Lilac Dinner

Driving through my neighborhood in Chiltonville sets the scene for classic cape cod cedar shingled houses, rolling wildflower hills, and a vast coastal landscape with ocean views. The end of May blesses us with two fleeting weeks of the most luscious, fragrant roadside lilacs.

The flowers are edible and florally delicious when stewed with sugar. Everyday they are with us, I make sure to take a moment to inhale and give them a long, deep sniff. The fragrance fogs my brain with instant serotonin, always longing for more.

When my neighbors called to start hosting a series of dinner parties, I thought an ode to one of the seasons most sought after flower would be perfect to celebrate. I then started brainstorming the variety of techniques I could use with this flower. My neighbors, Allison & Sarah have incredible super powers for styling, design and floral arranging.

Their homes were the perfect backdrop for this dinner party. They blend European provincial charm with natural beauty in their dreamy backyard in Plymouth, MA. It’s elegant yet unpretentious, fragrant with lilacs, and infused with the romance of the countryside.

The menu was simple, yet elevated with springs natural gifts.

Lilac Themed Menu

Purple asparagus salad, mint, peas, purple radish, manchego & brown butter pistachios

Green onion focaccia & whipped chive blossom butter

Lilac & wild blueberry thyme glazed duck confit, sweet corn soubise

Lilac sugar beignets & lilac creme anglaise

Lilac & mint spritz