An exclusive Formula 1 week experience brought McLaren driver Lando Norris, Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford and luxury dining together for an unforgettable evening at Austin’s La Zona Rosa.

Formula 1 week in Austin is about much more than fast cars and thrilling competition. Each October, the city transforms into a destination for world-class entertainment, exclusive parties and unforgettable culinary experiences. This year, Citi and Mastercard added their own touch of luxury to the festivities with an intimate evening that combined fine dining, motorsports and premium hospitality.

On Wednesday, Oct. 21, Citi presented The Curated Table in Partnership with Mastercard, featuring the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1® Team. The event brought together Citi Strata Elite® cardmembers, media, influencers and tastemakers at La Zona Rosa in Austin to celebrate the excitement surrounding one of the city’s biggest sporting events. 

The invitation-only gathering was part of The Curated Table, Citi’s premium experiential dining series presented in partnership with Mastercard. With experiences taking place in New York, Austin and Miami, the series connects exceptional cuisine with some of the country’s most anticipated cultural and sporting moments.

Cocktails, Racing Simulators and a Taste of Formula 1

This was no ordinary cocktail party. The evening began with a lively cocktail reception, where guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and handcrafted cocktails from Death & Co, known for being a leader in the craft cocktail trend. Guests were greeted with the evening’s Signature Drink, The Fast Lane, a mixture of black tea, mango brandy, fresh lemon, cardamon, sparkling wine, and a lemon twist. Other specially-crafted drinks included The Victory Lap, The Checkered Flag, and The Finish Line, a non-alcoholic cocktail.

During the cocktail hour, guests got a glimpse of being a Formula 1 driver by testing their skills in McLaren racing simulators. But the most exciting experience was an appearance by McLaren Mastercard Formula 1® Team Driver Lando Norris–the current 2025 Formula 1 World Drivers’ Champion. 

Norris was introduced to the intimate group and then interviewed by Kris Lawton, the well-known British presenter and master of ceremonies for high-profile F1 events. Lawton asked Norris several questions about being an F1 driver. For example, we learned why drivers are required to weigh themselves before and after every race. (We even learned how much Norris currently weighs.) 

When asked about his experience over the years at the Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix, Norris said the Austin race was one of his favorites. 

“It’s definitely the best race for atmosphere,” Norris said. He then elaborated about being in Austin. “It’s a fun week for me. Good atmosphere. Good vibe. Good energy from everyone. It’s got a little bit of everything that I enjoy. Nice restaurants. Good food. Good weather. It’s a little bit of all the stuff that lets me have a good weekend.”

Lawton agreed, “I don’t know anyone who works in Formula 1 who doesn’t like coming to Austin.”

Norris went on to talk specifically about the track at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin.

“It’s not just a good track for qualifying, but it’s also a good track for racing. And I think that’s something you don’t get that much of now-a-days,” he said. “You get the thrill in qualifying and you can also look forward to a good race on Sunday. That’s what we love as drivers.”

A Culinary Experience Curated by Chef Jeremy Ford

The racing excitement continued as guests made their way into a separate dining room for the evening’s main event: an exclusive dinner created by Mastercard Culinary Ambassador Chef Jeremy Ford, winner of Bravo’s Top Chef Season 13. But before anyone could take their seat, there was one more surprise. Oohs and aahs filled the room as guests spotted a McLaren race car parked right in the middle of the dining tables. Talk about a showstopping centerpiece!

Once everyone had snapped their photos of the race car and settled into their seats, Chef Ford took center stage to give guests a sneak peek at the specially curated four-course menu he had created for the evening.

• First Course – Burrata, Meyer Lemon Jam, Pumpernickel, and Basil.
• Second Course – Ricotta Gnudi, Smoked & Charred Mushrooms, Buttery Greens, Pine Nut Crumble, Pickled Shallot, and Umami Froth.
• Third Course – Westholme Wagyu Beef, Potato Mille-Feuille, Au Poivre, Confit Sunchokes, and Farm Hibiscus
• Fourth Course – Ford’s Farm Mamey Basque Cheesecake, Guava Strawberry Compote, Brown Butter Masa, Crumble, and Miso Caramel

The Curated Table was much more than just a dinner. From the beautifully presented dishes to the intimate setting, every detail showcased Chef Ford’s creativity and culinary talent. And the surprises didn’t end with dessert! As guests departed La Zona Rosa, they were treated to gift bags filled with keepsakes from the evening, including a McLaren F1 Team hat and a jar of mango chutney personally made by Chef Ford.

Austin Takes Center Stage During Formula 1 Week

From celebrity-filled gatherings and live music to exclusive culinary events, race week showcases Austin’s ability to blend its unique creative spirit with international appeal. Since Formula 1 first arrived at Circuit of The Americas in 2012, Austin has become known not only for its racing but also for the entertainment and hospitality experiences surrounding the United States Grand Prix.

In a city that knows how to throw a party, The Curated Table offered a reminder that many memorable moments of race week happen beyond the finish line.

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Cover Photo Courtesy Ben Rose Photography

Wendi Baird is the Editor in Chief of Texas Lifestyle Magazine. A sixth-generation Texan, Wendi has a deep love for the Lone Star State and brings a rich perspective to the magazine’s coverage of travel, culture, and lifestyle across Texas and beyond.