Eight Eat Experience

This is a culinary journey that celebrates connection, creativity, and the beauty of plant-based cuisine. All within the ambiance of a New York City garden terrace while the sun sets over the stunning backdrop view of the Manhattan skyline.

This 8-course menu is homemade, incorporates freshly milled flour pasta, farm-fresh exotic mushrooms, molecular gastronomy techniques, and showcases ingredients sourced from the garden. Chef Mario will walk you through his process for making each dish and answer any questions you may have.

To accompany you through this menu, included are complementary red & white wine. For those seeking a non-alcoholic experience, we also offer a crafted mocktail.

At the end of each dinner, as a token of gratitude for joining us for the evening, you will also receive a gift bag packed with a box with Chef Mario's 72 hour proofed focaccia, a jar of his vegan vodka sauce, and an bundle of aromatic herbs from the garden, allowing you to bring a touch of The Eight Eat Experience back home.

Our goal is to connect people over fun and creative plant-based dishes in a New York City garden. Our intention is to bring you back to the joyous experience of communal dining, where the present moment is savored and new connections are cherished.

Behind the Name

When turned on its side, the number 8 becomes the symbol for infinity. Our name and approach are inspired by this infinite loop. We are committed to new ideas, new connections, and a menu that changes each month. It’s a reflection of our belief that dining should never be static. It should evolve, surprise, and unfold like a story with no final chapter.

The Power of Presence

In a city that never slows down, the present moment often feels fleeting. New Yorkers are always on the move. We're chasing deadlines, dodging traffic, juggling countless ambitions. But there is something powerful in the pause, when we step away from the noise and into the now. We slow the pace enough to truly listen, learn, and notice the small things that so often go unnoticed.

Gathering with Intention

Most of us have our heads down with eyes glued to screens. Here, we rediscover the joy of conversation and the beauty of stillness. In a culture of constant motion, gathering for a shared meal becomes a quiet act of rebellion. We return to what matters: real connection, shared stories, and deep nourishment. The kind of magic that only happens when people come together. This is more than dinner. It’s a celebration of the present moment, one we hope becomes a lasting memory.

The number 8 isn’t just a digit, it’s the heartbeat of our philosophy.

Our Approach To Food

The Ingredients

Every dish is completely plant-based. The food begins with what surrounds you—quite literally. Many ingredients are grown in the garden that encircles the space. We also feature farm-fresh exotic mushrooms and freshly mill our own flour for our pastas, which allows us to retain optimal nutrition and flavor at the most elemental level. Every dish reflects what’s in season.

The Techniques

We let the true character of vegetables, herbs, and fruits shine, using refined molecular gastronomy techniques to reimagine texture, aroma, and presentation. From gels and foams to fermentations and infusions, every element is designed to enhance—not mask—what nature has given us. Our goal is to deepen flavor, evoke emotion, and spark curiosity.

The Flow of Flavor

Our menus are choreographed to unfold like a story. Each composed course builds upon the last and is guided by complementary yet contrasting flavors, temperatures, and textures. It’s a journey designed to unfold with intention, expression, and surprise. From the first bite to the final note, we strive to have the meal feel both spontaneous and seamless.

Let's Make Memories

You’ll want to remember this night, and not through a screen. That’s why we quietly document the experience for you.

As the golden hour fades into night, our photographer captures subtle, candid moments of connection. With the city skyline as your backdrop, you're invited to pose for portraits.

Within 48 hours, you’ll receive a curated gallery of images. Showcasing the moments you've shared with guests you've connected with. They're more than just photos—they’re memories, framed with intention and lit by the energy of the evening.

Gift Bags

It’s become a tradition at the Eight Eat Experience to end the evening with a parting gift.

As a token of gratitude for joining us for the evening, you will also receive a gift bag packed with a loaf of Chef Mario's 72 hour proofed focaccia, a jar of his vegan vodka sauce, and an bundle of aromatic herbs grown from the garden, allowing you to bring a touch of The Eight Eat Experience back home.

We Prefer to Let Our Guests Do the Talking

"What sets this experience from others is the impeccable attention to details—right down to the quality fresh ingredients (some of which were grown in their own terrace garden!). The food was nothing short of extraordinary. Each dish was not only beautifully presented but also bursting with flavor, originality, and heart. Mario, a seasoned professional chef, brings unmistakable passion to his craft—you can taste the love and intention in every bite.
It was more than just dinner, it was a story, an atmosphere, and and now a memory. I cannot speak highly enough of the quality, care, and hospitality provided. Truly exceptional."

Elliot I.

"Chef Mario and hostess Nastasha provided an incredible experience from beginning to end. The details in the table setup, the view from the terrace, the hospitality - everything was extremely well thought out. Every course was well executed with well balanced flavors. Throughout the night, Nastasha made sure our glasses were always filled with wine and the vibes were incredible. My partner and I had such a great time, we will surely be back for other events! Please book chef Mario for private dinners."

Geraldine

"The Eight Eat Experience is magic, poetic even. What Chef Mario is building is special, the purpose is clear and the level of detail orientation is beautiful beyond measure. The courses were incredible. Excellent dishes. The hospitality and service was top tier. Initially, I didn't know what to expect at all, but with great food, great people, and a great view - it's hard to go wrong. After leaving, I immediately thought about the family/friends/business partners and clients I'd like to bring back to the experience."

Lakim D.

"Dinner with Chef Mario is more than a meal — it’s a beautifully curated journey of flavor, story, and connection. The experience is set on a stunning private rooftop terrace, where the skyline is your mood lighting and the musical selections only enhance the ambiance. Although the setting is magical, what makes the evening truly special is the warmth it fosters among guests.
If you’re fortunate enough to experience it, prepare yourself for unforgettable food, meaningful conversation, and a connection to both people and place that lingers long after the last course."

Nate T.

"Experience is the right word, and the evening is a special one at that. It's is part dinner party, part flavor exploration. As we settled into our seats and were formally welcomed to the evening, conversation and laughter was alive around the table. The evening was punctuated by Chef Mario's presentation of each uniquely creative and thoughtfully crafted course, each a celebration of vibrant seasonal flavors and artistic precision. At the end of the meal we tried, and failed, to determine which dish was "best." Mario returned to chat with us, welcoming all our questions - mostly, "How??" in response to the nuanced depth of flavors and textures. His passion for food and its ability to bring people together, paired with a remarkably seamless presentation, makes for a delicious, comfortable, and truly memorable experience. "

Cameron C.

"Thank you again for hosting me, my friends, and my sisters for an incredible evening. They can't stop raving about how delicious the food, service, and ambiance was and I agree with them one thousand percent. It was absolutely wonderful and I have been telling everyone in my life about this experience. It's one thing to provide good service, but I can tell that you and your team are all good-hearted people as well. Thank you again for helping to make my birthday special, and I look forward to working with you again in the future."

Danielle Q.

"When I first learned of the Eight Eat Experience I was excited and eager to take part in this special event. The food was incredible, the location breathtaking and company of other guests all unknown to me made for a special shared evening. Each course was so exquisitely created and displayed and presented me with new found flavors, techniques and food flavorings. I highly recommend anyone interested in creatively crafted food dishes, vegan or not to take part in this experience."‍

Jenni C.

"When I first heard about Mario's Eat Eight Experience, I thought I would go one time only as an experience that I was pretty sure I would like. He really blew my mind in a way I could not anticipate. All the flavors and complexity of each of his dishes were incredible, and it wasn't only that, I was super nervous about going by myself, and I had the best time ever. It ended up as an opportunity to connect with other people and have a fantastic meal together. That being said, I've been going to his dinners for the last 3 menus and I keep getting amazed each time. I highly recommend it."

Beatriz A.

"What a beautiful experience with artful food by the talented Mario Buccellati. A 7 course plant-based dinner on a roof top overlooking the city to celebrate my friend's birthday in our love language of food and adventure. I highly recommend the Eight Eat Experience. I appreciate the innovation and elevation in plant-based cooking with family values around the intimacy of dining together. The event hosts only 8 and has a steady flow of food for 3 hours."

Geeta K.

"My husband and I had such a great time at the Eight Eat Experience, and we can't thank you enough! First of all, the food was incredible, and it's obvious how much time and care Mario puts into his craft. Each dish was delicious, and surprising in how creative the flavor combinations were. In addition to the great food, the atmosphere was lovely, and totally unique. Food is truly something that brings people together, and to meet six new people over such a beautiful meal, was really special. Thank you again for an amazing evening! We will definitely be back in the future."

Lauren W.

"Chef Mario is an exceptional host and his finesse in presentation is nothing short of extraordinary. He exudes passion when sharing how he creates each component of the dishes from scratch. Chef Mario has a clear and profound devotion to plant-based cooking that breathes new life and respect for the food we ate. The Eight Eat Experience is one-of-a-kind that everyone in NYC can enjoy and we cannot wait to experience what he's cooking up next season! It was quite a pleasure."

Lauren D.

"The Eight Eat Experience by Mario Buccellati is like nothing else you've ever experienced. A dinner party with people who start as strangers and end as friends. Thoughtful, beautiful, delicious vegan food with a view that cannot be beat. Mario is a thoughtful, innovative chef the likes of whom are hard to find. He's in a class all his own. I can't wait to visit Mario in his future Michelin star NYC restaurant and say "I knew him when!"

Tamar A.

"It may be an addiction...but it’s one that doesn’t hurt anybody (or any animals). Attended another amazing dinner prepared by the talented Mario Buccellati. We were absolutely blown away by this 7-course plant-based tasting menu, part of The Eight Eat Experience. Everything is handmade, inventive, and delicious. It was an out of this world meal and experience and I can’t wait until next time!"‍"

Megan L.

We look forward to serving you

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the experience take place?

The exact location is shared with confirmed guests. Events typically take place in Long Island City, NY or the surrounding areas in unique, thoughtfully chosen venues.

When are tickets released?

Tickets are typically released 3-6 weeks in advanced. Subscribers to our mailing list receive early access before the general public.

Is the menu vegan?

Yes. Every dish is entirely vegan—crafted without meat, dairy, or eggs—and made from scratch using plant-based ingredients.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?

Due to the intricacy of the menus, we do not offer modifications to our menus at this time. If you'd like to reserve your own Eight Eat Experience, contact us below and we will happily create an 8-course menu that accommodates your dietary restrictions and allergies.

Are beverages included?

Still and sparkling water are included. We also offer complementary red & white wine to accommodate you through the experience. For those seeking a non-alcoholic experience, we also offer a crafted mocktail tied to each month's menu. You're also welcome to BYOB.

What is the cancellation policy?

Due to high demand and limited seating, tickets are non-refundable but are transferable to other guests. Please contact us if you're unable to attend and we will do our absolute best to transfer your seats to those on the waitlist.

Can I book a private or custom Eight Eat Experience?

Yes. Private bookings for celebrations, brand collaborations, or corporate events are available. Please click the button below to inquire.

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