We had the opportunity this past week to go to Grant Achatz's Next for our friend Mark's birthday. I say "opportunity" because getting a ticket for a dinner that costs more than my months rent from 2004 is shockingly difficult. The pre-priced ticket system works like going to a concert or game -everything's one price including service and tax. Mark's wife Mary did the dirty work of securing four tickets and we went into the night with lots of anticipation and excitement. Next completely changes it's style with seasons. This season (through December) is Bocuse d'Or honoring the global cooking competition. The video above is a trailer to the menu. It was a four hour fifteen course meal complete with wine and cocktail pairings. After dinner we secured entry to The Office - an invite only speakeasy with 14 seats located behind a metal unmarked door in the basement of the building. I was wowed from beginning to end. Liquid nitrogen happened table-side for one dish using the rose centerpiece as part of the course. What will they think of Next?
To check out the review complete with pictures from each course click Here
One of my favorite courses - pheasant then plated to look like a tipped over flower pot.
Each plate was more beautiful than the Next
coveted keys to The Office
Our dining companions Mark & Mary
A reminder than any meal is only as good as those you share it with.
The night had the ability to make you feel cool and not cool enough all at the same time.
Somehow I think this is purposeful so you leave just hoping there will be a Next time.
So fun!! I'm jealous. Totally my kind of night. And you all look beautiful. xxoo
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