Auburn University Launches Exclusive Culinary Getaway at Rane Center
Auburn University is set to launch an exciting culinary getaway at its newly established Rane Center, introducing the Epicurean Experience—a weekend dedicated to the art of food, wine, and mixology. This exclusive event will feature renowned guest chefs and sommeliers, culminating in a lavish nine-course dinner at the center’s acclaimed 1856 Restaurant.
Event Details
Scheduled for January 20-22, this monthly culinary experience aims to highlight the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center, which opened in 2022 with much anticipation. Situated on the Auburn campus, the center serves as both an educational facility and a vibrant operational hub, complete with The Laurel Hotel and Spa, dining options, and various food and beverage ventures.
An Immersive Culinary Journey
The Epicurean Experience promises a luxurious dive into gourmet cuisine, featuring cooking demonstrations, tastings, and expertly paired meals. Priced at $575 per person (inclusive of tax and gratuity), the ticket grants access to all meals, pairings, and demonstrations. Guests are required to book a two-night stay at The Laurel, which is not included in the ticket price. Reservations for the Epicurean Experience can be made simultaneously with hotel bookings.
Star Chefs of January
This month, the culinary spotlight will shine on guest chefs Ford Fry and Bob Ryan, who will lead cooking demonstrations on Saturday morning. They will also curate the tasting menu for the evening’s extravagant dinner and oversee its preparation.
- Ford Fry: A seasoned chef with a background in fine dining and former corporate chef, Fry currently leads Rocket Farm Restaurants, which includes several establishments in Atlanta, as well as locations in Nashville, Charlotte, and Houston.
- Bob Ryan: Ryan’s impressive culinary journey has taken him from fast food to prestigious kitchens under the guidance of notable chefs, including Linton Hopkins and Thomas Keller. He was previously a sous chef at Atera, a two Michelin-star restaurant in New York City, and joined Rocket Farm Restaurants in 2022.
Wine Pairing Expertise
Master sommelier Thomas Price will be on hand to guide participants through a curated selection of wines throughout the weekend. He will be joined by fellow sommelier Nick Hetzel, as well as Jeff Stewart and Michelle Schmitt from Hartford Family Winery and Jackson Family Wines, respectively. Together, they will lead discussions on wine pairings during the Saturday night dinner.
A Hub for Culinary Education
The Rane Center, which spans 140,000 square feet, significantly enhances Auburn’s hospitality management program. It provides students with hands-on training in various culinary disciplines, including pastry-making, catering, winemaking, distilling, and brewing. Additionally, students manage a large garden that supplies organic produce to the restaurant.
Education at the Rane Center is a blend of classroom learning and practical experience, overseen by Price and resident chef Tyler Lyne. All students engage in a business administration minor, equipping them with essential entrepreneurial skills for their future careers.
Upcoming Events
For those interested, future Epicurean Experiences are scheduled for:
- February 10-12
- March 10-12
- April 21-23