Twenty-six years ago, owner Xavier Teixido and chef David Leo Banks of Harry’s Savoy Grill held the first Taste of the Nation event to benefit Share Our Strength, a national organization that fights childhood hunger. The annual affair—a tasting event that evolved into a five-course dinner prepared by top chefs from across the region—became one of the most celebrated culinary events in the tri-state region, a rite of spring. This year’s event, on April 10 at Harry’s, will be the last. “We are very proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish in these past 25-plus years,” says Teixido. “Our goal with this event is to raise a total of $1 million for childhood hunger relief in our community.” That will mean the April dinner needs to bring in just over $65,000 to hit the total of $1 million. “I’m confident our customers and supporters can make this happen.” In addition to Banks and chef Patrick D’Amico of Harry’s, this year’s lineup of talent includes Nathan Rich of Twin Farms in Barnard, Vt.; Aaron Burgau from Restaurant Patois in New Orleans; Chris Coombs of Deuxave in Boston; Robert Bennett of Classic Cake in Cherry Hill, N.J.; and Delaware’s own Bryan Sikora, a James Beard Award nominee, of La Fia in Wilmington, and Doug Ruley, executive chef of SoDel Concepts, part of the Matt Haley Companies, which owns six coastal restaurants. “We look for exciting, innovative chefs who are making a name for themselves,” says Banks, who serves as the event’s host. “We want to offer the guests an exciting blend of cooking styles and surprising ingredients.” In addition to the dinner, the event offers a silent auction and a wine “bodega,” where you can buy rare and prized wines at retail prices. SOS focuses on making “No Kid Hungry” a reality in America. Taste of the Nation started in 1988 to unite chefs to raise money for hunger relief. Local beneficiaries this year are the Food Bank of Delaware, Claymont Community Center and the Ministry of Caring. “We are determined to hit the $1 million mark,” Teixido says. “It’s not only part of our legacy, but it’s also part of our commitment to help hungry children in Delaware.” Buy your tickets now, so you can be there to say goodbye to an old friend. 475-3000, harryshospitalitygroup.com
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