The chef: Clare McDermott

Clare views food as a medium for storytelling, where each meal becomes a unique and tactile experience shared among those who consume and converse over it. While in college, Clare began cooking weekly dinners for herself and two friends, desperate to fill the void left by her mother's expertly home-cooked dinners. As months passed, these dinners started hosting more and more people, eventually evolving into a regularly attended 15-person weekly event. It was during this time that Clare realized the powerful ability of cooking to combat loneliness, foster connections, explore and learn about different cultures and histories, and satisfy hunger. This realization has led her on a journey through various professional culinary endeavors, including working in numerous downtown Manhattan restaurant kitchens, collaborating on Shy's Burgers pop-ups, and contributing to the Harapeko catering company. All Clare truly desires is to provide comfort and nourishment to those around her, and she is thrilled to share her boundless exploration and passion with anyone and everyone who's hungry!

The Guide: Levi O’Brien

Join Levi in exploring the world of trees! We will cover historical importance, cultural meaning, ecology, biology and horticulture, as well as foundational skills of identification. This walk helps the viewer to observe and appreciate trees holistically, across their many dimensions. If you have any small interest in trees or a yearning to dig deeper, join!

Location: Nyack Beach State Park

a serene riverside escape nestled along the Hudson River in Rockland County, New York. With dramatic cliffs rising behind you and sweeping water views stretching out in front, the park offers a peaceful blend of nature, history, and open sky just 45 minutes from New York City.

Quiet, unfussy, and full of charm, Nyack Beach is a local gem for those looking to slow down and reconnect with the natural world.

The food: 

Snacks and treats along the hike and then a 4 course dinner.

The drinks: 

Wine pairings and N/A bevys

The Hike: 

this 6.3-mile circular trail near Nyack, New York. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 hours. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a lead. This trail offers incredible views of the surrounding area. Highlights include Hudson River views, dramatic underneath panoramas of the Palisades Cliffs, stone ruins, birds of prey, the historic Knickerbocker Ice House site, and large oak groves. There is a level gravel trail along the water in the first about 1.5 miles and then the trail heads up the mountain and gets steeper and more challenging.

The run of show:

10pm: Pick up outside of Five Leaves

12pm - Hike with Levi O’Brien

4pm- Dinner

7:00pm - Head Home

Amenities:

• Flushable toilet

• Dogs welcomed