What's a Scarf Dinner?

A Scarf Dinner is a top-quality dining experience which changes lives. It’s similar to a night out in a great restaurant, except that by dining with Scarf, you’re making a real difference to the lives of young people who have faced barriers to work. The chefs from our partner restaurant design and cook a set menu, and Scarf trainees and mentors take care of the front of house. Scarf Dinners have run at some of Melbourne's best restaurants, like Uncle, Ladro, Higher Ground, Bhang and Copperpot Seddon.

Sponsorship from some of the most legendary booze-makers means we can also offer a fantastic drinks list - think Unico Zelo & Harvest wine, Four Pillars gin, Stomping Ground beer, Starward whisky and more!

If you’re booking in to a Scarf Dinner, you can expect delicious food, a top-notch drinks list, attentive service, a fun and buzzy atmosphere and the opportunity to provide valuable feedback as the trainees build their confidence.

If you dine early in the season, nerves might be high and there may not be a perfect reciting of the menu! Towards the end of the season you’ll probably see the trainees owning the floor while the mentors step into the background. Some people like to dine early and late in the season, to see the huge progress made throughout the program.

But hey, don’t just listen to us! Here are some words from regular Scarf diners:

“People are helping and having a wonderful experience at the same time. When people see the hope and happiness on the trainees' faces they begin to understand what is possible, and that they can be agents for change. It is positive and empowering for both diners and trainees.”

“It's a great example of 'Shared Value' - the restaurants do good while advancing their business at the same time. It also makes it very easy for diners to make a positive contribution to the community - win, win!”

Sounds like a great night out?

Find out more about Winter Scarf Dinners '21 at Stomping Ground Brewery & Beer Hall, and get yourself booked in!

Cover Image: Autumn Scarf Dinner at The Rochey in action. Photo: Linsey Rendell

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After COVID put a stop to seasonal programs last year, we're hoping to make a safe, sustainable return to Scarf Dinners from mid-2021.
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The Scarf team comprises a bunch of passionate staff members and volunteers who are committed to Scarf's Vision, Mission and Values.
10 Week Seasonal Scarf Program

Scarf's 10-week Seasonal Programs include weekly training sessions and a series of Scarf Dinners, where trainees are supported by hospitality mentors whilst gaining paid work experience.
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Vision: A society which embraces diversity, celebrates connected communities, and has equitable employment opportunities for all. Mission: To create a nourishing, supportive and inclusive space for trainees to gain confidence, skills, knowledge and networks. To foster connections in the hospitality industry to create equitable employment opportunities.