Romeo & Julieta Celebrates 30 Years
On November 19, 2016, about 120 special guests were invited to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Romeo & Julieta Ristorante with a six-course dinner prepared by an array of guest chefs.
From the moment the invited guests stepped upon the red carpet leading to the front door, they knew they were in for some surprises. Two colorfully costumed stilt walkers greeted guests adding to the festive atmosphere. Cocktail tables were topped with gold sequined coverings so that early arrivals could enjoy welcome beverages and canapés. A projection screen showed scenes of the restaurant as it looked 30 years ago, and the changes made through the years, plus photos of long-time staff members.
Thirty years may not seem like a milestone, but Cabo San Lucas is a relatively young community and 30 years in business is an achievement, proving that whatever they have been doing, they’ve been doing it right. In the early 1980’s, there were only a few eating establishments. Luis Bulness, one of the pioneers of the area and developer of such projects as Solmar and Playa Grande Resorts, brought Raffaelle Di Maio to Cabo San Lucas to open two restaurants, one being Romeo & Julieta. He started with traditional Italian dishes, experimenting to determine what the public wanted in Italian fare. Through the years, and especially since the arrival of Executive Chef Matias Forte, new dishes have been introduced, while maintaining respect for the timeworn dishes that diners have come to expect.
Guests for this special event were directed into one of the several dining areas where floral arrangements and candles added to the elegant atmosphere. A strolling magician entertained with slight-of-hand card tricks. The social period was followed by an eclectic fashion show that took place in the open patio where guests were seated at assigned tables. Long red carpets outlined the runway for models to parade high fashion designer clothes by Miss R Boutique. A large screen projected the models live as they entered the runway, as well as the activity in the kitchen preparing the various dishes for the celebration.
A brief program was conducted in both Spanish and English by Nancy Olvera, Director of Public Relations for the restaurant, who told a little of the history of Romeo & Julieta. A toast of Prosecco was made to Felix Lopez who has served the restaurant well for thirty years in many capacities and currently is captain of Romeo & Julieta, and to bartender Gustavo Enriguez for his 27 years’ service. A gift was presented to Francisco “Paco” Bulness, son of founder, Luis Bulness, and now owner and C.E.O. of the Solmar Group. The guest chefs were introduced who participated in the gourmet dinner. Chef Matias Forte gave a warm welcome. He and his staff did all the planning and execution of the event. Music throughout the evening was performed by Luciano Pavan on his electric violin and classical guitar by Roberto Fiallo. The event ended with a beautiful display of fireworks. Upon leaving, each guest was presented with a wine goblet etched with the restaurant’s logo and date of this memorable celebration.
Romeo & Julieta has become a cornerstone of Cabo’s dining scene and remains progressive in planning for the future. Music is presented seven nights a week, and the restaurant prides itself in offering special events for weddings, anniversaries and birthdays. (624) 143-0225), http://restaurantromeoyjulieta.com/
SANDRA A. BERRY • Copy Editor · Writer · Proof Reader
Specializing in Direct Market Written Communication
Phone: (624) 143.4469 · Cell: (624) 125.6056
berrywrites@yahoo.com • www.sandraberry.com
Photos: Francisco Estrada • PhotoMexico.com