Locals invited to Share Table, Food & Sangria with Valpo’s Chefs Thursday, 10/9
Chefs Night Out invites Valpo to celebrate great food, meet the chefs, and enjoy a themed evening at Don Quijote. Sit at the Chef’s Table for a curated tasting with stories from the kitchen or order your favorites from the regular menu while chefs visit tables throughout the night.
How Chefs Night Out Works
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When: Thursday, 10/9
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Where: Don Quijote Restaurant, Valparaiso
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Theme: Black Paella, Tapas, and Sangria
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Who’s invited: Everyone who loves great food and friendly conversation
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Extras: Photos and short video captured for future recaps; vendor sponsors welcome for tastings and pairings
Choose Your Experience
Option 1: The Chef’s Table
Sit with the hosts and eat what they eat. This limited-seating, fixed-menu experience is curated by Chef Carlos, often featuring off-menu items, chef stories, and behind-the-scenes insights.
Price: $50 per guest. Includes everything shared with the chefs. Carlos will serve a rare seafood version of paella, called Black Paella (see below), tapas, and sangria.
Includes: Multi-course experience, and spirited conversations with Valpo’s Chefs
Best for: Food lovers who enjoy surprises and direct time with the chef
RESERVATIONS LINK
Option 2: Order From the Menu
Prefer your favorites or have dietary needs. Order from the regular Don Quijote menu and still enjoy the spirit of the night. Chefs and owners will circulate and visit tables, much like a wedding reception.
Price: Standard menu pricing
Includes: Chef visits, themed specials, and a lively dining room
Best for: Guests who want flexibility with a side of culinary theater
Black Paella — Explained
If you love deep seafood flavors and a creamy, ocean-savory finish, you will love this special version called black paella.
How Don Quijote’s black paella (arroz negro) differs from traditional paella:
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Color and look: Squid ink turns the rice a deep, glossy black. Traditional paella gets its golden color from saffron and paprika.
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Flavor profile: Black paella tastes briny, savory, and slightly sweet from the ink, with deep umami from seafood stock. Traditional paella leans warm and aromatic from saffron, smoked paprika, and sofrito.
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Seafood focus: Arroz negro is typically centered on cuttlefish or squid, often with prawns or mussels. Classic paella can be mixed, seafood-only, or Valencian with chicken, and beans.
Why This Night Is Special
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Connection: Share the table with Valpo’s chefs and owners
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Creativity: A themed menu that spotlights regional Spanish culture, tradition and flavors
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Community: A relaxed, welcoming night designed for conversation and good food
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Access: Two formats so everyone can join the celebration
Reserve Your Spot
Chef’s Table seats are limited. Reserve early. If you prefer menu dining, book a standard table and enjoy chef visits and themed specials. Share any allergies or dietary needs when you book.
After the Event
Look for a photo gallery and short recap video on social channels. Have an idea for a future theme or want to sponsor a pairing? Reach out to the team at Don Quijote.
