A chef’s table is the most coveted table in any dining establishment, and while members come to enjoy the food, they are also coming to enjoy a show and a glimpse of the kitchen life. As chefs become more interactive with members, the proximity of the diners to the kitchen along with the sensory experience strengthens the connection between a club’s chef and its members.
The concept of the chef’s table originated from chefs entertaining their family and friends in the kitchen as they worked, usually sitting at a small table tucked away in a corner if space allowed. As time went on, what was once a VIP only experience eventually evolved into a bookable table for all diners for a behind-the-scenes dinner in the kitchen. Some tables are bar-seating areas that divide the kitchen from the regular customer dining area. A genuine chef’s table usually should be separate from regular dining tables; it should located inside the kitchen. The inner kitchen viewpoint can be fascinating as members can watch the food being prepared and plated.
With a chef’s table, a small group of members enjoy an exclusive pre-fixed, multi-course meal hosted by the club chef and usually paired with wines and other cocktails. Planning a chef’s table allows for greater menu personalization than traditional a la carte dining service. A chef’s table menu is selected based on the chef’s desire to try unique concepts or follow the theme that the guests have specified. The chef’s table is ideal for foodies and those with an adventurous palette.
During service, chefs are able to give more insight into the dishes and pairings. As each course is presented and the wine is poured, the chef will explain how the dish was designed and speak about the ingredients and methods of preparation. The sommelier might also provide information and tasting notes of the accompanying wines. With multiple courses, a descriptive presentation of each dish, and chit-chatting with table mates, a chef’s table dinner experience can easily last three to four hours.
When cooking for a chef’s table, club chefs have a unique opportunity to develop long-term connections with members. During this private dining experience, club chefs are able to interact with members one-on-one in their own space. Dining in the kitchen also allows members to have more meaningful interactions with the chef that would not be possible in the main dining rooms. Having this interaction with members adds another element to the whole dining experience.
A chef’s table is an experience that allows members to get a glimpse of a kitchen’s action in close proximity, but with the added privacy and luxury of your own personal space. It is a dining area that highlights the best of a club’s restaurant with personalized service and menus and insight into the kitchen that cannot be found in the dining room. Chef’s tables create a unique culinary experience while building relationships between a club’s chef and its members.
