The Outstanding in the Field Dinner Series Has Returned—and Tickets Are Still Available

Recently, around 200 guests convened at McCabe Ranch, a vast cattle farm set against the stunning backdrop of the Elk Mountain range near Snowmass, Colorado, for a farm-to-table feast featuring homemade sourdough, red wine-braised beef cheek, and gala apple tart topped with streusel and rosehip-infused chantilly cream crafted by Chef Mattia Agazzi of Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Beverly Hills. This event was part of the 77 Outstanding in the Field gatherings happening across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and South Africa this year, where renowned local chefs prepare multi-course family-style meals using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Jim Denevan, who established Outstanding in the Field in 1999, shared with Dinogo, “Our mission is to connect diners with the roots of their food and to create an experience in tune with nature. The shared seating, engagement with farmers and producers, and guided farm tours inspire guests to connect, exchange stories, and cultivate a greater appreciation for the food, the community, and the principles that drive the farm-to-table ethos. Each guest's experience is one-of-a-kind, yet many leave with new friendships and a newfound respect for the dedicated individuals who nourish us.”

While the Snowmass event took place in a historic barn, future gatherings will unfold in vineyards, ranches, beachside settings, mountain tops, and downtown streets. No matter the location, all diners are seated at a single, extended communal table.

A long dining table, surrounded by chairs, stretches into a lake, enveloped by trees beneath a cloudy sky.

Outstanding in the Field events frequently unfold in breathtaking settings.

Photo by Ilana Freddye

This season emphasizes handcrafted and locally sourced contributions from makers and suppliers, including a host of new female winemakers, oyster farmers, and artisanal cheesemakers. Among them are James Beard Foundation Award nominees like Rob Rubba of the Michelin-starred Oyster Oyster; Renee Touponce of Port of Call and Oyster Club; Michael Diaz De Leon of Brutø; and Rene Andrade of Bacanora. Notable chefs also include Alex Hong from the Michelin-starred Sorrel, Bravo Top Chef finalist Eric Adjepong, and the married duo Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski from the Michelin-starred, James Beard Award-winning State Bird Provisions.

Denevan noted, “We seek out chefs from across the globe who, like us, love to highlight dedicated farmers and thoughtfully grown ingredients, prioritizing local sourcing in their own work. Our guest chefs possess a profound understanding of how to create menus that celebrate the natural beauty and quality of the produce. They are recognized for their creativity and innovation, bringing fresh insights, unique flavor pairings, and unexpected culinary techniques to the dining experience.”

The series began on May 13 at Markegard Family Grass-Fed near Half Moon Bay, California, and will conclude on November 19 at Pie Ranch near Pescadero, California. While events usually sell out rapidly, there are still tickets available for most dates this year.

Here’s what you need to know to secure a ticket for Outstanding in the Field during the 2023 season.

How to Reserve Your Spot for Outstanding in the Field

You can make reservations for the remaining Outstanding in the Field events on the 2023 tour page up to 24 hours before the dinner. Some events have already reached capacity, so it's advisable to book as soon as possible. If your desired date is sold out, you can sign up for the waiting list to receive notifications if more tickets become available. Please note that tickets are non-refundable, but you can transfer them to another person if needed.

What is the cost of Outstanding in the Field?

Tickets for Outstanding in the Field begin at $375 per person and include a welcome reception with wine and a selection of passed appetizers, a farm tour (if applicable), and a four-course dinner complete with dessert and wine pairings. Each event typically hosts between 130 and 200 guests and lasts about five hours.

Diners enjoying a meal at an Outstanding in the Field table set amidst a vineyard in Burgundy, France.

Outstanding in the Field has evolved into a global series of food-centric gatherings featuring international events.

Photo by Neringa Greiciute

Outstanding in the Field 2023: Dates and Locations

Rockies

July 15: North Bridger Bison, Bozeman, Montana
July 17: Mead Ranch, Jackson, Wyoming
July 19: Lowry Ranch, Aurora, Colorado
July 22: Ranchlands at Chico Basin, Colorado Springs, Colorado
July 23: Ranchlands at Chico Basin, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Europe

July 16: Tenuta San Carlo, Grosseto, Tuscany, Italy
July 22: Domaine Lebreuil, Savigny-Lès-Beaune, Burgundy, France

Midwest

July 26: Tangletown Gardens, Plato, Minnesota
July 28: Elawa Farm, Lake Forest, Illinois
July 30: Uplands Cheese, Dodgeville, Wisconsin
August 2: Galena Community Table, Galena, Illinois
August 5: Seedling Farm, South Haven, Michigan
August 6: Tantré Farm, Ann Arbor, Michigan
August 8: Thaxton’s Organic Garlic, Hudson, Ohio

Canada

August 19: Vignoble Camy, Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle, Québec City

Northeast

August 12: The North Farm, Geneva, New York
August 19: Sage Farm Goat Dairy, Stowe, Vermont
August 23: Dandelion Spring Farm, Bowdoinham, Maine
August 26: Moose Hill Farm, Sharon, Massachusetts
August 27: Moose Hill Farm, Sharon, Massachusetts
August 29: Stone Acres Farm, Stonington, Connecticut
August 31: Watson Farm with 401 Oyster Co., Jamestown, Rhode Island
September 2: The Hickories, Ridgefield, Connecticut
September 6: Governors Island with Billion Oyster Project, New York City, New York
September 9: Fireplace Farm, East Hampton, New York
September 10: Fireplace Farm, East Hampton, New York
September 13: Blooming Glen Farm, Perkasie, Pennsylvania
September 16: FarmerJawn at Elkins Estate, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania
September 17: Lancaster Community Table, Lancaster, Pennsylvania