National Tequila Day is a good excuse for a margarita, but Pat and Emmitt Smith saw it as an even greater reason to host a dinner at Mesero and raise money for their charities.
On July 23, one day prior to the salt-rimmed and lime-soaked holiday, generous guests donated $1,000 per couple to enjoy a delicious dinner hosted by Mico Rodriguez and paired with Tequila Herradura cocktails. Ruben Aceves, global brand ambassador for Tequila Herradura, walked guests through a tasting that included Herradura Silver, Reposado, Ultra and Seleccion Suprema. The latter is Herradura's top-of-the-line tequila, priced at approximately $350 a bottle.
Guests also had the opportunity to see — and snap photos of — a live agave harvest done by Jose Cortes, a third-generation Jimador from the Casa Herradura distillery in Amatitan, Mexico.
While the Russ Hewitt Trio played, servers passed appetizers of brisket nachos, chicken flautas and shrimp ceviche. Dinner began with a cazera salad and La Meserita cocktail, before moving on to second course consisting of a cheese tomatillo enchilada, pollo brasa with chipotle cheddar grits and the Mico 12 à la Mexicana — a flat-grilled New York strip steak prepared Mexican style. A La Dona cocktails, made with Herradura Reposado and citrus, kept things light.
A poblano cheesecake with a hint of Herradura anejo brought the meal to a sweet and slightly spicy finish. A Paris 57 Frozen Microrita, with Herradura Silver and house sangria, capped it off.
The special dinner raised $25,000 for the Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities, which provide educational opportunities and experiences to underserved children.
Margaritas made with Herradura tequila.
Blood Cancer United executive director Leah Swanson, Spirit of Tom Landry Award recipient Vivian Haddad, Lara Haddad and emcee Clarice Tinsley.Photo by Tamytha Cameron and Celeste Cass
