There’s dinner, and then there’s dinner that feels like an experience.

Thompson Houston is taking the traditional tasting menu up a notch with its new interactive Chef Tasting Series at Sol 7, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, led by Executive Chef Sierra Rustrum. I had the opportunity to experience a preview tasting, and let me just say, this was not your typical sit-down dinner.

From the moment we took our seats, the details were there.

The table setting was perfectly designed, creating an elegant backdrop for the evening. The music was just as thoughtfully curated. And when I say no boring elevator music, I mean it. The soundtrack brought a little energy to the room, so be prepared to move a little while sipping champagne or one of the evening’s carefully selected wines.

Then there is the view.

As the sun began to set, Sol 7 delivered what is arguably one of the best places to take in the downtown Houston skyline. Watching the city transform as the sun dipped below the horizon, glass in hand and dinner unfolding in front of you, was the kind of moment that makes you stop and take it all in.

But as gorgeous as the setting is, the food is the real star.

The eight-course tasting menu celebrates seasonal ingredients, bold flavors and Chef Sierra’s modern approach to cuisine. Rather than simply serving up course after course, the Chef Tasting Series gives guests an opportunity to connect with the chef and learn more about the inspiration, techniques and stories behind the dishes.

And there was plenty to talk about around the table.

Among the dishes that stood out were the sesame tuna crudo, short rib with crispy chickpea and roasted red pepper hummus, a beautifully flavorful watermelon salad, pistachio lamb loin and a thoughtfully curated cheese course served on charred sourdough. And, of course, banana rum cake provided a deliciously sweet ending to an already memorable evening.

The wine pairings were equally impressive, with selections including Sancerre Chavignot, Pinot Noir and Champagne.

But for me, one pairing stole the show.

The heirloom tomato soup paired with Minuty Prestige Côtes de Provence Rosé.

That was my winner.There was something about the combination that just worked. The soup was full of flavor, while the rosé brought the perfect complement to the dish. It was the kind of pairing that makes you pause between bites and think, “Oh, this is good.”

Really good.

And I don’t think I was alone.

Withfoodies around the table, there was plenty of discussion throughout the evening about favorite dishes and pairings, and the heirloom tomato soup definitely made an impression. I’m still thinking about it days later and, quite honestly, I’m hoping Chef Sierra decides it is too good to be temporary and keeps it on the menu year-round.

That is what makes an intimate tasting experience so much fun. You’re not simply eating dinner. You’re paying attention to what is on the plate, discovering new flavors, comparing favorites and sharing the experience with the people around you.

Limited to just 16 guests per seating, the Chef Tasting Series creates an intimate setting where guests can get up close and personal with Chef Sierra. Each dinner offers an eight-course tasting menu designed around seasonal ingredients and Chef Sierra’s creative approach to modern cuisine.

The experience will be offered monthly at Sol 7, with two seatings at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Each dinner is priced at $165 per person, with an optional wine pairing available for an additional charge.

For Houston foodies, this is one dinner worth putting on the calendar.

Come hungry. Come ready to try something new. Come prepared to sip, savor and maybe move a little to the music. And definitely leave room for dessert.

Because at Sol 7, you get more than an eight-course meal.

You get the food. You get the chef. You get the music. You get the sunset. You get that spectacular Houston skyline.

And if Chef Sierra keeps that heirloom tomato soup on the menu, you get one more very good reason to come back.