Gourmet Tastes Savored at Inaugural Fundraiser
By Bonnie Carroll
The Inaugural Santa Barbara Fork & Cork Classic event at the Montecito Country Club attracted a bevy of outstanding community restaurant owners, caterers, vintners, brewers, and dessert makers who generously donated their time and gourmet bites and sips to support the Santa Barbara Country Food Bank.
Participating in the event were Arlington Tavern, Blush Restaurant, Blue Tavern, Ca’Dario, Finch & Fork at the Canary, Intermezzo, Julienne, The Lark, Montecito Country Club, The Secret Ingredient, Via Maestra 42, McConnell Ice Cream and more; wineries and other sips offered by Blair Fox, Buttonwood, Carr Winery, La Fenetre, Lincourt, Luna Olivo, Nagy Wines, Star Lane Wineries, Jaffurs, Foley Estate, Firestone Winery, Qupe, Riverbench Vineyard, Sans Liege Wines, William James Cellars, Zaca Mesa and Cutler’s Artisan Spirits, as well as Surf and Island Brewers.
Honorees for the event included Executive Chef Michael Blackwell of Montecito Country Club, Leslie Mead Renaud, Director of Winemaking at Foley Estate, Lincourt and Two Sisters; and Clarissa Nagy, Winemaker at Riverbench for their leadership in the local food and wine industries. Sponsors included First Click, Courtland-Dane, FastSpring, Village Properties and more.
Guests enjoyed a beautiful afternoon of live entertainment and a one-of- a-kind silent auction that included amazing trips, hotel visits, wine and dinners at local restaurants and more. Drew Wakefield did an amazing job as master of ceremonies for the inaugural event.
The Food Bank of Santa Barbara is transforming health by eliminating hunger and food insecurity through good nutrition and food literacy. Their award-winning programs and network of over 300 member non- profit partners provide nourishment and education. In Santa Barbara County one in four people receive food support from the Food bank. Last year the Food bank distributed the food and resources for 8.5 million meals, and half of this was fresh produce. For information or to make a donation visit: www.foodbanksb.org.
Brenda’s Secret Ingredient Catering