Monday night we’ll be getting down for a great cause at a fundraiser for the New Farmer Development Project, and you should too. Presented in partnership with Gourmet Latino, tickets are $75.
What, you ask, is the NFDP? An inspiring Greenmarket effort, it helps immigrant farmers set up their own farms in the NYC area. (In-the-know urban eaters seek them out especially for seldom-seen herbs like papalo and pepiche.) The project helps with everything from land identification to microloans, plus emergency assistance when a natural disaster wipes out substantial crops—as Hurricane Irene did. But don’t take my word for it—watch a video on the project here.
Monday’s benefit bash will be held in Chelsea at restaurant Sueños, and guests like me will feast on superb regional Mexican fare by chef Sue Torres plus John Keller of Viktor & Spoils Joseph Macchia of Vynl NYC and one of my own favorite cooks in town, Jacques Gautier of Palo Santo. The menu includes the likes of Toluca Chorizo & Potato Sopes with Cilantro Salsa, and Rajas & Cheese Empanadas with Salsa Ranchera, all showcasing ingredients grown by NFDP farmers, plus heritage pork donated by Flying Pigs Farm. Delicioso!
There will be wine aplenty, but I’m looking forward throwing back a few a produce-kissed cocktails by the AKA Winegeek Team or sipping El Tinieblo Mezcal straight.
In between eating, drinking and dancing to the rollicking Mexican polka of farmer Fily Angel’s Norteña duet, guests can bid on the silent auction—including everything from CSA shares of that unique Mexican produce to a cooking class and sangria lunch for 8 with chef Torres.
And the best part: All party proceeds will help NFDP farmers recover from Hurricane Irene, which devastated over 50% of their crops. You’ll be able to talk to NFDP farmers, meet the folks who run the project, and learn more about the cause you’re so generously supporting. While eating, drinking and dancing. See you there!
The Deets:
Monday, Jan 30th 6 to 9 pm
Sueños – 311 W 17th Street (btw 8th & 9th Ave.)
Tickets $75
