A Night at the Museum: Inside CÎROC’s Immersive Culinary Celebration at the Rubell Museum

There’s dinner—and then there’s dining within a masterpiece. On the evening of December 6, 2024, I had the privilege of attending CÎROC Ultra-Premium Vodka’s "Night at the Museum" at Miami’s iconic Rubell Museum. It was more than just a meal; it was a multi-sensory experience that blended art, music, and gastronomy into a seamless celebration of creativity. The event coincided with Art Basel, a week where Miami transforms into the heartbeat of the art world. But this dinner was something extraordinary—a gallery tour, concert, and world-class feast rolled into one unforgettable evening.

Upon arrival, I was greeted with welcome cocktails that set the tone for the evening—sophisticated, spirited, and undeniably chic. The reception space itself was a work of art, featuring a floor-to-ceiling wall of books that felt like stepping into a secret library. At the heart of it all was an open bar featuring a curated selection of craft cocktails, each meticulously crafted with CÎROC’s signature Blue Dot and Limonata vodkas. Whether it was a zesty citrus-forward creation or a smooth, classic martini, the drinks perfectly embodied the essence of celebration and refinement.

As the reception wound down, guests were ushered into the dining space—and what a reveal it was. At the center of the gallery stood a mirrored dining table that felt like a reflective stage, adorned with lush floral arrangements that added a burst of natural vibrancy to the modern aesthetic. The walls were lined with monumental art pieces, while four violinists graced the corners of the room, filling the air with classical renditions of modern hits. It’s rare to feel like a character in a cinematic dream sequence, but in that moment, I did.

When it comes to the meal, Jon & Vinny’s delivered a spread worthy of its Art Basel setting. We began with fresh Greek and Caesar salads that offered a crisp, refreshing start to the night. Then came the main courses, served family-style for an intimate, communal experience. Plates of spicy fusilli, pesto radiatori, bucatini aglio e olio, marinara-braised meatballs with creamy ricotta, chicken cutlets, and garlic bread filled the table in waves. The flavors were bold, comforting, and indulgent—everything you’d hope for in a dining experience centered around art and creativity.

All the while, the quartet of violinists floated around the room, shifting from one musical masterpiece to another. It was a living, breathing concert that felt as dynamic as the dinner itself. As each dish arrived, I found myself pausing to absorb not only the taste but the atmosphere—the art on the walls, the music in the air, and the radiant glow of the mirrored table reflecting it all.

Just when I thought the night had reached its peak, the true interactive experience began. After dinner, guests were invited to explore the Rubell Museum's latest exhibits, offering a chance to immerse ourselves in the museum's dynamic collection of art and sculptures. It was a feast for the senses and a prime opportunity for photo-worthy moments at every turn. Within the museum, in three separate rooms, tables of desserts were carefully curated to match the colors and themes of the art installations. Imagine gazing at an abstract painting while savoring a dessert that mirrors its hues and textures. It’s one thing to view art—it’s another to taste it.

The "Night at the Museum" wasn’t just a celebration of art and dining—it was also a statement about the future of creativity. The event marked the official launch of CÎROC’s Blue Dot Creative Residency, an initiative aimed at supporting creators through financial capital, mentorship, and access to key industry resources. In an era where the hustle often overshadows the art, this residency is a breath of fresh air for creatives seeking space, support, and opportunities to nurture their passion projects.

Centered around four key pillars—entertainment, music, art, and fashion—the residency is designed to help creators expand their craft into new frontiers. Members of the program will gain access to industry leaders, direct funding for their projects, and exclusive opportunities to showcase their work. Notable initiatives include "Easecapes" (creative time-offs at major cultural events) and "Creative Trust" (mentorship from a network of established industry figures). By removing barriers like funding and bandwidth, CÎROC is empowering a new generation of creators to push the boundaries of art and culture.

As I left the Rubell Museum that night, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. CÎROC’s "Night at the Museum" was a reminder that art is more than what hangs on the wall. It’s the food on your plate, the music in your ears, and the conversation at the table. Each element of the evening—from the violinists’ melodies to the edible art displays—embodied the ethos of the Blue Dot Creative Residency: to support, inspire, and elevate creators.

The night’s ambiance, flavors, and creative connections lingered long after I left. It was, without question, one of my most memorable Art Basel experiences—a beautiful confluence of art, culture, and cuisine that continues to spark inspiration. And with the Blue Dot Creative Residency officially underway, it’s clear that CÎROC’s impact on the creative world is just beginning. If this night was a glimpse of what’s to come, I can’t wait to see—and taste—what’s next.