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The Right Way to Enjoy Al Fresco Dining
Dining outdoors – perfect for longer, warmer nights.
Days are getting longer and the nights are warming up – a perfect combination to dine al fresco with friends or a significant other. It’s more than simply eating outside or just two Italian words that mean “in the cool air” – it’s a whole experience when done properly. It’s creating the perfect table setting, candle-lit ambiance, just the right amount of casual and, of course, the perfect menu.
Many people think of white paper plates and red solo cups when they think of having a picnic, but for me, it’s always more than that. Whether it’s dinner in the backyard by the pool or in the park with a big group of friends or perhaps a concert at The Hollywood Bowl, it’s important to make every dining occasion special but also worry-free!
There are so many fantastic unbreakable options now. Crate and Barrel has an entire selection of beautiful rustic melamine (plastic!) in several colors that all coordinate well with bowls, plates and service pieces in different patterns (also melamine). Add their “glassware” made from different polymer materials unbreakable glasses in all shapes including stemmed wine glasses and margarita glasses. You’ll have the basics for a colorful, fun and worry-free table setting. Yesterday, on my video, I showcased other options from Williams Sonoma. Use woven placemats in a coordinating color with a white linen napkin and colorful napkin ring to complete the look. All you need now is simple flatware (really only a fork and knife), and you’re set.
Candlelight is important to set the mood. Hurricane lamps with candles (include some citronella candles – to keep away the flying insects) to set around. Make sure that the top of the candle is lower than the top of the hurricane lamp otherwise even a small breeze will blow out the flame.
Create simple centerpieces for height and color. Keep it casual. You can use flowers, but then you need to worry about vases with water that can tip over. Some of my favorite centerpieces are just twigs with small flowers (cherry blossom branches, birch branches, manzanita branches, etc.). And sometimes it’s even simpler than that – just a large bunch of green – even Magnolia leaves in a big enough bunch are casual and beautiful. You don’t need water – just a fun container.
Plan the menu appropriately for wherever you will be dining and how far you will be traveling to get there. If you’re in the backyard, your menu can include hot food straight from the kitchen or BBQ. If you’re traveling (even around the corner to the park with friends) plan a menu that only includes food that can be served room temperature – salads, grilled in season vegetables (asparagus, artichokes, broccolini, et cetera – look at the farmer’s market for ideas). Veggies can easily be added to a plate of cold pasta salad to add color and flavor, along with cold sliced roast and cold fried chicken – you get the idea. Don’t forget an easy batch cocktail – margaritas, negronis or keep it simple and bring wine. And don’t forget the wine-opener.
One last safety note – warm evenings and nights also bring bugs. I hate bugs, but I especially hate mosquitos that can be a real pain (literally). Some of your guests may be uncomfortable about dining outside without some protection. Remind your guests to wear their preferred insect repellent lotions (et cetera) or ask them what they prefer and bring some just in case they forget. I also burn Tiki torch fuel that’s spiked with citronella – it seems to do the trick. Start them up about an hour before your guests arrive and you’ll be bug-free for hours.
You may enjoy this so much, you’ll make it a regular event all summer!
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