Last Saturday evening, my husband and I were treated to a very special culinary experience. We had the pleasure of attending a five-course dinner, cooked and prepared by Chef June DePetro.

Chef June hosts this unique dining adventure in her elegant home in Pittstown, NJ. When speaking with her, she credits her grandmother as her mentor and teacher. Her meal was delightful in every way.

We arrived at the “invitation only” BYO event at the specified time and were immediately made to feel welcome. Her home was inviting and warm, filled with approximately thirty other diners, all of whom had previously experienced Chef June’s fabulous Italian cuisine. Her gracious family room was set with several tables, according to her guest’s requests. She personally welcomed us to her home and we began to sample her unique culinary talents.

The menu is a preset five course Italian feast, served by a staff of professional and attentive assistants.

The first course consisted of her homemade burrata, which was not only delicious, but was presented beautifully on the plate.

We had a choice of two ( a meatball or eggplant rollatini) for the next appetizer course. I had the meatball, which I thoroughly enjoyed and of which I found myself wanting more.

The third course, a pasta, was expertly prepared and a hit among the guests. 

I chose the Seafood Piscatory Scampi for my entree, which was mouthwatering.

We had a choice of two for the final dessert course. I chose a delectable chocolate cake.

My husband chose the marvelous lemon cake. 

All the portions were large and we were able to take home what we were not able to finish.

Chef June cooks a different menu for each occasion. The cost is $80 per person and people may bring their own alcohol. Each guest receives the menu prior to the event and make his/her choices before the big night. She is respectful of allergies and accepts special requests (especially if you want her Chicken Parmesan, which I hear is amazing). All of her ingredients are fresh and she begins cooking that morning.

We spent three hours enjoying a wonderful evening, and savored a delicious meal in a lovely home! In addition, we met some new and interesting people who travel from all over the Metropolitan Area to taste and revel in Chef June’s excellent cuisine. Her passion for cooking is contagious and the intimate setting in which she entertains makes you yearn for more. I will definitely return and bring my “foodie” friends.

If you want to learn more about Chef June’s dining experience, and perhaps make the next guest list, please visit her Facebook page, Chef’s Table NJ, A Boutique Dining Club”. I promise you will not regret it!

It’s that simple!

Thank you Cathy!