Chefs for Neighbors is an annual culinary tasting experience that raises funds for needy families and individuals in South Florida. Hosted at The National Hotel on behalf of Neighbors 4 Neighbors, attendees enjoyed stunning views of the full moon, delectable eats/drinks, and great tunes.
Chefs 4 Neighbors
Neighbors 4 Neighbors was created in 1992 in response to the devastation left by in wake of Hurricane Andrew. “The simple mission is to connect those in need with those who can help. Using a combination of resource development, collaboration with service providers and the power of media, we empower our neighbors to use the talents, time and money they have to help others.” ( Mission page)
South Florida Chefs
Chefs 4 Neighbors featured chefs from some of the most delicious restaurants and catering companies in South Florida. The following chefs showed up and presented some stellar food options along with wine pairings. Chefs Matthew McDonald (The National Hotel), Michael Schultz (Catered Fit), Angel Riguera (Latin Cafe 2000 Brickell), Luigi Fantera (Fratelli La Bufala), Dewey LoSasso (Bill Hansen Catering & Events), Gianluca Messano (La Moderna), Jeffrey Williams (Social Club at Kimpton Surfcomber), Gordon Maybury (Turnberry Isles), Mei Yu (Tropical Chinese), Deborah and Yoann Andreu (Bon Chocolatier), and Martin Liz (Key West Personal Chef).
Upon arrival, I grabbed a glass of champagne and headed to one of the community tables. Guests were mingling and bonding over their favorite foods while grooving to the live music of Adam David. The full moon overhead and a refreshing zephyr set the scene for a lovely evening soiree.
One of my table mates was an elderly couple from south Florida who proceeded to give me the rundown on all the things I should try. This dynamic duo became my food fairy Godparents for the evening. Everytime they returned to the table they had an extra plate for me. I thanked them for their kindness and they said that South Floridians have to stick together. Their selflessness reinforced the importance of community and how the little acts of care make all the difference.
The stations featured plant-based options, creative twists on classics, and local organic ingredients. The short rib by Gordon Maybury and the assorted dumplings by Mel Yu of Tropical Chinese were the standouts of the evening. Bon Chocolatier presented unique flavors combinations that tasted incredible and made me rethink what flavors pair well with chocolate.
Neighbors 4 Neighbors at The National Hotel was a delicious celebration of community and food. The proceeds from the event will go to supporting South Florida families and individuals with emergency needs.
