Sabores Auténticos de México

This year marks both the bicentennial of the start of Mexico's fight for independence from Spain and the centennial of the first year of the Mexican Revolution. In celebration of these milestones and on behalf of the government of Mexico, local nonprofit MexNet Alliance is presenting Sabores Auténticos de México, a black-tie gala to be held at the Long Center for the Performing Arts and one of only five stops of the Authentic Flavors of México tour. Eleven of the best Mexican cuisine chefs in Texas will present an authentic menu from 1810, the year the Mexican indepen­dence movement started. The evening's festivities will be accompanied by mariachi music.

The general theme for these gala celebrations was developed by former Austin chef Roberto Santibañez, culinary curator of the series, and mixologist Junior Merino, who will serve hand-crafted cocktails especially designed for the occasion. David Garrido, the coordinating chef for Texas, selected the participating chefs and designed the menu in consultation with historian José Luis Curiel, president of the Mexican Society of Gastronomy and Enology. Fonda San Miguel owner Tom Gilliland made important recommendations to the organizers and secured the participation of guest of honor Diana Kennedy, who will present her newest book: Oaxaca al Gusto: An Infinite Gastronomy (University of Texas Press). Miguel Ravago, Jeff Martinez from Fonda San Miguel, and MariCarmen Corona Dale from Las Palomas will be among the participating chefs.

Tickets are $250 for the dinner only and are available at the Long Center and at www.saborestexas.org. VIP tickets ($400) include a predinner cocktail party and a signed copy of Kennedy's new book; those may be purchased through the Long Center or by e-mailing [email protected]. Monday, Sept. 13: preparty, 6pm; awards, 7pm, followed by dinner.