Over the weekend at an undisclosed time and in an undisclosed location, Otis and I were privileged to attend 'Deathmatch Bizarre Foods,' which was filmed by a production crew for the purpose of broadcast on the Travel Channel's show Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern. We had to sign our names in blood that we would not reveal what transpired there.

Actually, it was Sunday from 10:30 to 3:45, on one of the islands in Casco Bay, and we blogger/writers were asked only not to reveal the specifics of the location and the details of the foods, until after the show airs this fall. That leaves plenty to talk about.

I cannot imagine a more glorious day to hop on a boat and cruise out to a gorgeous semi-private island in order to drink wine and eat food prepared by some of the most fabulously inventive chefs in New England.

I think it hit 90-something in Portland, but on the island there was practically no humidity, and a light breeze. The sky was a perfect blue, and although for about half an hour it looked like the sea fog might roll in, it never did. It's one of those days where you don't realize how strong the sun is, and end up with a ridiculous sunburn. In my case, I was lucky that Sean, another guest non-chef like me (she's a lawyer, actually-- but equally passionate about food) had the foresight to bring some sunscreen and the grace to offer it around. I only missed one spot on the back of my left arm, which is now bright red.

As the title implies, the overall theme of the deathmatch was 'bizarre foods'-- but that wasn't all there was to it. The dishes also all shared a common genesis: traditional Maine ingredients. From Allen's Coffee Brandy to Maine moose meat, each dish had a twist that was uniquely local. As noted above, I've been asked not to reveal too much-- so all I will say is that kombu butter sandwiches are delicious.

The entire experience was fabulous. Sam and Don from Rabelais Books reveal a little more in their blog, and Japanese hand-roll roller extraordinaire Johhny D shared some detail in the eGullet forums, if you're really hungering for more.

I'll post again when I know when the episode is going to air-- it sounds like it might be the season finale for the show this fall, which is flattering to Maine! I should also note that Andrew Zimmern is an awfully nice guy; his crew were all great, too.

I can't wait to see the show! By the way, for my faithful readers, you shouldn't expect to see much of me in the footage-- I was never interviewed or anything so I will just be there as background. Which is just as well, because I couldn't get a hair appointment in time, and my roots were wicked bad. Regardless, when the time comes, you can look for me wearing the pink and white striped pants and white shirt. I'll be drinking white wine and smiling ear-to-ear.

Don't forget to check out Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern on the Travel Channel this Tuesday, November 18, which features the Maine Foods Deathmatch.

If you look carefully, you may be able to see yours truly in the background. I wasn't interviewed or anything.

Portland Psst provides a good rundown of the Deathmatch media coverage here.

If you have time, you should try out the always-fabulous Joe Ricchio's Sweet Corn and Duck Soup with Smoked Chiles. It was truly phenomenally delicious. And I don't even really like duck!