Arden’s “After Hours” Dinner Series Returns With Guest Chefs+ In Rowayton

Rowayton’s Arden’s is continuing their “After Hours” dinner series for the third summer in a row, and we were lucky enough to sit down with owner Jill Lukeman to get a first look at what’s to come. 

For those who aren’t familiar, Arden’s is a neighborhood cafe located in the heart of Rowayton. Its coastal decor and delicious fare makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch, or cup of joe. Since opening in 2022, the team has hosted monthly dinners to expand beyond their daytime offerings. 

“We have always been passionate about entertaining our friends and hosting dinner parties at home. When we opened Arden's, we thought why not bring this same spirit to our cafe and offer something that feels like dinner at a friend's house (without the headache of planning and the clean-up!). We are also passionate about music so we incorporated a music element to make the evenings even more unique and intimate,” Lukeman shared with us.

The “After Hours” series runs indefinitely, but they do a fun twist called “Après Hours” during the winter season. It is a more approachable and laid back version that features casual comfort food instead of a more elevated menu. This past year, the team hosted a burger night with homemade s'mores ice cream sandwiches, an “Alpine Night” with fondue, and a taco night that we were lucky enough to attend. 

Inspired by the Arden’s culinary team’s daily “family meals,” the taco night started with tortilla chips, guacamole, and an herby salsa verde. For the next course, there were assorted tacos served with house-made tortillas, frijoles, cabbage slaw, and esquites. And, last but not least, a slice of tres leches topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. 

Just as Lukeman hoped for, the whole experience felt like we were at a friend’s house with twenty or so close friends. And, even though each party had their own table, the overall dinner felt communal. The space was full of energy and the glistening bistro lights made it feel so warm and welcoming. 

While we bid farewell to “Après Hours” and winter, we are excited for this year’s “After Hours” to kick off. The dinners will take place one Thursday each month with a four-course family-style meal featuring a different cuisine and theme. Last year, Arden’s welcomed James Beard-nominated cookbook author, Jodi Moreno, for a Mexico City “tacos and mezcal” night and North Shutsharawan of Nit Noi Provisions for a five course authentic thai dinner. 

The events start with a lively (BYOB) beverage hour at 7 pm followed by a seated dinner at 8 pm with live music. The dinner includes a passed appetizer, seated appetizer, main course, and dessert. According to Lukeman, the menu is typically kept a surprise, but the Arden’s team is able to accommodate any allergies or dietary restrictions. 

“We embrace endless summers around here so we are most excited about offering some of our favorite fresh summer foods paired with some incredibly refreshing seasonal cocktails,” Lukeman says. 

The first “After Hours” kicks off on June 13th with another dinner by North from Nit Noi’s provisions, this time featuring a soft shell crab. Tickets will be available for $95 per person on the Arden’s website — but, don’t wait too long because tickets usually sell out fast!

Arden’s 158 Rowayton Ave, Norwalk