From the Malibu Pier to Temecula Olive Oil Company, This Is an Unforgettable Dinner Experience
Outstanding in the Field provides an elaborate dining experience like no otherāa roving restaurant without walls. Situated in beautiful destinations across the country, a long communal table in nature sets the mood for each evening. This year, theyāll host 84 events across the U.S., Mexico, Europe, and Africa. From secluded, breezy beach destinations and rolling vineyards to secret locations and city streets, diners will feel a connection to the land as they enjoy chef-curated dishes.Ā
These events aim to connect guests with the origins of their food and spark meaningful conversations with a group of strangers. Inspired by his older brotherās work as an organic farmer, Denevan quickly discovered just how fascinating agriculture could be. Outstanding in the Field was born in 1999 to create this one-of-a-kind dining experience situated outdoors in nature. Denevan hopes guests gain a different perspective on food after attending an OITF dinner.
ā[My goal is] for people to look at things differently when they’re at the grocery store, and to support farmers and chefs and the whole ecosystem of people working with each other,ā he says.
āI dreamed of having an environment where the deeper story about where our food comes from could be told.āāJim Denevan
Host farmers and guest chefs help bring this experience to life. Here in California, guest chefs this year have included Gladys North of Mbombo Restaurant, Leah Di Bernardo of E.A.T. Marketplace and Andy Huynh of Full Steam Dumpling. āFinding venues and local chefs is one of the most fun parts of the job,ā Denevan explains. The relationship among the farmers, chefs and land of each event is what ends up making each dinner so special.
Showing up to one of these dinners feels like joining a secret clubāmysterious, exciting, and full of anticipation. After parking, youāre not sure what to expect, which only adds to the magic of the moment. The energy is electric, shared by the hosts and guests, all bonded by a love for food and community. With dinner served family-style, itās a wonderful opportunity to chat with strangers and hear their stories.Ā Ā Ā
After a year-long hiatus in 2020, Denevan reflects, āItās fantastic to be in a place where people are reconnecting.ā He adds, āWeāre outside, and itās a fantastic environment thatās emerged from a time of separation.ā Whether youāre after a beautiful meal or a true sense of community, Outstanding in the Field delivers something special.
Outstanding in the Field
@out_inthefieldĀ
Taylor is a graduate from the University of Southern California with a degree in journalism. She is our Los Angeles and Orange County editor. You can find her dining at a new restaurant, in the ocean or planning her next adventure. Say hello!
