Events: HOMEARAMA Cooks for a Cause and Taste of NFL

I'm telling you, Cincinnati is just hopping with food-related events this week-- and most of them benefit charity as well.

First is HOMEARAMA Cooks for a Cause, part of 7 Days for SIDS. Visit HOMEARAMA (which is at Long Cove in Mason-- I drive past there every day and the homes are amazing, if opulent) on Wednesday, June 11 where you can sample creations from several local restaurants, including Andy’s Mediterranean Grill, Chalk Food and Wine, Brown Dog Café, Daveed’s at 934, HUGO Restaurant and Lounge, Jags Steak and Seafood, Jean-Robert at Pigall’s, Mesh, Polo Grille and Red Restaurant. All of the demonstrations occur in the kitchens of the homes between 6-9 PM. The demonstrations are included with your $12 admission (part of which benefits 7 Days for SIDS on Wednesday only), but you can pay an extra $20 for a VIP reception that includes food from Whole Foods from 9-10 PM at the clubhouse.

The next event is on Friday, June 13-- Taste of NFL. This one benefits the Freestore Foodbank and features 30+ chefs/restaurants and current and former Cincinnati Bengals. It's at Paul Brown Stadium from 6:30-9:30 PM, and admission is $100, which includes dinner by-the-bite, a silent auction, a live auction for dinners with players and coaches, and a raffle featuring 20 Nights Out-- 20 $100 gift certificates to various local restaurants. Whew! The list of chefs/restaurants and their featured dishes is breathtaking-- I'm looking forward to trying Cincinnati Cooks! maple chicken and ribs, mesh's braised pork belly and Seny's steak and potatoes. Registration is required. Tickets can be reserved by calling Jennifer at 482-7539 This one's a great night and a fantastic cause. See you there!