Members of the San Antonio Mondiale gathered on September 19 for dinner and wine with a Spanish flair - very appropriate for la Ciudad de San Antonio, a very important place in Spanish Colonial history in North America.  The location for this lively evening was Restaurant Insignia in the historic Fairmount Hotel in downtown San Antonio.  The Fairmount Hotel dates to 1906, and in 1984 it looked like it might be demolished in the interest of "progress".  However, instead a decision was made to move the entire structure five blocks to a new home right next to La Villita National Historic District.  The move was such a monumental task that the Guinness Book of World Records noted it as the largest structure ever moved on wheels.  It was quite a sight to watch!  It now operates as a 37 room luxury hotel in the Victorian style, but with modern amenities.  In October 2009, a new restaurant began operation in the hotel’s restaurant space.  Restaurant Insignia is the fifth restaurant Jason Dady has opened in San Antonio, but his first in the downtown area.  He is the Executive Chef/Owner of The Lodge Restaurant of Castle Hills, Bin 555 Restaurant & Wine Bar, Tre Trattoria and Two Bros. BBQ Market.   Jason, a young chef who has won many awards and accolades, prepared a five-course meal which was paired with wines from Bodegas Inurrieta. 

The first course of our dinner was Saffron Mussel Bisque with Tomato "Jam" and Crostini.  The second course was Mixed Greens with Spanish Chorizo, Olive Tapenade, Manchego and Cherry Tomato.  The third course was Roasted Chicken and Sausage Paella with Saffron Rice and Garlic Aioli.  The Entrée was Sous Vide New York Strip with "Patalas Bravas", Pearl Onions and Spanish Paprika.  Dessert was Chef Dady's Signature Nutella Torte with Berry Jam.

A special "well done" is appropriate for our Vice Echanson Larry Cohen who did all the leg work and coordination for this event -- Thanks Larry. We are looking forward to seeing additional events such as this in the near future.