GARCES Foundation annual fundraiser brings local talent together for a good cause

The GARCES Foundation’s largest (and tastiest) event is back this weekend, and it will feature over 30 local chefs and culinary stars offering up some of their best Philly bites for a good cause. 

Hosted by award-winning Chef Jose Garces, the annual event will take place on Friday, May 3, at the Loews Hotel Philadelphia, with a few different ticket options available for purchase. 

“It’s an honor to bring Philadelphia’s finest chefs and restaurants together year after year in support of the GARCES Foundation and the important work it does within our city,” says Garces in a statement. “I am so thankful and touched by the continued outpouring of support that the restaurant community and Philadelphia’s staunch culinary enthusiasts have shown to the GARCES Foundation over the past 10+ years.”

What this night ultimately features is unlimited bites and sips, live music, and both a live and silent auction. 

As a release notes, proceeds from the benefit will support the GARCES Foundation’s mission to provide Philadelphia’s immigrant population the healthcare, education, and support they need to improve their lives and empower this community to reach its potential. That includes food, medical care and educational services. 

Spots showcasing their own fare at the event span Cantina La Martina, Enswell, Forysthia, Gabriella’s Vietnam, Hi-Lo Taco, Irwin’s, Jezabel’s, La Chingonita, Pod, Rouge, Vetri Cucina and more. There will also be fare from GARCES Group’s signature restaurants, aka Amada, Buena Onda, The Olde Bar, Village Whiskey and Volver.

The sips portion of the evening will be covered by American Harvest Organic Vodka and Beach Whiskey.

“Our annual benefit is more than just another culinary event; the funds raised are essential to meeting the tremendous need for education, healthcare and additional lines of programming that Philadelphia’s immigrant community relies on,” said Robin Morris, Executive Director at the GARCES Foundation in a statement. “It is not just a celebration of our achievements; each attendee’s contribution directly ensures our mission flourishes, and our impact resonates far beyond a single evening.”

There are three options to choose from for tickets: General Admission includes access to all food, drink, activations and entertainment from 6:30-9:30 p.m. for $175, General Admission + Exclusive Early Access, on the other hand, includes access to all food, drink, activations and entertainment but for an extra hour, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. for $225. 

VIP Early Access & Exclusive After Party Access runs for $295 and includes access to all food, drink activations and entertainment from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., plus additional exclusive VIP access to the benefit’s official After Party on the Loews’ 33rd floor from 9 to 11 p.m.

While Philadelphians indulge in all the fare being offered, there will also be live music and dancing, plus after-party guests will enjoy the musical stylings of resident Philadelphia Phillies and Philadelphia Flyers DJ, DJ Hollywood.

And as the release also notes, exclusive to this year in celebration of Cinco de Mayo weekend, select chefs and restaurants will participate in a People’s Choice Taco Competition. Attendees will be able to vote on their favorite rendition, and special prizes for the winner will be announced. Plus, there will be a pop-up mariachi performance onsite.

“Since the start, the Garces Foundation has focused on ensuring that our immigrant communities, particularly those working in the hospitality industry, have access to the support they need in order to thrive in their communities and their lives,” finished Garces.

“We started the organization following the death of one of my cooks from thyroid cancer. A life was lost due to a lack of access to medical care. We realized that it was vitally important to ensure that Philadelphia’s underserved immigrant community has access to health and educational services.”

To learn more information, and to buy tickets, visit garcesfoundation.org or follow @garcesfoundation on Instagram and Facebook.