‘Dine in the dark’ pop-up tests the senses of foodies
| 7th March 2022
Dine in the Dark: Dark dining experience Dans Le Noir? is popping-up north following the success of its restaurants in Paris & London.
Staffordshire’s Swinfen Hall Hotel – a 250-year-old hotel mansion set in 100 acres – is keeping diners in the dark as the world-renowned ‘dine in the dark’ experience launches at the regal venue with a number of dates throughout the month of March.
And following the success of the first few events, the experiential brand has announced its return in November at the venue given how popular the dining experience is among foodies.
The Concept
‘Dine in the dark’ pop-up tests the senses of foodies
Since it’s opening in 2006, the Dans Le Noir? collection has expanded across the UK, Europe and now the world.
It offers the opportunity to taste gourmet, creative and seasons cuisine in complete darkness, accompanied and served by unexpected guides.
The concept of the dinner or lunch in pitch darkness is an original experience that allows us re-evaluate our perception of taste and touch, while reclaiming and reinvigorating your senses.
Perfect for those visiting the area on a staycation and in search of a unique dining experience, or simply a day trip from the city, be it London, Birmingham or Manchester, Dans le Noir ? breaks down the boundaries of traditional dining and presents diners with a sensory experience that ensures to indulge all your senses.
The experience of dining in the dark has many surprises in store as VIVA found out.
‘Dine in the dark’ pop-up tests the senses of foodies
First of all, the delicious secret menus created by the chefs will surprise and delight, using the finest, seasonal organic fruit and vegetables, free range and outdoor reared meats, accompanied by a refined and specially curated wine menu. Diners will be exposed to flavours, aromas, textures and temperatures, which is guaranteed to fully awaken and excite the senses.
On arrival, guests are asked to place any shiny, illuminating objects that they are wearing into a safe for the duration of the experience. They are then met by blind guides and escorted to a table where an introduction to the experience is made and the service begins.
The most exciting part is you won’t know what’s on the menu until the end, which allows you to truly taste every flavour and absorb your surroundings. It really is a feast for the senses!
The pop up runs through to 31st March 2022 and returns in November. Prices are from £95 per person, which includes a 4 course meal and wine. Timings are from Wednesday to Saturday – with first seating at 6pm, last seating 9.45pm and on Sunday – 12 noon to 15.45pm.
Dietary requirements are to be provided ahead of booking and there is strictly no photography allowed.
‘Dine in the dark’ pop-up tests the senses of foodies
Swinfen Hall
Currently undoing a complete refurbishment, ahead of its re-opening in 2023, Swinfen Hall is set in a 100-acre Estate with landscaped gardens and a private deer park located in the Staffordshire countryside, with 18 beautifully appointed bedrooms.
During its renovation, the hotel will be maximising its reputation for some of the area’s finest cuisine, under the instruction of head Chef Ed Dutton, by hosting a delectable Food Events Calendar in 2022, with a number of pop ups, themed dinners and chefs tables.