American Express Platinum members were treated to an exclusive night showcasing an eclectic assortment of Toronto food trends. For Taste from Platinum at Luma, Chef Michael Wilson put his signature spin on street-level culinary trends of recent memory.
For Platinum cardholders, the Taste from Platinum Program is unique in that it will allow you to make a reservation through the Amex Platinum Card Concierege at more than 1000 highly-acclaimed restaurants across the world (including right here: Montecito, The Chase, Colette, Patria, Westlodge, George, North 44, Splendido & more). Plus, by making your reservation through the Amex Platinum Card Concierge you can receive exclusive perks – complimentary appetizers or a glass of champagne. The Concierge can also arrange for flowers to be waiting at your table for when you arrive. As an honorary Platinum Cardmember for the night, we were granted access to unique dining experiences like this evening’s extravaganza – A Platinum Cardmember Dinner, complete with customized menus, wine pairings and a meet and greet with the chef. Such experiences are simply not available to the general public - at any price.
We were offered flutes of champagne before stepping out onto the breezy Luma patio, which boasts cozy chairs and a stellar view. As part of the VIP experience, we were greeted by flashing cameras and a veritable parade of ‘food truck frenzy’ canapes. There was a nod to the humble hot dog (a lobster frank topped with tangy horseradish slaw), piquant masala dosas, and delectable shrimp tacos with lime crema.
Inside, the mirrored walls & natural wood banquettes created an impressive backdrop for the night’s royal treatment. Centrepieces by Parterre exploded with vivid dahlias, roses and mimosa. Names scrawled on envelopes in loopy script indicated our place settings, and inside I was pleasantly surprised to find a $50 gift certificate for Wine Online (Wine Online’s Aaron Bick chose the pairings for tonight’s extravaganza). We take our seats at the communal tables, seeing both familiar and new faces alike as we greet our dining companions for the evening (even the more subdued tables got a little rowdy as the champagne flowed).
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