OMNI PARKER HOUSE HOSTS 69TH ANNUAL LES AMIS D’ESCOFFIER DINNER
Boston, MA (November, 18, 2008) — On November 2, 2008, the Omni Parker House hosted the 69th Annual Dinner of Les Amis D’Escoffier Society Boston, attended by 70 Society members and guests. The classic eight-course French menu included pan-seared scallops, duck consommé, roasted turbot, Tornedo Rossini and soufflé Grand Marnier – all paired with exceptional French wines and served amidst the historic and elegant confines of the hotel’s main dining room, Parker’s Restaurant.
John Vyhnanek, President, and Marshall Berenson, Vice President, of Boston’s Escoffier Society, wanted their members to experience the venue that hosted the group thirty years earlier in 1978. The food and beverage team of the historic Omni Parker House eagerly accepted this unique opportunity to showcase the property’s fine dining capabilities to knowledgeable gourmets. The Parker House team quickly developed a menu and wine selections to satisfy the Society’s high culinary standards.
After the dinner, the Omni Parker House received relentless praise and admiration. Society member Gordon Silver wrote to John Murtha, general manager of the Omni Parker House, “I have attended a number of previous dinners for the Escoffier Society and therefore had very high expectations for the food and service. You and your staff substantially exceeded the highest expectations in all respects.”
“It was an honor to be chosen to host this event. The timing and professionalism of the entire staff was exceptional. It was a privilege to demonstrate our culinary talents and service skills to such a prestigious group”, commented Omni Parker House Executive Chef Gerard Tice.
Les Amis d’Escoffier was established in the 1930s to honor Auguste Escoffier, a French chef, restaurateur and culinary writer who popularized and updated traditional French cooking methods. He is considered one of the most important leaders in the development of modern French cuisine. Escoffier not only established French culinary arts, he elevated the profession of cooking by introducing a high level of education, cleanliness and discipline to his kitchens.
As stated in the 1938 Constitution and By-Laws of the Society, their aim is to bring together members of the culinary profession and loyal friends who appreciate good food and good wine; men who believe in the adage “Live and Let Live” and place sincere friendship “above all else.” While Les Amis D’Escoffier Society members are men, in 1959, Les Dames des Amis D’Escoffier was established to promote and support the achievements of women in the culinary arts.
ABOUT THE OMNI PARKER HOUSE HOTEL
The Omni Parker House is America’s longest continuously operating luxury hotel and remains one of its most elegantly refined. Located in historic downtown Boston on the Freedom Trail, the venerable Omni Parker House Hotel opened its doors in 1855 and offers distinguished décor and thoughtful amenities in each of the 551 luxurious accommodations.
Omni Hotels creates compelling, memorable guest experiences by tempting the senses in innovative ways, surrounding them with a balanced blend of scents, sounds, sights, textures and tastes. Omni Hotels offers luxury accommodations at 45 hotels and resorts in leading business gateways and leisure destinations across North America. From exceptional golf and spa retreats to dynamic business settings, each location features four-diamond services, including award-winning signature restaurants and unique fitness options. Omni’s mission for total customer service is further supported by its “Power of One” program that empowers associates to make on-the-spot decisions to meet or exceed guest expectations. Guests can locate hotels and book accommodations by visiting www.omnihotels.com or by calling 1-800-THE-OMNI.