As the lunch rush was at its peak today, three black suburbans followed by numerous C.H.P. motorcycles parked in front of the restaurant. The patios were filled with guests enjoying the newly found sun so early in the year. In the kitchen, tickets were already flying out of the printer, “Enchiladas verdes dos veces, una chuleta y un taco especial llegando,” Pablo announced to us. Then through the kitchen doors Oscar C. and Noe in nervous anticipation yelled, “Ya llegaron!- They’re here!”
The governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, the ambassador of Mexico to the United States as well as Sacramento’s consulate arrived. The Morelia room, was in tip-top shape with six perfect settings ready for their place in an important day for us. We made a special agua fresca, with carrots, strawberry and agave nectar. I had to strain the heck out of it because of the amount of pulp but it was worth it. We then started them with a halibut carpaccio marinated in serrano chiles and lime juice topped off with a tomato and avocado salad tossed in olive oil. As their meeting took place tickets in the kitchen continued- a party of 25 with a 3-course meal, 2-tops, to-go orders from the bartender. Timing wasn’t on our side but with a strong team the flow continued. Oscar placed his order for their table and with shaky hands we plated their entrees. Three salads and three plates of tacos were passed on to Oscar with a “Don’t smudge the rim of the plate with your fingers,” comment. Ernesto had the idea of finishing their meal of with chocolates from Ginger Elizabeth’s. It was a great personal touch that gave just enough sweetness to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth. The nerves have finally calmed and everything is back to normal. The food tickets have come to a halt and preparation for dinner continues with the sound of knives slicing and dicing through produce, always with the radio blaring nortena music. Today, we cooked for kings and it was an experience I felt obliged to share with you through this blog!
