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Special Events
& Packages
May 25th
Discover the art of tea with an Asian-inspired twist at 1856 – Culinary Residence.
From delicate green teas to bold oolongs and floral infusions, our curated selection offers a soothing escape steeped in tradition and flavor.
Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore new brews, or simply savor the moment, every sip invites you on a journey through Asia’s rich tea culture—no passport required!
May 9th & May 10th
Celebrate Graduation at 1856 – Culinary Residence with a special lunch or dinner to honor this incredible milestone.
Gather with family and friends to toast the graduates’ achievements over an unforgettable meal. Plus, each graduate will receive a special gift to mark the occasion!
May 11th
Celebrate Mother’s Day at 1856 – Culinary Residence with Tea on Thach, a delightful afternoon of tea, treats, and quality time with Mom and the special mother figures in your life.
Join us for one of two seatings as we honor the amazing women who inspire us—plus, they’ll receive a special gift to make the day even sweeter!
Can’t make it on Mother’s Day? We’ve got you covered with another Tea on Thach date on Saturday, May 25th!
May 11th (Mother’s Day)
Give Mom an unforgettable Mother’s Day weekend at The Laurel Hotel & Spa, where every moment is designed to make her feel special.
Start her experience with a rejuvenating spa day, followed by a peaceful night in luxurious accommodations.
Then, treat her with a memorable meal at 1856 – Culinary Residence or to Mother’s Day Tea on Thach, where she will receive a thoughtful surprise!
It’s the perfect combination of relaxation, indulgence, and cherished moments, making this Mother’s Day one she’ll never forget.
Take the Elevator Home!
Experiencing 1856 – Culinary Residence is the perfect opportunity to extend an already exceptional dinner into the perfect weekend in Auburn! The Laurel Hotel & Spa entrance is just around the corner in the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center. Treat yourself to the most luxurious stay on The Plains.
April 13th & 27th
Dearest readers,
The event of the season is upon us, and it promises to be the most exquisite gathering to date. This April, the Bridgerton Tea on Thach will open its doors to the most distinguished members of society (yes, that includes you). Expect a spread of delectable treats and fine teas, curated with the elegance and refinement of the ton in mind!
But that is not all, dear readers. Whispers tell of a horse-drawn carriage gracing the affair, ensuring every guest arrives in true Regency style. What better way to experience such an event than with a touch of whimsy and grandeur?
Spots are as limited as Lady Danbury’s patience, so do not delay. Reserve your place now, lest you be the unfortunate soul left to read about it from afar.
Yours in intrigue,
Lady Whistledown
April 20th
Celebrate the beauty of spring and the joy of Easter with a special 4-course menu at 1856 – Culinary Residence.
Enjoy bright, seasonal flavors and chef-inspired dishes in a warm and inviting setting perfect for gathering with family and friends.
Join us for this egg-straordinary experience, with an optional beverage pairing available to enhance your meal. Secure your spot today and make this Easter one to remember with great food, wonderful company, and a celebration of the season!
March 28th & 29th / Seating Available 5:30PM – 8:45PM
*Chef Van Aken will only be in person Friday evening, however we will still offer his menu on Saturday
Experience an unforgettable evening at 1856 – Culinary Residence as we welcome legendary Chef Norman Van Aken for an exclusive event, The Art of The Plate.
Renowned as the “Founding Father of New World Cuisine,” Van Aken has shaped the culinary world with his innovative fusion of Latin, Caribbean, Asian, American, and African flavors.
A James Beard honoree and celebrated author, he continues to inspire the next generation of chefs through education and philanthropy.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to savor the artistry of one of America’s most influential culinary pioneers!
March 16th & 23rd
Dearest readers,
The event of the season is upon us, and it promises to be the most exquisite gathering to date. This March, the Bridgerton Tea on Thach will open its doors to the most distinguished members of society (yes, that includes you). Expect a spread of delectable treats and fine teas, curated with the elegance and refinement of the ton in mind!
But that is not all, dear readers. Whispers tell of a horse-drawn carriage gracing the affair, ensuring every guest arrives in true Regency style. What better way to experience such an event than with a touch of whimsy and grandeur?
Spots are as limited as Lady Danbury’s patience, so do not delay. Reserve your place now, lest you be the unfortunate soul left to read about it from afar.
Yours in intrigue,
Lady Whistledown
February 9th & 23rd
Join us to experience our Tea on Thach menu, where delicious teas meet an array of special pastries and treats.
Inspired by our Director of Culinary Training & Innovation, Chef Antony Osborne. We bring you a selection of delectable delights that perfectly complements the spirit of 1856 – Culinary Residence. Discover unique blends. each carefully chosen to harmonize with our diverse menu, creating an experience that you will never forget!
February 20th, 6PM
1856- Culinary Residence Master Sommelier, Thomas Price, will go head-to-head against Master Sommelier, Julie Dalton. Who will win? Join us and vote through each course as these two duke it out in a duel pairing through the seven course tasting menu crafted by our Chef in Residence, Joël Antunes. See the special one night menu here soon, but the pairings will not be revealed until the day of at the Battle dinner!
January 12th & 26th!
Join us on to experience our Tea on Thach menu, where delicious teas meet an array of special pastries and treats.
Inspired by our Director of Culinary Training & Innovation, Chef Antony Osborne. We bring you a selection of delectable delights that perfectly complements the spirit of 1856 – Culinary Residence. Discover unique blends. each carefully chosen to harmonize with our diverse menu, creating an experience that you will never forget!
December 31st, 5:30PM & 8:15PM Reservations Available
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with great food, drinks, and fun! Our 8-course New Year’s Eve Menu, crafted by Chef Joël Antunes, is the perfect way to wrap up the year with your favorite people.
December 24th, Reservations Available Between 5pm – 8pm
Make this year truly memorable with our annual festive Christmas Eve Dinner Tasting Menu Experience. Our team is thrilled to prepare an incredible 8-course tasting menu that will allow you to eat, drink, relax and simply enjoy a special evening with your loved ones.
Don’t miss the chance to savor this specially curated menu by our Chef in Residence, Joël Antunes.
December 8th, 15th and 22nd
Join Us For A Festive Holiday Tea Experience!
Celebrate the joy of the season with a special visit to 1856 – Culinary Residence, where the spirit of the holidays fills the air and your favorite festive treats await.
Our culinary team is excited to unveil a limited-time holiday menu, brimming with seasonal flavors and delightful pastries that capture the essence of the holiday season. Gather with family and friends for an afternoon filled with warmth, cheer, and the joy of sharing delectable holiday delights!
November 28th / Reservations Between 3pm-6:30pm
Make this year truly memorable with our annual Thanksgiving Tasting Menu Experience. Our team is thrilled to prepare an incredible fall produce-inspired tasting menu that will allow you to eat, drink, relax and simply enjoy a special evening with your loved ones.
Don’t miss the chance to savor this specially curated menu by our Chef in Residence, Joël Antunes.
Sunday, November 24th
Step into a world of enchantment with our magical tea experience!
Put away your Time-Turner and mark your calendar for a stop at 1856 – Culinary Residence, where charms abound and your most delightful (pastry) wishes come to life.
Our culinary wizards are thrilled to unveil this limited-time menu, brimming with bewitching flavors and spellbinding treats. Don’t miss out on this enchanted afternoon—it’s bound to be more than magical!
October 13th & 27th, 2024
Join us on October 13th and 27th to experience our Tea on Thach menu, where delicious teas meet an array of special pastries and treats.
Inspired by our Director of Culinary Training & Innovation, Chef Antony Osborne. We bring you a selection of delectable delights that perfectly complements the spirit of 1856 – Culinary Residence. Discover unique blends. each carefully chosen to harmonize with our diverse menu, creating an experience that you will never forget!
Friday, October 25th – Sunday, October 27th / 2024
The Epicurean Experience is the ultimate package of specially curated moments to immerse yourself in the world of food, wine and mixology.
Join French Two-Star Michelin Chef Michel Portos for a cooking demonstration and lunch in the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center along with wine education and tastings from our own Master Sommelier in Residence, Thomas Price.
The itinerary is filled with education, enjoyment and of course, exceptional food.
Thursday, October 24th / 6pm-9pm
– at Walt’s on the Roof
Mark your calendars for Auburn’s 2nd Annual Festival De Miura- an incredible evening celebrating the best of Spanish wine, food and music!
Emmanuel Kemiji, Master Sommelier and proprietor of Clos Pissara, will be in attendance as guests enjoy his renowned wines and beers; as well as sangria, a selection of paellas, traditional Cochinillo Asado and dancing to live, sizziling Flamenco!
This is one evening you don’t want to miss!
September 8th & 22nd, 2024
Back by popular demand, Swif-Teas On Thach has added more dates!
Join us on select Sundays this September for an unforgettable tea experience inspired by the one and only, Taylor Swift!
Mark that Blank Space in your calendar and make a Swift stop by 1856 – Culinary Residence to see Sparks Fly and your Wildest (pastry) Dreams come true. Our team is ecstatic to introduce this limited time special menu with Enchanting flavors and delightful treats inspired by the singer’s iconic songs and albums.
August 29th, 6:00pm, 2024
Join us on Thursday, August 29th, for an exclusive event. Our third annual Battle of The Somms at 1856 – Culinary Residence!
Don’t miss this unforgettable evening featuring two Master Sommeliers, a delectable multi-course tasting dinner menu, and an exceptional lineup of 12 wine pairings. With only one winner, gather your friends and secure your table now!
August 18th & 25th, 2024
Join us on select Sundays this August for an unforgettable tea experience inspired by the one and only, Taylor Swift!
Mark that Blank Space in your calendar and make a Swift stop by 1856 – Culinary Residence to see Sparks Fly and your Wildest (pastry) Dreams come true. Our team is ecstatic to introduce this limited time special menu with Enchanting flavors and delightful treats inspired by the singer’s iconic songs and albums.
Tuesday, July 23rd – Saturday, August 10th, 2024
Summer is sizzling in Auburn as we introduce our second year of the Summer Chef Series! Get ready for an extraordinary month as we welcome a stellar lineup of chefs. The final installment in our restaurant transformation will be a Marcel takeover by Chef and CEO, Ford Fry, of Rocket Farm Restaurants.
The tasting menu experience will be $12s per person and adding a beverage pairing will be an additional $100 per person.
We look forward to hosting you this month for an exceptional and unforgettable experience!
Tuesday, July 16th – Saturday, July 20th, 2024
Summer is sizzling in Auburn as we introduce our second year of the Summer Chef Series! Get ready for an extraordinary month as we welcome a stellar lineup of chefs. The second installment in our restaurant transformation is Chef Leo Maurelli III, Managing Partner, Culinary Operations at Ithaka Hospitality Partners’ in Auburn, Alabama.
The tasting menu experience will be $12s per person and adding a beverage pairing will be an additional $100 per person.
We look forward to hosting you this month for an exceptional and unforgettable experience!
Tuesday, July 9th – Saturday, July 13th, 2024
Summer is sizzling in Auburn as we introduce our second year of the Summer Chef Series! Get ready for an extraordinary month as we welcome a stellar lineup of chefs. The first installment in our restaurant transformation is Kyle Knall, Chef and Co-Owner of Birch and Culinary Director at Stone Bank Farm in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The tasting menu experience will be $12s per person and adding a beverage pairing will be an additional $100 per person.
We look forward to hosting you this month for an exceptional and unforgettable experience!
Sunday, May 12th, 2024
Honor mom in style by treating her to an afternoon of refined luxury at our Mother’s Day Tea experience!
This special Tea on Thach offers an array of elegant teas, a delectable assortment of savory treats and an atmosphere like no other. Treat mom to an unforgettable time in 1856 – Culinary Residence, where every sip and bite is crafted to perfection and every moment is held dear to our hearts
March 31st, 11AM – 2PM, 2024
Join us for Easter Sunday at 1856 – Culinary Residence, where we have prepared a special four-course tasting menu just for you!
The cost is $75, excluding beverage pairings, though a beverage paring option will be available to add during your experience. Secure your spot today and don’t miss out on this eggstraordinary event!
March 22nd – 24th, 2024
The Epicurean Experience is the ultimate package of specially curated moments to immerse yourself in the world of food, wine and mixology.
Join Chef and Co-Owner of The Dabney, Jeremiah Langhorne, for a cooking demonstration and lunch in the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center along with wine education and tastings from our own Master Sommelier in Residence, Thomas Price. The itinerary is filled with education, enjoyment and of course, exceptional food.
February 13th – February 17th, 2024
Celebrate your love story at 1856 – Culinary Residence this Valentine’s season with our exclusive tasting menu dinner experience. Book now for an unforgettable dining experience filled with love!
February 8th, 6:00 pm, 2024
Join us on Thursday, February 8th, for an exclusive event—the second annual Battle of The Somms at 1856 – Culinary Residence!
Don’t miss this unforgettable evening featuring two Master Sommeliers, a delectable multi-course tasting dinner menu, and an exceptional lineup of 12 wine pairings. With only one winner, gather your friends and secure your table now!
DECEMBER 31st, 2024
Celebrate the New Year in refined style with an exclusive tasting dinner for two at 1856 – Culinary Residence. Indulge in an elevated dining experience, thoughtfully curated to tantalize your taste buds and create cherished memories. Join us for an evening of exceptional flavors and intimate ambiance, as we craft a culinary celebration to elevate your New Year’s experience.
DECEMBER 31st – January 1st, 2024
Make a toast to the New Year with this elevated package that includes dinner for two at 1856 – Culinary Residence, followed by a celebration on The Rooftop at The Laurel Hotel & Spa. Enjoy an evening under the stars around warm fire pits and a lively dance floor with music from our DJ. Everything leads up to a grand Champagne toast at midnight with stunning views of Samford Hall as your background.
DECEMBER 24th, 3:00pm, 2023
Elevate your holiday experience with 1856 – Culinary Residence on Christmas Eve! Join us for a special Christmas Eve Dinner that includes our multi-course tasting menu, incredible wines and special holiday favorites.
NOVEMBER 23rd, 3:00pm, 2023
Make this year truly memorable with our annual Thanksgiving Tasting Menu Experience. Our team is thrilled to prepare an incredible Thanksgiving-inspired tasting menu that will allow you to eat, drink, relax and simply enjoy a special evening with your loved ones. Don’t miss the chance to savor this specially curated menu by our 2023 – 2024 Chef in Residence, Ford Fry.
NOVEMBER 1oth – NOVEMBER 12th, 2023
Hosted by James Beard Nominated Chef of Lazy Betty and Humble Pie, Chef Ronald Hsu.
The Epicurean Experience is the ultimate package of specially curated moments to immerse yourself in the world of food, wine and mixology. Join world renowned chefs for a cooking demonstration and lunch in the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center along with wine education and tastings from our own Master Sommelier in Residence, Thomas Price. The itinerary is filled with education, enjoyment and of course, exceptional food. You will return home from an Epicurean Experience filled with great memories.
NOVEMBER 9th, 6:00 pm, 2023
Join us in celebrating Fall with a whiskey dinner featuring four Uncle Nearest expressions, 1856-Culinary Residence’s signature cocktails, and an 8-course tasting menu curated by Chef-in-Residence Ford Fry.
We are thrilled to announce that Victoria Eady Butler, 5th Generation Master Blender and the great-great-granddaughter of Nearest Green, who has been honored as the three-time Master Blender of the Year, and Fawn Weaver, CEO of Uncle Nearest will be joining us for this exciting event.
An Urban Summer Retreat, 2023
Indulge yourself in luxury by avoiding the crowds and escaping to our urban retreat at The Laurel Hotel & Spa and 1856 – Culinary Residence. The Summer Escape package includes a $100 incidental hotel credit, 20% discount on up to two spa treatments and a rooftop infused summer cocktail upon arrival. Two-night minimum stay required. Rounding out the weekend with a dinner experience makes for the perfect weekend.
A Special Month of Renowed Guest Chefs, 2023
Summer is heating up in Auburn, and we’re not talking about weather. We’re talking about the powerhouse lineup of Chefs that will be visiting 1856-Culinary Residence for a special LIMITED ENGAGEMENT month of menus and culinary artistry that will light up the summer!
Chef Chris Hastings (Hot & Hot Fish Club – Birmingham, AL) Friday & Saturday, July 7 & 8 and Tuesday & Wednesday, July 11 & 12
Chef Rob McDaniel (Helen – Birmingham, AL) Friday & Saturday, July 14 & 15
Chef Chris Hathcock (Recently, Husk Restaurant – Savannah, GA) Tuesday, July 18 – Thursday, August 3
TASTING MENU EXPERIENCE
May 14th, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, 2023
Join us this Mother’s Day for a memorable lunch with the ones you love. This specially curated four course tasting menu experience is one you don’t want to miss. Stay tuned into our social pages for the reveal of our unique menu!
TASTING MENU EXPERIENCE
April 9th, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, 2023
Spring is in the air!
Join us this Easter Sunday for a memorable lunch with the ones you love. This specially curated tasting menu experience is one you don’t want to miss. Stay tuned into our social pages for the reveal of our unique menu!
Tuesday, February 14, 2023
The Ultimate Romantic Getaway Experience!
Treat your most special someone to the perfect romantic Valentine’s getaway with our special limited package.
~ Romantic overnight accommodations ~
~ Sunset experience on The Rooftop
featuring an oyster display & special sparkling cocktail ~
~ Dinner for two at 1856 – Culinary Residence ~
~ Send off brunch in The Library ~
Wednesday, February 8th at 6:00pm / 2023
1856- Culinary Residence Master Sommelier, Thomas Price, will go head-to-head against Master Sommelier, Emmanuel Kemiji. Who will win? Join us and vote through each course as these two duke it out in a duel pairing through the seven course tasting menu crafted by our Chef in Residence, Tyler Lyne. See the special one night menu here, but the pairings will not be revealed until the day of at the Battle dinner!
Friday, January 20th – Sunday, January 22nd / 2023
The Epicurean Experience is the ultimate package of specially curated moments to immerse yourself in the world of food, wine and mixology.
Chef Akhtar Nawab is an award-winning chef, restaurateur, TV personality and cookbook author. He currently owns popular restaurants in New York and New Orleans and is also a founding partner of Hospitality headquarters. His knowledge of and excitement for culinary education will make this Epicurean Experience one of our best yet!
Friday, November 4th – Sunday, November 6th / 2022
Join The Laurel Hotel & 1856 – Culinary Residence for the 1st ever Epicurean Experience. The Epicurean Experience is the ultimate package of specially curated moments to immerse yourself in the world of food, wine and mixology.
Chefs Duaine Clements and Rodrigo Bellora, of Valle Rustico in Brazil’s wine region, will be hosting as well as bringing along Sommelier Larissa Verdi, who will masterfully pair wines and cocktails, alongside our own Thomas Price, M.S.
Stay in Touch
Sign up to be the first to receive special news and event updates from 1856 – Culinary Residence.
Stay in Touch
Sign up to be the first to receive special news and event updates from 1856 – Culinary Residence.
DINNER
Tuesday – Saturday
5:30 pm – 9 pm
LUNCH
Tuesday – Saturday
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
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Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management
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Experience an unforgettable evening at 1856 – Culinary Residence as we welcome legendary Chef Norman Van Aken for an exclusive event, The Art of The Plate.
Renowned as the “Founding Father of New World Cuisine,” Van Aken has shaped the culinary world with his innovative fusion of Latin, Caribbean, Asian, American, and African flavors.
A James Beard honoree and celebrated author, he continues to inspire the next generation of chefs through education and philanthropy.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to savor the artistry of one of America’s most influential culinary pioneers!
*Chef Van Aken will only be in person Friday evening, however we will still offer his menu on Saturday
Experience an unforgettable evening at 1856 – Culinary Residence as we welcome legendary Chef Norman Van Aken for an exclusive event, The Art of The Plate.
Renowned as the “Founding Father of New World Cuisine,” Van Aken has shaped the culinary world with his innovative fusion of Latin, Caribbean, Asian, American, and African flavors.
A James Beard honoree and celebrated author, he continues to inspire the next generation of chefs through education and philanthropy.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to savor the artistry of one of America’s most influential culinary pioneers!
Experience an unforgettable evening at 1856 – Culinary Residence as we welcome legendary Chef Norman Van Aken for an exclusive event, The Art of The Plate.
Renowned as the “Founding Father of New World Cuisine,” Van Aken has shaped the culinary world with his innovative fusion of Latin, Caribbean, Asian, American, and African flavors.
A James Beard honoree and celebrated author, he continues to inspire the next generation of chefs through education and philanthropy.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to savor the artistry of one of America’s most influential culinary pioneers!
*Chef Van Aken will only be in person Friday evening, however we will still offer his menu on Saturday
