Next Door Dinners x Moody Teas: A Community-Centric Culinary Experience

Back in June, our friends at Next Door Dinners hosted an event that beautifully showcased their mission of building community through the joy of food. Held in the chic Loft Lucia, the event was a gathering of local food enthusiasts who came together to enjoy a night of great food, drink, and conversation.

Next Door Dinners: Fostering Connection Through Food

Next Door Dinners was founded on the principle that food has the power to unite people. Their mission is to create welcoming spaces where neighbors, friends, and even complete strangers can come together, share a meal, and build lasting connections. By curating intimate dining experiences, they highlight local flavors, artisans, and stories, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Moody Teas in the Signature Cocktail “Tea-la Tequila”

A standout feature of the June 18th event was the signature cocktail, crafted with our blends! Next Door Dinner’s featured bartender Max, Bar Director at Roister by Alinea used Moody Teas’ Passion Peach, combined with ginger, simple syrup, lime juice, and tequila, to create a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that perfectly complemented the evening’s menu.

Culinary Delights Prepared by Renowned Chefs

The menu for the evening was a culinary masterpiece, prepared by talented Chefs Ben and Lisa from Gardmo, and Chef Tom DiCarlo, along with a dedicated group of volunteers. The evening’s culinary journey began with a vibrant platter of flatbread and crudité, perfectly accompanied by chickpea hummus, carrot top pesto, and crispy fried shallots. This delightful starter set the stage for the main course: handmade orecchiette pasta, generously coated in a luscious beurre blanc sauce, and paired with a medley of mixed braised greens, tender broccoli rabe, and tangy pickled garlic scapes. The meal culminated in a sublime dessert of rhubarb bars, each bite balanced with the sweetness of whipped cream and the nuance of big salt. Every dish was crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the best of what the community has to offer. All ingredients were sourced from local farms and makers, highlighting the community’s rich agricultural offerings.

A Meal to Remember

Guests at the June 18th event were treated to a meticulously curated menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Communal tables encouraged conversation and new connections, while the warm and inviting ambiance made everyone feel at home. The presence of Moody Teas in the signature cocktail was an incredible way for us to be involved in a cause that we support and build our community, showcasing the best of local talent and quality.

Making a Difference

In addition to the culinary delights, the event raised $1,300 for Market Box, a mutual aid ecosystem uplifting neighbors across the South Side of Chicago and small farms across the Midwest. This contribution underscores Next Door Dinners’ commitment to giving back to the community and supporting local causes.

The Importance of Communitea

At Moody Teas, community building is essential. It aligns with our mission of strengthening underserved communities and fostering a sense of belonging. By creating spaces where people can connect over a great cup of tea (or a tea cocktail), we not only addresses the local need for high-quality tea and healthy and affordable beverage options; but also strengthen neighborhood ties. This commitment to community helps ensure that everyone feels valued and supported, contributing to a more vibrant and connected community.

Looking Forward

Next Door Dinners continues to grow, staying true to their mission of building community through food. With each event, they create opportunities for people to connect, share stories, and enjoy the richness of local flavors. Keep an eye out for their upcoming events and experience the magic of Next Door Dinners for yourself.

For more information and updates on future events, visit their Instagram page, and check out their recent feature in the Chicago Reader! Tickets for their next event at The Plant Chicago (one of Nora’s favorite spots in the city!) will be posted soon, and they sell out fast so get them while they’re available!