Picnics are one of the things I like best about “summer”. There is something about enjoying your own curated meal in an unexpected place, whether it be an impromptu picnic of the local deli special or a culinary delight from your own kitchen.

Entertaining is something I particularly enjoy, and I sometimes like to kick the art of picnicking up a notch. In that regard I’m a bit like Marc Jacobs who said, “I love to take things that are every day and comforting and make them into the most luxurious in the world.”

Once a year here is San Francisco there is an event for people who enjoy just that concept. It’s called Le Diner after the amazing French event that inspired it. It’s what happens when you combine a secret underground white party with a foodie picnic. I love it.

It’s by invitation only and attendees only learn the location at 5pm the day of the event.

The white requirement for table décor provides an elegant canvas from which to work. Last year I created a nautical coastal chic theme with lanterns, starfish, and driftwood as centerpieces. Sand colored placemats and square-knotted line napkin rings completed the look.

Dinner began with mushroom crostini appetizers, progressed to grilled herb crusted chicken, green beans almandine and a gourmet potato salad. We finished with a layered chocolate mousse dessert, white chocolate, milk chocolate and dark chocolate – divine!

It was a Champagne-focused evening and we began with a limited-edition white bottle Chandon (how appropriate!) and finished with Veuve Clicquot.

Our previous year’s theme was modern elegance. You can read more about that and Le Diner a San Francisco in general here.

After dinner it was time it’s to walk around and be inspired by the creativity of the other participants tablescapes and dress. It was a beautiful evening and San Francisco’s city hall provided a majestic backdrop, the night was nothing short of magical. There is a feeling of being part of something very special…

To learn more about Le Diner a San Francisco and to request an invitation visit their Facebook page. Cheers!