If you’re into good food, great wine, and a laid-back atmosphere, you should’ve been at the Argentine Feast hosted by Thanks for the Invite and Chef Dakota at Marine Layer Wines in downtown Healdsburg.

I’ve been to a lot of food events, but this one? It wasn’t just a meal—it was an experience.

When they said “feast,” they weren’t playing. Picture this: a long, beautifully decorated table stacked with perfectly cooked meats. You grab your plate, walk up, and pick whatever cuts you want. No limits. No rush. Just endless rounds of fire-kissed meat.

This hit home for me because I grew up with Argentinians here in Sonoma County.

Back at your seat, a wine expert came around, pouring hand-selected wines to match your plate. Imagine sipping on a deep, bold Malbec while cutting into a juicy tomahawk steak. That’s next-level dining.

This wasn’t just about eating—it was about experiencing the process. The chefs weren’t hidden in the kitchen; they were out and about, chatting with guests, explaining techniques, and even taking me out back to check out their setup. An open flame, massive tomahawk steaks, and the smoky aroma of pure culinary mastery.

It was authentic Argentine grilling at its finest. Slow-cooked, fire-roasted, and packed with flavor.

• Tomahawk Steak with Multiple Salts – This was hands-down my favorite. The different salts brought out unique flavors in each bite. Pro tip: Try a bit of each and find your favorite pairing.
• Shrimp Perfection – Some of the best shrimp I’ve had in a long time. Easy to peel, cooked just right, and seasoned so well that I could’ve eaten an entire platter.
• The Chimichurri Surprise – Usually, chimichurri isn’t my thing, but this one? It was earthy, fresh, and balanced—not overpowering, just the right touch to complement the meats.

This wasn’t your typical sit-down dinner. It was an open, interactive, and social experience. You could meet new people, chat with the chefs, and really dive into the world of food and wine.

It also made me realize something—food pop-ups are taking over. These events are becoming the go-to for millennials and wine country locals who want something unique, high-quality, and immersive.

If you missed this event, don’t make the same mistake twice. Thanks for the Invite and Chef Dakota are onto something special. If their next pop-up is anything like this one, I’ll be there ready for round two.

Keep an eye out—these experiences are worth every bite. See you at the next one!

Do you have a favorite destination? Submit it into our lottery system.

Learn about the perks of our Paid Partnership Program.