A bit different this year?

It is the time of year again where all restaurants are busy with large groups of colleagues and friends celebrating this jolly time. And each year I hear the same phrase: This year we want something different!

Something different sometimes just means going to a different restaurant and with so many new restaurants opening in Cork City, the choice is huge. I am currently organising a mystery dining tour and beer tastings for corporate clients and have to admit, it is great fun working with people who really want something different. I organised a mystery dining tour for the same client a few years back and one advantage of such a tour was that the groups were re-arranging at the new location - making it perfect for team building without the tag of it. 

Some restaurants have imagination, creating special events around Christmas; one of them being Flemings Restaurant and their annual Christmas Night. Guests will be treated to a wine tasting of the wines being offered for the night (makes ordering wine easier at dinner), followed by a 5 course tasting menu and music and storytelling. The spirit of Christmas is high on this night and it is one of my favourite events at this time of year (Flemings Restaurant, Tivoli, Cork, Tel. 021/4821621 - tickets are still available as far I am aware of).

But how different can you be? After all, Christmas is all about food and drink - and enjoying yourself with your friends and colleagues. But if alcohol isn't your things, why not host a vintage afternoon tea party - The Pastry Fork by Mags Curtin is offering a unique service bringing everything with her, from the cakes, slices and sandwiches to the vintage china and tablecloth. All the host has to do is have a kettle to boil water for the tea/coffee. Now that would be something different this year, wouldn't it? Check out The Pastry Fork on Facebook or call 087/9661812

This Christmas be different.