This evening Jen and I were invited for a special unveiling of the new Spring menu at the Oakbrook restaurant El Tapeo. It was a tapas fest as Chef Matthew Cappellini ‘s creations were served at a VIP tasting in the Le Meridien hotel on the ninth floor. Guests were welcomed with yummy glasses of sangria. With the sweet flavor and fruit , I called the drink Hawaiian punch for adults.
Everyone enjoyed networking while sampling some of Chef Cappellini’s dishes. My personal favorites included the Paella de Diablo . This traditional Spanish dish gave off a little spice , but was filled with spicy chorizo, shrimp, chicken, peas, peppers , and spicy aioli. It presented quite a colorful picture. It was also delicious.
My two favorite tapas included the Viera Borracha and Croquettas de Pollo . I fell in love with the tarragon mustard dip that accompanied the croquettes. They were so good that Jen insisted on a plate of them to munch on.
But the one dish that absolutely captured my heart was the Tarta de Rujubabo . The rhubarb and strawberry tart took me back to my late grandmother’s strawberry and rhubarb jelly. But the mint puree and champagne sorbet certainly added to the dainty dessert.
Diego Alonso entertained guests and set the tone with his Spanish guitar
Everyone was so friendly and hospitable, especially Melanie. We bonded and she told me about how awesome that Le Meredien was. I told her that we will definitely come back to enjoy the hotel and the great shopping .
El Tapa is located in the beautiful Oakbrook Center at the Le Meridien hotel. Come to the ninth floor bistro for a taste experience that you won’t soon forget.
ChitownConnections 