Private Events & Parties

The Seasoned Gourmet and Cape Fear Food & Wine Club are the perfect setting for private events, celebrations, and memorable gatherings. From intimate dinners to lively group experiences, we look forward to hosting you and creating an event tailored just for you. 

Types of Events:

Hands-On Cooking 

Guests: 8–12
Perfect for small groups, these interactive classes focus on preparing one or two dishes or techniques. Guests are actively involved in the cooking process and enjoy the finished dishes together. Recipes are provided to take home, making this a great choice for afternoon or early evening gatherings.

Hybrid Cooking Class

Guests: 10–20
A blend of participation and relaxation, hybrid classes allow guests to take part in select portions of the cooking while our staff prepares the remainder. Typically, one course is hands-on, with additional courses demonstrated to allow for more social time.

Demonstration Cooking Class

Guests: 12–28
Affectionately known as “dinner and a show,” these themed demonstrations invite guests to relax and enjoy as the chef prepares a multi-course menu—usually three to four courses or a selection of small plates. Interact with the chef, enjoy great company, and savor a full-service meal.

Kids’ Birthday Parties

Guests: 8–18
We offer themed cooking classes designed especially for junior chefs who love to cook. Kids enjoy a hands-on experience with the chef instructor while learning new culinary skills in a fun, engaging environment.
All parties include filtered water, standard white table linens, plates, cups, utensils, kids’ aprons, and staffing for service and cleaning. Families are welcome to bring additional snacks and décor. We’re happy to help design a birthday celebration your child will love.

Wine Tastings & Pairings

Wine Tasting

Guests: 10–32
Enjoy a curated wine tasting tailored to your preferences and budget. Light hors d’oeuvres are served in a relaxed cocktail-party setting with no formal seating, making this option ideal for larger groups and casual celebrations.

Wine Education Class

Guests: 10–18
Led by our wine specialist, these interactive classes feature tastings of 6–8 wines throughout the evening. Guests learn about varietals, regions, and tasting techniques in an informal, welcoming environment where questions are encouraged. A light snack is provided, along with plenty of time to socialize and enjoy the experience.

Wine Dinner

Guests: 10–28
Our all-inclusive wine dinners pair a glass of wine with each course—typically three courses—creating a thoughtfully curated dining experience. Guests receive tasting notes, pairing details, and chef recipes. This option includes a full-service, seated meal.

Looking for a unique space for your next gathering? Our event area is available to rent by the hour and is perfect for meetings, celebrations, tastings, workshops, and private events. The space offers a warm, inviting atmosphere designed to bring people together comfortably and creatively.

Whether you’re hosting a small group or a larger gathering, our flexible rental options allow you to customize the space to fit your needs. Hourly rentals are available, with optional add-ons and support services upon request.

For availability, pricing, and details, please contact us—we’re happy to help you plan the perfect event.

FAQs About Private Events

What’s on the menu?

Menu planning is the fun part! We’re happy to develop a custom menu based on your preferences, interests, or themes. Please share any ideas you have to help guide the process. We prefer to communicate by email to ensure timely and accurate responses.

I have a food allergy—can I still host an event?

Absolutely. We use high-quality ingredients and prepare all food with care. Please let us know about any allergies or dietary sensitivities in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate them whenever the menu allows.

What beverages are provided?

Filtered or bottled water is provided during events. We offer a curated selection of wines across various price ranges, primarily small-production, handcrafted options, as well as a modest selection of craft beer. Food and wine pairing is a cornerstone of our programming, and we’re happy to guide selections based on your preferences and budget.

Can I bring my own alcohol?

With at least one week’s notice, we can provide most wines or beers available in New Hanover County. We kindly request that outside alcohol not be served.

Are non-alcoholic options available?

Yes. We offer sparkling and flavored waters, sodas, and can provide coffee and tea upon request. Please let us know in advance if you’d like hot beverages available for your event.

Special Dietary Needs

Please inform us of any allergies, dietary restrictions, or special needs when booking your event. The chef or instructor will determine whether the menu is appropriate and make substitutions when possible.

Deposit

A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your event date and cover planning costs. This deposit is applied in full toward your event total and may be transferred to a new date if the event is rescheduled. The deposit amount will be confirmed once the date and menu are finalized.

Payment, Tax & Gratuity

Event pricing is based on the expected number of guests and is confirmed three days prior to your event. Payment is due on the day of the event for the confirmed guest count. Late cancellations (within 72 hours) are non-refundable. Additional guests may be accommodated at the chef’s discretion; please contact us as soon as possible if your guest count changes.

Payment is accepted via company check or major credit cards. Events are tax-exempt as they are classified as services; beverages and retail items are subject to applicable local and state sales tax. Gratuity is not expected but is always appreciated and may be given in cash.