When February arrives, I am the happiest person in the world and I feel like throwing a serious Mardi Gras. Why? January is over and with it some of the coldest and darkest days of the new year.
A few weeks ago, I couldn”™t wait to tear the month out of my desk calendar and airmail it into the trash can. I bid farewell to Mr. Jack Frost and those extra three pounds attached to my hips. But don”™t get me wrong. My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed every hearty crockpot January dinner and our daily finger aerobic workouts ”“ ripping the tiny gold wrappers off Ferrero hazelnut chocolate Rochers for dessert.
However, there are several things about February that just make me feel warm and fuzzy all over. For example, hoping the groundhog fails to see his shadow or receiving a dozen long-stem pink roses on Valentine”™s Day and most importantly, attending the 25th annual “Great Chefs” culinary event on Friday, Feb. 26.
This year, 70 fine restaurants, catering companies and wine distributors in Fairfield and Westchester counties will gather at the Hyatt Regency in Old Greenwich, Conn., to honor Greenwich chef and restaurateur Rafael Palomino. The festivities are scheduled to run from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. and include wine tastings, a silent auction and dancing.
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“Proceeds of the popular event will benefit Community Health at Greenwich Hospital, which offers an array of education programs, health care screenings and support groups to thousands of residents of Fairfield and Westchester counties,” said Frank A. Corvino, president and CEO of Greenwich Hospital.
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Known for his exceptional Latin-influenced cuisine and critically acclaimed restaurants, Palomino is proprietor of a number of establishments, including Sonora in Port Chester and Greenwich Tavern in Old Greenwich. He is a chef, teacher and author of five cookbooks, including the newly released “Palomino”™s Latin Grill.”
“I am excited, flattered and honored to receive this award. Also, I am a little nervous. It is very humbling,” said Palomino.
Past honorees include: Lidia Bastianich, restaurateur, author and TV host; Francois Kwaku-Dongo, L”™Escale Restaurant Bar, Greenwich; Jean-Louis Gerin, Restaurant Jean-Louis, Greenwich; Joseph Giordano, Valbella Restaurant, Greenwich; and Charlie Palmer, Aureole, New York City.
Event co-chairpersons Tracey Utton and Patty Read bill the event as “the best event Greenwich has to offer,” citing a relaxed atmosphere, “no long speeches” and tables of “extraordinary food.” In addition, they said, the event helps the local restaurants “build their business in a tough economy.”
If you are looking to reward your staff with a night of serious fun and culinary treasures or you need a place to entertain your best clients, reserve tickets now. Tickets are only sold in advance.
For tickets and information, contact Jackie Hvolbeck at (203) 863- 3863 to purchase tickets.
Nancy Dacey of Ridgefield, Conn., has more than 22 years of experience working in the food service industry. In Dishing It Out, she offers information and suggestions on an array of food-related topics. Reach her at nancyjdacey@msn.com.
