More for MANNA

by A.D. Amorosi

Last year marked the celebration of ChefAID 10, the fundraiser by the Metropolitan AIDS Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance (MANNA) to benefit locals with HIV/AIDS. At the event, I remember thinking to myself that the milestone reached by this Philadelphian culinary collective seemed formative and final: Simply, what more can be achieved other than raising more money? The money is great. But every year ChefAID -- as do most charities -- finds itself its own set of new criteria and plateaus. "We’re so proud of the following this event enjoys," said Robert Bennett, owner of Miel Patisserie and co-founder of ChefAID with Jim Coleman, of Coleman at Normandy Farm. He should be proud to help MANNA deliver nourishment, literally and figuratively, to more than 50,000 people in the tri-state region. "Over the last 11 years, ChefAID raised over $600,000 to feed men, women and children of the region living with HIV/AIDS. We’re honored to be able to support MANNA’s mission by doing what we love," he says. He adds that this year’s event will take on the additional challenge of bringing in a record-breaking 400 attendees. At $350 a ticket, that’s no small feat. "But keeping in mind MANNA’s mission, and the culinary experience of the evening, we’d like to think it’s quite a bargain," he quips. To sample menu items like duck confit with balsamic braised raspberries, Japanese eggplant, jalapeno peppers (each stuffed with halibut, garlic and chive mousse) and a Miel Patisserie dessert table, Bennett ain’t kidding. With participating ChefAID-ers leaving their egos at the door, this night is beyond the size of each of the cooks involved. They’re hanging out, with a goal larger than their everyday routine. "Just look at the chefs this year," said Bennett. "We’ve got veterans of ChefAID, students of the Restaurant School and newcomers gearing up for an incredible night. And what’s most amazing is that through the ChefAID community, we’ve created an opportunity to work side by side and really learn from each other." While they’re learning, we can feast for charity. Bring on the cured salmon on English pea blini with creme fraiche and caviar.

ChefAID, Sun., April 18, 5 p.m., $350, Ritz-Carlton, Broad and Walnut sts., 215-496-2662, www.mannapa.org.