For Immediate Release
For Further Information Please Contact:
Paul Hirsch for Purple Orchid Inn
(925) 736-0976; [email protected]

2004 Guest Chef Theatre Series
Kicks Off With Spanish Fiesta on April 16

Authentic Spanish Food, Wine and Entertainment
Featured at Livermore's Purple Orchid Inn

LIVERMORE, CA—March 8, 2004—The most unique dining experience in the Tri Valley Area begins its 2004 series on April 16 with an authentic Spanish Fiesta served up and narrated by renowned local chefs Enrique Gomez and Joe Rodrigues at the Purple Orchid Inn, 4549 Cross Rd. in Livermore. Reservations can be made by calling 925-606-8855.

"I have heard a lot of wonderful things about Guest Chef Theatre and the Purple Orchid Inn," said Gomez. "I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with Joe Rodrigues, and share my expertise with our guests."

Master European Chef Jorge Fernandez trained Gomez in Spain over several months. Gomez applies his trade at Mexxi's Restaurant in San Ramon, where he serves as owner and executive chef. "Enrique's background is unique," Rodrigues said. "Very few people in the world can make authentic paella, and Jorge Fernandez is an absolute legend among chefs." Rodrigues, owner of Valley Catering in Dublin, is a Certified Executive Chef who has also trained on several continents.

Gomez's paella will be a jambalaya-like mixture of chorizo, swordfish, mussels, clams, prawns, rice imported from Spain, saffron, roasted peppers, risotto, and broth. It will be prepared in an imported paella pan, and Gomez promises it will be a palette-altering experience for guests. "Once you've had authentic paella you will not be able to settle for the imitations offered at many places in this country," he said.

Karen Hughes, owner of the Purple Orchid Inn, is adding her own spice to the 2004 opener. "I'm bringing in Flamenco Dancers and guitarists," she said. "My goal is to transport guests to Spain without getting on a plane." Hughes also said that rooms at the Inn would be discounted $20 for Guest Chef Theatre patrons who would like to spend the night.

As usual, the cost for Guest Chef Theatre is an all-inclusive $95 per person. Guests will enjoy a wine and appetizer reception beginning at 7 pm featuring tapas (Spanish appetizers) and wine made from Spain's Tempanillo grape. Five-minute chair massages will be available along with autographed pictures of Gomez and Rodrigues with each party. Cedar Mountain Winery and Tenuta Vineyards, both of Livermore, will pour. The chefs will narrate the dinner, as per Guest Chef Theatre custom, and instruct guests on how to prepare a similar meal at home. The main event will take place inside the Olive Branch Event Center beginning at 8 pm.

Larger parties can purchase tables of eight, 10 or 12 at a discount. "Group tables are a great way to celebrate and occasion, entertain customers, or reward employees," Hughes said.

"I've been in the food business for close to 25 years, and Guest Chef Theatre at the Purple Orchid Inn is the most unique event I have run across," said Rodrigues, who has worked all of them, including those coming up on July 8 and October 16.

"What I will show guests is how to appreciate the soul of Spanish cooking and eating, and how to recognize authenticity when they see it," Gomez said, a first time chef at the Purple Orchid Inn series.

"Culture is an important element of the Inn experience, and Enrique and Joe are helping us carry on that tradition," said Hughes.