Charlie Trotter Pop Up – A Collaboration with Next and Dylan Trotter
- Kira Jabri
- Feb 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 22
Some dining experiences go beyond the plate, our recent experience, the Charlie Trotter Pop-Up, a collaboration with Next and Dylan Trotter, was a dining experience that went beyond the plate, it was an unforgettable evening honoring a culinary icon.
Charlie Trotter revolutionized fine dining in America. His eponymous Chicago restaurant was a mecca for food lovers, shaping the careers of countless chefs and leaving an indelible mark on the industry. The pop-up event was a thoughtfully curated homage to his legacy. Though we never had the opportunity to dine at the original, the experience felt like a step back in time. Each course celebrated his signature style, offering a deeper appreciation of his culinary genius.
More than just a tribute, the evening was a celebration of Chef Charlie Trotter’s legacy, brought to life by those who knew him best. As a family that writes and shares about our fine dining experiences, we were captivated by the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the stories, techniques, and passion that made Chef Trotter a true legend.
A Generational Bridge
We owe an incredible debt of gratitude to Dylan Trotter. It was a true pleasure to meet him and learn about the passion and care he has poured into the restaurant and this project.
With his generosity, we were given the opportunity to explore not only the dining room and kitchen but also the original test kitchen where Chef Trotter once filmed his cooking shows, a space Dylan graciously opened for guests.
After a wonderful dinner, we had the chance to experience this special part of the restaurant’s history and spend time with Dylan’s delightful girlfriend, with whom I could have happily chatted well into the evening.
This evening was more than just an incredible meal, it was an invaluable learning experience. In fact, we felt it was so meaningful to be a part of this pop-up that we pulled Emma out of school for the trip, and it was unquestionably worth it. She had the rare opportunity to learn firsthand about the restaurant’s rich history, dining in a space that has hosted countless memorable meals and conversations over the years.
An Unforgettable Culinary Evening
There was something truly special about dining on the original platters and soup bowls from Charlie Trotter’s restaurant. For someone who loves dishware (Kira) and believes that the right plates and serving pieces elevate the dining experience, this was a rare and meaningful connection to the past, a tangible link to the artistry and legacy of a culinary legend.
Was the evening “kid-friendly”? We would say yes, especially for a child who thrives in a fine dining setting. Emma was in her element, absolutely in her glory with the Twice-Baked Potato, generously rained with shaved truffle. Her only culinary critique? She would have loved more caviar in the Osteria Caviar dish, to be fair, who wouldn’t?
As always, the Alinea Group went above and beyond, delivering impeccable service and even arranging a special FaceTime call with Ms. Hannah right at our table. A thoughtful touch that made the evening even more memorable.
For those who were fortunate enough to be part of this experience, it was more than just a meal. It was a moment in history, a testament to the enduring power of a chef who changed the game forever. And for Jabri Fine Dining, it was an opportunity to witness the magic of a culinary legend’s legacy firsthand.
To Charlie Trotter—your vision lives on through some amazing people.
The evening’s menu:
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