was an Italian themed dinner and I took on the Timpano. (Recipe – similar to the one I prepared)
The Timpano, a large pastry "drum" that's filled with layers of pasta, meatballs, sausage, sauces, cheese, eggs and more, took three days in prep.I remember trying to stretch the dough over the top of the springform pan and having difficulty. I was a nervous wreck not only for the dish but for the honored guests who were attending that evening.
Marion Cunningham, cookbook author – most recognized for the Fannie Farmer Cookbook was in town filming a pilot at MPT TV and her friend, Judith Jones, a senior editor who believed in an unknown and championed her cookbook, Mastering the of French Cooking by Julia Child. Judith has gone on to be the editor of choice by leading cookbook authors as well as write her own cookbooks and autobiography. My good friend, Margaret Sullivan, producer of leading PBS cooking shows was part of our group and we said, bring them along for dinner. Sitting next to Judith Jones was a treat, she is also known for discovering the manuscript for The Dairy of Anne Frank.
Big Night Dinner in Baltimore
On Tuesday, May 3rd La Scala Restaurant in Little Italy at 7 p.m. is having a Big Night dinner. You need to call for reservations 410 783 9209. Cost per person is $90 plus tax and gratuity.
La Scala of Little Italy - www.lascaladining.com - 410-783-9209
1012 Eastern Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21202
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