On Father’s Day, the fathers figures in your life will be thrilled to gather around the grill with family and enjoy a memorable summer meal. From infused cocktails to a simple yet satisfying steak, we have all the recipes and tips you need to make him feel special. Read through our menu suggestions and game plan, then plan to mix some drinks, fire up the grill, and make a generous toast.
Start the party with a cocktail that has a kick. We love The Hartwood, a drink created by Hartwood restaurant that combines the spiciness of fresh-squeezed ginger juice with bracing lime, whiskey and club soda. Alongside the cocktails, serve bacon-wrapped dates for snacking: They’re the ultimate mix of sweet, salty and savory flavors.
Make the most of the June weather by cooking over an open flame. Our recipe for grilled porterhouse is the perfect centerpiece for this celebration, especially when it’s accompanied by a smoky Spanish romesco sauce. On the side, you can’t beat a simple grilled corn on the cob seasoned with a Mexican-inspired spice rub, and a raw farmers’ market salad, chock-full of all of summer’s favorites—tomatoes, squash, zucchini and radishes—will be a crowd-pleaser.
Of course, you’ll want to end the meal with a grand finale: a dramatic caramel ice cream cake with chocolate ganache. It’s a sophisticated play on a childhood favorite that everyone in the family will love.
- Up to 2 days ahead: Ready dessert by baking the shortbread, making ganache and assembling the ice cream cake.
- 1 day ahead: Make the romesco sauce to pair with the steaks and the ginger simple syrup for the cocktails. Make the spice rub for the corn.
- Day of: Assemble the bacon-wrapped dates.
- Just before serving: Mix the cocktails and roast the dates. Make the salad. Grill the corn and the steaks.
Looking for some last-minute gift ideas? Check out this year’s gift guides—we promise that you’ll find something for all the guys in your life!
Make this one a casual get-together. Skip formal linens and serveware and bring out rustic wooden boards for the steaks. For outdoor dining, our melamine dinnerware is as durable as it is beautiful. Serve wine in tumbler glasses for a charming touch.
For table decorations, pick fresh flowers or herbs from the garden and place in simple mason jars. Potted succulents also make an easy, cheerful addition.
Make it an all-day event! In between grilling and eating, take the time to play games in the yard, or even bring a deck of cards to the table. Enjoy the sunshine and some quality time with Dad. It’s the best gift of all.
