Thomas Jefferson knew that food has the power to bring people together. With fine cuisine and wine, meaningful conversations flow, creating the perfect environment for cultural diplomacy. By hosting diverse guests around his dinner table, Jefferson championed the exchange of ideas.
This summer, join Monticello in bringing culinary history forward and experience a dynamic new event series, Culinary Diplomacy at Monticello. In partnership with The Culinary Diplomacy Project, we'll explore the intersection of history, food, and diplomacy, delving into how food has been—and continues to be—a bridge for better cultural understanding and communication.
For one night only, experience an unforgettable evening of dinner and discussion at Montalto with renowned Chef Marc Murphy. Indulge in a meticulously crafted meal inspired by Jefferson-era recipes, reimagined through Chef Murphy’s global culinary expertise, and learn more about food as a vehicle for diplomacy. This intimate dining experience offers a rare opportunity to savor history through food, all while enjoying breathtaking views from Jefferson’s high mountain. Limited seating is available.
Be part of this unforgettable journey through history, culture, and cuisine, and reserve your spot today!
Recommended for ages 21+
Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice; please contact events@monticello.org with requests.
Meet the Chef
Son of a globetrotting diplomat, Chef Marc Murphy brings over 30 years of experience from kitchens worldwide to the heart of New York City. He appears regularly as a judge on Food Network's top-rated shows, Chopped, Guy's Grocery Games, Guy's Ranch Kitchen, Beat Bobby Flay, and more. He currently hosts intimate private dining events at MM Kitchen Studio in New York City and monthly dinners at his pop-up restaurant concept, Marc179.
Today, Murphy's involvement in the industry moves beyond the kitchen. Having led the Manhattan chapter of the New York State Restaurant Association and passionately supporting organizations like City Harvest, No Kid Hungry, Made by Dyslexia, and The Culinary Diplomacy Project.
In 2022, Murphy joined Chef Jose Andres and his organization, World Center Kitchen in Poland, where he spent two months cooking for and feeding thousands of Ukrainian refugees as they crossed the border into Poland.
He's authored Season with Authority: Confident Home Cooking and hosted the "Food 360 with Marc Murphy" podcast. Marc resides in New York City with his wife and two children.
