The Niche group has just raised the bar in Worcester’s dining scene with their “Test Kitchen,” located next to Mezcal on Major Taylor Blvd. Reserved for private gatherings, the Test Kitchen combines the traditional dining experience with a “behind the scenes” adventure into the kitchen, allowing the guests to observe and engage with the chefs while the night’s entrée’s are being prepared.
Worcester Foodies had the honor of being the first group to break the seal at the Niche Test Kitchen, and I must say, it was nothing short of amazing.
When we walked through the front door I knew this was going to be great. I immediately felt like I was back in time, working the kitchen at The El or The Sole. There were Niche’s chefs, at full speed and intense concentration, working a complete restaurant kitchen. The only thing that separated the staff from the guests were prep tables covered over by cutting boards, sauce pans, culinary tools of the trade and serving platters.
Our menu for the evening included six courses all derived from a whole pig; “Nose to Tail.” Orchestrated by Executive Chef Neil Rogers, each course represented a unique style from each of Niche’s restaurants: The People’s Kitchen of the Citizen, The Fix Burger Bar, Rye & Thyme, Mezcal Tequila Cantina, and Bocado Tapas Wine Bar.
From the first course of Bratwurst and spiced pork pate, to oysters on the half shell that included cured guanciale and the yolk of a quail egg, followed by mouth watering Pernil Al Horno, the Niche group not only delivered amazing food, but made us part of the experience of creating it.
If you are in search of an amazing and unique dining experience, The Test Kitchen is a must!