This past Wednesday, I had an incredible opportunity to see Taste of the Nation – Charlotte, in full action. This wonderful event is one of the several chapters tied to the main foundation, Share Our Strength. When there, I had met up with several foodie friends IN REAL LIFE. You see, we writers get caught behind a computer screen all too often or behind the scenes via Twitter and other social networking programs. Top it off with being a parent… you get the idea.
So how was this event? It was really amazing. Seeing so many people supporting a great cause was worth it alone. I went around and snapped pictures before I dove in to try the food. Yes, I know, you must think that I’m crazy, but it’s wise to take pictures first and eat later. Proof? The one time I tried to hold both the camera and a sample of soup…Let’s just say that I nearly spilled the soup all over the back of the camera. Lesson be learned!
The event went off without a hitch! VIP hour began at 6pm, and it was already off to the races with trying all of the food and lovely libations. No shortage of wine, I assure you! If I didn’t have to drive, I would have been eager to taste some myself! I savored a glass of champagne from the VIP room and the food to go with it. If you are a wine connoisseur, this is event you would have enjoyed. The variety of wines that you can sample… uh, more like DRINK, was amazing. Not a wine drinker? PLENTY of other options from the entertaining mixologists!
I know what you’re asking… How was the food? And which restaurant was my favorite? OK, so I loved a LOT of items that were served, but I do have a favorite. Not from a restaurant! Our very well loved culinary school – Johnson & Wales! They had served a fresh tuna dish with a savory glaze on the plate and greens. YUM! Thinking about it, I wish I had some more right about now. Another fare that I enjoyed, Georges Brassiere’s salmon dish; light and delicate and very delicious. Enso had Wagyu Tacos that were out-of-this-world very creative and full of flavor. Definitely a place I need to hit one day soon with my husband. (Hear that Hub?)
Lastly, the event had many wonderful donations for the silent auction. I didn’t stick around to see the winners, but I did see the items up for bid. If you didn’t have a chance to support this foundation this year, definitely plan for next! The donations were very generous and the monies raised all went toward a GREAT cause! Did any of you see the auction take place? I was thoroughly amused with this because who can resist watching Bea Thompson at the event? She was a hoot! Not to mention a great spokesperson for the event itself.
Thank you all who were able to attend and support Taste of the Nation - Charlotte 2012! I hope you all enjoyed it as much as I had!
Cheers!
I would have been in food heaven. And JWU never disappoints. I studied fashion there and going to the cafe was the highlight of my day!
They are fantastic! Thanks for stopping by.
Yum!
A worthy cause and food (and drink) that looked more than worthy! Thanks for taking the time to photograph it all — glad you averted a soup-soaked camera!
I am drooling over these fantastic looking items. You are a lucky girl and it sounds like a blast AND for a great cause. Win-win!
Agreed, it was a blessing to be able to attend this function. Great cause!