Dinner with MAD MEN: Hands-On Cooking & Cocktails

MAD MEN, one of TV’s latest megahits, has inspired a renaissance of curiosity about 60’s culture. As a result of the show’s tremendous popularity, entirely new generations of viewers have become fascinated by the fashion, design, architecture and style of the time. In this class, we’ll recreate a dinner party that key characters Betty and Don Draper may have cooked up for their friends or business colleagues. We’ll begin the class with a brief look at the food trends of the late 50’s and early 60’s and talk about the influence of newly-available packaged foods, the increasing influence of international cooking such as French and Asian, and the growing popularity of outdoor grilling and backyard entertaining as families discovered new suburban lifestyles.

Our menu will reflect many of these influences with updated techniques and contemporary ingredients. We’ll begin by creating classic appetizers of deviled eggs, and shrimp cocktail. Moving on to main courses, we’ll prepare Polynesian Pork, baked chicken Supreme, and a beef stroganoff worthy of any 60’s gathering. Our sides and desserts will include the classic iceberg wedge salad with two dressings, French and Roquefort, and a grasshopper pie with crème de menthe.

Finally, as we gather around the table to enjoy our culinary creations, and resident wine and cocktail expert will shake and pour some of the era’s iconic libations.