Gathering around the table outside on a warm summer evening automatically makes a meal feel special. But there is no need to dirty the kitchen or fire up the grill. Instead, grab the picnic basket, stop at some favorite food shops, and head to a lovely spot.
One beautiful and relaxing place for an al fresco meal is Davenport Winery. Guests often unwind at one of their many outdoor tables to sip on a favorite red or white. (Ludmilla, an off-dry white, is a refreshing summer selection.) Or you’re welcome to spread a blanket out and repose next to some of the 13 varieties of grapes grown in the vineyard.
For a simple supper, the team at Au Marche can put together a charcuterie board of select meats and cheeses. A few nuts, cornichons, and crackers add to the nibbles. Each board can be adapted to fit your tastes and the size of the gathering.
Finish off the evening with some colorful macarons from Paul’s Better Bakery. The popular flavors include classic dark chocolate, peanut butter and dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and vanilla bean in KU red and blue shells. Try the mango-white chocolate, black currant, passion fruit, and lavender for something more exotic.
To plan an al fresco winery supper:
Davenport Winery—davenportwinery.net
Au Marche European Market—aumarche.com
Paul’s Better Bakery—paulsbetterbakery.com