Experiential Dining: Inspiration from Wonderland Restaurant and Venue

The rise of experiential dining has transformed the way restaurant concepts are created. This is forcing restauranteurs to think beyond the confines of the traditional dining room. Gone are the days when a simple meal and pleasant ambiance were enough to satisfy diners. In today’s increasingly competitive landscape, customers crave more than just sustenance. They seek out immersive experiences that engage all their senses and create lasting memories.

Restaurants that successfully embrace this trend by offering their guests unique, multi-sensory experiences are poised to thrive. Those that fail to adapt risk being left behind. It’s crucial for industry professionals to stay ahead of the curve and continuously explore innovative ways to curate unforgettable dining adventures. Let’s explore a restaurant and venue that has fully embraced experiential dining and creating one of a kind, immersive experiences for their guests.

Unveiling the Magic of Experiential Dining

Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of Vail, Colorado, lies a whimsical wonderland waiting to be explored. Welcome to Chasing Rabbits, an experiential restaurant and venue that defies the ordinary and beckons guests into a world of enchantment. The team shares a bit behind this extraordinary establishment to delve into the magic that makes Chasing Rabbits a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

As you step through the doors of Chasing Rabbits, you are immediately transported into a realm of imagination and delight. “We want them to feel like anything is possible.” Miranda Crews, Director of Events and Sales, said of their guests. And indeed, the possibilities are endless.

The venue, originally a movie theater, was ingeniously transformed into a 13,000-square-foot playground for the senses. Designed by the acclaimed Rockwell Group, each area within Chasing Rabbits boasts its own distinct ambiance and allure. From the sleek sophistication of The Restaurant to the clandestine charm of Moon Rabbit (Chasing Rabbits’ speakeasy bar), every corner invites exploration.

How Chasing Rabbits is An Ode to Wonderland

The inspiration behind Chasing Rabbits is as enchanting as the venue itself. Drawing from the whimsical tale of Alice in Wonderland, guests are invited to lose themselves in the unexpected. “We want our guests to enjoy a different experience every time they step through our doors,” Crews explained. And indeed, with spaces like The Library, Rabbit Hole, and Moon Rabbit, the adventure never ends.

Experiential Dining in Wonderland and Beyond

Chasing Rabbits offers various experiences to suit every taste and inclination. The Restaurant beckons with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine that tantalizes the palate, while The Library offers a cozy retreat for intimate gatherings and pre-dinner cocktails. Meanwhile, Moon Rabbit entices with its opulent speakeasy atmosphere, where Asian-inspired libations await. Rabbit Hole is for those seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane, with its arcade games and retro cocktails. As Crews remarked, “Each room caters to a different experience.” Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a lively night out with friends, Chasing Rabbits offers something for everyone. “We strive to ensure our guests are having fun,” she emphasized. And indeed, fun is at the heart of everything they do. By collaborating with external partners and vendors, Chasing Rabbits enhances its offerings and provides guests with unique and engaging adventures alongside experiential dining. Whether it’s a Super Bowl watch party with local beer tastings or a wine-tasting soirée with exclusive member perks, the possibilities are endless.

Measuring the Success of the Event Experience

But Chasing Rabbits is more than just a feast for the senses—it’s a vibrant hub of community and creativity. With a revolving door of public events and promotions, the venue exudes energy and excitement. “Each event offers an opportunity for our team to really shine and show who we are,” explained Crews. “We measure the success of each event through reviews, referrals, repeat bookings, and ultimately exposure.”

Balancing Value with Profitability

When it comes to pricing for experience-focused events, Chasing Rabbits takes a strategic approach to balance profitability with value for customers. “We balance profitability through trust and knowledge,” Crews elaborated. “This begins with seeking to understand the ‘wants’ of each client as no experience-related event is ever ‘cookie-cutter’.”

Depending on Efficient Event Management

To streamline event management for its various spaces, Chasing Rabbits relies on Tripleseat. “We use Tripleseat to not only book more events but to ultimately keep the team organized!” Crews exclaimed. “This includes our department leads, staff, and our general seasonal calendar. We run programming each week, on top of offering our space for private events which ultimately leads to an exciting lineup of… a lot!”

In a town known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Chasing Rabbits stands out as a beacon of creativity and imagination. Whether a local is looking for a new hangout spot or a tourist seeking an unforgettable experience, Chasing Rabbits promises to captivate the senses of its guests and leaves them longing for more. After all, in the words of Alice herself, “It’s no use going back to yesterday because I was a different person then.” And indeed, at Chasing Rabbits, every visit is a journey into the unknown, where the only limit is your imagination.

Editor’s Note: This article’s content appears in the Spring 2024 issue of Seated magazine.

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