Chez Clark

So, Darin and I were trying to figure out constructive ways to use all of this extra time we have now that we don’t have kids and decided to turn our house into a restaurant for an evening. We sent invitations to several couples with young families in our area. “You and your valentine are invited to dine at Chez Clark on February 16th.” Knowing first hand how difficult it is to get out for an evening when you have young children, we also told them that child care would be provided. BUT – we didn’t give any other details.

Imagine their surprise when they arrive at our house on Saturday the 16th to be greeted by a maitre ‘d (our nephew Tyler) “welcome to Chez Clark, do you have a reservation this evening?”

We had removed most of the furniture from our living and dining rooms and replaced it with individual tables for each of the 7 couples that accepted the invitation. Lights were low and tables were set with sparkly glassware, flowers and glowing candles. Tyler sat them at their designated table and then Darin and our dear friend Tom swooped in to wait on the guests. Darin and Tom were dressed in “waiterly” black pants and white shirts and immediately served each couple an appetizer after their children were whisked away downstairs and they were seated at their table.

The Menu
Appetizer: Warm Blue Cheese, Bacon and Garlic Dip served with sliced apples and crackers

Salad: Mixed greens salad served with choice of dressing (blue cheese, ranch, vinaigrette, or honey mustard) and a roll

Entrée Choices: Penne Pasta Con Amore – Penne pasta with chicken topped with fresh basil, tomato and caper sauté then baked with fresh mozzarella and ricotta. Served with fresh grilled asparagus
Or
Roast Beef with red wine and blackberry sauce served with mashed potatoes and fresh grilled asparagus

Dessert: Raspberry trifle or Chocolate Mousse


I started cooking at 7 AM Saturday morning and THANKFULLY, my dear friend Suzette arrived to help in the afternoon. My friend Linda’s hubby got sick and couldn't come for dinner so she also pitched in to help in the kitchen and having the extra hands on deck was a HUGE help!

Our basement – had been turned in to a kids play land complete with Pizza (Cheese & Pepperoni), Chocolate Milk, Juice boxes, sliced apples and apple sauce. Our niece Leah and Tyler’s girlfriend Bria (and Tyler after his maitre‘d duties were completed) took excellent care of the kids and all 14 of them played well together!!


Our guests report that they had a lovely time but I really believe that Darin and I had the most fun. The best part was the stunned looks of surprise when people walked in to the “fancy restaurant”…. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a single picture of the waiters or of me in my chef hat!