Viator Exclusive: Dine with a Cooking Show Contestant

If you’ve ever wished to enjoy authentic Middle Eastern cuisine while getting a glimpse into a talented chef’s world, this Vienna tour might just be what you’re looking for. Presented as a Viator exclusive, this experience invites you to dine with Alp, a chef who earned second place on Germany’s “Das Perfekte Dinner” in 2024. While it’s not a traditional restaurant experience, it offers something more personal and memorable—an evening of good food, great company, and a bit of culinary storytelling.

What we really love about this experience is the chance to connect with a rising star in the culinary scene and enjoy a carefully prepared menu inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. It’s also a very small group affair—only up to 6 travelers—which means plenty of space for conversation and personalized attention. On the flip side, the price point is a bit on the higher side at around $125 per person, but considering the intimate nature and the chef’s background, many will find it worth it. This experience is best suited for food lovers who enjoy trying new cuisines and appreciate local, behind-the-scenes encounters.

Key Points

• Intimate setting with a maximum of 6 guests ensures a relaxed, personal atmosphere.
• Authentic Middle Eastern dishes prepared by a talented chef widely recognized from a TV cooking competition.
• Meet Alp, a culinary artist with a compelling story and a passion for sharing his heritage through food.
• Convenient location in Friedensbrücke, Vienna, close to public transportation.
• Includes a special dessert that elevates the whole experience—something to look forward to.
• Flexible cancellation policy that allows full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

This experience is fundamentally about connecting with authentic Middle Eastern cuisine in a cozy, friendly environment. You’ll be sitting in Alp’s contemporary apartment—an inviting space that offers a more personal touch compared to a busy restaurant—and tasting a menu inspired by his upbringing and cultural heritage.

Unlike typical dining tours, this isn’t about rushing through multiple locations. Instead, you get a focused, three-hour session that emphasizes quality, storytelling, and interaction. Alp’s background on “Das Perfekte Dinner” adds a layer of excitement and credibility; you’re not just having dinner, you’re witnessing the culinary talent that nearly won a national TV contest.

Why Is It Special?

What makes this tour distinct is Alp’s personal touch and the fact that you’re sharing a meal with someone who has been recognized for his skills. It’s a rare chance to see behind the scenes of a chef’s creative process, ask questions, and learn about Middle Eastern flavors directly from someone passionate about his craft.

A reviewer mentioned, “This was such a wonderful unique experience I now look for one in every city,” highlighting how memorable and different this kind of dining can be. The small group size fosters an intimate environment, making it easier to chat, take photos, or even swap travel stories.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

This isn’t a tour with multiple stops or sightseeing—it’s a single, well-curated dining event that lasts around three hours. Here’s how it unfolds:

Starting Point

• You’ll meet Alp at Brigittenauer Lände in Vienna, a location accessible by public transport. The tour begins at 8:00 pm, so plan to arrive a little ahead to settle in.

The Atmosphere

• Upon arrival, expect a contemporary apartment setting, which Alp has designed to be cozy yet modern. The ambiance is likely relaxed, perfect for savoring each dish slowly and engaging in conversation.

The Meal

• The star of the show is a Middle Eastern spread—think aromatic spices, bold flavors, and a variety of dishes crafted with care.
• The menu includes the same dishes that wowed judges on “Das Perfekte Dinner,” with the added bonus of a delectable dessert that Alp promises to surpass expectations.
• From reviews, we know the food is exceptionally good, and the chef’s skill truly shines through. One guest raved about the food, though the review was cut off, it suggests overall satisfaction.

The Experience

• During the meal, Alp shares stories about his journey, his upbringing, and his culinary inspiration—adding depth and context to each bite.
• You’ll have the chance to ask questions, learn cooking tips, and maybe even get some insights into how to recreate Middle Eastern flavors at home.

Ending the Tour

• The experience wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with not only a full belly but also a new appreciation for Middle Eastern cuisine and a memorable encounter with a talented chef.

Why Travelers Love It

One reviewer summed it up, “So accommodating and getting to meet true locals in such an intimate environment is awesome,” which really hits home. The small group setting fosters genuine interaction, and many find it refreshing compared to larger, more commercial tours.

Practical Details

• Price: Around $124.52 per person, which is a bit of an investment but includes a personalized, chef-led meal.
• Duration: About 3 hours, a perfect length for an evening outing.
• Group Size: Max 6 travelers, ensuring a cozy, engaging environment.
• Accessibility: Near public transportation, convenient to reach.
• Dietary Restrictions: Communicate with the organizer if you have allergies or special diets; with such a small group, accommodations are likely manageable.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, giving you peace of mind.

Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re someone who loves authentic food experiences and enjoys getting to know local chefs, this is a strong contender. The intimacy and Alp’s background make it feel less like a commercial tour and more like having dinner with a friend who happens to be a talented chef. For the price, you’re paying for quality, authenticity, and a personal touch that’s hard to find in standard dining options.

This experience is ideal for travelers who are curious about Middle Eastern cuisine and want a more meaningful, behind-the-scenes experience. It’s perfect if you appreciate small-group settings, personalized attention, and a touch of culinary storytelling. It’s less suited for those looking for a quick, casual bite or traveling in large groups, given the intimate format and specific focus.

This Vienna dinner with Alp is a delightful way to combine food, culture, and personal connection. The fact that Alp nearly won a national TV contest adds a touch of prestige, but more important is his evident passion and skill. You’ll walk away not just with a full stomach but with new insights into Middle Eastern flavors and a story to tell.

While the price might seem steep compared to a typical dinner, the quality of interaction, authenticity of the cuisine, and the chance to meet a rising culinary star make it a worthwhile experience for those wanting something more than the usual dining-out.

If you’re the kind of traveler who values meaningful, memorable food experiences and likes engaging with local talent, this tour will likely resonate. Just remember to book in advance, as spots are limited, and prepare for an evening of good conversation and even better food in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians or those with food allergies?
Yes, you should inform the organizer if you have any dietary restrictions. Given the small group size, accommodations are likely, but it’s best to communicate your needs beforehand.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately three hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the meal and chat with Alp.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Brigittenauer Lände in Vienna, which is accessible via public transportation.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations less than that are non-refundable.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the meal, including a Middle Eastern spread and a special dessert, and the opportunity to dine with Alp in his home.

Is it appropriate for families or children?
The experience is designed for adult guests; it doesn’t specify suitability for children, so consider your kids’ preferences for smaller, intimate dinners.

What makes this experience stand out?
It’s the personal connection—dining with a chef recognized on national TV, in an intimate setting, enjoying dishes inspired by his own heritage.

Is transportation included?
No, but it’s near public transit, making it easy to reach the meeting point.

If you’re after a genuine, flavorful, and intimate culinary adventure in Vienna, this tour with Alp offers a rewarding way to enjoy the city’s vibrant food scene while connecting with a talented chef.