Wolfgang Puck to Create 2009 Governors Ball Menu

Wolfgang Puck to Create
2009 Governors Ball Menu

Beverly Hills, CA — For the 15th consecutive year, master chef Wolfgang Puck has been selected by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to create the menu for the Governors Ball, the celebration immediately following the 81st Academy Awards® presentation on Sunday, February 22, 2009.

“The Governors Ball is the highlight of the season,” said Puck. “Our menu will have star-quality ingredients each dish showcasing the essence of seasonal flavor. With locally grown, sustainable and organic ingredients, guests will enjoy an award-worthy culinary experience.”

Wolfgang Puck Catering will be serving the Academy’s 1,500 Ball guests, which will include Oscar® winners, nominees, presenters and telecast participants.

The menu created by Puck and chefs Lee Hefter and Matt Bencivenga will feature several Ball favorites, including Tuna Tartare in Sesame Miso Cones; Chopped Chino Farms Vegetable Salad with Ginger Soy Vinaigrette, Maine Lobster and Caviar; and Pastry Chef Sherry Yard’s gold-dusted chocolate Oscars®.

Working in a state-of-the-art kitchen adjacent to the Grand Ballroom at the Hollywood & Highland Center®, Puck will lead a team of chefs, pastry chefs and culinary artists who will be responsible for the cooking, presentation and execution of the menu.

Wolfgang Puck Catering, established in 1998, provides restaurant-quality catering and operates premiere cultural, corporate and entertainment settings in thirteen markets across the country. The Wolfgang Puck Companies – which comprise 16 fine dining restaurants, more than 80 Gourmet Express fast-casual restaurants, premium catering services in over 32 exclusive venues nationwide, and quality kitchen and food merchandise – constitute a brand standing for a culinary passion for eating and dining well.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2008 will be presented on Sunday, February 22, 2009, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center, and televised live by the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 200 countries worldwide.