By Amy Procaccini
Beginning this month, Strathmore will once again provide expansive dining options before performances in its venues. Supported by new hospitality partner Sodexo Live! and under the leadership of a new chef, the food and beverage experience for patrons at Strathmore’s Music Center and AMP will be customized to the season and event – “a perfect culinary harmony.”
Philadelphia native and culinary artist, Chef LaTasha Stevenson, will lead the Strathmore Culinary Arts team. With a degree from the Art Institute of Philadelphia and years of experience in hotel and country club food operations, Chef LaTasha then moved to Washington, D.C. where she learned to combine her love of Southern US, African, and mid-Atlantic cuisine.
“As the Executive Chef at Strathmore, my focus will be on fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients,” Stevenson said.
“The food we showcase will reflect my passion for the art and highlight the decency, dignity, and love I have for the craft of culinary services. Guests will be delighted to an array of offerings that are sure to leave a lasting impression.”
Reflective of the vibrant programming at Strathmore, the culinary team will incorporate unique and familiar dishes with a distinct take on sustainable, seasonal, mid-Atlantic favorites. Specific themed menus will be shared the week leading up to each performance.
The team from Sodexo Live! will power the program, as they do for such institutions as London’s Royal Academy of Arts, Madrid’s Museo del Prado, the Scottish National Gallery, and the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C.
At the Music Center’s Allegro Kitchen, guests can enjoy dinner and bar service 90 minutes before the performance. Features will include the best ingredients of the season including carving stations with creative sides, cheese and charcuterie boards, and themed, light bites.
At AMP by Strathmore, menus will be customized and sharable, including “Jazzy” Crab Salsa, Poco Chicken Salad Bites, and delectable desserts. Paired with innovative cocktails and local, craft beer, patrons can enjoy a truly “audible, edible” experience at the 144-seat lounge—which has recently been revamped to allow extra space for guests.
Strathmore Culinary Arts will also provide on-site catering services for weddings, milestone celebrations, and other private events at Strathmore’s Mansion and other spaces.
“We feel passionately that the art created in the kitchen is just as important as the art on our stages or in our galleries,” said Mac Campbell, Vice President of Operations at Strathmore. “We’re excited to watch Chef Stevenson and the Culinary Arts team bring their passion and creativity to the forefront, making for a truly experiential patron experience from the minute they walk through our doors.”
“I couldn’t be more excited to kick off this partnership,” said Steve Pangburn, CEO, Sodexo Live! North America. “From the National Gallery of Art to the Baltimore Convention Center, this is a region we understand quite well and one where we have strong local ties. Strathmore is a stunning venue that showcases both the local community and world’s best talent in a wonderful light, and we look forward to helping enhance the dining experience here.”
Amy Procaccini is Strategic Brand Communications Manager for Sodexo Live!
