The Stop Charity Dinner

Good food brings good people together – especially when it involves a gourmet six-course menu paired with top quality wines and benefits a good cause.

On Wednesday, October 17, a well-dressed assortment of food-lovers, regular event-goers, friends, and dedicated philanthropists filled the Eatertainment headquarters – an award-winning Toronto-based catering and events company – in the city’s east end for an exquisite dinner event to benefit The Stop Community Food Centre.

Eatertainment owners Sheila and Sebastien Centner are passionate about The Stop, after becoming familiar with the work of the organization at two of The Stop’s previous food-focused events. This inspired a tour of the 1884 Davenport location. Since the early 80s, when it began as one of Canada’s first food banks, The Stop has used food as a tool to build healthier, more connected, and more self-determined communities and relies on the support of hundreds of volunteers.

“We often take for granted that good, healthy, beautiful food is not accessible to everyone,” said Sebastien Centner. “When we host events we try to remember that we are very, very fortunate to be able to afford and have access to quality foods, and of course, others things that many people do not. Our philosophy is to share the joy of entertaining with our clients and guests, effectively putting a smile on their face. To be able to support the Stop in their quest to offer everyone access to quality foods, experiences, and services in a respectful manner, allows us to help them achieve that same goal.”

After a cocktail mix and mingle, the dinner kicked off with a few words from The Stop representatives, who revealed that the initiative began with humble roots in Kensington Market 35 years ago, and involved ham sandwiches and cups of coffee. The organization has evolved to unite marginalized groups through healthy and wholesome food and has in recent years began filing income tax for people who otherwise may not do so.

As for the Eatertainment meal, it was definitely one for the taste buds – and for the Instagram accounts, as each dish was quite literally a work of art. For the first course, guests were plated with individual board that featured Beet and Chevre Sacchetti, Ontario Gouda and Fig Jam, Smoked Duck and Apple, and a Sesame Crusted Tuna. This was paired with Jacob’s Creek Chardonnay Pinot Noir Sparkling.