The Garces Foundation’s largest (and tastiest) event is back this week, and it will feature over three dozen local chefs and culinary stars offering up their best Philly bites for a good cause.
Hosted by award-winning chef Jose Garces, the Latin Night Market will take place on Thursday, May 8, at Live! Casino & Hotel (900 Packer Ave.) from 6 to 9:30 p.m. The evening will be packed with different sips, bites, art, music, auctions, entertainment and more, all benefitting immigrant contributions to the city’s food industry.
“This fundraiser is such a special moment for Philly’s food scene — it’s when chefs, restaurants, and bars from all over the city come together to give back to the immigrant community that helps our industry thrive,” says Garces.
“Restaurants wouldn’t run without the hardworking immigrants who make it all happen in the back of the house and on the floor. That’s why this event means so much to me. This event was designed to be a great party with a very important purpose. I’m incredibly grateful to all of our participating chefs, restaurants and bars for putting in their time, talent, and heart to make this night unforgettable. The energy, the generosity – it’s truly amazing. A huge thank you to everyone supporting the Garces Foundation and its mission.”
Featured restaurants at the event span Amada Philadelphia, Bolo, Enswell, Gabriella’s Vietnam, Gass and Main, Juana Tamale, The Avery, Fiorella, Wilder, White Yak, Jen Carroll and more.
The evening will also feature live music from De Tierra Caliente, with band members from both Philadelphia and Puerto Rico, plus, a new night market area with handmade crafts from members of the local immigrant community, including Artesania Leticia, CRarte, Jnatural Bracelet, Manuela Guillén’s Art Store, Moonlight Arte, Our Hope and Variedades Agata.
The Latin Night Market also boasts a wine pull, photo stations and a live and silent auction. Auction prize highlights span a weekend adventure at Fitler Club (including a private screening in their theater), an autographed baseball hat by All Star Third Baseman Alec Bohm, an exclusive pizza party experience with Chef Brad Daniels from Pizza Freak Co., a private dinner (BYOB) for 10 people prepared by James Beard Award nominated chef Juan Carlos of El Chingón, a golf foursome with Ruben Amaro Jr., and more.
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.
“It’s easy to look at the plight of our immigrant community and feel helpless when it comes to making a difference,” added Foundation Board Chair David Weisberg. “Attending the Garces Foundation Benefit provides the opportunity to immerse oneself in immigrant culture, enjoy the best restaurants Philadelphia has to offer, and make a real and tangible impact on the lives of our beautiful immigrant population all at the same time. It doesn’t get any better than that.”
Tickets are on sale for $125, and include parking. Guests are encouraged to dress in cocktail attire. To find out more, visit garcesfoundation.org
