People all over the United States, especially those here in sunny South Florida, have witnessed the horrific destruction that came from Hurricane Irma and Maria. And in response, we’ve seen the beauty of America rise up from the chaos. as countless relief organizations (both longstanding charities and grassroots efforts) have joined the movement to ensure victims get the help they need. Now, you can add South Florida chefs to that list of heroes.
On Wednesday, October 11, 15+ chefs will host a collaborative culinary benefit at The National Hotel to raise funds for recovery and rebuilding efforts in South Florida and Puerto Rico. Made possible by a partnership between The National Hotel and Neighbors4Neighbors—a national nonprofit created after Hurricane Andrew to bring relief efforts to different parts of the United States, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas—this night of food and fun is appropriately named “Chefs 4 Neighbors.”
Of course, with a dream like this, the chefs are who bring it to life. Donating their time, talent, and passion, the participating chefs include: Chef Matthew McDonald (National Hotel), Chef Dewey LoSasso (The Forge), Chef Michael Shultz (Sea Level at Harbor Beach Marriott), Chef Martin Liz (Lost Kitchen Supper Club), Bobby and Michelle Mongelli (HogFish Bar and Grill), Chef Chris Lee (Barcelona Wine Bars), Chef Adrienne Grenier (3030 Ocean), Chef Paul Menta (The Stoned Crab & Thee Hands Fish), Chef Cindy Hutson (Ortanique & Zest), and Chef Gordon Maybury (Turnberry Isle). Alex Bulnes, Erick Jones, Rene Lopez, Felix Munoz, and Javier Peuser will act as supporting chefs, and Chef Paul Menta, who owns Key West Rum Distillery, will generously donate the rum served in the event’s private seating area, “Eite Neighbor.”
In the spirit of Key West, Chefs 4 Neighbors will be a night filled with live music, indulgent cuisine, and free-flowing drinks. Proceeds will go towards rebuilding the Florida Keys and Puerto Rico, both of which were hit hard during the recent hurricanes.
The party will run from 8 to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, October 11, in the hotel lobby bar, Blues Bar. The National Hotel is located at 1677 Collins Avenue. Tickets to this event run between $75 and $200, and can be purchased here.
Happy dining!
By Jennifer Agress | Miami Editor