The Met Gala—officially known as the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Benefit—is often described as “fashion’s biggest night out.” A dazzling convergence of Hollywood celebrities, fashion icons, industry moguls, and cultural influencers, the annual gala draws global attention for its red carpet spectacle, themed décor, and exclusive guest list. Yet, while thousands dissect the elaborate outfits and trending hashtags, one practical question lingers: Do they get dinner at the Met Gala?
The simple answer is yes—but not in the way you might expect. The dining experience at the Met Gala is as curated, strategic, and exclusive as every other element of the event. In this comprehensive exploration, we’ll uncover the truth behind the dining rituals of the Met Gala, from the timing and menu design to the logistics behind feeding some of the most powerful and stylish individuals on the planet.
The Met Gala Timeline: When Dinner Actually Happens
To understand dinner at the Met Gala, it’s essential to look at the event’s timeline. The gala is not a typical evening affair that begins with cocktails and ends with dessert. Instead, it’s a tightly coordinated sequence of experiences that unfold over several hours, each designed to maximize media exposure, social interaction, and fundraising.
The Red Carpet Arrival (Evening)
The Met Gala begins in the early evening—typically around 5:30 or 6:00 PM—when guests arrive on the red carpet outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This portion of the evening is highly publicized, with hundreds of photographers and live-streamed footage capturing every fashion choice, hairdo, and designer collaboration.
During this time, no food is served. Guests are not allowed to eat on or near the red carpet due to the risk of staining designer gowns, altering makeup, or being caught mid-bite on camera. Some attendees even fast throughout the entire red carpet experience to avoid digestive discomfort or the risk of bad breath.
The Cocktail Hour (Pre-Dinner Socializing)
After traversing the red carpet and being officially checked in, guests proceed to cocktail areas in the museum’s Great Hall or adjacent galleries. This is the first opportunity for socializing and taking in the evening’s theme—often reflected in dazzling installations and immersive exhibits.
Champagne, specialty cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic options are offered during this pre-dinner phase. However, food is minimal—typically just passed hors d’oeuvres such as:
- Truffle-infused canapés
- Smoked salmon bites with caviar
- Mini quiches with seasonal vegetables
- Plant-based amuse-bouche for vegan guests
These bite-sized snacks are designed to curb hunger without disrupting appearances or outfits.
The Main Dinner (After the Co-Host Speeches)
The pivotal moment for dining occurs after the co-hosts—often including Anna Wintour, the Vogue editor-in-chief who oversees the event—deliver their opening remarks. This usually happens around 8:30 or 9:00 PM, making dinner a late-night affair by typical standards.
Yes, they do finally get dinner at the Met Gala, but it’s not a leisurely meal. It’s a formal, multi-course banquet served table-side in the Temple of Dendur, one of the museum’s most stunning galleries.
The After-Party: Dancing and Late Snacks
Once dinner concludes—often by 11 PM—guests transition to satellite areas or rooftop lounges for the after-party. This is when desserts, champagne towers, and casual bites make their appearance. Think artisanal macarons, mini cupcakes, gourmet popcorn, and espresso shots.
Some high-profile attendees, such as Rihanna or Beyoncé, are known to slip away early, while others, including younger influencers and performers, stay until the party winds down well past midnight.
What’s on the Menu? A Culinary Affair of the Elite
While the menu at the Met Gala is not publicly disclosed far in advance—adding to the event’s mystique—it’s widely reported through insider accounts and food journalists covering the night. The catering is typically handled by Daniel Boulud’s catering company, DB Boulud Events, which has been associated with the gala for over a decade.
Theme-Inspired Cuisine
Just like the fashion and décor, the Met Gala’s menu is inspired by the year’s fashion theme. For example:
2023: “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty”
In honor of the late Chanel designer, the menu featured French haute cuisine with a modern twist:
- Starter: Roasted beet tartare with crème fraîche and dill
- Main Course: Duck breast with salsify purée and cherry gastrique
- Dessert: Floating island (île flottante) with vanilla bean foam
2022: “In America: An Anthology of Fashion”
The menu celebrated regional American cuisine with elevated ingredients:
- Appetizer: Heirloom tomato tart with micro-basil
- Entrée: Maine lobster roll with seaweed butter served in a brioche bun
- Dessert: Bourbon pecan pie with brown butter ice cream
Guest Dietary Accommodations
Given the A-list nature of the guest list, dietary restrictions are taken extremely seriously. Prior to the event, the organizers request detailed information from each invitee, including allergies, vegan or vegetarian preferences, gluten sensitivities, and even religious dietary laws (e.g., kosher or halal).
Each diner may receive a customized menu, and some reports suggest that vegan guests are served plant-based foie gras or “crab” cakes made from hearts of palm as alternatives.
How Is the Dinner Served? Logistics and Table Settings
Serving a formal dinner in a historic museum presents unique logistical challenges. The Temple of Dendur, which houses the iconic Egyptian temple and overlooks the Hudson River, transforms into an elegant banquet hall with long banquet tables adorned with thematic centerpieces and custom-designed tableware.
Seating Chart Hierarchy
The seating arrangement is arguably one of the most curated aspects of the gala. Guests are not seated randomly. The placement is strategically orchestrated by Anna Wintour and a small team, considering:
- Brand affiliations
- Charitable contributions
- Celebrity power rankings
- Industry influence
For example, an actress signed as a brand ambassador for a luxury fashion house may be seated at the same table as the designer and a senior Vogue editor. Tables often include a mix of celebrities, designers, philanthropists, and corporate sponsors.
Tableware and Presentation
No expense is spared in presentation. Tableware is often custom-made for the evening. In 2022, reports described hand-painted china with motifs echoing American folk art. Napkins were monogrammed, and glassware was engraved in gold calligraphy. Silverware is real—no plastic spoons here.
Each course is served precisely by a team of roving waitstaff, trained specifically for the event’s high stakes. A full-service kitchen is set up temporarily in the museum’s basement, with refrigerated walk-ins, prep stations, and rapid delivery systems to ensure dishes arrive at the perfect temperature.
Service Timeline
Here’s a typical in-venue dinner service schedule:
| Time | Course | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8:30 PM | Salad or Appetizer | Light, theme-appropriate starter served chilled |
| 9:15 PM | Main Course | Hot entrée plated and delivered discreetly |
| 10:00 PM | Dessert and Coffee | Served with petit fours and specialty liqueurs |
Celebrity Dining Habits: What Stars Actually Eat
One of the most intriguing aspects of dinner at the Met Gala is how celebrities navigate it. After hours of not eating, many arrive famished—but social and professional pressures often override hunger.
Stars Who Skip Dinner
Many A-listers choose to minimize or skip dinner entirely. Reasons include:
- Fear of food stains on expensive outfits
- Desire to stay camera-ready for photos
- Gastrointestinal concerns (e.g., bloating)
- Strict pre-event diets or preparation protocols
Zendaya, known for her flawless appearances, has reportedly eaten only small bites of appetizers in past years. Similarly, Timothée Chalamet is said to limit himself to mineral water and a salad.
Stars Who Indulge
Others embrace the dining experience. Rihanna, when attending, is known to fully enjoy the meal—especially desserts. Pharrell Williams has been spotted savoring multiple courses, and designer Tom Ford has joked about looking forward to “the only night I can eat as much caviar as I want.”
Some performers may eat more during the after-party, especially if they plan to dance or need energy for appearances.
Photos That Tell the Story
While paparazzi don’t capture people eating at the Met Gala (due to privacy and the formal atmosphere), security footage and insider social media posts occasionally show glimpses of dinners in progress. One widely circulated photo from 2019 showed Lady Gaga and Harry Styles laughing over shared plates—a rare insight into the social element of the meal.
The Role of Food in Fundraising and Atmosphere
The Met Gala is first and foremost a fundraiser. In recent years, table sponsorships have fetched up to $350,000 each, and tickets for individual seats are estimated at $50,000. Food is not just sustenance—it’s a critical component of the evening’s aura of exclusivity, luxury, and refinement.
Enhancing the Guest Experience
Fine dining elevates the feeling of opulence. The menu isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality, craftsmanship, and symbolic representation of the theme. Guests are reminded they are not just at a party; they are attending a cultural event where every detail, down to the salt on the rim of a cocktail glass, is intentional.
Tax Deductibility and Catering Costs
Interestingly, because the Met Gala is a charity event, a portion of the ticket price—including the cost of food—is tax-deductible for wealthy donors. According to IRS guidelines, if a guest pays $50,000 for a ticket and the fair market value of the dinner and drinks is $1,000, then $49,000 of that contribution is deductible.
This means that while the meal is extravagant, its financial weight in the broader fundraising context is relatively small—yet its symbolic value is immense.
Dietary Trends and Eco-Consciousness
In recent years, the Met Gala has responded to global trends in sustainability, wellness, and inclusivity. The menu now often includes plant-forward options and highlights local, seasonal ingredients whenever possible.
Plant-Based and Sustainable Choices
For the 2023 edition, sources revealed that 30% of the main courses were fully plant-based. Even the caviar on canapés was occasionally substituted with seaweed-based alternatives for certain tables—an innovation reflecting growing environmental awareness among elite donors.
Reducing Food Waste
Despite the opulence, the event organizers emphasize minimizing waste. Portion sizes are moderate, and surplus food is either repurposed for staff meals or donated through partnerships with organizations like City Harvest.
Behind the Scenes: The Unsung Heroes of Met Gala Dining
The seamless execution of dinner would not be possible without the army of culinary professionals, event planners, and security personnel who work in the shadows.
DB Boulud Events: The Culinary Mastermind
Daniel Boulud, the French-born, New York-based chef and restaurateur, has become a fixture at the Met Gala. His team of 150+ during the event includes:
– Pastry chefs for sugar sculptures
– Sommeliers pairing wines with each course
– Dietary consultants liaising with agents
– Sustainability coordinators managing waste streams
Coordination with Museum Staff
The Met’s own facilities and conservation teams must approve every setup detail. No hot plates or open flames are allowed near priceless artifacts. Diners eat on special heat-resistant table inserts, and all service is done silently and swiftly to preserve the atmosphere.
Security and Privacy Protocols
Dinner time is one of the quieter parts of the evening, offering a rare moment of intimate conversation. But this also raises security concerns. Bodyguards often remain nearby during dinner (though not seated), and mobile phone use is discouraged to maintain privacy.
Myths and Misconceptions About Met Gala Dining
With so much mystery surrounding the event, various myths have taken root:
Myth: Everyone Gets a Full Multi-Course Meal
Not always. The service begins promptly, but some guests—including those seated at far ends of long tables—may receive their dishes later than others. A few arrivals, delayed by interviews or photos, may miss dinner entirely.
Myth: The Food Is Just for Show
While presentation is key, the food is fully edible, delicious, and temperature-controlled. Boulud’s staff ensures that even the most delicate sauces and rare meats are served at optimal conditions.
Myth: Alcohol Flows Freely All Night
While alcohol is available during cocktail hour and dinner, consumption is monitored. Intoxicated behavior is strongly discouraged, and security may limit drink access if needed. The after-party is where guests feel more freedom to indulge.
Conclusion: Yes, They Get Dinner—And It’s a Masterpiece
So, do they get dinner at the Met Gala? Absolutely. But it’s not just about nourishment—it’s about storytelling through food, elevating the status of every guest, and reinforcing the gala’s image as a pinnacle event in fashion and culture.
From its late-night timing and theme-inspired menu to its precision service and VIP accommodations, the dinner is as artfully composed as the red carpet gowns. It’s a feast for the senses, served quietly amid marble columns and museum whispers, under the gaze of art and history.
For the lucky few invited to attend, the meal is a symbol of access, privilege, and shared cultural participation. For the rest of us, it’s a tantalizing mystery—one that only deepens the allure of fashion’s most secretive night.
Whether you’re dreaming of one day walking the red carpet or simply curious about what Beyoncé eats when surrounded by couture, the answer is clear: **dinner at the Met Gala is as unforgettable as the event itself**—served with elegance, intention, and just a pinch of star-studded magic.
Do guests receive dinner at the Met Gala?
Yes, guests at the Met Gala do receive a formal dinner as part of the evening’s events. After the red carpet arrivals and the cocktail hour, attendees are seated for a multi-course plated dinner inside the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The meal is carefully curated by a high-profile catering team—often Restaurant Associates, the museum’s in-house caterer—and designed to match the elegance and theme of the gala. The dinner typically takes place in the Great Hall or other grand spaces within the Met, transformed into opulent dining areas complete with custom table settings and floral arrangements.
The menu varies each year, reflecting seasonal ingredients and the Met Gala’s annual fashion theme. While the specifics are kept under wraps until the event, past dinners have included dishes such as roasted veal tenderloin, wild mushroom risotto, and lobster ravioli, accompanied by fine wines and specialty cocktails. Desserts are equally elaborate, often tied to the evening’s theme—such as gilded fruit tarts or chocolate sculptures. Although dinner is served, it tends to be a relatively brief portion of the night, as the focus soon shifts to speeches, performances, and the transition to after-parties.
What time is dinner served at the Met Gala?
Dinner at the Met Gala is typically served between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM, following the red carpet arrivals and a cocktail reception in the museum’s galleries. Guests begin arriving on the red carpet as early as 5:30 PM, with the procession stretching over several hours. Once inside, attendees mingle during a cocktail hour where they enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and drinks while viewing the fashion exhibits. The formal seating for dinner commences after a welcome speech, usually delivered by Anna Wintour or another prominent figure associated with the event.
The timing of the dinner allows major celebrities and influencers to have optimal visibility during their arrivals, ensuring maximum media exposure. Once seated, dinner service is carefully choreographed to allow for speeches, including one from the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s director and other dignitaries. Despite the late hour, the menu is designed to be both refined and satisfying, with attention paid to dietary restrictions and luxury presentation. Dinner wraps up by approximately 10:00 PM to make way for the entertainment and after-parties that extend the night into the early morning.
Is the Met Gala dinner open to the public?
No, the Met Gala dinner is not open to the general public. Attendance is strictly by invitation only, extended primarily to top fashion designers, celebrities, business moguls, philanthropists, and select members of the media. Each invitation is highly coveted and typically reserved for those with strong ties to the fashion industry or significant contributions to the arts. The guest list is curated by Vogue’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour, and the event raises millions of dollars annually for the Costume Institute, which depends on such exclusivity to maintain its prestige and fundraising power.
The exclusivity extends to every element of the evening, including the dinner. The multi-course meal is served only to formally seated guests within the museum’s elaborately decorated halls. Even the catering and service staff must sign confidentiality agreements and undergo background checks. Public events at the Met, such as the general opening of the Costume Institute exhibition, happen months after the gala and do not include any of the formal dining experience. Therefore, the dinner remains one of the most exclusive and private components of one of the world’s most publicized events.
What kind of food is served at the Met Gala dinner?
The Met Gala dinner features a high-end, multi-course menu crafted by elite culinary professionals, often selected to mirror the night’s fashion theme. Dishes are elegant and sophisticated, typically incorporating seasonal, locally sourced ingredients prepared with gourmet technique. For instance, if the theme is centered on Japanese aesthetics, the menu might include elements like miso-glazed black cod or yuzu sorbet. The caterers—frequently Restaurant Associates—collaborate with consulting chefs to create a dining experience that complements the artistry on display both on the red carpet and in the galleries.
Each course is meticulously plated and presented, with attention to detail that rivals haute couture. Past menus have included starters like heirloom tomato salad with burrata, followed by entrées such as herb-crusted rack of lamb or butter-poached lobster. Vegan and gluten-free options are thoughtfully designed to match the luxury of the standard offerings. Desserts often serve as artistic centerpieces, sometimes featuring edible gold leaf or theme-inspired designs. While wine pairings and signature cocktails are served throughout, the focus remains on creating a refined and unforgettable culinary journey.
Who prepares the food for the Met Gala dinner?
The food for the Met Gala dinner is typically prepared by Restaurant Associates, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s official catering company, which has been responsible for the event’s culinary offerings for decades. This exclusive catering firm partners with renowned chefs each year—sometimes names from Michelin-starred restaurants or celebrity chefs aligned with the gala’s theme—to design and execute the menu. The preparation involves an extensive logistical effort, with teams working for days to source ingredients, test recipes, and coordinate service across multiple dining areas within the museum.
The scale of the operation is immense: the kitchen staff grows from the museum’s regular crew to over 200 professionals for the event, including sous chefs, pastry specialists, and servers. All food is prepared off-site and assembled in the Met’s temporary kitchen facilities to preserve the integrity of the museum’s spaces. The dishes are engineered not only for taste but also for efficient service under strict time constraints. Given the high-pressure environment and the caliber of guests, every detail—from food temperature to plate presentation—is monitored to ensure a flawless dining experience.
Are drinks included with the Met Gala dinner?
Yes, drinks are fully included in the Met Gala experience and are served throughout the evening, beginning with the cocktail hour and continuing during dinner and after-parties. Guests are offered a selection of premium wines, top-shelf spirits, and signature cocktails, usually designed to reflect the annual theme. For example, a gala themed around “Heavenly Bodies” featured celestial-inspired drinks garnished with gold flakes. Non-alcoholic options, including artisanal mocktails and specialty teas, are also available for those who abstain.
During the cocktail reception, servers circulate with champagne and hors d’oeuvres, while dinner includes coordinated wine pairings with each course. Bartenders are stationed at various points within the event space to ensure guests remain well-hydrated (and well-celebrated). Hydration stations with infused water and premium mineral water are also available. While the focus is on luxury and indulgence, safety and moderation are considered, particularly given the presence of high-profile attendees. The beverage service is an integral part of the gala’s atmosphere, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
What happens after dinner at the Met Gala?
After dinner concludes around 10:00 PM, the Met Gala transitions into its entertainment segment, which may include live performances from major music artists, fashion presentations, or curated artistic showcases. Past editions have featured acts such as Madonna, Ariana Grande, and Harry Styles, who perform in a specially designed stage within the museum. These performances are often tied to the year’s theme and offer guests a unique fusion of music, fashion, and art. Attendees remain seated for this portion of the evening, enjoying dessert and drinks while watching the show.
Once the performances wrap up, the official gala begins to wind down around midnight, but the night is far from over for most guests. Many of the attendees move on to exclusive after-parties hosted by major brands, designers, or celebrities in high-end venues across Manhattan. These after-parties may include additional dining, open bars, DJ sets, and appearances by even more celebrities. Notable hosts have included Rihanna, Dior, and Kanye West, making the post-gala festivities an extension of the gala’s couture spectacle and social influence.