Brooklyn tables: where takeout meets duck decoys – a new york dinner party revolution
Noah Ruttenberg and Phantila Phataraprasit are redefining the New York dinner party, one carefully curated table and oversized wooden duck at a time. Forget fussy plating and complicated menus – this duo’s approach is all about effortless cool and a healthy dose of delightful chaos.
A diy dinner party, elevated
Forget Michelin stars; these designers are championing a radically casual approach to entertaining. Ruttenberg, an AD New American Voice, and Phataraprasit, founder of the minimalist furniture brand Sabai, believe the best parties are born from a spirit of ‘anything goes’ – fueled by delicious takeout and a touch of unexpected whimsy.
Their Brooklyn showroom, a loft space filled with Murano glass and vintage flatware, serves as a gallery of their ethos. The centerpiece? A custom-designed eye-shaped stainless steel table by Ruttenberg himself, anchored by alliums and, of course, a gloriously oversized wooden duck – a nod to New England’s penchant for avian decoration.
The details that matter
The menu is a reflection of this relaxed vibe: Thai-inspired dishes, often sourced from Pranakhon, alongside Bordallo Pinheiro fish plates and Roman & Williams Guild flatware. It’s about layering textures and patterns, creating a conversation-starting tablescape that’s both elegant and utterly approachable.
Beyond the dinner plate
But the real magic lies in the details. From the Gohar World lemon squeezer to the Fog Linen Shop gingham trays, every element feels deliberately chosen, adding a layer of personality and intrigue. And the post-party game of ‘forehead name’ – a guaranteed laugh-fest – is a testament to their commitment to fostering genuine connection.
“Something completely unexpected and out of place” is Ruttenberg’s mantra, and it’s beautifully exemplified by the entire experience. It’s a reminder that a truly memorable dinner party isn’t about perfection; it’s about embracing the delightful imperfections and creating a space where conversation flows freely and laughter echoes through the room.