On Saturday night April 14th, I attended the Dessert Finale portion of the Growing Chefs Fundraiser at Studeo 1666 with a packed room of guests. These lucky guests had attended Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner? Where a 3 course meal was prepared by some of Vancouver’s most talented chefs Andrea Carlson (formerly of Bishop’s), Jane Cornborough (Campagnolo Restaurants), Boneta’s Jason Leizert, Ann Kirsebom of Chef Ann’s Gourmet Sauces and Che Baba’s Geoff Van Hassel; were served at simultaneous dinner parties hosted in elegant private homes.

Sophie Lui (L), Helen Stortini (M) & Merri Schwartz (R)

The evening was Emceed by Sophie Lui (host of the Global BC Morning News) who introduced organizers Merri Schwartz (Founder-Growing Chefs) and Helen Stortini (Executive Director – Growing Chefs).

At the end of the evening, all the guests convened for the Dessert created by Wendy Boys of Cocolico. Chocoholics were in heaven with Wendy’s tasty chocolate treats which were toppings at the build it yourself Sundae bar. Such a clever idea to finish off a fun filled evening and a fab fundraiser.

Sophie Lui & Helen Stortini

The finale also featured wines from Blue Mountain Gold Label Brut, Misconduct Wine Co.’s Misfit and The Big Take, and Vista Doro’s 2010 Marechal Foch, Pinot Noix, and D’oro.

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner? is a fundraiser for Growing Chefs! – a non-profit society that teaches elementary school children about food and urban agriculture by placing volunteer chefs in school classrooms. The chefs help students plant windowsill gardens, then return to help care for the gardens while leading the students through fun lessons about vegetables, cooking, sustainability, and healthy eating.

By: Richard Wolak