Chowdown for Charity Returns to Benefit Local Culinary Arts Programs

PALMETTO – The 5th Annual Chowdown for Charity returns Thursday, October 10 at the Riverhouse Reef & Grill's Banquets and Weddings facility on the river in Palmetto. The event, which benefits culinary education in Manatee County schools, features a dessert competition between student culinary arts programs, as well as an exciting competition between local chefs from some of the best restaurants in the area for the coveted “Best of” Chowdown Trophy.  

Come rub elbows, sample the finest restaurant fare and be amazed by the dishes prepared by students of local culinary programs! Nine area restaurants will participate in the "Best of" competition, to be judged by an expert celebrity panel including Senator Mike Bennett, Maverick Johnson, Summer Smith and Vin Mannix. 

The dessert competition will feature Students from Manatee Technical Institute, Manatee High School, Southeast High School and University of South Florida. Local favorite celebrity chefs, Ray Arpke and Derek Barnes will be judging this category of the event.

Most importantly, this event raises much needed funds to help support and continue culinary education in Manatee County schools. These programs cultivate students into job-ready and employable candidates all while promoting life and job skills. 

Event attendees will enjoy samplings from the finest area restaurants and culinary programs in Manatee County. Guests will also be able to vote for the very popular  

“people’s choice” to be awarded to the top restaurant competing.

The event take place from 6:00-8:30 p.m. at the Riverhouse Banquets and Weddings facility 995 Riverside Drive, Palmetto FL. Tickets are on sale and are available at www.chowdown2013.eventbrite.com or by calling 941-545-3620.  

Ticket pricing is $50 in advance that includes complimentary bar, or $60 at the door (if available). Limited tickets available and we again expect a sellout crowd – buy your tickets today!