The Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia is an exclusive oasis inspired by the exotic flair of Morocco and Andalusia in Southern Spain. Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley, the resort boasts 293 spacious guest rooms, including 38 luxury suites and two presidential suites, along with award-winning culinary experiences. Amongst these is the Chef's Secret Garden Dinner Series, which is part of the resort's Desert to Dish culinary program that celebrates the bounty and diversity of Arizona agriculture. Omni partners with passionate farmers, winemakers and local purveyors to supply guests with the freshest ingredients year-round, and the culinary team hosts exclusive dinners to showcase such fine ingredients and beverages.
Each event invites guests to indulge in quality ingredients sourced locally in a live demonstration format. Overseen by Executive Chef Marcos Seville, monthly dinners are based on a rotating theme that is reflected through a multi-course menu artfully paired with libations from distinguished winemakers and distillers. Every meal is filled with educational enrichment opportunities that include culinary preparation techniques, menus inspired by various cultural traditions and the sharing of historic practices that create the unique beverages sampled throughout the evening. By limiting attendance to 24 people, the overall ambiance feels as if guests have been invited to the chef’s personal home. The chef is able to engage directly with the guests and immerse them in a memorable and personal experience.
Executive Chef Marcos Seville has an impressive 14-year career in hospitality, with five being spent at the Omni.
"What I love most about the property is the passionate staff. They create the memorable moments and experiences here at the Omni Scottsdale. The view of Camelback Mountain does not hurt either," he says.
Marcos adds that the backdrop for these events is truly Arizona and that being an Arizona native himself, he is proud and inspired by the wonderful produce, meats and diverse cultures produced by this desert oasis.
“The Chef’s Kitchen Dinner Series is one of those best-kept secrets that anyone looking for an incredible dining experience must try. The combination of amazing food prepared tableside in a gorgeous setting coupled with the opportunity to learn and interact with some of the best beverage makers in our industry truly provides the ultimate experience for any food lover.”
The 4,000-square-foot Chef’s Kitchen & Herb Garden is the space that serves as an ideal venue for these specialty dinners. The sunset views coupled with seasonal offerings such as citrus, herbs, a variety of exotic mints, squashes, heirloom tomatoes and fall root vegetables pair perfectly for an unforgettable dining experience.
The March 20 dinner featuring Merry Edwards begins at 6 p.m. and is themed "First Day of Spring." The cost is $125 per guest. For true food enthusiasts who wish to reserve a seat, contact haley.bauer@omnihotels.com or call 480.627-3039.