Giving to charity never tasted so good

Published 03/22/06, Copyright © 2006 The Capital, Annapolis, Md.

Annapolis chefs are constantly called on to come up with a signature item or two for a benefit event in support of a local charity or community group.

From the symphony to the homeless shelter to children's agencies, the chefs never say no to a needy cause.

From 6 to 10 p.m. March 26, chefs from 18 area restaurants and caterers will be at the Sheraton Annapolis Hotel in the seventh annual "Chefs by the Bay" fund-raiser for the Junior League of Annapolis.

Then on April 2, five restaurants will be participating in the 12th annual Dine Around Annapolis, in which patrons are bused from one site to another for the various courses of a sit-down meal. This is another benefit for local charities.

At the Junior League event the chefs will be at stations set up around the hotel's ballroom with guests wandering about tasting the various offerings at will. Proceeds are earmarked for young people's charities supported by the League. Tickets are $65 in advance or $75 at the door. Call 410-224-8984 for more information.

Those attending Dine Around Annapolis can be picked up at 2:30 p.m. at the Benfield Road Park and Ride in Severna Park or at 2:45 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel off Riva Road in Annapolis.

The first stop will be the Yellow Fin Restaurant for hors d'oeuvres and champagne. Then it's off to Carrol's Creek on Eastport for an appetizer. The salad course will be at the Sheraton Annapolis Hotel with the entree served at the Radisson.

Cordials with coffee and dessert will be at Pusser's Landing Restaurant at the Annapolis Marriott Hotel at the City Dock. Jim Eriksen of Pusser's plans to have a chocolate fountain set up with lots of fruits and pastries for dipping.

Charles McKnew of the Radisson thinks he'll serve quail, crab cakes and a beef dish for the entree. Those interested in participating may make reservations for $75 per person by calling 410-360-3572. Checks should be payable to the Chesapeake Chef's Association and mailed to Pat Ernst, 1251 Castine Court, Pasadena, MD 21122.