'Taste in Strongsville' event will feature 30 NE Ohio chefs to support area food banks

Food bank for students at Tri-C west

Even during improved economic times, stores of donated foods are rapidly depleted - even in seemingly affluent communities such as Strongsville and other Northeast Ohio suburbs. The "Taste in Strongsville" event aims to alleviate hunger in that city and nearby areas.

(Joshua Gunter, The Plain Dealer)

STRONGSVILLE, Ohio -- Chefs feed people, including those who can't afford a table at their restaurants. Which is why more than 30 area restaurateurs will be represented from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m Thursday, Oct. 9, at the fifth-annual "A Taste in Strongsville: Savor the Flavor" at Petitti Garden Center, 18941 Pearl Road.

Hors d'oeuvres, entrees and beverages will be served over the course of the evening.

"We've got a great line up of restaurants, which is a big part of what makes this event such a great one," says George Schindler, event chairman and operating partner of the Hospitality Restaurants group, which includes Rosewood Grille in Strongsville.

During its first four occasions the event has sold out, Schindler says. "It's because of all the amazing chefs and restaurateurs who lend their support," he adds.

It also matters that proceeds go to the Rotary Club of Strongsville's program to support Strongsville Emergency Food Bank, Schindler says. In addition to contributing funds to the Berea, Brunswick and North Royalton food pantries, the local Rotary organization is building a new food bank facility in Strongsville.

"It's amazing how important it is in a suburb you would think is affluent and wouldn't need it - but they do," Schindler says.

Restaurants, retailers and other food vendors from throughout the region will join those from Strongville and other southwest suburbs. Those planning to be on hand for the event include:

- Barrio, Tremont
- Bianca's, Brunswick
- Blue Point Grille, Cleveland
- Michael Symon's B Spot (various locations)
- Lola Bistro, Cleveland
- Carrie Cerino's, North Royalton
- Caruso's Coffee, Brecksville
- Cleveland Chop, Cleveland
- Columbia Hills Golf & Swim Club, Columbia Station
- Corleone's Ristorante, Parma
- Crop Bistro, Ohio City
- DC Pasta, Strongsville
- Don's Pomeroy House, Strongsville
- Fahrenheit, Tremont
- Italian Village, Strongsville
- J. Bella, Strongsville
- Johnny's Bar, Cleveland
- Lager & Vine Gastropub & Wine Bar, Medina & Hudson
- Old Carolina Barbecue Company, Strongsville
- Olympia Candies, Strongsville
- Orchard House, Brunswick
- Pura Vida by Brandt Evans, Cleveland
- Rosewood Grille, Strongsville & Hudson
- Samosky's Homestyle Pizzeria, Valley City
- Shinto, Strongsville
- The Cute Little Cake Shop, Strongsville
- Thyme2, Medina
- Town Hall, Ohio City
- Triv's, Strongsville
- Washington Place Bistro & Inn, University Circle
- Zack Bruell Restaurants, (various locations)
- Z's Cream & Bean, Hinckley.

VIP seating in the "Diamond Room," is already sold out. Hosted by Sheiban Jewelers that reception features food by Lola Bistro, wines by Napa Valley vintner Clos du Val, a jazz ensemble and cocktails by OYO Spirits.

In addition to entertainment, food and beverage sampling, the event features a raffle for a four-day, three-night all-expense paid trip -- for four guests -- to Napa Valley. The prize, valued at over $12,000, features special tours and cellar tastings of California wineries. Tickets can be purchased from Rotary club's representatives by emailing ATanzillo@ffl.net.

Taste in Strongsville: Savor the Flavor" - From 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at Petitti Garden Center, 18941 Pearl Road, Strongsville. General admission for the "Main Event" tickets are $75. VIP tickets (already sold out) are $150 each. For additional information or to purchase tickets, visit TasteInStrongsville.com

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