It is not everyday that one gets to dine under a Space Shuttle, so when a friend asked if I were interested in doing just that, I decided to give that a go. The night was a “Charitable Gala Event Under the Space Shuttle Endeavor” at the California Science Center, the proceeds goes to benefit a non-profit organization that helps the world’s poorest entrepreneurs with Education and Capital to start or sustain a small business.

We got there a bit early before the event officially began, so we were able to tour around the Science Center a bit before heading onto the Pavilion where the Space Shuttle Endeavor was located. The Space Shuttle was suspending in mid-air which was a rather impressive sight. What was more impressive was the fact that the dining tables were placed underneath the Space Shuttle so we were literally dining just a few feet under the shuttle.

Prior to the serving of the main dishes, there were appetizers consisting of Empanadas de Pollo(chicken empanadas), and Empanadas de Quinoa. I usually do not eat too much fried foods, but these empanadas were really delicious, especially the chicken ones. The fried dough part of the empanadas were actually soft and easy to bite as opposed to hard and crunchy.

The dinner menu consisted of Rotisserie Chicken, Papa a la huancaina, Quinoa, mixed vegetables, fried rice, chocolate cakes, and various cookies, and were served buffet style.

The silent auction had  items such as sports memorabilia, gift baskets, and art pieces.

There was a live trio performing traditional Peruvian music of which I found very soothing and festive at the same time, as well as a presentation ceremony with Congresswoman Judy Chu.

It was a memorable event and I think even my son seemed impressed after I told him I just got back from having dinner under a Space Shuttle.