Micah Tavelli, a 2024 James Beard Foundation semifinalist hailing from Burlington, Vermont, is teaming up with his business partner, Philip Herzog, to bring a delightful culinary experience to the heart of Essex. The duo is set to debut a series of exclusive pop-up dinners named Into the Wolf’s Mouth at the esteemed Junction restaurant within the luxurious Essex Resort & Spa. Mark your calendars for February 19 and 20, as these evenings promise a seven-course tasting menu that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
If you’re eager to secure your spot at this gastronomic extravaganza, be prepared to shell out $80 for a regular seat or $90 for premium seats that offer a view of the bustling open kitchen. To elevate your dining experience, an optional beverage pairing will be available to complement each delectable dish. Reservations are a must, and bookings can be made in advance through Junction’s Resy account. However, there’s a twist – the menu will remain a mystery until after you’ve savored every bite. Micah Tavelli, at the youthful age of 33, hints at an “Italian-ish” theme with a fusion of Nordic and Japanese influences, promising freshly crafted pasta and inventive interpretations of traditional favorites like his unique take on cacio e pepe using celery root noodles.
Tavelli’s culinary journey is nothing short of impressive, having clinched a coveted spot as a James Beard Award semifinalist during his tenure as the executive chef at Paradiso Hi-Fi in Burlington. However, his career took an unexpected turn last July when the restaurant shuttered indefinitely after what was supposed to be a short hiatus. Prior to this, Tavelli honed his skills as the chef de cuisine at Dedalus Wine Shop, Market & Wine Bar, also in Burlington, where he first crossed paths with his future business partner, Philip Herzog. Their collaboration flourished as they worked in tandem at the now-closed Paradiso Hi-Fi, establishing a solid foundation for their culinary endeavors.
Presently, Herzog, 33, and Tavelli are integral members of the team at bramble in Essex, with Herzog serving as the assistant dining room manager and Tavelli as the chef de cuisine. Looking ahead, the dynamic duo plans to host several more pop-up events across Vermont throughout the late winter and spring seasons, with hopes of ramping up their frequency come summer. When asked about the inspiration behind the name Into the Wolf’s Mouth, Tavelli shared that it stems from an Italian saying akin to the English phrase “break a leg,” signifying good luck and a leap of faith. For Tavelli, this pop-up series represents a significant milestone in his culinary career, paving the way for his ultimate dream of owning his own restaurant and being his own boss.
As we eagerly anticipate the unveiling of these culinary masterpieces, it’s evident that Micah Tavelli and Philip Herzog are a force to be reckoned with in Vermont’s vibrant culinary scene. With their innovative approach to dining and unwavering passion for the art of food, Into the Wolf’s Mouth is poised to capture the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts far and wide. Stay tuned for an unforgettable dining experience that promises to transport you into a realm of culinary excellence and creativity.
