The Blackout Banquet
A theatrical fine-dining menu served under soft, warm lighting while clear paths and exits stay visible throughout.
At home · Medium budget
The Recipe Story Supper
A relaxed shared supper built around family recipes, labelled food and stories guests are happy to share.
PLAN
READY 6–12 people Social
READY 6–12 people Social
Best for6–12 people
BudgetMedium budgetEstimate: $60+
LocationAt home
EnergySocial
01
Before you begin
Gather your supplies
Tick these off as you shop, borrow or pull them from the house. The list is a practical starting point, not a claim that every item is required.
02
The plan
How to run it
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Invite the Stories
Invite the Stories: Ask each guest for a recipe and its history, giving them an easy opt-out for private, sensitive or copyrighted material. Collect contributions only with permission.
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Plan the Menu
Plan the Menu: Choose one or two shared dishes rather than requiring a performance. Ask about allergies and dietary needs before shopping, then label every ingredient, allergen, preparation step and storage instruction.
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Cook and Serve Safely
Cook and Serve Safely: Keep raw and ready-to-eat food separate, use clean utensils, follow safe temperatures and keep hot equipment away from children and the walking route. Offer alcohol-free drinks by default and age-appropriate alternatives.
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Share at the Table
Share at the Table: Give each story a short, voluntary introduction, honour a guest who prefers to stay quiet and leave time for questions. After dinner, store leftovers promptly and send contributors a private copy of their card.
03
Keep the room moving
A practical run of show
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30 min before
Invite the Stories
Invite the Stories: Ask each guest for a recipe and its history, giving them an easy opt-out for private, sensitive or copyrighted material. Collect contributions only with permission.
-
15 min
Plan the Menu
Plan the Menu: Choose one or two shared dishes rather than requiring a performance. Ask about allergies and dietary needs before shopping, then label every ingredient, allergen, preparation step and storage instruction.
-
90 min
Cook and Serve Safely
Cook and Serve Safely: Keep raw and ready-to-eat food separate, use clean utensils, follow safe temperatures and keep hot equipment away from children and the walking route. Offer alcohol-free drinks by default and age-appropriate alternatives.
-
20 min
Share at the Table
Share at the Table: Give each story a short, voluntary introduction, honour a guest who prefers to stay quiet and leave time for questions. After dinner, store leftovers promptly and send contributors a private copy of their card.