One of the most fun dining trends that has been growing over the past couple of years are the so called “Pop-Ups”. Chefs create special one-night-only menus to be served from their resto or an unlikely place. What makes these so much fun and so cool is that you NEVER know what to expect. Seating is ALWAYS limited and prices range the entire gamut. Locations are as diverse as our city’s dining landscape. Here are some to watch:
- Project Dinner Table does their events as a fundraiser and they are limited to pleasant weather months because they are mostly outdoors (think Cashman Field, Downtown Third, Gilcrease Orchard). Their next event is September 13th and even though this is the highest priced option on the list, they sell out FAST! They actually offer a membership so you never have to miss an event.
- MTO’s Sunday Supper Series –usually the 4th Sunday of the month and it is always fun. Chef Johnny Church gets some culinary buddies together and they whip up some truly inspired menus. Past events have been Swine & Wine (My fave), Not Your Daddy’s BBQ and El Chapo’s Cantina. Price is $65 and seating is limited to 65 people. Watch for upcoming dates.
- Desnudos Tacos and Naked City Pizza on Paradise – The culinary brains behind these two properties – Christian Dolias and Chris Palmeri respectfully – plan to switch off every other month so one month at Desnudos and the following at Naked City. The most recent offering at Desnudos was “Unbreakable” and it was incredible. $75/pp and the seating is limited to 35, so my suggestion is to book as soon as you hear about it. The next event is at Naked City on Paradise – “The Mind of a Chef – Round 2” on August 24th. $65/pp and seating is limited to 40 people, so call ASAP to reserve your seats.
What you will find at all of these events is fantastic food and artful plating in unexpected venues. The crowd will be as eclectic as the food served. All of this is done in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Rarely do you have to dress up beyond business casual. What you won’t find are rules. Rules are made to be broken and these events prove that. Enjoy the pics from past and very recent events!
Charcuterie plate from Echo & Rig at MTO’s Swine & Wine event
“Deviled Egg” – 3 eggs, 3 ways at Desnudos’ Unbreakable
Uni, Caviar and Parmesan pasta at Desnudos’ Unbreakable
Bloody Mary Mussels at Desnudos’ Unbreakable – this was “
Beet Salad at MTO’s Not Your Daddy’s BBQ
BBQ Braised Beef Cheeks and Creamy Polenta at MTO’s Not Your Daddy’s BBQ
