Chicago Trade shows boast fun and lavish parties at night, and WOW was I in for an unexpected surprise. We were three of only 24 people invited to privately dine at Chef Rick Bayless's famous Frontera Grill's test kitchen, which is above the restaurant itself. We were greeted by the most wonderful host, Raymond, who immediately offered us one of Rick's perfect margarita's (best I've ever had) and guacamole (to die for).
After the hors d'oeuevres round we were seated at our table and presented with a personalized menu. Yes, it had our name printed at the top which read "Bienvenidos Paula Elert". How cool is that? We went on to enjoy a five course meal courtesy of Rick's protege - a young man who is originally from Mexico. I could list the whole menu here, but I'll spare the reading in this paragraph and rather post a pic of it. The five courses were each paired with an absolutely delicious wine which was either international or domestic. One thing that I know Chef Bayless likes to do is demonstrate how wine can be well paired with Mexican food. The wine selection (chosen by rick's sommelier) hit the nail on the head - perfect flavors, perfect pairings - I literally teared up (although that probably had a little to with the wine itself). These amazing pairings made for a culinary experience I will never forget. Something else that stood out is that although not on the menu, the chef served us corn tortillas that his grandmother used to make simply because he wanted to share with us the delicious recipe he grew up knowing as a child; one he draws inspiration from. This was a sweet, romantic touch to an already splendid meal.
The height of the evening was when Rick himself showed up (and with all that wine in me I kind of had a mini freak out because, after all, he is a rockstar in my eyes). He had to leave quickly for another gig, but Raymond was kind enough to get us a picture with Rick. I thanked Chef Bayless and told him it's because of him that my husband and I run all over southern Baja in search of delectable, regional flavors. He let out a little laugh.
This was a magical dinner and a magical evening, one I couldn't have begged for. I feel like I won the culinary lottery. I am forever grateful to my employer and to Lennox who sponsored this dinner.
