Here are some creative holiday party ideas that incorporate culinary inspiration and industry learning while keeping the focus on thanking your team for their hard work. December is a super busy time and we recommend planning these celebrations for January when everyone can enjoy. One thing to always consider when approaching any of these venues is the suggestion of a trade. It never hurts to ask!
Winery or Brewery Tour with Guided Pairing Dinner
Take your team on a private tour of a local winery, brewery, or distillery. Let the experts walk them through the process of production—from grape to glass or grain to beer—followed by a guided tasting and multi-course pairing meal. Choose with a vineyard that offers private rooms or cozy tasting areas. You can add an educational touch with a sommelier or brew master discussing flavor profiles and pairing ideas for menus.
Private Dining Experience at a Top Restaurant
Treat your team to a private dinner at a notable restaurant in your city or region. Reserve a private dining room or chef’s table where they can enjoy a unique, chef-curated multi-course meal. If possible, choose a spot with an open kitchen or an interactive experience so the team can see new techniques in action.
Food Tour of a Nearby City
Plan a culinary day trip or “food crawl” to a nearby foodie hotspot. Hire transportation (like a bus or sprinter van) to take your team on a guided tasting adventure, visiting 3-5 standout restaurants, bakeries, or cocktail bars. Sample the most unique and famous dish or drink at each spot. End the day with a casual team toast at a final location.
Tickets to a Food Festival or Culinary Event
Buy your team tickets to a local food festival, tasting event, or chef showcase. Many festivals offer VIP perks like fast passes, private lounges, or early access. Look for events that feature local chefs, artisanal food makers, or beverage pairings. Encourage the team to explore, taste, and relax—no work required. Plan a group meal or beer at the end and discuss favorites.
Cooking Class at a Culinary School or Specialty Venue
Take your team to a professional culinary school, upscale kitchen studio, or specialty cooking venue for a private hands-on class. Choose an easy, enjoyable theme, like pasta making from scratch; artisanal pizza workshops; chocolate or dessert creation.
Luxury Food Tour of a Farmer’s Market or Food Hall
Hire a local food expert or chef to guide your team through a popular farmer’s market, food hall, or specialty market. Let the team sample standout dishes or products at curated stops along the way (pastries, charcuterie, craft beverages, or desserts). End the experience with a seated meal at a nearby restaurant or café.
A Day at a Culinary Destination Hotel or Resort
Book a relaxing group outing to a culinary-focused hotel, lodge, or resort nearby. Many destinations offer:
- Farm-to-table dining experiences.
- Mixology or wine pairing workshops.
- Luxurious brunches, afternoon tea, or grazing-style buffets.
Plan the day with downtime to explore the property and unwind—no pressure, no agenda.
Tasting and Tour at an Artisan Food Producer
Visit a specialty food producer, such as a cheese cave, charcuterie shop, olive oil mill, or coffee roastery. Arrange for a private tour and tasting where the team can learn about the craft and sample exclusive products. For example: A private cheese tasting with local wines or a behind-the-scenes roastery experience paired with pastries.
Group Spa and Brunch Day
If you really want to treat your team, organize a relaxing spa day followed by a luxurious brunch. Many spas offer group packages with massages, facials, or wellness activities like yoga. Wrap up the day with a private brunch at a nearby café or boutique hotel.
Team Escape to a Cooking & Dining Retreat
Book a private cooking and dining retreat at a destination like a vineyard estate, ranch, or boutique lodge. Start with a guided cooking session or culinary demo, led by a chef. Finish the day with a communal meal in a stunning setting where your team can relax and celebrate together.
These experiential ideas give your restaurant team the opportunity to step out of their daily grind, relax, and reconnect while getting inspired by the culinary world they love. Whether it’s a luxury tasting tour, an educational vineyard dinner, or a full-on retreat, these moments will remind them why they love being part of the industry—and why they’re lucky to be on your team.
