Build-A-Menu Night

Design a simple menu for a future dinner—real or imagined—by brainstorming dishes, themes, and small details.

Materials & Shopping Links

Paper or Menu Template
A page to sketch out courses and ideas
Quantity: 1 per person
Pens or Markers
For writing and small illustrations
Quantity: Shared set

Welcome to Build-A-Menu Night

Build-A-Menu Night is a way to dream up a meal before it happens—or even if it never does. It’s about playing with flavors, themes, and the feeling you want the evening to have.

Before You Begin

Decide if you’re planning a real dinner or an imaginary one
Choose a theme: comfort food, brunch, seasonal ingredients, favorite childhood dishes
Set out paper and something to write with

Flow of the Activity

1. Choose the Mood (10–15 minutes)

Write a few words describing the vibe: cozy, celebratory, quiet, playful
Think about who might be there: a friend, a partner, yourself, a group

2. Build the Courses (20–30 minutes)

Sketch out 2–4 courses (or just a main + dessert)
Brainstorm dish ideas without worrying about recipes yet
Add small details: drinks, music, candles, or a simple ritual

3. Reflect or Plan Next Steps (10–15 minutes)

Decide if you want to actually make this meal someday
Circle dishes that feel most exciting or doable
Jot down a few ingredients or recipes to look up later

Variations & Ideas

Travel version: Create menus inspired by places you love or want to visit.
Memory menu: Build a menu from dishes tied to specific memories.
Group version: Each person designs a course for a shared menu.