When Grant Achatz throws a party, it’s not your average dinner soirée. To celebrate two decades of redefining fine dining, the Chicago-based culinary alchemist is taking his Michelin-starred marvel on the road. And when that party lands at the glittering Faena Miami Beach as part of Alinea’s 20th anniversary tour? Let’s just say some bites were practically floating. Each course arrived like a plot twist. Eleven in total, and not a single snoozer among them. Here’s a few bites from the evening (without ruining everything) that reminded us: food is storytelling, and Achatz is a master narrator.
Chicago Hot Dog | tomato, neon relish, sport pepper, hot dog distillate
Alinea’s homage to its roots kicks things off. Imagine the spirit of a Chicago dog as a Jell-O shot. It’s nostalgic. It’s weird. It’s wonderful.
Peeled Grapes | cucumber, cantaloupe, almond gazpacho, saffron pillow
You’ve never had grapes like this. They arrive nestled on a saffron-scented cloud, playing nice with white asparagus and tarragon. Yes, we said cloud.
Curds And Curds | goat cheese, cauliflower, paneer, garam masala
India meets the Midwest, but in a silk robe.
Snapper | hearts of palm, coconut, cardamom, fermented mango
If Miami had a flavor, this might be it: beachy, bright, and a little mysterious.
The Porthole | The Macallan 12, sherry cobbler, hibiscus
Part drink, part installation, an ever-evolving cocktail served with a hibiscus ice sphere.
Hot Potato | cold potato, butter, périgord truffle
The OG hot potato trick. Still playful. Still genius. Still impossible to replicate at home without engineering software.
Beef And Broccoli | wagyu, peanut candy, pink peppercorn
Rich, beefy, and kissed with peanut sweetness. Unexpectedly balanced, totally addictive.
Black Truffle Explosion | romaine, parmesan
One bite. One explosion. All truffle. Honestly, we needed a moment.
Balloon | helium, taffy, green apple
Yes, you inhale it. Yes, your voice goes chipmunk. Yes, it literally floats.
Paint | chocolate, seven citrus, calamansi cookie
A Pollock-inspired finale, painted directly on the table. This is theater. Bring your camera.
This tour stop wasn’t just a celebration of 20 years, it was a love letter to food that plays with your senses, tickles your brain, and makes you wow. We’ll be talking about this dinner for years.
Grant, don’t be a stranger.