And he is highly irritated when people expect to find Mexican or Central American food at his very traditional European restaurant. Chef Pepe and his partner, Antonio Aybar, opened Cafe Madrid late in 1997. Chef Pepe, who says he has been cooking for more years than he can remember is one of seven Master Chefs in Maryland. Antonio, the front of the house manager, worked at Boccocia's for many years. Cafe Madrid features classic Spanish cuisine, using of course Spanish olive oil, sherry, saffron and wines.
Paella is one of Spain's most well known rice dishes.
Saffron-scented rice is cooked with a combination of ingredients, generally seafood, chicken, chorizo, onions, peppers and served in a special wide and shallow pan. Chef Pepe explained that Zaruela is the traditional opera style from Madrid and his dish features seafood sauteed in a rich lobster sauce finished with brandy, is a tribute to Placido Domingo. Cafe Madrid makes a specialty of old-fashioned, flamboyant tableside service. The Rack of Lamb Casa Botin is flambeed and carved at the table and served with a fresh mint and garlic sauce. For a more European finish to the meal, there is a cheese and fruit platter, featuring Manchego, a mild, semi-soft sheep's milk cheese imported from Spain.