Throwing a dinner party is an obligation for some, the ultimate creative expression for others, and for most of us a time-consuming process with great reward. But the trip begins with the menu, and half the fun in hosting a dinner party is the host’s own instinct concerning what culinary roads can and should be traveled. Today, more of our food media is focused on presenting its readers with turn-key and complete menus culled from the best restaurants and reflecting presumed styles and tastes. If you read between the lines, the mix of dishes presented to us can help home cooks better understand what makes a great menu. ChefsLine, however, challenges its members and its team of top chefs to do more. Working one-on-one with a great chef, ChefsLine coaches home cooks through the process of creating their own unique menus that start with sound culinary principals but incorporate the styles, tastes, budget, and skill level of the host. The menu planning process, or “itinerary,” for a dinner party is a thoughtful and time-saving way for any home cook to plan their party and express their own style through food.

Let’s Get Started!
The Creative Process
Selecting Dishes
Putting it All Together
Plan of Action
Sample ChefsLine Dinner Party Menus