Belinda Lichty Clarke

Meeting planners are always looking for fun and creative ways to entertain guests, and the latest trend is heating things up in a big way.

Sit-down, plated meals have evolved into active culinary events, thanks to a variety of chefs and creative entrepreneurs who are making dining at meetings fun again.

In the summer issue of Texas Meetings + Events, you’ll read all about this hot trend, which you might describe as “Eating as Entertainment.” In the meantime, meet Michell Huber, founder of Austin-based culinary event company and cooking school Freda's Kitchen.

Whether you are hosting a group of locals for a corporate fete or looking to impress visiting out-of-towners, a great steak always makes a good impression. Beef is big business in Texas, which means myriad restaurant choices for planners. 

“Nothing says Texas pride like a juicy steak. Texans spent $3 billion on beef in restaurants in 2014. That’s 700 million pounds of beef,” says Rachel Chou, Texas Beef Council senior manager, consumer communications.

And where better to treat your guests than a distinct steakhouse with private event space?