The Delaware Tourism Office and Delaware Restaurant Association partnered on February 3 to screen a series of short films entitled “Back of House,” offering an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the people that bring Delaware restaurants to life. One of the restaurants featured was Black Sheep, formerly The Cured Plate, in Milford.
“There are moments when this whole journey feels very real,” Liz Klingensmith, owner of Black Sheep, said in a social media post. “Not that it ever wasn’t real, but. There’s a difference between believing in a dream and watching it stand on its own two feet. I never once imagined we’d be here. I never thought we’d be nominated, much less win awards. I never imagined articles would be written about us, or that people would seek us out the way they do. High demand was never part of the vision – heart was.”
The post was written as Klingensmith and her husband, Kenny, were heading to the premiere of the film screening. Klingensmith celebrated the honor with chefs from Brule Bakery, Cool Springs Fish Bar & Restaurant, Del Pez Mexican Gastropub and Zollies Jazz Cucina.
“I can’t quite wrap my head around how I belong in a room with chefs and bakers whose talents I admire so deeply,” Klingensmith said. “My goal was always simple. To shatter molds, not find in them; remain true to our vision, regardless of popular opinion; create an ambiance that captivates; shake and stir elevated elixirs that raise the standard; curate unorthodox cuisine with bold flavors rooted in where I come from. And above all else, lead with genuine hospitality and deep appreciation for every single guest who walks through our doors. Most days I feel like I could be doing more. Today, though, I am allowing myself to pause, to feel proud, to feel humbled, to feel grateful.”
The event at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in early February featured a screening of the video series, tastings by the chefs who were featured as well as a meet-and-greet with the filmmakers and organizers. Trailers for the series can be found on the 1440 Films Facebook page. It is a 10-part series.
