Theme Dinners

About the group

Organizer(s)

Nancy Matthews

Once a month we take turns hosting a sit-down dinner with a menu based upon a pre-set theme. Although it is not necessarily “fancy food”, the host usually sets a formal table. Participants generally like to cook and are interested in learning new recipes or experiencing cuisine from different cultures.

Generally the host guides the menu selections to ensure a variety that will complement the main course, but then participants are encouraged to do their own research and discover recipes they wish to try for their part of the menu.

Themes are suggested by all members and we try to rotate the focus. Spring and summer we tend to focus on seasonal availability so the theme might be asparagus, strawberries, wild leeks, zucchini, or the color yellow, or the harvest. One Canada Day, we went red and white. Otherwise we try ethnic themes like Italian, French, Thai, you-name-it; celebratory themes like St Patrick’s Day or Hanukkah; era themes like 60’s diner, Victorian or Shakespearean feast; cooking technique like BBQ or rolled or on a skewer; and just plain funky themes like food named for places or people.

An email survey of the group determines who would like to attend each month. Dinner for 8 (+- 2) is preferred. If the group is large enough, two venues could occur. We meet on the first Tuesady of the month (sometimes Wednesday) at 6 pm (unless otherwise advised) and for this group – the more adventurous cooks, the merrier!