Join us for an evening of mindfulness
Enjoy a five-course dining in the dark experience presented by the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum and The Zoological Lighting Institute. Purchase a ticket to reserve your seat ($190/person). The five-course menu was specially created for this dining in the dark event by renown Chef Ron Oliver.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of sensory exploration at the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum. Immerse yourself in a unique dining experience where you'll indulge in delectable cuisine. Discover the flavors, textures, and aromas of each dish in a whole new way. Let your taste buds guide you as you savor every bite in darkness. This event promises to awaken your senses and create lasting memories. Don't miss out on this extraordinary adventure! This special event is in collaboration with the Zoological Lighting Institute (ZLI) to promote the anticipated animated series, The Afterlife of Whales™. The three season series is currently in development by PhotoDiversity Films LLC which will unfold the story of Aya and her personal journey. Each episode is set to feature a variety of marine species and shares a deeper connection between humankind and wildlife.
Event Agenda
5pm-5:30pm………………………………………….. Check In
5pm-6pm……..……….. Social Hour and Light Refreshments
6pm…………...…………….Seated Dinner and Introductions
7:30pm………………………………...……...Closing Remarks
7: 35……………………………... Moonlit Walk and Event End
Chef Ron Oliver
His first cookbook, the celebrated Flying Pans, winner of the IACP Cookbook of the Year, illustrates Chef Ron's fine balance between discovery and culinary sophistication. As Chef de Cuisine of the prestigious Marine Room in La Jolla, California, Ron led his talented team to eight titles as Best Restaurant in San Diego. He is currently the chef and owner of Chef Ron Catering, focusing on life’s special occasions and culinary events.
Learn more about our partner organization, the Zoological Lighting Institute (ZLI).
FAQ
What’s on the menu? To enhance your dining experience, it’s recommended that courses be a surprise. However, if you would like to preview the menu please click HERE.
Where do I park?
Free public parking is available in the Organ Pavilion Parking Lot, located in Balboa Park.
What is the event address?
Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
2215 Pan American Rd E
San Diego, CA 92101
Will I be blindfolded?
No blindfolds will be used. Use of tea light candles and staff will serve as guides as the event will take place in little to no lighting.
Can I come after 6pm?
Programming and dinner instruction will begin promptly at 6pm.
Do I get to pick my seat?
The event will be immersed in little to no lighting, so guests will be escorted to their assigned seat. Tickets purchased in pairs or groups will be seated directly across from each other. Please note you may be seated beside another party.
Is there a dress code?
Business casual preferred.
What if I have food allergies?
Kindly contact jfgsd@niwa.org regarding allergies. Gluten free option available upon request.
What’s included with my ticket?
Each ticket includes a 5 course meal, light refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages upon arrival. Entry into the garden before 5pm check-in will need to purchase a general admission ticket to enter.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No outside food or drinks allowed. Bottled water is acceptable.
Can I wait to purchase a ticket?
A limited number of tickets are available for purchase. Tickets to this event will be unavailable the day of the event.
Dinner Etiquette
We kindly ask guests to silence their phones and store them away when entering the dining area.
I can’t attend anymore, can I get a refund?
Cancellation requests must be submitted to jfgsd@niwa.org by October 16th at 8am PST to receive a refund. Cancellation requests made after this date will be accepted as a donation to JFGM and ZLI.