Secret Garden Dinner at the Omni Montelucia

The Omni Montelucia Resort and Spa is quite enchanting, as you walk through the property, you'll notice Camelback Mountain in the background. The property is inspired by the exotic locale of Spain's Andalusia region and is reminiscent of a picturesque Andalusian village, featuring arching entryways, tranquil fountains and floral walkways. We were on the property for a special dinner, hosted once a month and my friend and I were in for quite a treat.

Signs on the property helped us navigate back to a private 2500 sq ft space, equipped with a gorgeous kitchen, large patio and a dining space that kept things intimate. Chef Marcos Seville was busily cooking and plating our apps for the evening and we were greeted with cocktails and delicious bites. The Chef's Kitchen Secret Garden Dinner was well underway and people were starting to filter into the kitchen. The kitchen was where all the live action was with the Chefs but ended up enjoying the magnificent view outside on the patio as the sun set and chatted for a bit before dinner started.

Once inside and seated for dinner, Chef came out to explain a little bit about the dinner and the first course. He then hurried back into the kitchen to start preparing our meal. We were all eagerly waiting to see what the first course would bring and we were thrilled to see a deconstructed Salmorejo with tomato, egg, crisp Serrano and olive oil. I always love an interactive course, this dish was served to us and then the soup was poured out in front of us. A colorful and flavorful course!

Our next course was paella negra with squid ink, prawns, crispy calamari, sweet peas, nduja and bomba rice. I loved the texture of everything. The room was filled with laughing and chatting as everyone got to know each other better and our glasses were filled with more wine. There's nothing I love better than how food brings people together, builds a community and can create new friendships. That's what these kinds of dinners do when you attend them.

The following course was my favorite, the Nora roasted picanha with saffron, olive zest, calabrian pepper fideo and Spanish chorizo. I can't even explain to you how amazing the cook on that meat was and the flavors of each component was a perfect accompaniment. One more pour of wine and then we were well into our last course, a gorgeous dessert presentation. The tarta de santiago with dry fruit compote, brandy custard and vanilla tuille was light and perfect as the finale.

I think that everyone should try one of these dinners at least once. It's something a little out of the ordinary but totally worth the price and time. Being able to enjoy fine wine and food in a setting like this is priceless.

The upcoming dinner this month still has a few tickets left and all you bourbon lovers are in for a treat! The theme is National Bourbon Celebration and you can see the full menu here. It will take place on June 28th at 6 pm. To reserve your spot or for more information, contact haley.hill@omnihotels.com or call (480) 627-3111. Tickets will be $110.

If you are looking for the most perfect gift or simply want to enjoy these events throughout the year, you can now purchase season pass tickets and they can be used at any 2018 dinner event.

12 tickets - $1,100 (savings of $220)

6 tickets- $660 (savings of $60)

To purchase your season pass, contact Haley Hill at (480) 627-3111 or haley.hill@omnihotels.com