7 Creative & Memorable Experiences to Complete Your Event at BLACKBARN in NoMad
If you’re looking to create a memory that will last a lifetime, it’s important to remember the 3 S’s: sensory, stakes, and script. Boost sensory appeal by doing something that activates your senses, raise the stakes by getting actively involved in the activity, and break the script by doing something out of the ordinary. According to Eric Barker research shows that engaging the senses more intensely makes moments stand out.
“Moments of elevation are experiences that rise above the routine. They make us feel engaged, joyful, amazed, motivated.”
— The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact by Chip Heath
That’s why BLACKBARN offers so many special experiences in the many spaces within its walls. After producing all of the amazing events through decades at the Waldorf, Chef Doherty loves to bring magic to the life of his guests. Beyond our farm-to-table events, we offer a variety of exceptional experiences, including Wine Tasting, Cooking Lessons, Soufflè Making, Chef’s Table, and more!
1. SOUFFLÈ MAKING
Kick off the night with a champagne saber by Chef-Owner John Doherty in the prep kitchen where you will prepare either a sweet or savory soufflé. Donning aprons, you will have a hands-on lesson on mastering one of Chef Doherty’s favorite dishes. Following the lesson, enjoy a wonderful dinner in which your delicious creation will be the star of the dessert course!
2. COOKING LESSONS
Head into the kitchen for a hands-on experience with BLACKBARN’s Executive Chef, Chef Matteo Bergamini. While sharing stories of growing up in Italy where he developed his culinary skills, he will lead the preparation of BLACKBARN specialties like our Mushroom Toast and Fig Pizza. Following the class, enjoy a family style dinner featuring the delicious dishes you prepared!
3. CHEF’S TABLE
Our everchanging Chef’s Table Menus are a unique dining experience. Groups up to 20 can enjoy an “oven side” view of our Chef as he makes seasonally curated dishes come to life in our open kitchen. This interactive dinner is comprised of a five-course tasting menu with wine pairings artfully selected by our Sommelier. This food and wine indulgence is a special experience not to be missed!
4. WINE TASTING
Our sophisticated and intimate private dining room – the Cellar – provides the ideal space to enjoy one of life’s greatest pleasures – wine! During this special event, you will have the opportunity to taste five wines selected by our Sommelier. From their fascinating history to the best food pairings, our Sommelier will guide your group as you explore the qualities and gain enough knowledge to pick that perfect bottle! Coupled with a seated dinner or reception, this experience is the ideal enhancement to elevate your next private event.
5. SPIRIT TASTING
If it’s not wine but whiskey you’re passionate about, then a spirits tasting is for you! Explore a range of spirits hand-picked and led by our expert mixologist. Learn more about the creation and distillation of each spirit and the qualities it embodies. Enjoy a customized spirit tasting at BLACKBARN as part of your reception style cocktail party!
6. CUSTOMIZED MENUS
While our event menus offer a lot of variety, you can theme or upgrade your menu too! Our “World Leaders Menu” features dishes prepared by Chef Doherty to many dignitaries over the span of his career – and our “NY State Menu” features the best of what New York State has to offer. Perhaps you have your own idea in mind? We’re happy to create an original menu with your personal flare!
7. VINTAGE PORT TONGING
How do you open a corked bottle without a corkscrew? We use fire and ice! Watch our Sommelier use a special tonging technique to preserve the cork of an aged bottle and savor the flavors of a Vintage Port.
“Wine is one of the most civilized things in the world and one of the most natural things of the world that has been brought to the greatest perfection, and it offers a greater range for enjoyment and appreciation than, possibly, any other purely sensory thing.”
— Ernest Hemingway
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or a business dinner when you’re entertaining clients, we can help you make the evening one to remember. Get in touch with our events team here, or call us at (212) 265-5959.