Right on the Hudson River, Jersey City’s Battello will once again host the annual fundraiser event “The Tasting” to benefit Eva’s Village in Paterson, NJ. The event includes 20 of New Jersey’s best chefs who will prepare one-biters to serve out of their own individual stations. Come hungry, because guests have the ability to go to each station at their will throughout the night. The event is set to take place at 6:00 p.m. on September 18.
Eva’s Village
Beyond the mouthwatering bites of food, all proceeds will go directly to Eva’s Village—an organization that Chef Co-Chairs Ryan DePersio and Robbie Felice, who run the event, have been happy to support for years.
Robbie Felice (left) Ryan DePersio (right)
Eva’s Village is wholeheartedly committed to fostering independence and stability among individuals facing homelessness, addiction, mental health challenges, and various other obstacles. Annually, the organization serves an impressive 500,000 meals and extends its support through a range of complimentary services, including education, childcare, healthcare, and more, all aimed at assisting those in need.
Through 40 years of service, Eva’s Village has fostered support for thousands of individuals, helping to uplift them from their struggles. They offer affordable housing, meals, education services and much more. You can read more about the many programs at Eva’s Village here.
Who Will Be There?
The Tasting will host 20 of New Jersey’s top-rated chefs, including many of whom made our top restaurants list for 2022. The chefs include, but are not limited to, South + Pine Executive Chef/Owner Leia Gaccione, AJ Capella of Summit House, Chef Dan Brunina of Sergeantsville Inn, Common Lot’s Ehren Ryan and Antonio De Ieso of Fiorentini. Each attendee will prepare a bite showcasing their remarkable culinary skills. The tasting event covers a wide array of NJ restaurants and talent.
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Celebrity Chef Appearance
Top Chef winner and celebrity chef, Nicholas Elmi will also be in the building. Along with winning the popular television show’s 11th season, Elmi owns several restaurants, including the renowned Lark in Bala Cynwyd, PA and legendary contemporary French restaurant, Laurel in Philadelphia.
Along with his talents, Elmi brings an added awareness to the event—a crucial part in growing the message that The Tasting set out to spread when Felice and DePersio started it years ago.
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The Tasting Ticket Information
Every dollar raised supports Eva’s Village, making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing homelessness, addiction, and various challenges that hinder their pursuit of stability and self-sufficiency. The General Admission ticket, granting access to the tasting tables and beverages, is priced at $375 per individual.
VIP, group tickets and other packages can be found here.
About the Author/s
Peter Candia is the Food + Drink Editor at New Jersey Digest. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Peter found a passion for writing midway through school and never looked back. He is a former line cook, server and bartender at top-rated restaurants in the tri-state area. In addition to food, Peter enjoys politics, music, sports and anything New Jersey.
