SETTING THE TABLE WITH Olivia Muniak
THE ART OF ENTERTAINING is where expertise in both design and food merge; a coming together of different elements that tap into our senses, artfully finessed by the host to make us feel something. I personally love getting lost in the ceremony of setting a table, foraging for greenery, curating a good playlist, and planning a menu (or specialty cocktail!). It feels magic to bring people together and share in the joy of a setting, food and conversation.
In this new content series, I wanted to peel back the curtain on the making of beautiful tablescapes, intimate gatherings, events and dinner parties through the skillful approach and minds of industry talents.
TO BEGIN THE SERIES, I chat with entertaining connoisseur, champion of ‘lazy-fancy’, and lover of all things Italian: Olivia Muniak.
With a client list including the likes of Nike, Mytheresa, Moet Hennessey and Laura Mercier, Olivia creates food-focused events that ignite the senses and delight her guests. A self-taught chef who grew up in a New York City restaurant family, Olivia is now based in Los Angeles where she has built a highly successful career out of her culinary creations and hosting expertise.
For a captivating glimpse into Olivia’s approach to hosting gatherings, read on.
WHAT’S ON THE MENU?
Now that Fall is finally at the farmers market I reach for Chicories, Kale, and root vegetables. Some of my favorite salads is a Chicories & Persimmon Salad, or Kale & Fennel. Then for mains I love heartier dishes like Lamb Ragu or Beef Tenderloin, and finally for dessert Flourless Chocolate Cake, with the addition of cinnamon and cayenne, or espresso to enhance the rich chocolate flavor or Rose Apple Tart.
WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY COCKTAIL:
WHAT ARE YOU SETTING THE TABLE WITH?
This fall I launched a line of ceramic tableware handmade in Los Angeles, and not to pick favorites but the Fiore dinnerware is absolutely stunning when stacked together. Then I like to mix in our Cena Napkins and silver candlesticks and other serving pieces that I have collected over the years.
WHAT’S ON THE PLAYLIST?
Lazy-Fancy Aperitivo
SHOP THE EDIT
For more, visit oliviamuniak.com