The Chalet in Wilmette has always had a vast selection of goods and services. Thousands of indoor and outdoor plants? Of course. Landscaping service? Naturally. Holiday décor, gifts and pet supplies? Sure. But three-star Michelin food for pickup? Now, that’s a first.
This star-studded collaboration between the nationally lauded Alinea Group — co-owned by James Beard Award-winners Chef Grant Achatz and Nick Kokonas — and the North Shore’s favorite locally owned gardening superstore is bringing fine cuisine from the restaurants of the Alinea Group — Alinea, Next, and Roister — up to this neck of the woods.
Alinea directly contacted Chalet about a collaboration and strategic partnership. Chalet stood out initially because they are a longtime, family-owned business with a great reputation,” says Alex Hayes, Business Development Manager for the Alinea Group. “We continue to partner with them because of their ability to collaborate and quickly adapt. We enjoy working with Chalet during these unprecedented times.” Practically speaking, Chalet is ideally located in the center of the North Shore, easily accessible from the I-94 freeway and with tons of parking available. It’s a win-win for all concerned.
“We are so excited that Alinea reached out to Chalet about a collaboration and a strategic partnership,” shares Carleigh Thalmann, Chalet Marketing Specialist. “We both have a common mission to bring joy to people’s lives, [especially] while we are spending an increased amount of time at home.” She further points out that both Chalet and Alinea customers appreciate “high-quality craftsmanship, whether in the form of an elevated culinary experience or nature-inspired home décor.”
Here’s how it works: Simply go on Tock and place your order, choosing from a variety of menus such as Alinea’s Beef Wellington Dinner, Next: The Alps, and Roister’s Fried Chicken or Steak Dinners. All are 3-course to-go meals to reheat and serve in the comfort of your own home. Be aware that there is a minimum order size of two guests, and they are unable to accommodate any dietary restrictions at this time. Pickup is at Chalet, located at 3132 Lake Avenue in Wilmette. Dates vary, but generally pickup is Friday – Sunday.
The winter holidays are always a very special time at Chalet, and even this strange pandemic year is no exception. The unmistakable aroma of fresh Christmas trees scents the air, the live reindeer will be visiting outside in the nursery, and there will even be socially distanced visits with Santa (masks required, of course). If you’re hunkering down at home, shop online for delivery, or join the upcoming Holiday Planter Workshop via Zoom on December 4 and 5.
Chalet is providing us with a great opportunity to spread that holiday cheer throughout the year, and save the schlep down to Fulton Market in the snow and ice by bringing the Alinea Group to the North Shore. As Winnetka’s Jaime Christopher puts it, “I’m taking advantage of such an incredible restaurant doing pick-up just down the street. It’s one bright spot during these COVID times!”
