Savor Spain in NYC: El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade

There are several words in Spanish that get me quite excited - Antonio Banderas, más vino, and paella! My love affair with paella, Spain's signature rice dish, began when I was a student in Barcelona and it has yet to wane. I'm always searching for the best paella in New York City and thanks to the organizers of the 4th Annual El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade, I don't have to look far. Produced by Frederick Wildman & Sons (wine & spirits importers), this savory celebration showcases some of the best paella making restaurants around town. The paella interpretations range from classic to modern and are served with the wonderful wines of El Coto de Rioja - the leading brand in Spain. The outdoor preparation of the paella in traditional pans really enhances the authenticity of the celebration. I've attended El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade twice before and it is one of my favorite food events.

El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade is scheduled for Monday, October 1st from 6-9pm at Beekman Beer Garden (North Side of Pier 17 at South Street Seaport). The price is $50 per person and $90 for two and includes generous sample portions of all paellas and wines from El Coto de Rioja. Participating restaurants include Lizarran, El Paso Restaurant, Solera, Sala 19, Pampano, Chelsea Market and more. Click here to order tickets.  A portion of the proceeds will benefit Action Against Hunger and New York City College of Technology, Department of Hospitality Management.

PS. I could not resist including this delicious photo of Antonio Banderas preparing paella. He won't be at El Coto de Rioja Paella Parade but a chica can dream!