TOP CHEF DINNER
context
As the host and winner of Top Chef, Chef Kristen Kish had a unique opportunity to bring the energy of the show into her Austin restaurant, Arlo Grey. The restaurant transformed its dining room into an intimate screening experience where fans could gather for a live episode, enjoy a multi-course meal inspired by the show, and experience a more personal connection to Chef Kish and the world of Top Chef.
activation design | creative direction | content & social entertainment programming | cultural storytelling
Featured In: PRNewswire, Beverage Industry, Forbes
the ask
The goal was to develop restaurant programming that naturally connected Arlo Grey to Kristen Kish’s role as host of Top Chef, creating a new reason for fans to experience the restaurant beyond a traditional dinner service. Arlo Grey was looking for creative programming opportunities that could build excitement around the restaurant, engage its audience, and leverage the visibility and cultural relevance of Top Chef. The opportunity was to create a recurring experience that felt true to the restaurant while giving guests a memorable way to connect with the show and Chef Kish.
the solution
I helped develop and bring to life a four-part Top Chef watch party dinner series, transforming Arlo Grey into a private movie theater for approximately 40 guests each Monday night. Each experience paired welcome cocktails with a five-course, episode-inspired menu, live screenings, and a special sweet treat, creating an intimate culinary interpretation of the night’s episode. The evening concluded with a menu autographed by Chef Kristen Kish, giving each guest a personal keepsake and extending the experience beyond the dinner itself. Each episode was unforgettable and brought to life through an immersive culinary experience where each guest felt like a true VIP.
