Relax and Unwind Dinner Series
If you’re looking for a new way to relax and unwind while enjoying a gourmet meal, you’re in luck. That’s because Chef Onyx, aka “The Sweet and Savory Chef,” recently launched the “Relax & Unwind c*nn*bis-infused dinners” series. The chef describes the series as “a space where people can escape from the stress of daily life, decompress, release, laugh, meet a stranger and leave with a new friend. It’s a place to come and share an elevated dish with a friend or a stranger; a place of no judgment; and a place where everyone in attendance shares something in common – cannabis.”
Chef Onyx went on to note, “I want all the guests to leave with more knowledge about cannabis. I want them to leave feeling relaxed, happy, less stressed, full and the desire to want more of that feeling. I want guests to leave with a new friend, and [a desire] to experience more of my culinary journey.”
The most recent edition of Relax & Unwind took place in July, in the tranquil backyard of a private residence in Springfield. Guests enjoyed a six-course Korean-inspired vegan meal served family-style at each communal table. It kicked off with Hobbank Jeon, Cucumber Kimchi, Braised Lion’s Mane Mushrooms and Tofu Cakes. The main course consisted of Kale & Ramen Salad, Beefless Bulgogi, Khampoong Tofu, Gochujang Sesame Rice Noodles and White Rice. Dessert was a sous vide Korean Pear.
Different palate cleansers were served before and after the main course and infused mocktails were served throughout the evening, while a surprise course was served after dessert. Silence was encouraged during the meal, so that diners could thoroughly appreciate all the flavorful nuances of each course – and fully immerse themselves in the sound bath provided by Yogee Steve.
“People are learning how to socialize again after being apart from each other for so long because of Covid-19,” says Chef Onyx. “Small crowds and more intimate settings are more approachable and less intimidating. I love family dinner – it’s a time to talk about your day and what's new, and share laughs, tears, ideas, and so much more. Communal dining is an opportunity to share. Whether it's sharing a dish or sharing conversation, ideas, thoughts, compliments, or meeting someone new, it is priceless.”
She adds, “I wanted guests to experience a fully immersed sensory explosion, a euphoric full body experience. Adding the sound bath therapist aligned with my vision of how I wanted guests to feel. The vibrational sensation while consuming elevated plant-based food is a magical feeling and Yogee Steve delivered. Adding visuals [art] and a live guitarist evoked the feelings of relaxation and chill vibes that we all need in our lives.”
As far as the cannabis portion of the dinner goes, Chef Onyx says the entire meal contained approximately 100 mg, and that each course, many of which featured multiple family-style dishes, contained about 20 mg. There were also educators on-site to answer any questions diners might have and share more information about the plant.
“I want all the guests to leave with more knowledge about cannabis,” says Chef Onyx. “I want them to leave feeling relaxed, happy, less stressed, full, and [with] the desire to want more of that feeling. I want guests to leave with a new friend, and [an eagerness] to experience more of my culinary journey.”
To learn more about the Relax & Unwind series or register for upcoming events (the next one is October 14), follow Chef Onyx on Instagram @chefonyxseven and @bemagicaltreats.
