The dining room at Sweet Chipotle was filled with families and friends on the evening of Dec. 6. The crowd was not only enjoying each other's company, but also a fine selection of delectable food catered just for them for this months' Tasting Party.
VanDee Miller, wife of Patrick Miller who opened Sweet Chipotle in June, said the Tasting Parties became a monthly habit for the couple in September.
"It's a chance to introduce Sweet Chipotle to the community," Miller said. "And a way to have people gather and sit by their neighbors or families and enjoy a great meal."
The cuisine for the monthly Tasting Party, which Patrick Miller said is "traditional food with a contemporary twist" is chosen by him, with a certain criteria in mind.
"It all depends on the season we're in," VanDee Miller said. "That, and (Patrick) looks at what foods would go well together."
Patrick Miller has been in the kitchen, in a professional sense, for more than 20 years. His culinary training began in Kansas City. Soon after graduation, he worked as a caterer for various Kansas City country clubs and even served as corporate chef for Sprint. The Russellville native then moved closer to home about 15 years ago, where he decided to share his talents with Moniteau County once again.
"When he got back here, people started asking him if he was going to start a business," VanDee said of Patrick, who was at another engagement Dec. 6. "Then, this all boomed from word of mouth."
Every month, the Tasting Party follows the same formula. Each month's menu has a salad or soup option, two meats, one vegetable and a starch and bread rolls. Also, one may choose from two or three available desserts.
The price for the meal is $12 for adults, $6 for children and desserts are $2.50 each.
"We are very happy to have people come out," Miller said. "There are no reservations needed; we serve at the Tasting Party until the food is all gone."