The pop-up dream, realized
Dinner parties are my heart and soul. As Nosh & Gather began to take root in my imagination, they were at the very foundation of what I dreamed this business could be.
In particular, secret pop-up dinner parties are my jam. They’re “underground” dining experiences that assemble a group of strangers in a secret location to enjoy a gourmet meal and build community over a shared table. I love the idea of curating an experience for a group of people and keeping the details—the exact location, the guest list, the menu, even the music—a secret until they’re gathered together.
When the pandemic hit in the early days of Nosh & Gather, we did what everyone else did—we adapted to meet the challenges of a new reality. Nosh to Go was born, and dinner parties had to take a back seat while we were “safe at home.” Then came Noshnics, our elevated picnics that bring delicious homemade food and luxurious furnishings together for unconventional outdoor dining experiences that feel really special. With Gather Your Way, we inched just a little closer to my dinner party vision. All the dinner party elements are there—either to go or with full service options. This is N&G’s evolution—and one I’m endlessly proud of.
Now, we’re emerging from the pandemic with new ways of living and being and doing. That pop-up dinner party passion that launched me on this path is still here. And with thoughtful planning and the incredible support of our amazing clients and partners, they’re becoming a reality, friends.
Pop-up dinner parties are here!
In May, a group of relative strangers gathered for a posh rooftop gathering that celebrated spring in Minneapolis, food and wine, and a return to being in community. This dream is coming true, and I couldn’t be happier about it.
Featuring the bounty of Minnesota springtime, the menu included spring herb and pea soup; crostini starring the fresh flavors of ramp pesto, radishes, and herbs and goat cheese, cucumber, and hot honey; a spring salad; and fresh tilapia prepared en papillote with asparagus, shitake mushrooms, ramps, butter, lemon, and herbs. We finished things off with a bright lemon tart with a buttery shortbread crust. Each course featured perfect wine pairings from our partners at Sips Ensemble.
Just as I imagined, it was magic. Planning this adventure, with all the details kept under wraps until we gather together, is the most fun. The setting, the decor, the food and wine, the conversation and laughter, the sense of anticipation and wonder? Absolute perfection.
Are you on the next pop-up guestlist? You should be! Learn more.