Experience
Deacon Experiences
The Deacon collaborates with local artists and artisans, small business owners, chefs and restaurateurs, magicians and wellness experts to curate our Experiences. Fully planned and executed by our staff, Experiences bring some of the best of Philadelphia right to your group for a one-of-a-kind event.
Mission Taqueria
Take your place in front of a set of mezcal copitas, or a ball of dough, or a stack of tortillas. This isn’t a restaurant: it’s a journey through the food and drink of Mexico led by Daniel McLaughlin, founder of Philadelphia’s Mission Taqueria. Learn about the origins of mezcal and tequila, from the different types of agave to the regional styles of each spirit. Or try your hand at folding up some fresh empanadas. Any way you choose, you’ll be rewarded with tasty bites and a new culinary experience.
Essen Bakery
Discover a knack for braiding challah or shaping a tender loaf of babka—it’s easier when you’re learning from a four-time James Beard award nominee. Tova du Plessis is the owner of nationally renowned Essen Bakery, and one of our favorite Philadelphians. In this class, you’ll learn to make your own delicious baked goods, filling The Deacon with tantalizing aromas and creating the perfect ingredient for the next morning’s breakfast: challah french toast anyone?
Tesoro Design
Looking for a keepsake to remember your weekend?
Why not make it yourself? Sip some wine with your group while crafting a mini leather tray or luggage tag, under the helpful eye of local leather artisan Britt Reed of Tesoro Design. She’ll show you basic leather working skills, as well as painting and stamping techniques to personalize your creation. (And if you’re curious, she’ll share her experience as an entrepreneur and artisan in Philadelphia.)
MJ HEART / REAP WELLNESS
Coming to The Deacon for a restorative, energizing weekend? We have just the thing. MJ Heart, the Owner/Operator of Palo Santo Yoga & Wellness, specializes in subtle-body energetics, alignment-based yoga practices, & creative vinyasa flow. Her style of teaching cultivates a moving practice of mind-body awareness, encourages inner strength through physical endurance, and ultimately enables her clients to experience a deeper connection to the inner Self. Follow the class with a hearty, healthful meal from local favorites Reap Wellness, and you’ll be glowing from the inside out.
ADAM ELBAUM
Add a sense of wonder to your evening with magician and mentalist Adam Elbaum. With over 30 years of experience in magic, Adam’s tricks will bend your mind, confuse your eyes and ears, and shock your senses. Whether he performs a small, intimate show or simply wanders around the party, amazing everyone he meets with close-up acts of impossibility, prepare for a night you won’t soon forget.
Questions about an upcoming event?
Interested in hosting your own experience?