Local Event
Celebrating Isajia: Elements of Taste and Sound
Tuesday August 29th, 6pm at Isaiah Zagar’s Workshop
1002 Watkins Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147
The Story
Seed scientist and master farmer Tom Culton & Chef Cristina Martinez of acclaimed South Philly Barbacoa have been working on a partnership for the tortilla program at El Compadre. On a trip to Mexico, Tom was gifted the seeds of a sacred corn plant and tasked by the women of the Zapatistas community with naming it. Tom planted the corn at his farm and has been growing it for the last year.
The Corn
Isaias, Cristina's late son, worked hard to bring a stone-mill from his hometown in Mexico, Capulhuac to make fresh corn tortillas at the restaurant. Tragically, earlier this year, Isaias died suddenly, leaving behind his restaurant, El Compadre, and his legacy as a pioneering young chef. After this loss, it was decided to name the corn "Isajia" in tribute. The first grinding of the corn will be used for masa in a celebratory performance of taste and sound at dinner.
The Food and Drinks
The evening will consist of a cocktail hour and three course dinner. Courses will be provided by Chefs Kurt Evans of Route 23 and Chef Sam Henzy of Vernick along with Cristina Martinez and Ben Miller of El Compadre, formerly South Philly Barbacoa. Beer pairings and Illegal Mezcal cocktails are the provided refreshments for the evening. The main course will involve a one-of-a-kind musical food performance with a band of notable musicians.
The Music
The Band Members are from the kitchen and the stage, bringing food and music to the forefront together and while combining each element, and process through composition.
Cristina Martinez - Cook
Ben Miller - Cook
Maria Grand- Tenor Saxophone
Shakoor Sanders- Percussion
Moor Mother - Live sampling and effects
Opening Act: Water - Oshun, DJ Hydrophonic, Andrew Mars and Rick Ballantine
The Space
Isaiah Zagar has recently renovated his Workshop to include a kitchen. Isaiah, a self-proclaimed foodie, is a longtime friend and supporter of Chefs Cristina and Ben, who hope to continue to use the space for similar minded events. This is the very first event in the new kitchen.
Tickets are limited.
Please note a documentary will be filming during the dinner and anyone in attendance will have to sign a release.