Iron Chefs Competition helps feed Livingston County
Thursday is one of my favorite events. It's the Gleaners' 5th Annual Iron Chef Competition "Let the Battle Begin" in which area top chefs compete for title of 2009 Iron Chef and to raise funds to feed hungry citizens of Livingston County.
Held inside the beautiful Bordine's Nursery in Brighton, the Iron Chef competition is more than watching chefs take the heat to bring home the bacon. The evening begins at 6:30 with hors d' oeuvres, wine and desserts for patrons, provided by local restaurants, a silent auction and a chance for the audience to vote for the Iron Chef.
The nursery is transformed into Kitchen Stadium and every year the crowd is bigger, the competition fiercier and everyone has a great time as they partake in fabulous food and drink as they cheer on their favorite contestant.
The battle, this year between Executive Chef Steven Grostick of the Hotel Baronette in Novi and Executive Chef Steve Pilon of Oak Pointe Country Club, will raise funds toward the Gleaners' Livingston County Fill the Truck campaign, which provides nutritious meals for the community's hungry neighbors.
Last year Iron Chef raised $71,000, filling more than three truckloads of food that replenished the shelves at Shared Harvest Pantry in Livingston. Gleaners' goal this year is to fill seven trucks and 100 percent of the donation will go toward purchasing a truckload of food.
WDIV-Local 4 News Anchor Steve Garagiola is returning as the Kitchen Stadium moderator as is Detroit News Columnist Neal Rubin as the commentator.
Chef Jody Brunori of the French Laundry in Fenton is also returning but is serving as judge this year and I'm proud to say I'll be joining her on the judges' stand as we watch the action, stuff our little cheeks and celebrate a good cause.
Tickets are $50, which provides 150 meals. To purchase tickets call Deborah Dillard at (313) 923-3535 ext. 260 or visit www.ironchefevent.com. Sponsorships are still available if you and your company wish to help fill a truck.
Bordine Nursery is located at 6347 Grand River Ave. Brighton, 48114.
