20 Years Young And Hot As Ever-- Serrano Restaurant Debuts New Chef

For Immediate Release
Press Announcement
20 Years Young and Hot as Ever-- Serrano Restaurant Debuts New Chef

Old City, Philadelphia - May 10, 200 Serrano Restaurant celebrates its 20th year anniversary this June with a new chef, new menu features and a rededication to its international home cooking roots. Craig Wilson returns to Serrano as executive chef after a seven-year culinary adventure traveling and cooking throughout the world. Most recently Wilson earned rave reviews at Saga, rated the number one Manhattan late night dining spot by City Search.

For the last 20 years, Serrano owners Rich Machlin and Jude Erwin, have remained true to their founding premise - international fare at neighborhood prices. Serrano's menu features a variety of dishes from many countries with fresh, pure, healthful ingredients. In celebrating their anniversary they are introducing a new menu featuring Serrano's flavor-fueled favorites along with some new additions from recently-appointed Chef Wilson.

"Since returning, I have re-developed a number of Serrano's signature dishes," said Wilson. "I layer the Thai Bouillabaisse with natural herbs and spices making each bite a unique experience. I am also introducing a Cheese Plate featuring a changing selection of artisan cheeses complemented by fresh fruit and condiments."

In addition, Wilson will also introduce a daily Ceviche Shooter Trio. A typical offering will consist of Ahi Tuna with Pineapple, Coconut Milk and Mint; Tiger Shrimp with a Sweet Lime and Chili Marinade; and Chilean Salmon with Dill, Cucumber and Radish.

Chef Wilson credits his culinary travels with influencing the way he cooks today. "Visiting and studying in Thailand totally inspired me, helped me to further develop my style and skills in traditional ethnic cuisine and strengthened my ties and love for Asian cuisine. I truly realized the importance of working with incredibly fresh, healthy ingredients. This helped me break away from the European roots of long cooking processes. It was so completely different. From the tree, to your hands, to the pan, to your mouth...all in the course of an hour or less.

The experience helped me realize that even complex flavors can be
achieved with fresh, simple combinations of ingredients. At Serrano, I apply my own variations to the international techniques I have learned throughout my travels. I enjoy the complex layering of spices, herbs and fresh ingredients using simple cooking techniques."

Upstairs at Serrano, is Tin Angel, the popular Acoustic Cafi featuring top national and local performers. Tin Angel offers candle lit table seating with great coffees, cappuccinos, teas, liquors and wine. Specialty desserts created by owner Jude Erwin are also featured.

Serrano is located at 20 South Second Street, Philadelphia, PA. For further information contact Serrano at 215.928.0770 or check us out at www.tinangel.com

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