Washington Convention and Sports Authority and Centerplate Host World Leaders for Nuclear Security Summit at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center

WASHINGTON, April 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The Washington Convention and Sports Authority and Centerplate/NBSE, its catering partner for the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, announced today their role in hosting President Obama's Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, DC, on April 12 and 13. The Summit, a historic meeting of foreign leaders and heads of state to discuss the global threat of nuclear terrorism, included opening and closing receptions, working lunches and dinners at the Convention Center. Centerplate/NBSE, in partnership with a locally-based catering firm, Ridgewells, crafted menus featuring modern, elegant takes on classic American dishes.

"It is an honor to have been selected to host one of the largest gatherings of 50 world leaders and heads of delegations in history here at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center," said Gregory A. O'Dell, president and CEO of the Washington Convention and Sports Authority. "With the pleasure of hosting high-profile guests, we continue to showcase our world-class exceptional facilities and the work of our highly skilled hospitality partners."

A culinary team from Centerplate led by Chef Sean Kavanaugh, who was most recently responsible for the company's significant presence at the Winter Olympics, combined their respective talents to create menus for the Nuclear Security Summit.  The menu included Pan Seared Atlantic Striped Bass with Sweet Tomato Fennel Relish, Virginia Heirloom Beefsteak Tomato and Home-Made Mozzarella Salad, All-American Mini Kobe Beef Hamburger and Flaky Baked Apple Tart Topped with Custard.  Chef Kavanaugh received support from Chef Katsuya Fukushima of Ridgewells as well as his Centerplate colleagues, Master Chef Philippe Chin and Executive Chefs David Skorka and Jonathan Barnett, who were recently honored to prepare dinner at the James Beard House in New York City.

"With our culinary expertise and flair, we were able to transform American classics like hamburgers and apple pie into gourmet dishes," said Vince McPhail, Centerplate's General Manager at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. "We are extremely proud of the epicurean craftsmanship and level of service we were able to offer our highly distinguished attendees."

In addition to the Nuclear Security Summit, the Authority and Centerplate carefully coordinated hosting five other shows in the building, including the Food Safety Summit which took place simultaneously during the Summit.

"We provide every customer with the same service as we give to presidents and prime ministers," added O'Dell.  "Successful execution of these events is a testament to the quality and flexibility of our staff and building in generating economic benefits for the city."

At the Convention Center, Centerplate has catered 15 official U.S. Presidential Balls and the largest plated dinner in history for the Alpha Kappa Alpha Centennial Celebration.  In the last year, the company has also played host to the Association of the United States Army's George Marshall Dinner, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Dinner, the Human Rights Campaign Dinner and the Leukemia Ball.  Sourcing organic and locally grown ingredients wherever possible, the Center has also implemented a food composting system, oil and grease recycling system and donates leftover food to the DC Central Kitchen.

About the Washington Convention and Sports Authority (WCSA)

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority (WCSA) creates economic and community benefits for the District through the attraction and promotion of hospitality, athletic, entertainment and cultural events. The Authority owns and manages the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, an anchor of the District's hospitality and tourism economy that generates over $400 million annually in total economic impact for the city. The Authority also owns and manages the Stadium-Armory campus, which includes Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, the DC Armory and the surrounding Festival Grounds, and serves as the owner and landlord for Nationals Park. For more information, please visit www.wcsa.com.

About Centerplate/NBSE

Centerplate crafts and delivers "Craveable Experiences. Raveable Results." in 250 prominent sports, entertainment and convention venues across North America. Centerplate has provided services to 12 Super Bowls, 19 World Series, key events for the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, the South Beach Wine and Food Festival, Art Basel Miami Beach, 15 official U.S. Presidential Inaugural Balls and the largest plated dinner in history at the Alpha Kappa Alpha Centennial Celebration. Visit the company online at www.centerplate.com.

SOURCE Centerplate