We're SecretEATS
Secrets do make friends…
Our Journey: From South Africa to the World
Founded in 2013, SecretEATS has been crafting one-of-a-kind dining experiences that bring people together in unforgettable ways. What began in a small Cape Town flat has blossomed into a global network of secret gatherings, uniting people through the magic of food, culture, and shared stories.
With every Secret event, we aim to create moments that surprise, delight, and forge lasting connections between our guests—memories they'll treasure forever.
Bringing People Together through Food & Shared stories
At the core of SecretEATS is a simple yet powerful belief: breaking bread together brings people closer together. What started as a way to bring outgoing, adventurous food and wine lovers around a dinner table has evolved into an international movement of cultural exploration and culinary discovery.
From new friendships to romantic proposals, our SecretEATS experiences show how sharing a meal can bring people closer and create lasting connections. Our mission is simple but powerful: to bring people together for outstanding experiences in food, wine and travel, celebrating the joy of sharing magical, meaningful moments.
Our Secret Story // How It All Began
In 2012, in the heart of a modest Cape Town apartment, the idea for SecretEATS was born. It all started with a simple yet powerful concept: bringing strangers together around a shared dinner table to meet, mingle, and break bread.
Driven by a desire to connect with creative, outgoing, and adventurous food, wine, and cocktail lovers, we set out to create something truly unique. And so, the first SecretEATS experiences were born—cool, unexpected, and unlike anything else.
Over the past decade, our team of Secret insiders has curated more than 150 unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experiences for over 1,000 guests across two continents.
Our Vision and Team
SecretEATS was founded by Gregory Zeleny in Cape Town with one simple goal: to bring people together through extraordinary, memorable dining experiences. With a passion for connecting people and a deep love of food, Gregory set out to find the finest local chefs, wines, and cocktails—and, of course, the most unexpected, hidden spaces for our events.
The vision was clear: offer something truly extraordinary for those seeking more than the ordinary. We have one guiding principle that shapes every event: surprise and delight. When you experience SecretEATS, we want to take your breath away, leave you in awe, and make your heart race just a little faster.
Today, our dedicated team of seasoned Secret agents carries this vision forward, curating every SecretEATS event as a celebration of food, culture, and community.
SecretEATS Around the World
South Africa
Where it all began. From seaside villas in Llandudno to art galleries in Constantia and private wine cellars beneath Table Mountain, our South African roots remain strong. Local chefs like Matt Manning, Brad Ball and Bertus Basson have wowed guests over the years with their culinary genius, making every dinner a celebration of the country’s rich food heritage. Each SecretEATS reflects the vibrancy of South Africa’s food and culture, blending stunning locations with unforgettable cuisine.
Vietnam
Since 2016, we’ve been exploring Vietnam’s hidden gems. We've met chefs and mixologists, built relationships, and made friends. From private dining in Hoi An to our original Hoi An Secret Cocktail Experience, our secret experiences showcase the best of Central Vietnam’s chefs, mixologists, and hidden gems. Guests are treated to bespoke dining affairs and exclusive cocktail and wine tastings in some of the region’s most charming and undiscovered venues. Vietnam’s warmth, hospitality, and culinary diversity shine through every experience. Featured in the New York Times, our Hoi An Secret Cocktail Experience was just the beginning of our Vietnamese journey.
Glowing and Growing: SecretEATS Around the Globe
From Europe to North America, SecretEATS experiences bring a unique blend of mystery, intrigue, and sophistication. Whether you're savoring exclusive dinners in Chicago, guided by the culinary expertise of Vanessa Marx in London, or attending a Secret soiree in Zurich, we’re dedicated to connecting guests with top-tier culinary, cocktail, and wine tasting experiences in cities around the world.
Interested in working with us? We’re always excited to connect with new chefs, mixologists and local partners.
Uncover the Extraordinary
Every SecretEATS event is locally organized and led by city insiders who know their community inside and out. These passionate experts collaborate with the best chefs, mixologists, and venues to deliver exclusive moments that feel like they were crafted just for you. Our hosts aren’t tour guides; they’re storytellers who add a personal touch to every evening.
How We Create Magic
We partner with top local talent, from chefs to mixologists.
We scour cities for the most unique and unexpected locations.
We design experiences that surprise, delight, and connect guests to local culture.
Giving Back
SecretEATS is committed to supporting the communities where we eat, drink, and play. Through partnerships with local organizations and a focus on sustainability, we strive to make a positive impact in every city we call home. Learn more about how we give back.
Why Choose SecretEATS?
Authenticity: Every event highlights local talent and flavors.
Exclusivity: Access hidden spaces and private venues rarely seen by the public.
Connection: Meet new friends, engage with hosts, and hear stories from culinary masters.
Memorability: From the food to the venue, every detail is crafted for an unforgettable experience.
We have another page that delves into the SecretEATS Difference. Read more here.
Join us as we continue our journey to uncover the world’s hidden culinary treasures. Let us be your best friend in the city, taking you to secret spots and introducing you to the talented people behind the scenes. Wherever we are, SecretEATS is about creating memories that last a lifetime.