I really wanted to do something fun to celebrate Chris’s 30th birthday but how do you get someone to celebrate their birthday when they aren’t a fan of birthdays?
You surprise them that’s how!
I have been racking my brain for a while now trying to think of something that Chris would enjoy for his birthday and this last weekend it clicked when he said he wanted “Malcolm burgers.” Our friend Malcolm is a chef and loves to cook, so Monday I got the ball in motion, emailed him and a bunch of friends, and everything worked out perfectly.
Almost.
The plan was for everyone to be out our house by 6pm when Chris typically gets out of school on Thursdays. I was home waiting, and saw Chris’s truck pull up before anyone was there. I figured this might happen so I was just going with the flow. He ended up standing outside for what seemed like forever talking on the phone and his friends finally started showing up to the house (one of which he was talking to). So it wasn’t your typical “surprise!” surprise party but it worked nonetheless.
I had his favorite foods including boneless wings and of course his favorite cookies.
As we were standing there at the beginning, Chris said the only thing that could make it better was a burger, and specifically mentioned “Malcolm burgers” again – little did he know he was on his way!
Malcolm showed up and got to work in the kitchen making some amazing food.
There were all the burger trimmings including freshly made buns.
A delicious salad and freshly made french fries (which were fried while he was grilling!)
And a couple rounds of freshly made burgers which included bacon and caramelized onions as toppings.
Yum.
It was a perfect Bay Area evening to sit outside and enjoy food and good friends.
And play fetch too of course.
Chris was very happy with the night and I was so happy it all turned out. A simple night of good food, good friends and good weather – can’t ask for much more than that!
Bay Area friends! Definitely check out Malcolm’s website if you ever need any private culinary services – anything from cooking parties/lessons to having someone cook for your dinner parties – he is amazing!
What a nice surprise!
YAY! So fun! and holy cow those look amazing. I’m always surprised by people who can whip up creations like that
I’m so glad it worked out! It looks yummy to say the least! Good job on the impromptu party planning!
That’s so cool! I’m in the Bay Area too and that would be such a fun idea for a party!
Quite the spread. Looks delicious!
Aw, so glad you pulled off a nice surprise evening for Chris! That spread looks incredible!!!
Ok, next birthday I’m coming to your place for Malcom burgers…
Well done on the surprise- even if it was unconventional
YUM! Holy cow. and happy birthday chris!
What a great “surprise” party! Those burgers look delicious!