Open Table, the MetroWest charity dedicated to fighting hunger and building healthy communities, announced that Jonathan Gilman, executive chef at True West Brewing Company in Acton, was the winner of a cooking competition at its 2024 Chopped for Charity Gala, which took place on Friday, May 3, at the Nashawtuc Country Club in Concord. More than 200 people took part in the event, which raised more than $180,000 for Open Table and its programs.
Open Table is available to anyone in living or working in the organization’s service communities, including Bedford. The organization provides non-perishable groceries, fresh produce, dairy, and other staples as well as prepared meals for pickup at their location in Maynard.
James Crosby and Crosby’s Marketplace of Concord were honored at the event for their many years of dedication and commitment to Open Table’s mission. Local dignitaries in attendance included State Senator Jamie Eldridge, State Representatives Simon Cataldo, and Danillo Sena.
Once again, television and radio personality Chef Joe Gatto served as the Master of Ceremonies. Chef Jonathan Gilman captivated the judges’ palates with his colorful cod fish tacos with rhubarb pico de gallo that edged out Chef Vivian Duque’s steak with potatoes and plantains in rhubarb sauce and Chef Jason Jernigan’s Greek yogurt cavatelli with pan seared scallops. The mixology competition went to Samantha Hughes, whose Italian Refresher just topped Jordan Mackey’s more Mexican-themed cocktail.
This year’s Chopped for Charity also featured a silent auction as well as competitive bidding for a variety of restaurant and in-home dinners prepared by both current and prior competition chefs. Guests enjoyed a light meal and delicious desserts from the Open Table kitchen.
The judging panel included EdibleBoston editor-in-chief and publisher Sarah Blackburn, former Open Table executive director Jeanine Calabria, and audience member Julie Whiteneck, who won the third judging position in an auction prior to the start of the competition.
“Open Table’s Chopped for Charity Gala brings together our community of volunteers and supporters in a fun-filled evening that revolves around food,” said Alexandra DePalo, executive director of Open Table. “With 200 in-person attendees, the event surpassed our fundraising goal and will provide much needed resources to meet the growing demand we are seeing. We are fortunate to have such a strong, supportive coalition of people willing contribute to our mission to end hunger in our local community.”
“Once again, Open Table supporters came out in force to support our mission to address hunger in our local community and to participate in the Chopped for Charity event,” said Jonathan Magasanik, Open Table BOD member and Chopped for Charity Co-Chair. “The gala has become a venue to celebrate all the people – from our volunteers to the neighborhood businesses – who make it possible for Open Table to execute its pantry and meal programs throughout the year.”
For more information about Open Table, visit: https://www.opentable.org/
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