In the back of The Hive, located in the heart of 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville, rests a wooden table built for eight. The table, which sits in the middle of the kitchen, began its duties last month as host of the new chef’s table private dinners. Each month, eight lucky diners will be able to reserve themselves a spot where all of the action is taking place and watch as Executive Chef Matt McClure cooks up a beautiful meal specially designed for that evening. If you can stand the heat, it’s time to get into the kitchen.
Guests who secure themselves a spot are going to be treated to a pretty fantastic evening. Each dinner will be comprised of a five to seven course meal personally prepared by Chef McClure. Welcome cocktails are offered upon arrival and each course is individually paired with one of The Hive’s selections from their extensive wine menu. Pricing will vary and can be inquired about by calling The Hive (479.286.6575) when making reservations.
While many have a hand in getting the dinner from paper to plate, 21c Bentonville Food & Beverage Director, James Tortoreti, gives much of the credit to Chef McClure, saying, “he cooks every course right there in front of the guests, entertaining them all the while!” Chef McClure agrees with Tortoreti in that the interactions with the dinner guests was the best part for him. “I love the opportunity for a more intimate engagement with our guests… giving a real behind the scenes look at what goes on in the kitchen. For the first round, we invited some of our big fans and they were absolutely thrilled with it.”
When asked if there were any unexpected surprises during the evening, Chef McClure offered up an interesting response.
“Some of our guests excused themselves to use the restroom. But on the way back they brought friends from the dining room with them back to gloat. Great advertising!”
> Call 479.286.6575 to inquire about chef’s table dinners or to make a reservation for The Hive