Share Our Strength's Taste of the Nation Benefit

I have wanted to attend Share our Strength's Taste of the Nation benefit for the last several years. The problem is that it is always on a Monday night, when I had class, but this year with all that behind me, we were happy to be able to support a worthy cause in a fantastic space playing host to samples served up from the notable area chefs, bartenders, and wine merchants.

In my opinion the best dishes were:

Entree: BLT Steak -- Wagyu Beef on Crostini

Dessert: Georgetown Cupcake (red velvet) tied with Cupcakes Actually (chocolate peanut butter dipped)

Cocktail: Todd Thrasher's Rum and Stuff (pictured below)

Wine: Janisson & Fils Tradition Champagne presented by Margaux & Company Imports

The over-used themes last night were pork belly and ceviche; apparently either the 'it' foods of the moment, or easy to serve up samples in a group setting. About ten restaurants chose to showcase these items.

My only criticism aside from the few less-than-stellar samplings (hot dog from Art & Soul was barely edible), was the crunch in the VIP room (for this distinction you paid more to get in early and exclusive access to a very tight room with only one entry and exit).

Overall though it was a really fun event for a great cause and I was so happy to be a part of it. My head hurts this morning, but it was worth it!

Some more highlights from the evening:

Volt prepares an assortment of tastings. Their rhubarb macaroon with fois gras was a fantastic combination of flavors, textures, and colors.

A Georgetown Cupcake pyramid.

Mad scientist Todd Thrasher heats and cools his rum cocktail using dry ice.

The noteworthy Proof mixologist shakes up a tasty gin and fennel cocktail.