For the last decade, local chefs have been engaging in an epic crusade to support a worthy cause: the Brandywine Health Foundation. This year’s Battle of the Berries at the annual Garden Party was no exception.
Seven Chester County restaurants brought their delectable best: Amani’s BYOB, Avalon Pasta Bistro/Avalon Restaurant, Firecreek Restaurant, Northbrook MarketPlace, Station Taproom and 10-year participants Duling-Kurtz House and Country Inn, and General Warren Inne.
“It’s a great venue for a great cause, the Brandywine Health Foundation,” noted Patrick Byrne, proprietor of the General Warren Inne. “The event committee works hard and are great to work with, too. I’ve seen attendance increase each year, which is why we continue to participate. And I love strawberries, too.”
As is tradition, first and second place winners were chosen by guests at the fundraising fete. Northbrook MarketPlace’s Lemon Meringue Topped with Strawberry Mascarpone Mousse and Fresh Strawberry Sauce won first place, and General Warren Inne’s Panna Cotta Strawberry Shortcake (pictured to left) second place, in The People’s Choice Award category.
New this year was a Culinary Excellence Award presented by a celebrity judge panel compiled and sponsored by TheTownDish.com.Foodies included Chef Chris Calhoun, Director of Food and Beverage at Desmond Hotel & Conference Center; Main Line Today Publisher JB Braun; and Chester County Commissioner Terence Farrell, who joined TheTownDish.com’s Founder Mary Bigham to render the tasty verdict.
When all was said, done and eaten, the celebs chose Amani’s BYOB’s Strawberry Cheesecake Napoleon with Strawberry Caviar (pictured to left) for first place, and General Warren Inne for second place.
In addition to samplings of each restaurant’s desserts, guests also were treated to a light supper by Perfect Setting Catering of butlered hors d’oeuvres, gorgeous stationery displays of light bites and buffets featuring Sourthern BBQ Pulled Pork, Skewered Rosemary Chicken, Teriyaki Salmon and all the trimmings. Everyone also left with a delightful cake pop courtesy of Cakes and Candies by Maryellen.
Sound like a lot of noshing? All for a good reason: the Brandywine Health Foundation, which initiates and supports programs to improve and sustain the health and well-being of our community. Still hungry? Then make sure to attend the 40th Anniversary Strawberry Festival on the grounds of Brandywine Hospital from May 31-June 3 (click here for hours and festivities), which also supports the Foundation.
Looking for a totally different way to support the Foundation’s good works? Check out the Brandywine Consignment Shop, which is celebrating its 20th Anniversary. The Foundation’s 10th Anniversary, the Consignment Shop’s 20th Anniversary and the Strawberry Festival’s 40th Anniversary, all in one year. It was a Triple Anniversary Celebration, and TheTownDish.com is pleased to have been a part of raising funds for a great cause.
Photographs credited to Gary Colyer, Mizfam Photo.Video.Design. Click here to view more scenes from 2012’s Garden Party.
