“Marie Antoinette Style” at the Victoria & Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum recently welcomed 240 guests to an unforgettable evening celebrating the launch of its highly anticipated exhibition Marie Antoinette Style. This private dinner brought together friends of the museum and special guests for a night of art, storytelling, and exceptional dining in the magnificent Rafael Gallery.
Rocket was delighted to design the evening’s food and service, creating an immersive experience that captured the romance and grandeur of 18th-century Versailles. From the first glass of champagne to the final course of dessert, every detail was carefully considered to bring the spirit of Marie Antoinette to life through flavour and atmosphere.
Welcome Reception
Guests were welcomed with artisanal canapés in the Dorothy and Michael Hintze Galleries, served on ornately decorated trays as a trio of classical musicians played softly in the background. Sparkling champagne and cocktails finished with rose petals and a touch of gold set the tone for the evening, adding a touch of opulence from the very first moment.
The Dining Experience
As the evening progressed, guests made their way to the Rafael Gallery, where celebrated artworks and grand architectural details created a breathtaking setting. Tables dressed in pastel blue stretched down the length of the hall, adorned with abundant flowers, touches of gold detailing, soft pink accents, and flickering candles. Floral centrepieces by Shane Connolly added a romantic flourish, while chandeliers cast a golden glow across the room. With production support from Event Concept, the gallery was transformed into a dining hall worthy of Versailles.
Rocket’s culinary team designed a three-course menu inspired by classic French flavours with a contemporary twist. The dinner began with Garden of Versailles, a vibrant celebration of seasonal vegetables, roasted yeast, pickled kohlrabi, and feta Chantilly.
For the main course, guests were served Barbue en Fricassée de Champignons – pan-fried hake with wild mushrooms, purple beetroot wedges, yellow courgette, pommes purée, and smoked garlic velouté. A wild mushroom pithivier was prepared for vegetarian guests, ensuring every plate was as elegant and thoughtfully presented as the last.
The meal concluded with a pistachio citrus roulade crowned with a delicate gold medallion, followed by Ladurée macarons – a fittingly decadent finale to the evening.
As the last glasses of champagne were raised, the dinner stood as a true celebration of art, heritage, and exceptional dining. The Marie Antoinette Style opening dinner was a seamless blend of storytelling and hospitality, showcasing Rocket’s ability to create unforgettable experiences in some of London’s most iconic cultural spaces.
