Paella Party Coming To R.Aire Restaurant At The Hampton Maid

HAMPTON MAID, NY — Just in time for National Paella Day, the reopened Hampton Maid in Hampton Bays will be presenting its first Paella Party at the resort's restaurant, R.Aire this month.

According to Chef Alex Bujoreanu, one of the most notable representations of Spanish cuisine is paella.

"The iconic dish is an integral part of Spain’s culture of family, friends, and festivities — and where there’s paella, chances are, there’s probably a party," an announcement from R.Aire said.

On Monday, March 27, R.Aire Restaurant is hosting its first Paella Party, celebrating the origins of this classic dish and paying homage to Chef Bujorneau’s Spanish background.

“In Spain, dining with friends and family is an integral part of the culture, and I wanted to recreate that convivial feeling here at R.Aire,” said Bujoreanu. “Our hope is to build community through this event, and hopefully, host regular paella parties all summer long, where friends gather, relax and enjoy fantastic food in a casual, elegant setting.”

Guests will sample three of Bujoreanu’s signature paellas — DeMarisco (seafood), Rustic (meat), and Mushroom Fideua (vegetarian) — all paired perfectly with a complementary glass of sangria, and optional wine pairing. A cash bar will be available for cocktails; a live flamenco performance by The Gipsy Strings will entertain guests.

Bujoreanu said he takes great pride in his paellas. He explained that he works with the finest, freshest ingredients to create an authentic, rich, dark, and savory dish with a dense and chewy texture. He uses Bomba rice, native to Spain, which stays firm while absorbing the liquid during cooking, and he refrains from stirring the rice, which allows a perfectly crisp socarrat crust to form, he said.

The Paella Party takes place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and costs $45 per person, inclusive of the paella tasting, a glass of sangria, and live entertainment. The optional wine pairing is $15 and includes three varieties of Spanish wine. Tax and gratuity are additional. For those wishing to stay overnight, The Hampton Maid is offering a 20 percent room discount for anyone joining the paella party.

Dining reservations can be made through Resy, and room reservations can be made here.