A Night Where Enchantment Reigns: The Secret Garden Chef’s Table Experience

Not only did nature inspire the menu for the Secret Garden Chef’s Table experience, but it also took over the space where the Member’s had an unforgettable evening. Ten Members stepped into an oasis of vibrant colors and an elusive ambiance, hosted by our Director of Creative Dining, Adam Sears. Sears designed a menu full of surprise and wonder, with seven courses meant to delight attendees with its presentation and flavor.

Before each course, Chef Adam described the dish, ingredients, and the harmonious flavors that made for a delightful culinary adventure.

Chef Adam Sears pushed the boundaries of dramatic dining, turning every plate into a scene from a garden sanctuary.

Koi Pond
A stunning starter of chilled potato soup, leek gel, smoked salmon, capers, and caviar. The magic? It was served floating in a fishbowl, complete with a live betta fish keeping guests company.
Stepping Stone
A texture-driven dish featuring cornmeal-fried oysters resting on white cheddar stone-ground grits, accented by garlic caramel and white cheddar popcorn.
Lily Pads
Delicate frog ravioli paired with bright peas, salty prosciutto, and a luxurious saffron beurre blanc.
Moving Rocks
A bold, playful course of cherry cola–braised turtle served over hearty farro and baby bok choy.
Escargot Hunting
A forest floor on a plate—wild mushrooms, celery root and parsnip purées, and a savory bacon-onion jam.
Hey! Get Out
The “garden pest” is represented by crispy veal, morel mushrooms, and crispy capers over a silky brown-butter carrot purée.
By Any Other Name
A floral finale featuring pistachio cake, black cherry chutney, and pistachio brittle, topped with delicate vanilla rose ice cream.

A Night to Remember for a Cause Not to Forget

While the food was the star of the show, the heart of the evening was the spirit of giving. During the annual Forget Me Not Gala, Members of Summit Hills bid on this experience, raising over $1,500 for the Alzheimer’s Association.