Yes! It’s true, San Diego does have seasons!!

Even the sun got the memo, hiding behind the clouds and cooler weather to kick off the Harvest of Fall Dinner benefitting The San Diego Toussaint Academy.

Chef Kurt P. Metzger’s well known “hidden gem” Kitchen 4140, served as venue for newcomers and loyal patrons to trade in flip flops and shorts for more formal attire and come together to enjoy a 9 course experience put on by 9 incredibly talented chefs!

Cocktail hour was served up by none other than Quigley Fine Wines in the picturesque outdoor patio/garden. They’re one of the most charitable local wine importers I’ve encountered and participant in this series. They pair perfectly with these chefs philosophies providing artisanal, sustainable wines from small production vineyards.

Vino in hand, we got to mix and mingle with chefs and guests!

Chef Kurt, got the dinner underway by introducing the line-up of chefs and the Toussaint Academy San Diego which assists homeless youth to reach self-sufficiency by providing a safe and stable living environment and a continuum of education and supportive services. Lending a hand and raising money to give them better opportunities is a priority for these chefs!

Mike “The Wine Guy” and Meredith Craven from Quigley Fine Wines, were on hand with Mike giving his one-of-a-kind descriptions, walking us through different regions and vineyards, and Meredith guiding us through the flavors as we enjoyed every sip! QFW’s own Brendan Quigley ensured that everyone had a full glass and was having a good time!! I’ve said it before and will say it again, I’m not a huge wine drinker, but when QFW is in the house, I have to have their wines!!

As each chef introduced themselves, their course, and their palatable descriptions of their dish, I could feel myself salivating. Such a treat to watch the team plate dishes! Participating chefs included Chef’s Kurt Metzger – Kitchen 4140, Chad Kilgore – Cheffin’ Around, Mario Medina – Berninis’s Bistro, Alex Emery – Hilton San Diego Bay Front, RoseAna Peyron – The High Dive, Nicolas Bour – Humphrey’s by The Bay, Esteff DeFelice Jr. – 57 Degrees, Annalise Brolaski – Sweet Organic Love, and James Montejano of La Valencia Hotel. Make sure to give a shout out when you visit the participating chefs restaurants so they feel the love.

Fall flavors and inspiration abounded along with a giving spirit as we start to enter the holiday season. A foie gras basket and a 20 person dinner with these chefs the dinner was auctioned off (and quickly snatched up) at the end of the dinner!

Here’s  what you missed!

Like Kitchen 4140’s page to attend their next dinner!!!

Bon Appetit!