День Москвы is pronounced as "Den' Moskvy" and translates to "Moscow Day".  I'm still not sure how to pronounce "Den' Moskvy" but just ask Denis or Heather! If you are wondering what the many brackets are doing in the title of this theme, well, while googling "Facts about Russia", I learned that the number of brackets denotes the importance of the message... This many brackets means this Den' Moskvy Dinner Party is going to be a "FANTASTIC BLOW-OUT EXTRAVAGANZA"!  (Denis will have to correct me if this Russian...

Moscow Mules:  Heather & Eric What comes to mind to drink on "Moscow Day" - Moscow Mules of course!  Heather & Eric brought all the fixings and filled up our copper mugs with a delicious rendition of one of our favorites! The vodka was of true Russian origin as was the selection of Russian wine and beer.  But beware of the 9% Lobster Beer!!!   3rd Place Winner:  Culinary Couples Year One - Best Drink! Recipe:  http://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/moscow-mule...

Russian Appetizers:  Ryan & MJ We hoped that Ryan & MJ had gone to a different Russian store than Heather because they definitely weren't going to the same День Москвы according to the saleswoman! Ryan & MJ delighted us with their fine selection of Russian Meats, Russian Bread & Butter, Russian Red Caviar Deviled Eggs, and Red Caviar Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups! Recipes: Russian Red Caviar Deviled Eggs: 3 eggs, hard boiled and halved, lengthwise 4 spring onions finely sliced 2 tbsp mayonnaise 1/4...

Kharcho, Shashlik, Salad "Olivier" & Russian Salad:  Katie & Denis Our expectations were set high, coming to a День Москвы at the home of a true Russian, and we were not disappointed! Katie warned us to come hungry, and she was right.... We started out with the first course of Kharcho (Georgian Lamb Soup)... amazing!!! The second  course consisted of Shashlik (braised pork shoulder) with a delicious Satsebeli sauce and two beautiful Russian salads!  I think I could move to Russia :)  ...

Наполеон "Napoleon" Cake:  Ann & Jason Although this cake is of French origin, it has been adapted, adopted and fully nationalized by Russians, as THE Russian cake. I have to admit I was a bit intimidated when I read the recipe (and after 6 hours... and what looked like a giant cocaine party in my kitchen later... I realized why!) but it was definitely worth the effort. Although a tad on the runny side (yep still not sure what went wrong with the custard!), the presentation could have been better, but...