The annual ARCO Christmas dinner is always a special moment: a time to indulge in delicious food and fine wine whilst celebrating ourselves and our achievements of the past year. On Friday, November 29th, the tradition continued, and we look back on the evening with warm hearts.
The evening began in the coziest way possible – with an aperitif spread on the terrace of the restaurant. Over glasses of white wine and tasty antipasti, everyone gradually arrived. It was especially lovely to reconnect with former colleagues who are no longer actively involved but are still part of our DNA.
As usual, we were all invited to bring along our partners. The annual reunion brought joy and plenty of laughter. We had a lot of catching up to do! The aperitif was the perfect start to an evening.
Salami, prosciutto, cheese, olives... Antipasti is always a hit!
As the cold gradually set in and glasses emptied, we were led to our private room in the Restaurant Enoteca Riviera. With its charming interior and beautiful old parquet floors, the room provided the perfect setting for our dinner. It was a space where we could be just among ourselves and fully enjoy the stylish and welcoming ambiance.
"Italian with a difference" is the motto of Enoteca Riviera. It is a unique Italian restaurant, where we enjoyed creative cuisine rooted in tradition and terroir. Chef Luca Messina’s philosophy is simple: "Tradition, terroir, seasonal and regional – simply puro!"
The meal was a true delight: from lovingly crafted starters to exquisite main courses, every dish reflected the restaurant's quality and care. We felt very welcomed and always a little sad when the plate in front of us was already empty again...
Between courses, we listened to Stefan's words. He reflected on 2024 and extended a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone. "Here's to 2024!" – glasses clinked with a bright sound as we toasted.
Shortly afterwards, the next course was served. We looked forward to the plate full of anticipation – it was risotto with chestnuts and a delicious cheese sauce. En Guete!
The entrecôte was also perfect and the mashed potatoes tasted heavenly. The meal was accompanied by a good sip of Italian red wine - La Dolce Vita.
The room buzzed with lively conversation, laughter, and snippets of chatter. At one end of the table, a bet about dessert unfolded. "It’s definitely tiramisu", someone speculated, "it’s the classic!". Another countered: "Nope, I’m sure we’re getting an affogato." However someone wondered: "Hmm, will there even be dessert?" – Dear readers, let me reassure you, there obviously was a dessert: We enjoyed various kinds of cannoli paired with ice cream and espresso. We therefore graciously let the affogato guess slide... close call ;)
A Christmassy Surprise
A few weeks after the festive dinner, shortly before Christmas, Stefan surprised us with a very special gift. Each of us received the "12 Moments of Light" calendar – an extremely thoughtful gift. This calendar features twelve colorful candles, each accompanied by an inspiring message. Each candle symbolizes a month of the year, inviting us to take a moment of pause and reflect on the message it brings. For example, January is dedicated to silence – a fitting start to bring light to this cold and dark season. The 12 candles are more than just decorative elements – they’re an invitation to start the new year mindfully, with small rituals.
The calendar was complemented by a handcrafted candleholder from Eulenschnitt and an expressive Christmas card. The effort and time that went into this gift were yet another testament to the gratitude and appreciation that is shown to us all.
I speak on behalf of all of us when I say: A heartfelt thank you, Stefan. Your gesture means a lot to us, and we truly appreciate it. It's far from taken for granted that, in the midst of the already hectic holiday season and with all the demands of daily work, you invest so much care and thoughtfulness. Not only have you surprised us with a wonderful gift, but you’ve also reminded us how valuable it is to take time for ourselves – and for the people we cherish.
The Christmas dinner was a beautiful occasion, but now, as January begins, the holiday magic already feels far away.
Yet, as we light the first candle and let its flame brighten the dark, gray days of January, we smile at the memory of the wonderful evening: "Remember how good the chestnut risotto was?"; "You still owe me that mulled wine I won from the dessert bet!"
May the light of the candle help us face January's challenges. And if that’s not enough, perhaps a second cup of coffee will do the trick ;)
Here’s to a 2025 filled with light!
