Last night we were treated to the memorable artistry of two of DC's top chefs, Kaz Okochi and Roberto Donna, who volunteered their services as a fundraiser to support Martha's Table and DC Central Kitchen. Generous donations to these great charities were also made by 20 special guests whom we were proud to host at our publisher's home.
Of the three white-smocked chefs, Kaz and Roberto are on the left and right, and in the middle (paying us a surprise visit): one of America's top celebrity chefs,Jose Andres, with famed cookbook author Joan Nathan, the visionary behind the 27 simultaneous fundraising dinners. Joining in the back: former OMB chiefand now investor Frank Rainesand his wife,Russell Reynolds DC leader Denise Grant; Venga co-founder Reg Stettiniuswith husband (and Cassidy Turley CEO)Joe; Nats co-owner Bob Tanenbaum; Studley DC co-chief Tom Fulcher and wife Jill; and below them, Brookfield DC office head Greg Meyer.
Roberto puts the finishing touches on a plate; behind, the four fantastic volunteers for Marthas Table, his wife Nancy, and Kaz and his wife Lisa. What impressed everyone was not only how insanely good the food was--and how complex--and how creative--but how well the Italian and Japanese master chefs worked together, even collaborating on some dishes, like the pappardelle with miso-stewed wild boar.
Kaz explains to the guests at each table the innovative ingredients in his five elaborately crafted pieces of sushi.
Roberto and Kaz are withmega-apartment developerBobKettler and wife Charlotte and Gensler's Gigi Webb and MRP Development founderBob Murphy. You can sample these extraordinary chefs fare at Al Dente (3201 New Mexico Ave NW) and Kaz Sushi Bistro (1915 I St NW). Go! And thank them for their generosity.
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