Organizers of the first annual Gulfport Chef’s Table held October 10th recently presented a check for proceeds from the event to charitable recipient CASA (Community Action Stops Abuse). Additional proceeds from the event were distributed to CASA at a later date for a total donation of $8,569.75. Proceeds from the event were doubled by matching funds from the Sonia Raymund Foundation’s matching grant program. CASA provides support and services for women, men and families living with or recovering from abuse. The sold out event featured various 4-course prix fixe menus offered by eight participating Gulfport restaurants.
Restaurants participating were Backfin Blue Cafe, Boca Bay Grille, Isabelle’s at The Historic Peninsula Inn, Mangia Gourmet, Neptune Grill, O’Maddy’s Bar & Grille, Pia’s Trattoria, and Smokin’ J’s Real Texas BBQ. Tables were assembled end-to-end to accommodate diners, with décor assembled by each restaurant for its own section of seating with fine dining details including white tablecloths, china, glassware and full table service.
The event was sponsored by the participating Gulfport restaurants, the City of Gulfport, the Gulfport Merchants Association, J.J. Taylor, Olympus Printing, Republic National Distribution Company and Superior Auto Body.
Pictured left to right are: Jonathan Summers (Pia’s), Pia Goff (Pia’s), Veronica Champion (Isabelle’s at Peninsula Inn), Daniel Hodge (Gulfport Merchants Association), Jill Johnson (Mangia Gourmet), Suzanne Horn (CASA), John Riesebeck (Smokin’ J’s BBQ), Mo Venouziou (CASA), Gail Biron (City of Gulfport) and Justin Shea (City of Gulfport). (Photo courtesy of Scott Linde, Gulfport Merchants Association.)