The Unexpected Pairing – A 5 Course Food & Drink Experience

    Dublin 8
    Up to 12 people
    3 hours
    €95.00
    per person
    Step into a completely unique dining experience where every course is designed to surprise. This is not your typical dinner party. The Unexpected Pairing is a carefully curated 5 course tasting menu where each dish is matched with a drink you would not normally expect but one that elevates the flavour in a way that makes perfect sense once you taste it. Throughout the evening, I guide you through each course, sharing the thinking behind both the dish and the pairing, creating an experience that is as interactive as it is memorable. Expect a mix of premium ingredients, bold flavours and a blend of classic and modern cooking techniques, influenced by years of experience across high end kitchens, gastro pubs, and refined dining environments. Each menu is fully tailored to your group. Before the experience, we will discuss your preferences, dietary requirements, and the style of evening you would like to create, whether that is relaxed and fun or more refined and premium. Every detail is curated to suit your guests. Pairings may include a combination of wine, cocktails, craft beers and spirits, depending on the menu and the experience you choose. This experience is perfect for • Private dinner parties • Special occasions • Corporate groups • Food lovers looking for something different What makes this different is simple. You will not just eat and drink, you will understand why things work together and experience flavour in a completely new way. Sample pairings may include • Lightly roasted salmon paired with an apple and elderflower spritz, lifting the natural richness of the fish with fresh acidity and subtle sweetness • Slow cooked beef paired with an ice cold bold stout or porter, where roasted malt and gentle bitterness enhance the depth of flavour • Crispy buttermilk chicken with a hot honey glaze paired with a margarita style cocktail, where bright lime cuts through the richness while the sweetness and spice mirror the dish, creating a perfectly balanced bite and sip These are not traditional pairings, but once you experience them, they make complete sense.

    What you'll do

    1
    Arrival & Set Up

    Arrival & Set Up

    I arrive in advance of the experience with a colleague to greet the host, set up the kitchen and dining area, and prepare everything for the evening ahead. This ensures a smooth, seamless start for guests.

    2

    Guest Arrival & Welcome Drink

    Guests arrive and are welcomed with a light aperitif to set the tone for the evening. This is a relaxed and social moment, allowing everyone to settle in before the experience begins.

    3

    Introduction & First Course

    The evening begins with the first course and its paired drink. I introduce the concept of the experience, explain how the pairings work, and guide guests through the flavours and combinations.

    4

    The Tasting Experience

    A five-course tasting menu is served, with each dish paired with a carefully selected drink. Throughout the evening, I guide guests through each pairing, explaining the thinking behind the combinations and how flavour, texture, and balance work together.

    5

    Final Course & Wrap-Up

    The experience concludes with the final course and pairing. Guests can relax, enjoy the last flavours of the evening, and reflect on the experience as it comes to a close.

    6

    Q&A & Guest Interaction

    Guests have the opportunity to ask questions, share their favourite moments and learn more about the dishes, techniques, and pairings from the evening.

    7

    Clean Down & Departure

    All equipment is cleared and the kitchen is left clean and organised. I say goodbye to the host and guests, bringing the experience to a smooth and professional finish.

    What's included

    All food & tastings
    Drinks pairing
    Welcome drink

    What this chef offers

    I'll come to you

    I travel to guests in the area outlined on the map. Locations slightly outside this radius may still be possible for an additional travel distance fee.

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    Map data ©2026 Google
    Map data ©2026 Google
    Based in Dublin 8· Travels up to 25 km

    Hosted by Derek Marsden

    Derek Marsden
    Derek Marsden
    I’m a Dublin based Executive Chef with a passion for creating exceptional food experiences at home. With a background in busy award winning gastro pubs, 5 star hotels and Michelin star kitchens, I specialise in refined, ingredient led cooking that feels both elevated and familiar. I love bringing people together through food, whether it’s a relaxed dinner or a special celebration, with dishes that are full of flavour, beautifully presented, and tailored to each guest.
    French
    Asian Fusion
    Mexican
    American
    Korean

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    From €95.00/person

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