We launched our first “pop up” dinner in Isla Vista last Saturday. It was a smashing success, thanks to 24 hours of prep and way more alcohol than necessary. Over 40 people showed up to a 4-course menu complete with wine and cocktail pairings – somewhat classier than the typical college dining experience. (Pizza and beer, anyone?)
If you’re not familiar with “pop up” dining, it’s a new trend in the culinary underground wherein a young chef or restauranteur will take over an existing restaurant for a single night, creating their own menu and atmosphere as if it was their own establishment. It’s a great way for people who don’t have $2 million under their mattress to try their hand in the restaurant business. More importantly, it’s pretty damn fun.
I decided to take the concept one step further with Saturdays @ SABOR, a series of catered dinners at my house in Santa Barbara. I figured it would be a convenient way to meet new people and experiment with some new recipes. The idea was met with glowing enthusiasm from the campus community, and pretty soon I was prepping 160 courses in a 3 x 3 kitchen by myself. (Yes, I know it was too ambitious. And no, it did not run as smoothly as I’d anticipated). But I had a great time and so did all the guests. (Note: generous cocktails tend to keep things on an even keel).
My buddy Spencer documented the evening on his Canon T3i. Here’s a taste of the chaos. (Video coming soon).
