We had to miss Govind Armstrong's new cookbook launch party last night at Table 8, but it was unavoidable. Sad, especially since Govind isn't around as much these days (he has so much going on), so it would've been fun to schmooze. But it sounds like a good time was had by all: One friend emailed to say that Scott Wolfe was among the mix of friends, media, and "Govind's beautiful family" (his mother was the first in line to buy books?and she bought 10!), and another said the cocktails and nibbles were tasty (the short rib grilled cheeses rock), but "the place is still too dark."
"Small Bites, Big Nights" is said to be a stunner, full of beautiful pictures and good recipes. Eating L.A. says of the cookbook: "Of course I felt immediately guilty that I don't have friends over for cozy little small plates gatherings where I'd just throw a few quail on the barbie or sear some Kobe beef and whip up a plate of mini Yorkshire puddings to go with, but there are plenty of simpler small plates alongside the more ambitious dishes." Next for the chef: He's off to Detroit and Miami to promote the book, and to check on his South Beach outpost of Table 8. The cookbook is available at all major bookstores and at the restaurant; if the chef's around, he'll be happy to sign a copy.
· Go, go, Govind! [Eating L.A.]