Roundz Gourmet Market chef Zachary Pope gives customers a front row seat to his culinary skills by hosting private dinner parties that will feature specialty meals designed and inspired by his guests’ tastes and prepared with the freshest ingredients available in his kitchen.

“This is the kind of thing I like to do best,” said Pope, who opened his market and restaurant in the Johns Hopkins Plaza on Maryland Route 3 last year. “I like to cater to people and this is the kind of food I like to do the most—higher-end meals with nice plating.”

Diners who make reservations for the Thursday night Chef’s Table event can choose to be seated along the long stainless-steel counter that allows them to chat with Pope and watch as he prepares their four-course meal based on their food interests and any dietary restrictions. Pope said his Chef’s Table event is perfect for those who like to immerse themselves in a “full-sensory” cuisine experience.

“And it will be a bit challenging for me because I will be cooking within the customer's suggestions and diet limitations,” Pope said.

He added that he loves to work with food from different cultures that not only appeals to taste buds but also looks beautiful on the plate.

Chef’s Table is available every Thursday night in July and Pope can cater a party of up to 14 people.

Pope is known for amping up everyday staples like the BLT by keeping the tomatoes, replacing ho-hum white bread with brioche (a light and fluffy pastry) and ditching the bacon for lobster. He said he is excited about being able to meet new foodies in the area and he hopes to expand the event into more than once a week.

For more information and to make a reservation, call the market at 443-292-4631.

See also:

• Roundz Dining Out Night Benefits Crofton Elementary
• Serving Up ‘Roundz’ of Gluten-Free Fun
• Roundz Gourmet Market Opens in Gambrills
• Roundz Catering Brings Gourmet To Thanksgiving