JF&CS Tasting Still Tastes … So Good

The annual Tasting Experience, hosted by Jewish Family & Career Service (JF&CS) of Atlanta, continued its decades-long tradition on April 30, bringing together chefs and foodies at The Stave Room on Armour Drive.

Known for blending philanthropy with a vibrant culinary experience, the event highlighted the organization’s mission while celebrating the people and partnerships that sustain it. The Tasting Experience benefits JF&CS’ Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services (IDDS) with supportive programs that empower adults with disabilities to live as independently as possible and include the nonsectarian Zimmerman-Horowitz Independent Living Program, IndependenceWORKS Day Program (Community Access Group), and Supported Employment.

“I am blown away with the amount of services that JF&CS supports, and the huge gap we would have without them,” said JF&CS board member Phil Ventimiglia, of Georgia State’s Chief Innovation Office.

Each year, a Champion of Inclusion is honored for their contributions and advocacy for the IDD community, and this year’s honoree was JF&CS CEO Emeritus Terri Bonoff. Bonoff was feted in a VIP event on April 16, where she reflected that “leading JF&CS, a faith-based agency with ‘Jewish’ in its name, and dedicated to serving all [individuals] regardless of faith and in alignment with our Jewish values and this lens, is sacred work.”

The Stave Room housed 23 restaurant vendors, many of whom have been participating since the event’s inception. Guests enjoyed cuisine like turbinado torched sushi, braised brisket, hummus, pasta, and Indian-inspired dishes. A separate dessert room added extra indulgence. Guests were given unlimited access to libations (headed by Mark Brown), and food (aggregated by Amy Fingerhut).

Longtime vendor Stuart Fierman, of The Fifth Group, recalled The Tasting’s origins in Buckhead alongside early organizers, noting that it remains one of his favorite annual fundraisers.

Longtime supporter Norma Kadoori shared her enthusiasm for both the mission and the event. “I have friends who’ve organized this whole thing. I think it’s terrific to have so many people come together like this,” she said, noting that her favorite offerings were salmon nigiri and braised brisket.

Restaurateur Tal Baum, of Olivia Restaurant Group, reflected on the event’s momentum. “I think this is a fabulous event. I’m proud that it’s become so important. This is our fourth [time],” as she served steelhead pastrami with capers.

First-time attendee Dr. Pip Spandorfer expressed his satisfaction. “This is my first year and I was so excited to participate. There was not one thing that I had that was not delicious, unique and fantastic.”

Additional culinary highlights came from Annie Bradley of Elektra (Forth Hotel), who served a twist on hummus. Chef Matt Marcus, of Truth Be Told, returned for his second year with steak tartare. Mike Davis, of Tre Vele, presented cacio e pepe, sharing his connection to JF&CS through his mother’s work there and his ongoing support for individuals with special needs.

The evening also featured a silent auction including dozens of prizes, like private chef dinners, vacations, and artwork, adding excitement while raising funds. Event co-chair, Dayna Royal, who previously chaired the auction, summed up the spirit of giving, “I think JF&CS is an incredible organization. Serving families and clients is a win-win because people are happy to donate and enjoy the event.”

As the evening wound down, beneficiaries of IDDS delivered a lively musical medley of “Don’t Stop Me Now,” and “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.” Their voices rang out with energy and joy.

JF&CS CEO Jay Cranman told the AJT, “This outpouring of support from the community to help us help others is overwhelming.”

The Tasting is more than just a showcase of food. It is a celebration of community and the shared commitment to supporting those in need.

Now who’s going to Lake Tahoe, Punta Cana, or Cancun with an auction win?