Share our Strength, an organization dedicated to the fight against childhood hunger, chose the Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne to host its 20th annual Taste of the Nation culinary showcase on Thursday, July 24.
Spearheaded yet again by Allen Susser of Chef Allen's restaurant, the scene was a food enthusiast's dream, with 35 of Miami's most celebrated culinary experts and 13 wineries displaying their talents and flavors for more than 600 guests. The event began with a V.I.P. reception where guests, for the ticket price of $250, were given a sneak peak of both the silent-auction items and culinary showcase. Once the guests made their way though the grand ballroom, droves of foodies, wine lovers, and special event caterers met them for the festivities.
The eco-friendly theme was evident from the moment guests arrived at the South Miami hotel, as the valet service offered complimentary parking for anyone traveling in a hybrid vehicle. As guests sampled the many delicacies offered by the participating restaurants, they were encouraged to help with Share Our Strength's ecological efforts by disposing of the biodegradable plates and utensils in designated bins throughout the space. Event organizers also insisted that participating culinary outlets serve specially shaped bottles of water, which used 30 percent less plastic than ordinary bottles.
In addition, many participants used organic ingredients in their dishes, including chef George Fistrovich of the hotel's Dune Oceanfront Burger Lounge, who served a Gorgonzola burger topped with organic cheese.
Throughout the event, guests feasted on other highlights from big-name spots such as the Blue Door at Delano, Bourbon Steak Miami, Prime Blue Grill, and Michael's Genuine Food and Drink, as well as smaller businesses like Coconut Grove bakery Jennifer's Homemade and Cookies by Shar.
Though a dollar amount was not available at press time, 100 percent of the ticket proceeds benefited the Daily Bread Food Bank, Florida Impact, and the North Florida Educational Development Corporation. Share Our Strength, which has raised more than $200 million since its inception in 1984, expects this year's event to exceed last year's total of $70,000.
On the heels of Taste of the Nation, Miami Spice Restaurant Month kicks off on August 1, offering $23 lunches and $36 dinners consisting of three-course prix fixe menus from a large selection of the city's restaurants.
