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GREENWICH, Conn. Owners of Plum Pure Foods Jon and Laura Brennan always choose to cook something special on Valentines Day rather than dine out. This year, they are providing that same alternative to Greenwich sweethearts who want the fine dining experience in their own homes roses and romantic candlelight, included.
Restaurants can be a real pain. Theyre crowded, it can be hard to get a reservation, and service sometimes lacks because its one of the biggest times for people to go out, said Laura, who with her husband bought the longtime catering business and gourmet prepared foods café from another couple five years ago.
The pair met working together at a New York City catering company. We actually grew up five miles away from each other but didnt meet until we worked in the city, said Jon.
We spend all of our time together 24/7, which is a good thing. I think if we didnt meet on the job, we wouldnt have been able to do this, said Laura.
While continuing Plums traditions, the pair also offers healthy, freshly made foods. What sets us apart is our food is made here on site, said Laura, who was working in sales in marketing before she went to culinary school, while her husband worked in restaurants from the time he was 11 years old. We make things in small batches to allow us to constantly be rotating and make fresh. Its less wasteful, which is big for us.
Plum Pure Foods $99 prix fixe Valentines dinner for two includes an appetizer such as baby spinach and wild arugula salad; entrees, including seven cheese truffle wild mushroom macaroni and cheese or lobster pot pie; and two desserts, such as crème brulee with fresh raspberries or a chocolate hazelnut mousse dome with raspberry coulis; as well as a basket of miniature croissants, candles and a fresh rose bouquet created by Dirt Floral in Cos Cob. Though order deadlines have passed, the Brennans say they hope it will catch on in years to come.
Were bringing the restaurant to you, but we let you take it home, said Laura. Weve had a fair response, and were hoping it will increase for next year.
Plum has made other prix fixe holiday meal deals, but the couple says most of their business goes out the back door from online ordering and delivering to local businesses and offices.
The economy has been a challenge, and weve had to think of new and interesting ways to sell food, which is where the online comes in, said Laura. At the end of the day, its just food. But if you find new ways to sell it and make sure its fresh, thats what people want. I know its what I want."
This year, Jon and Laura plan to cook at home with their daughters, who are 5 and 7 and already have their parents culinary flair. Theyre real foodies for their age, said Laura.
We started them out when they were even younger, pulling food out from the fridge and letting them decide what they want to eat, said Jon.
We have very little time alone, laughed Laura.
Plum Pure Foods is located on the Post Road in Cos Cob. The café is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. For catering, call 203-869-7586, Ext. 11
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