Earlier this year, MCCN Editors, yours truly, Monica and Crystal Johnson, took to the rooftop to experience a Winter Village Dining Experience at the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore. There was a plus three roster of family who accompanied us. The hotel recommends reserving two to three weeks in advance because it’s such a popular event. And after experiencing it for myself, I can definitely say it’s with good cause. From the rooftop views to the rustically glamorous cottages, and the exquisite menu, this was a spectacular night to remember.
The Rooftop Experience
Three members of our party of five, came from out of town. Two of them stayed at the hotel, so this was awesome opportunity to survey one of the Harbour View Rooms before going upstairs to the roof. The two level-terrace on the roof is where splash parties happen in the summer, but during the winter, the cottages are certainly the main attraction. Some of the cottages were bigger than the others to accommodate parties of different sizes.
Even though we were there for the “winter village” of it all, our visit was in mid-March—the day before the winter village officially closed for the season.
The hotel has recently changed the schedule. Now, the winter village opens in the latter part of November and closes at the end of February. It’s a smart idea, especially since people are celebrating Christmas and the holidays earlier and earlier these days. Also, for as much as we loved our experience, spring was imminent.
Maryland weather can be iffy, but it was not too cold or wintery outside during our March excursion. Nonetheless, the lack of cold probably gave us a little more inspiration to enjoy the outside ambience a bit longer before stepping into our beautiful cottage.
Dining
Upon entry, we couldn’t help noticing all the fine details from the tablescaping, to the window view, which showcased the sights, the lights, and higher heights of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Cozy is definitely the word to describe the cottage. It felt like we were just hanging out for a holiday weekend at the family cottage. (My family doesn’t own a cottage, but you get my point.)
The dining staff came in and made sure every one was comfortable. And it was pretty to easy to be comfy in the heated, insulated cottage. There was even a soft throw provided for extra warmth. But don’t come in light clothing, it’s recommended that you do dress in something warm.
The staff also came in and explained the menu de nuit and filled our glasses with Pellegrino before taking care of our other drinks.
Many of us had mocktails. I enjoyed the ‘Wonderland’—a mocktail made with cranberry, coconut, lemon, and club soda. I’m guessing that the coconut gave it the beautiful wintery wonderland appearance, and the cranberries were an apropos garnish for this winter white seasonal drink.
An important piece to remember about your dining experience is the add-ons. Extra drinks (even your Italian sparkling water) and other options are add-ons. Your reservation gives you a 4-course pre-fixe menu, which includes:
First Course: possibly bread or salad
Second Course: appetizers
Third Course: entree
Fourth Course: dessert
My meal was incredible. I had the house made focaccia followed by the Fontina Arancini (Tomato Basil Ragu) for the first and second courses. Then for the entree, I selected the braised lamb shank served with Persian Rice, red sorrel, and pomegranate jus. Finally, for dessert, I enjoyed the Chocolate Torta Caprese.
I thoroughly enjoyed everything. I could have laid down right inside the cottage after that rich and filling meal, but I have no complaints. It was well-worth a little fatigue.
Something for everyone
When you check out the menu, you will see an option that’s right for you. There are seafood options and vegan options so don’t count yourself out.
This was absolutely lovely sabbatical from the rigors of life life-ing. And even though the cottage experience has a two-hour window, it is just enough time to have a completely fulfilling experience.
Can you do dining experience like this at your own home? Of course you can! I love the idea of replicating something that could be just as beautiful. But, here’s the thing, if you want to enjoy a special time when everyone, including you, can sit back and enjoy a top-tier fine dining and service experience, give yourself this kind of gift.
There may be a venue doing something similar in your area. However, if you are in the area or if you are down to come to the area, reserve your seat for the Winter Village Dining Experience at the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore.
Editor’s Aside
I think I will always appreciate the Four Seasons in Baltimore. Here’s why…back when Multi Cultural Cooking Network was but a wee-little blog in 2011, then GM, Julien Carrero, agreed to do an interview with us right at the beginning of the hotel’s time in Baltimore. They are the Four Seasons, an international hotel that didn’t mind doing an interview with a local blogger. I loved that energy. It’s the mark of a quality enterprise. Since then, Carrero has gone on to be the GM at Four Seasons Hotel Tianjin.
