Underground Supper Clubs

The National Restaurant Association reported last fall that more than half of its members were concerned about the future of their business. People are eating at home to save money, and in some places, diners are getting around the tasks of table reservations, tips and high-priced bottles of wine by dining in private kitchens and living rooms.

They’re called underground supper clubs and they work like this: a secret location. Access given to a select few. Directions sent via email hours before the event. From Austin to Atlanta, New York to San Francisco, foodies are clamoring for invites to these private events. Those who attend come from all walks of life, and are looking for new experiences - gournmands who are burnt out by celebrity chef culture and the stuffiness of fine restaurants. Jean Railla, author of Get Crafty and the blog Meal by Meal joins us on the line from New York with her experience at one of these supper clubs.

(Photo by mirvettium via Flickr/Creative Commons)