Giving Back Never Tasted So Good

The Pitch

When we were asked to be one of the official blogs for this year's Table of Hope gastronomic charity event, we accepted in a heartbeat; for once 514eats would serve a bigger purpose than filling our bellies.  Since 1994, Table of Hope has raised over $2M for the Share the Warmth foundation, which benefits 50+ schools and helps graduate 3,000+ students in need.

tagged:  SPREAD THE WEALTH

The Mood

The event took place at Arsenal in Little Burgundy for the first time.  The industrial shipyard turned art gallery/venue presented the perfect backdrop for attracting a younger, hipper crowd.  It did not take long before the main hall was packed with Montrealers from all walks of life; young, old, casual, preppy, even a few celebrities such as Ricardo Larrivée and Ben Mulroney (pictured above), among others.

The Food

We would probably need a dozen paragraphs to cover the 40+ restaurants and beer/spirits suppliers that were present.  Since our blog is all about brevity, we'll stick to what we liked the most:

Let's start with the El Tinieblo Mezcal booth manned by chef/mixologist Matt McKean and MMA fighter Alex Garcia.  Then there's Daniel "Mr. Oyster" Notkin at the Central Brasserie booth.  How about the meat extravaganza we sampled at Monkland Tavern?  Finally, let's not forget gourmet caterer Miss Prêt à Manger and artisanal doughnut boutique Léché Desserts.

Maestro S.V.P. Shellfish Platter

Miss Prêt à Manger Quinoa Salad

Poissonnerie Sherbrooke Lobster Rolls

Monkland Tavern Lobster Hot Dog with Foie Gras

L'Orignal Smores

Gaufrabec Waffles

tagged:  LOOSEN YOUR BELT

The Verdict

The event was a huge success as far as we're concerned; the turnout was great, the food was excellent, the mood was buzzing...  If, like us, you regularly splurge on feeding yourself, you have no excuse whatsoever not to attend next year.  After all, when else can you give back to the community while also enjoying such a decadent feast?  Join the conversation #Eat2Feed