Two weeks ago, Susan Wood, owner of the Cultured Pearl restaurant and shopping complex, was honored by the Delaware Restaurant Association as Restauranteur of the Year. Last week, I enjoyed the opportunity to dine and take in the sounds of the Pearl’s Sunday Jazz Brunch and find out some of the reasons the aforementioned honor was bestowed on it’s proprietor.
Ever since Sydney’s Blues and Jazz Restaurant changed hands, locals and tourists alike have realized a loss of something once taken for granted….steady access to live music. Applause to the Cultured Pearl and Susan Wood for supporting and promoting live music and working to create an “event” on Sundays. On the entertainment list, The Eddie Sherman Show, the Pam Miller Band, Jay Hoad and Justine Miller and Bay Jazz. Now we have to return the effort and show our support. Go, eat, drink, enjoy live music and bring the whole family.
The Pearl offers a kid’s package during brunch that includes a “little pearl activity meal” and a Japanese activity session. So, while the grown-ups dine, the little ones can learn origami or Japanese fan painting in their own supervised activity room.
Food abounds. There is a full sushi menu and, in addition, you will find traditional brunch/egg fare…try the seafood scramble… and a lunch menu with the likes of Kobe beef grinders, vegetable tempura and cream of crab soup. Don’t forget the libations….enjoy a twist on the classic mimosa, the sakeosa or a great bloody mary.
Our server, Bridgette, was exceptional. It was not just great service that made her stand out, it was a tremendous amount of ownership and enthusiasm she had for the food and the concept of the jazz brunch and the Pearl organization. This was another testament to Susan Wood, her business savvy and leadership.
Susan discussed her own take on an economic relief package for Pearl Club members on Monday nights….a complete sushi dinner for $10. The Pearl employs approximately 100 people in full-season and off-season, Susan is on a mission to retain her valued employees. So, this night is designed simply to break-even and keep staff on a full schedule. In these tough economic times, it was refreshing to hear about the hard work and dedication to generate business and retain employees vs. the next measure to simply cut costs.
This is a long post, but hey, there is a lot going on at the Cultured Pearl. I would be remiss if I did not mention the fabulous shops below the restaurant. A wine shop, jewelry, shoes, and the Pearl’s own gifts shop are some of the offerings. Do yourself a favor before the holidays and make this a destination. You will not be disappointed.
And, to all the staff at the Cultured Pearl and to the musicians making it happen…….thank you.
