1. Who can participate in the program?

The program is open to any establishment that offers food or drink, including restaurants, cafés, specialty shops (like matcha tea or olive oil sellers), and other unique culinary destinations. If your business provides a memorable dining or tasting experience, it’s a perfect fit for the La Grange Goblet Society.

2. How will members prove their membership?

Each member will receive a membership card, which they will present to staff to access hidden menu items and other perks. While the card will be the primary identifier, restaurants are encouraged to work with members who may occasionally forget their card.

3. Will there be other membership identifiers?

We are considering unique pins or other identifiers for future iterations, but initially, members will only receive cards.

4. Do hidden menu items have to include alcohol?

No, hidden menu items can include non-alcoholic options like specialty teas, coffees, juices, mocktails, or other creative drinks and dishes.

5. What are the benefits for my restaurant?

Participating restaurants will:

  • Attract new and repeat visits from members.
  • Use the hidden menu as a test market for new items.
  • Gather valuable feedback from members via the LGGS website, helping refine menu items or gauge interest in potential offerings.
  • Host exclusive, ticketed dinners, with proceeds directly benefiting your restaurant.

6. How is the program funded?

LGBA generates revenue by selling memberships, which include perks such as a custom-designed collectible goblet that changes annually to keep members engaged.

7. What is expected from participating restaurants?

  • Offer and rotate hidden menu items regularly.
  • Optionally host one or more exclusive dinners.
  • Work with the LGGS team to support operations while maintaining a seamless guest experience.
  • Participation is free, and we’ll assist with ideas and implementation.

8. What happens if a non-member asks for a hidden menu item?

Non-members can occasionally enjoy hidden menu items to avoid friction, but the exclusivity and mystery will still encourage guests to join the LGGS.

9. How will feedback be shared with restaurants?

Members will submit feedback through our website. This feedback will be organized and shared with restaurants, providing valuable insights into menu performance and guest preferences.

10. How many members are expected?

We are targeting 100 members in the first year to ensure an exclusive and manageable experience for both members and restaurants. Expansion may occur in the future based on demand.

11. How will the program be promoted?

LGGS will promote participating restaurants through:

  • An exclusive member website.
  • Targeted email communication.
  • Closed groups on platforms like Facebook or Slack to maintain secrecy and engagement.

12. What makes the LGGS special?

The Society combines mystery, exclusivity, and creativity, offering members access to secret menus and collectible goblets while fostering a sense of connection to the La Grange dining scene.