I had been captivated by the concept of a roaming restaurant without walls. After years of admiration and hearing buzz about this traveling event, I found myself with the opportunity to attend one. Outstanding in the Field is a renowned, intimate dining experience; this installation taking place in Palm Springs, California.
I seized the chance to turn the one-night evening into a weekend road trip adventure. I arranged a vehicle through Turo, a ride-sharing service akin to Airbnb. With a straightforward pick-up process, my friends and I hit the road to Palm Springs for what promised to be an extraordinary culinary affair.
The Atmosphere
Little did we anticipate the depth of the experience that awaited us. A journey that would tantalize our taste buds and reconnect us with the essence of the land itself.
Our girls’ getaway was filled with awe-struck wonder when we arrived at Robert Lower’s tropical desert oasis. It was evident that this was no ordinary dining experience. Here, nature’s bounty was celebrated and embraced in all its wild and untamed beauty.
Robert Lower’s approach to agriculture is rooted in permaculture principles. The style revealed what it means to be wild and free. Instead of imposing strict control over the land, he nurtured biodiversity allowing edible greens and delicate branches to flourish beneath the canopy of date palms. The result is an abundance of Barhi, Medjool, Dayri, Zahidi, and Deglet Noor dates, each bursting with flavor and vitality.
As we gathered around the long table, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude. From the farmers to the culinary artisans, every dish told a story of its place that resonated deeply during the experience.
The Food
As the night continued it was time for the main event — the food. Each meal served was a symphony of flavors that danced across our palates with each bite. Executive Chef Gabriel Woo worked his magic in the field kitchen, transforming Robert’s harvest into a culinary masterpiece.
Menu items included Baba Ganoush, California Citrus Salad, and grilled Santa Carota Beef New York strip steak. From citrus-infused delights to savory creations inspired by the landscape, each dish showcased the power of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The Community
While sharing stories and laughter with fellow diners, universal human conversations unfolded before us all. With the backdrop of a breathtaking desert sunset, what made this experience even more unforgettable was the sense of community. With their roaming restaurant concept, Outstanding in the Field has taken dining on the go to all 50 states and a few international destinations. In a world where disconnection seems to be the norm, this event reminded me of the importance of slowing down, savoring the moment, and appreciating the beauty of the world around us.
