It will resemble a plate of food, as I predicted.

Yes, that means a creamy sauce.

It just sounded good.

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

I did eat salad first, though.

And today is my birthday!

lounge nestled in downtown Scottsdale.

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

On special nights, I like to start with a little bubbly.

Our cocktail server recommended their signature drink, Redux (pronounced ray-doo).

Have mercy on me!

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

Sorry these photos are so dark - photos with bright flashes scare me.

I could have eaten just that with the pretzel bread and been a very happy girl.

Oh yes, and French fries, one of my favorites.

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

I try not to order them often, but will eagerly steal from my dinner companion’s plate.

Swedish meatballs adorn the plate underneath.

Oh no, and oysters Rockefeller, which I typically love, but did not care for these.

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

These cupcakes from Brook’s Creations had a citrusy flavor and chocolate toffee flavor, and were just divine.

Now I must go pack.

Tomorrow I leave for Austin to attend the International Association of Culinary Professionals Conference.

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

Time to put my eating shoes on.

Oh, how I love my job!

You may even spot me brushing elbows with Jacques Pepin.

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

I look forward to seeing you again on June 8.

I would love to know, which dessert do you request for your birthday?

Vote for Michelle to be SELF’s next Eat Like Me Blogger!

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

They’ll blog about every bite they eat and share their nutritional know-how all month long.

The R.D.s will take turns blogging from May 16-June 10.

Vote for your favorite!

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

She is a writer, television personality and recipe developer through her consulting firm, Chef Dudash Nutrition.

She is competing in theEat Like Meblog-off to become SELF’s next blogger.

Michelle’s Gorgonzola Pasta Lunch Birthday Dinner

Image may contain Blonde Girl Human Female Teen Kid Child Person Woman Face Clothing Apparel and Smile