The Chef’s Table Host

You want to watch. The kitchen is the best room in your house, your guest list is small and your idea of a good evening involves asking what is in the sauce and getting a real answer. You would rather eat five courses at a counter than four in a dining room, and you pour the wine yourself.

Editor’s tip: Keep it to eight guests, clear two fridge shelves the day before and hire nobody but the chef. Spend the service budget on wine instead.