The Bay area gastronomic showcase that is Top Chefs doesn’t go down until Sept. 15, which means there’s still time to snag tickets. Individual admission to the fourth annual tradition for PARC — which gives students from the St. Petersburg nonprofit’s culinary program the chance to collaborate with Tampa Bay eateries — cost $125 and are available for purchase online.
Hosted at The Birchwood’s Grand Ballroom in downtown St. Pete, Top Chefs is set to spotlight open-bar drinks and (swah-rey) desserts, in addition to the entree tastings prepared by the participating students and chefs.
Expect samples from Birch & Vine, Guppy’s on the Beach, Rusty’s Bistro and The Galley — plus Bloomin’ Brands. Corporate chefs of the Tampa-based casual dining company will team up with students for the first time, repping Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.
Best part? Proceeds benefit the culinary program, allowing PARC to continue its mission of training folks with developmental and intellectual disabilities for future job opportunities within the local hospitality industry.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with these incredible restaurants this year,” said PARC President and CEO Karen Higgins in a statement. “Their support helps raise awareness to PARC's Culinary Program and the opportunities it brings to hundreds of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities served throughout the year.”