Dine Like French and Italian Royalty with Chef Vince Dodson--Summerville's Historical Dining

Palace of Versailles

Would you like to experience a culinary extravaganza fit for a king of 1600s France? One of the most famous kings of this country reigned during this period of time, Louis XIV. Besides his wild hair-do, he was known for the architectural design and building of the palace of Versailles, which is rumored to have ruined the nation due to its cost. You can only imagine the dinners that were served there.

Dinner with Louis XIV was an odd affair. It was a prestigious honor to feast at the palace of Versailles, but here is the enigma, it did not mean you got to eat at his table. An invitation to dine with the king was an invite to watch him eat. It was a kind of reality show of the 1600s. The time was 10 pm. Close members of the royal family accompanied the king at the table in his antechamber. Depending on your relevance as an attendee, you were either permitted to sit on something or stand while you observed.

Louis XIV's antechamber at Versailles

The food was in abundance, and meals included courses, upon courses, upon courses. The king would start his meal with four different types of soup. L'Oille was popular at this time, a kind of soup served as amuse-bouche composed of various meats and vegetables. Entrees were next, which would include three or four other dishes. The meat was traditionally served plain, spit-roasted. Sauces, salads, and sides would come as separate courses. Then he would finish with what we would call dessert. By the time it was over, the king will have tasted 20 to 30 different dishes.

The whole affair was quite a spectacle, which brings me back to the original question. Would you like to be immersed into a culinary extravaganza where you are the catered royal? Historical Dining offers such a unique opportunity where the fine dining experience is merged with history, focusing on French and Italian cuisine with recipes from the 1500s to the 1900s.

Historical Dining's personal chef is Vince Dodson. Vince has been a chef for 20 plus years. He started his venture about five years ago and is having the time of his life. Trained in the European Way and using recipes from famous chefs of the past, his distinctive style is perceived from opening handmade breads all the way to chocolate desserts. "It gives me a chance to express everything that I've learned from the history and taste of French and Italian cuisine. My only wish: To cook for you and the ones closest to you," stated Vince.

Historical Dining will host you at your home or any formal venue setting, including outdoors. Rehearsal dinners, romantic dinners for two, business socials, and even a "Girl's Night In" are available.

The Historical Dining experience comes to you fully equipped with linens, china, utensils, and food to prepare. You are both spectator and partaker throughout your personalized dining experience. You will taste the same dishes prepared for royalty and created by celebrity chefs with an added bonus, you learn about the history behind your dish.

Lowcountry Pianist and Company LLC often partner with Chef Vince to enhance intimate dining experiences by providing live music. Their creative team is able to go above and beyond, even pairing the music style with the menu.

Check out Historical Dining's website for all necessary information and pictures. You can also read the reviews from previous clients.

You can meet and see Chef Vince Dodson in action every Saturday morning. Stop by the Historical Dining tent at the Summerville Farmer's Market and sample his culinary expertise.