From the 5th-9th of December, Krug Champagne and Mission decided to launch a luxury dinning experience entitled The Institute of Happiness. Held in a contemporary residence positioned on the edge of a historic Victorian cemetery in Highgate; the irony of its ‘grave’ location was no mistake. The venue, which has expansive frosted glass, created an isolated romance when overlooking the verdant breadth of the cemetery. Upon entering the residence, the once modern and spacious interior had been transformed by Mission into a colourful playground of origami birds and flower-filled baths. 85 Swains Lane became the perfect venue for an Institute of Happiness.
In order to prepare for the event, detailed research was carried out into the source of happiness. To fully understand the emotion, Mission asked trained psychotherapists how happiness could be best evoked through sight, sound and taste. Guests were also asked what their favourite music, sweet and toys were so that Mission could create a unique and bespoke experience to guarantee happiness.
Selecting either a lunch or dinner sitting, guests were able to immerse themselves in all things pleasurable from start to finish. Upon arrival, the chauffeured guests were greeted by Krug doormen, and led into an autumnal hallway filled with leaves and the scent of lemongrass. When entering the dinning area, guests were able to browse through Krug viewfinders filled with carefully selected images proven to encourage happiness, and at the same time listen to an acoustic medley of their favourite songs.
The main attraction of the event however was the menu. Michelin-Star chef Nuno Mendes carefully curated endorphin-releasing courses to heighten all the senses, whilst perfectly accompanying Krug Champagne.
Starters included:
Sliced raw scallops, roasted juices and frozen beach herbs
Thai Explosion
Puffed Amaranth with red prawns and Sorrel
Gordal Olive Soup
Potatoes with cake and yeast
Followed by:
Jerusalem artichokes with Salsify and white truffle
Iberico Pork Presa, bulhao pato, brussel sprouts and bacon-garlic migas
Celeriac baked Alaska, roasted paste and frozen wheat grass
Milk
Petit fours
After an entertaining piano set, the guests departed 85 Swains Lane (we hope) feeling joyful and satisfied. What they didn’t know was that bespoke gifts had secretly been placed in their jacket pockets. When reaching for their keys, guests would discover their favourite chocolate bar or a miniature version of their favourite toy.
What was it all for?
The Institute of Happiness aimed to set the stage for creating happiness and being able to associate the emotion with the craftsmanship and passion behind Krug Champagne. After all, “the second most important virtue of Krug, after the quality of its Champagnes, is its enthusiasts” Olivier Krug.
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