When Vittles' Editor asked me to write a review of the White House Restaurant for his News letter, I was divided:” What can I possibly write that everyone in Orange County and Los Angeles County does not already know about the White House Restaurant in Anaheim”! .Everyone who enjoys fine dining in a unique setting knows about The White House, including Hollywood and Political celebrities like Andrea Bocelli, Rita Moreno, Jimmy Carter, George Bush junior and many more, the list is endless.
The Restaurant is located in a 1909 historical national landmark, a beautiful Victorian style home which, in the early 20th century, was surrounded by orange groves. When converted to a restaurant, very few changes were made to the property. Most rooms retained their original size and shape. The brick fireplace in the main dining room and many of the windows are original.
The White House was a fine restaurant from its beginnings, but it is Bruno Serato, an Italian immigrant who took over the ownership in 1987, who made it the beauty it is today. The restaurant has 11 private dining rooms, each one beautifully decorated with crystal chandeliers, rich draperies and paintings. The Ronald Reagon room can accommodate 50, the Barack Obama room 20, the Richard Nixon room 20, the George Washington room 20, the Jimmy carter room 20, The Thomas Jefferson room 22, the Abraham Lincoln room 24, the Franklin Roosevelt room 24, the George Bush room 20, the John F Kennedy 80 and the new addition to the White House, the West Wing banquet hall, detached building inaugurated in November 2009, is perfect for weddings with its capacity of 180.
We truly enjoyed our chat with Bruno Serato. The best way to describe him is a” Renaissance man”: Charming, successful entrepreneur, gourmet, sponsor of the arts and philanthropist.
The menu of the White House reflects the richness of its owner’s personality and his multi national European background. Bruno lived in France up to the age of 12 before returning to his hometown of Verona, Italy. He actually speaks perfect French. However, when we asked him to define his menu, Bruno said “international”. At first we were surprised, as we always thought the menu to be Northern Italian and French but, as we gave it more thought, we saw his point. Culinary arts are not frozen in time. In the last 50 years French and Italian cuisines have been strongly influenced by the tastes of the immigrant population. The White House of Anaheim acknowledged the evolution and embraced it. Harrisa, ginger, soy, give traditional dishes a new dimension. Rice paper, phyllo dough a new look, a new texture. Bruno Serato is right, contemporary Italian and French cuisines are international cuisines.
When we dine at the White House of Anaheim , we normally order the Escargot Dior: Bourgogne snails baked with garlic herb in Pernod flambé. The Pernod makes all the difference. The Julia Child coq au vin: chicken simmered in a rich pinot noir wine sauce with brown braised onions and mushrooms is also one of our favorite as well as the Beef bourguignon Bruno, French beef stew with an Italian twist. Chianti is used instead of a French Bourgogne and it is topped with sour cream. Seafood lovers must try the Sea Bass Versace: Fresh Sea Bass baked in a parchment basket, presented in a saffron and seafood infusion.
For vegetarians guests we strongly recommend the Vegan Couscous Valentino: Couscous prepared in vegetable broth with seasonal vegetables and a lentil puree. Whatever your selection, your plate will be a delight for the eyes as much as for the palate. Eddie Meza, chef de cuisine, is a presentation master.
Do not forget to check the wine list. The award-winning cellar of the restaurant offers over 200 Californian and European wines. The service is perfect.
Bruno Serato’s philosophy is simple: to treat each and every one of his patrons as a distinguished guest in his home. Although a celebrity owner, he has a star in the Anaheim Walk of Fame, Bruno Serato took the time, in his busy schedule, to share with us some of his thoughts and projects regarding the White House.
When you plan an upscale party, think White House of Anaheim for off premises outstanding catering service. Let all your out of town friends and acquaintances visiting Anaheim know that, upon diner reservation, The White House provides free Limo service .
There is a lot, which is not commonly known about the White House of Anaheim. This is not only one of the finest restaurants of Southern California; it is a powerhouse, which gives back to the community. In 2003 Bruno Serato realized his long time dream, creating, to honor his mother, a charity in her name. Caterina’s Girls Club was born. Caterina’s members gather monthly for lunch at the White House. Proceeds from the luncheon go 100% to the club. Since its inauguration Caterina’s Girls Club has raised over a quarter million dollars for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Anaheim and serves 150 hot meals, nightly, to local underprivileged children. .
It is too late for this year, but get ready for next year. Calling all engaged couples! Make a dinner reservation to dine at The White House between February 12 and 16 and specify that you wish to enter the Valentine’s Day contest. The White House will pay for the wedding of the winners from A to Z for up to 100 guests at the newly unveiled West Wing Banquet Hall. The package is valued at nearly $ 40,000. -
The White House of Anaheim is located, close to freeways, Disneyland, Angel’s stadium, Honda Center: 887 South Anaheim blvd, Anaheim Ca 92805. Reservations (714) 772 1381 FAX (714) 772-7062 www.anaheimwhitehouse.com.
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