In wake of Dallas tragedy, local culinary community unites for two GivingTable dinner events

In the wake of last week’s tragic Dallas Police Department ambush in downtown, more than 50 chefs, mixologists and culinary professionals rapidly organized to raise funds for community outreach and Guns & Hoses, a non-profit organization that assists families of fallen Dallas police officers and firemen.

Iris McCallister (Chefs for Farmers) Katherine Clapner (Dude, Sweet Chocolate), Sharon Van Meter (3015 at Trinity Groves) and John Tesar (Knife) simultaneously put out a call to the Dallas culinary community to help and have been overwhelmed with the response, Tesar told the Hatch. Out of late night discussions, The Giving Table was formed.

“Because of the outpouring of chefs, mixologists and volunteers who wanted to help, we’ve organized two fundraisers,” said Tesar.

The first, The Giving Table at the Highland, will feature food and drinks from 25 chefs and a dozen bartenders in a walk-around format at the Highland Hotel. Organizers say they have already sold more than 100 of the available 400 tickets, which went on sale last night here. The Giving Table at The Highland is scheduled for Friday, July 22 from 6-10pm. Dinner and drinks are $50 per person, or $100 buys a ticket for you and a Dallas police officer.

The second related fundraiser, The Giving Table at Trinity Groves, will be Sunday, July 31, at 3015 at Trinity Groves from 6-10pm. This family-style dinner event includes a silent auction and entertainment, is $65. per person, and tickets may be purchased here. A crowd of 350 is expected.

Unlike at other fundraisers, this time, the emphasis isn’t on the participating chefs; it’s about the cause.  “The Giving Table is about raising money for members of our community who need our assistance right now,” Clapner told the Hatch, adding that the chefs and mixologists are among the most notable in Dallas.

McCallister says restaurant suppliers, spirit vendors and produce companies were eager to donate to the events. “Every one of them said, yes, of course, what can we do to help.”

One hundred percent of all the proceeds at each event are earmarked for charities. The Giving Table at the Highland dollars go to Guns and Hoses, while dollars raised at The Giving Table at Trinity Groves are earmarked for organizations that specialize in community outreach.