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Tag: Jamie Knott

The Saddle River Inn, an acclaimed restaurant owned by Table to Table’s newest Board of Directors trustee, Jamie Knott, was named to OpenTable’s annual list of the top 100 eateries in the United States.

The honor is the latest in a series of accolades Knott has received this year.

He was named the Chef Honoree at Table to Table’s 25th Anniversary Chefs Gala Sept. 25.

“There’s enough food on this planet for everyone who is food insecure. But it’s not always making its way to the right mouths,” Knott said at the gala. “That’s why Table to table is so crucial, and frankly, they’re saving lives out here. I vow to carry on the incredible work that’s been done over the last two and a half decades, and look for ways to expand our reach and impact even further.”

Knott also recently participated in a celebratory third anniversary celebration of Chef Antonio De Ieso’s Fiorentini restaurant, an event that helped raise enough to support the rescue and delivery of at nearly 300,000 pounds of healthy food!

Knott was also named one of the top restauranteurs in the Garden State by New Jersey Monthly magazine.

Knott is also the chef-owner of Madame and Kinjo. He warmly welcomes guests for flavorful, unforgettable dining experiences focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting his commitment to quality. These restaurants “have quickly become some of the most celebrated restaurants in New Jersey this year,” New Jersey Monthly stated.

Knott’s portfolio of restaurants is consistently praised and acknowledged by media and influencers alike. Educated at the New York Restaurant School, Knott’s career is marked by innovation and a deep understanding of the culinary world.

Congratulations, Chef Jamie Knott!

Since we launched, more than 350 volunteers have completed more than 9,600 rescues and delivered more than 2 million pounds of donated food that would have been thrown away.

As New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue, our mission is to reduce food waste and provide nourishment to our food-insecure neighbors throughout North Jersey. We rescue millions of pounds of fresh food annually that would otherwise be wasted and end up in landfills, contributing to climate change. We deliver it to partner organizations who support the nearly 1 million people in our area who need it most.

https://www.opentable.com/c/top-restaurants/top-100/#new-jersey

Credit: OpenTable

Starting with a van and a dream, Claire Insalata Poulos has spent a quarter-century fighting food insecurity and food waste with the nonprofit Table to Table.

In just one recent year, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says, roughly 66 million tons of food were wasted in America. If even a fraction of that could be “rescued,” millions of people could be fed every day. That is the idea behind the Saddle Brook-based nonprofit Table to Table—and the animating passion of its founder, Claire Insalata Poulos.

A California native, 68-year-old Poulos moved to Bergen County in 1974 while working for IBM’s marketing team and lived in Englewood for 35 years with her husband, Peter Poulos, whose family owned and operated the iconic NYC restaurant Papaya King before he sold it in 2002. She now splits her time between California and Bergen County. Taking a year off from working in 1984, she enrolled in a patisserie program at the Culinary Institute of America, and then in professional chef training at Peter Kump’s New York Cooking School (now the Institute of Culinary Education). Then she worked briefly as a volunteer for Share Our Strength, a national nonprofit, raising money for local hunger relief. At the time, food pantries were the only agencies serving the hungry of northern New Jersey. City Harvest, a New York City food rescue nonprofit, declined her suggestion of expansion into New Jersey, but pledged to share help and advice if she wanted to start a similar project herself. She did.

So, starting with a single van on Labor Day weekend 1999, Poulos and a few others picked up food from two supermarkets and the Alpine Country Club and delivered it to three agencies in Elizabeth and Paterson. Table to Table was born, and became Poulos’s full-time job once she retired from IBM. Twenty-five years later, the nonprofit has rescued more than 100,000 tons of nutritious food and given it those who needed it most.

How did your love of food start?

I come from a family of Italian food brats. Everyone cooks. We talk about food, we cook together, and we’re always trying to “out-dazzle” each other with some delicious new dish. My mother was a traditional ’50s homemaker with six children. We ate together at 5:30 every night. That table was our gathering place. It was inclusive, welcoming to out-siders, the stage for debates and a safe place for ideas and plans. The food connected us.

What inspired you to start Table to Table?

A lot of things. Growing up in California and seeing all the food left in the fields. Cooking school, where we’d prepare elaborate dishes every day, which we’d then taste, critique and ultimately discard. I remember asking if I could take the “leftovers” someplace to be eaten. But in those days there weren’t many places willing to accept a Cherry Clafoutis or Galette Des Rois.

Any memories from Table to Table’s early days?

I worked with a local chef—Jamie Milkman from Jamie’s Restaurant on 9W. One day, during Thanks-giving weekend, he called me about several trays of leftover turkey sandwiches he had prepared for the holiday. “Hey, what can we do with all these leftover sandwiches?” he said. I loaded them into my trunk and took them to a safe house in Bergen County. They were devoured that night.

Signs of success?

It was satisfying when mothers came up to us and said, “I haven’t had fresh fruit like this to give my kids since last summer.” And a woman said: “I’m 87 years old, and I’ve never had a steak until now.”

A challenge from those early days?

Raising enough money to keep the trucks on the road. We were never without people willing to donate food or, certainly, places to bring it—funds were always the biggest challenge. We tried our best to distinguish ourselves and engage the community. Miraculously, it worked.

How has Table to Table grown?

We always knew we wanted to go deep rather than wide. Our focus was exclusively Bergen, Hudson, Passaic and Essex counties. But in 2021, when we started using the Table to Table I-Rescue app, there was such a huge response from the community that we decided to include Morris County as well. I took a picture once of people waiting for our food at one of our local mobile markets. I love that image, because it shows the diversity of everyone we serve—like a cross-section of New Jersey.

What does your family think of your charity work?

My siblings are all involved in volunteer work supporting their own communities, and my husband constantly complains that I never have time to make him dinner.

What’s your favorite place in Bergen?

Bergen County Camera. I always wanted to hone my photography skills, and I love the Westwood location.

Favorite Bergen restaurant?

Saddle River Inn. Jamie Knott is an incredibly talented guy—and he just joined the Table to Table board. (Lucky us!) I hope someday we’ll have the chance to cook together.

—Kirsten Meehan

Credit: Bergen Magazine

Congratulations to Chef Jamie Knott for being named the Chef Honoree at Table to Table’s 25th Anniversary Chefs Gala September 25th. Jamie was also announced as the newest trustee of Table to Table’s Board of Directors.

Jamie spent a day rescuing food on a Table to Table truck with Michael Cerstvik, Table to Table’s sourcing coordinator.

“I was blown away by the quality of the food. The fresh produce, the beautiful cuts of meat, and farm-fresh dairy. To think this glorious food could’ve ended up in the trash. But it doesn’t, it makes its way to those in need! That is all thanks to Table to Table,” Jamie said. “There’s enough food on this planet for everyone who is food insecure. But it’s not always making its way to the right mouths. That’s why Table to table is so crucial, and frankly, they’re saving lives out here. I vow to carry on the incredible work that’s been done over the last two and a half decades, and look for ways to expand our reach and impact even further.”

Congratulations, Chef Jamie Knott!

To see photos of the chefs in action at this year’s gala, click here.

September 30, 2024 – Saddle Brook, NJ – Table to Table’s 25th Anniversary Chefs Gala, which featured an all-star lineup of more than 25 of New Jersey’s best chefs who crafted their delicious, multi-course menus for guests tableside, raised enough funds to provide 4.5 million nutritious meals.

Presented by American Express, this year’s Chefs Gala recognized Chef Jamie Knott as the 2024 Chefs Honoree. Fellow Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella were the event Co-Chairs, and Chefs David Burke, Nicholas Gatti, and Peter X. Kelly, were inducted into the Founder’s Table, along with other long-time supporters. For the complete list of chefs and mixologists who attended, click here. 

“Our hearts are full. We marked Table to Table’s silver anniversary with an unforgettable event, and we could not have done it without the generous support of our culinary masters, sponsors, partners, and attendees,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “Together, we raised enough to rescue and deliver food for more than 4.5 million healthy meals for our neighbors who struggle to put food on the table,” Thompson concluded.  

Chef Honoree Jamie Knott  

On this milestone anniversary, Table to Table recognized one of New Jersey’s most inventive chef entrepreneurs, the avant-garde culinary master, Jamie Knott. His diverse experience across various culinary styles has established him as a leading figure in the industry. As the chef-owner of such notable restaurants as Saddle River Inn, Cellar 335, Saddle River Café and Madame, Chef Knott warmly welcomes guests for flavorful, unforgettable dining experiences focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting Knott’s commitment to quality. Jamie’s portfolio of restaurants is consistently praised and acknowledged by media and influencers alike. Educated at the New York Restaurant School, his career has been marked by innovation and a deep understanding of the culinary world. Jamie is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through his involvement with Table to Table and several other NJ nonprofits.  

At the Gala, Table to Table proudly announced and welcomed Chef Knott as the newest member of their Board of Trustees. 

Co-Chairpersons Chef Ryan DePersio and Chef AJ Capella  

Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella, the event’s Co-Chairs, lent their culinary expertise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience. Ryan is the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step both in Jersey City as well as Ember and Eagle in Eatontown, while AJ is the Executive Chef of Summit House in Summit.  

Special Honorees  

At this year’s Chefs Gala, Table to Table proudly welcomed several long-time supporters to its Founder’s Table: Chef David Burke, Chef Nicholas Gatti, Chef Peter X. Kelly, Eva Megerle, and the Bernard and Geraldine Segal Foundation. The Founder’s Table was established in 2023 by Table to Table’s Founder Claire Insalata Poulos to recognize individuals, companies, and foundations that have provided extraordinary support to the nonprofit over its 25-year history.  

Additionally, Trustee Emeritus Tracy Nieporent was presented with the Tutti a Tavola Distinguished Award.    

Sponsors for this year’s Table to Table’s Chefs Gala included: American Express (Presenting), American Airlines, Arca Restaurant and Lounge and Crestron (Grand), Inserra ShopRite Supermarkets and Summit Associates (Platinum); David and Kathleen Hildes (Gold); Columbia Bank Foundation, The Kamson Corporation, Takasago and Wegmans (Silver) and Peapack-Gladstone Bank, Valley Bank and Wakefern (Bronze). 

For 25 years, Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue, has bridged the gap between food waste and food insecurity. The organization partners with supermarkets, distributors, restaurants, and others to rescue surplus, quality food, and delivers it directly to nonprofit community partners serving children and families, seniors, veterans, and other neighbors in need.   

What began in 1999 with one food rescue in a donated van, has flourished to become an efficient and impactful operation and a force for change that—to date—has resulted in the rescue and delivery of enough food for over 311 million healthy meals throughout northern New Jersey. To mark their milestone anniversary, the nonprofit has set a goal of rescuing/delivering enough fresh food for 25 million meals this year, via its fleet of 6 trucks and volunteer-based app, Table to Table I-Rescue. The 2024 Chefs Gala is poised to raise enough for 5 million meals.  

To help Table to Table in their mission to reduce food waste and address food insecurity in New Jersey, you can make a donation today – every dollar you contribute provides resources for the organization to rescue and deliver food for 10 healthy meals. For more information on Table to Table, visit www.tabletotable.org.  

About Table to Table  

Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org), NJ’s first food rescue organization, collects fresh and perishable food which would otherwise be wasted and delivers it to organizations that serve people experiencing hunger in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic counties in Northern NJ. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 200+ partner organizations including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, we touch a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Table to Table raises all its own funds annually, and last year delivered enough food to provide over 23 million meals.  

Credit: https://paramuspost.com/article.php/20241001022200489

September 30, 2024 – Saddle Brook, NJ – Table to Table’s 25th Anniversary Chefs Gala, which featured an all-star lineup of more than 25 of New Jersey’s best chefs who crafted their delicious, multi-course menus for guests tableside, raised enough funds to provide 4.5 million nutritious meals. Presented by American Express, this year’s Chefs Gala recognized Chef Jamie Knott as the 2024 Chefs Honoree. Fellow Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella were the event Co-Chairs, and Chefs David Burke, Nicholas Gatti, and Peter X. Kelly, were inducted into the Founder’s Table, along with other long-time supporters. For the complete list of chefs and mixologists who attended, click here. 

“Our hearts are full. We marked Table to Table’s silver anniversary with an unforgettable event, and we could not have done it without the generous support of our culinary masters, sponsors, partners, and attendees,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “Together, we raised enough to rescue and deliver food for more than 4.5 million healthy meals for our neighbors who struggle to put food on the table,” Thompson concluded.  

Chef Honoree Jamie Knott  

On this milestone anniversary, Table to Table recognized one of New Jersey’s most inventive chef entrepreneurs, the avant-garde culinary master, Jamie Knott. His diverse experience across various culinary styles has established him as a leading figure in the industry. As the chef-owner of such notable restaurants as Saddle River Inn, Cellar 335, Saddle River Café and Madame, Chef Knott warmly welcomes guests for flavorful, unforgettable dining experiences focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting Knott’s commitment to quality. Jamie’s portfolio of restaurants is consistently praised and acknowledged by media and influencers alike. Educated at the New York Restaurant School, his career has been marked by innovation and a deep understanding of the culinary world. Jamie is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through his involvement with Table to Table and several other NJ nonprofits.  

At the Gala, Table to Table proudly announced and welcomed Chef Knott as the newest member of their Board of Trustees. 

Co-Chairpersons Chef Ryan DePersio and Chef AJ Capella  

Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella, the event’s Co-Chairs, lent their culinary expertise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience. Ryan is the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step both in Jersey City as well as Ember and Eagle in Eatontown, while AJ is the Executive Chef of Summit House in Summit.  

Special Honorees  

At this year’s Chefs Gala, Table to Table proudly welcomed several long-time supporters to its Founder’s Table: Chef David Burke, Chef Nicholas Gatti, Chef Peter X. Kelly, Eva Megerle, and the Bernard and Geraldine Segal Foundation. The Founder’s Table was established in 2023 by Table to Table’s Founder Claire Insalata Poulos to recognize individuals, companies, and foundations that have provided extraordinary support to the nonprofit over its 25-year history.  

Additionally, Trustee Emeritus Tracy Nieporent was presented with the Tutti a Tavola Distinguished Award.  

Sponsors for this year’s Table to Table’s Chefs Gala included: American Express (Presenting), American Airlines, Arca Restaurant and Lounge and Crestron (Grand), Inserra ShopRite Supermarkets and Summit Associates (Platinum); David and Kathleen Hildes (Gold); Columbia Bank Foundation, The Kamson Corporation, Takasago and Wegmans (Silver) and Peapack-Gladstone Bank, Valley Bank and Wakefern (Bronze). 

For 25 years, Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue, has bridged the gap between food waste and food insecurity. The organization partners with supermarkets, distributors, restaurants, and others to rescue surplus, quality food, and delivers it directly to nonprofit community partners serving children and families, seniors, veterans, and other neighbors in need.   

What began in 1999 with one food rescue in a donated van, has flourished to become an efficient and impactful operation and a force for change that—to date—has resulted in the rescue and delivery of enough food for over 311 million healthy meals throughout northern New Jersey. To mark their milestone anniversary, the nonprofit has set a goal of rescuing/delivering enough fresh food for 25 million meals this year, via its fleet of 6 trucks and volunteer-based app, Table to Table I-Rescue. The 2024 Chefs Gala is poised to raise enough for 5 million meals. 

To help Table to Table in their mission to reduce food waste and address food insecurity in New Jersey, you can make a donation today – every dollar you contribute provides resources for the organization to rescue and deliver food for 10 healthy meals. For more information on Table to Table, visit www.tabletotable.org.  

About Table to Table  

Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org), NJ’s first food rescue organization, collects fresh and perishable food which would otherwise be wasted and delivers it to organizations that serve people experiencing hunger in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic counties in Northern NJ. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 200+ partner organizations including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, we touch a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Table to Table raises all its own funds annually, and last year delivered enough food to provide over 23 million meals.  

Press Contact:  

Maria Sinopoli, Director of Marketing Communications  

msinopoli@tabletotable.org  

August 21, 2024 – Saddle Brook, NJ – In preparation for its 25th Anniversary Chefs Gala, Table to Table, NJ’s first and most successful food rescue organization, announced its all-star lineup of more than 25 of New Jersey’s best chefs who will craft their delicious, multi-course menus for guests tableside on September 25th at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale, NJ at 6pm. Presented by American Express, this year’s Chefs Gala welcomes Chef Jamie Knott as the 2024 Chefs Honoree, joining fellow Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella as the event Co-Chairs, and Chefs David Burke, Nicholas Gatti, and Peter X. Kelly, inductees into the Founder’s Table. This is a limited seat engagement, reserve your table today! 

“Our Chefs Gala will truly be a who’s who of more than 25 of New Jersey’s culinary masters,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “This is not your typical fundraising dinner! It will be a unique and unforgettable event with delicious cuisine and expertly selected wine pairings…not to mention our exciting live auction, with every dollar raised supporting Table to Table’s mission to reduce food waste and relieve hunger in our communities. We cannot wait to have this outstanding talent together in one room,” Thompson concluded. 

Participating Chefs and Mixologists

Guiseppe Agostino, Verana

John Michael Beam, Afficionado Coffee Roasters

Kristi Taylor Beighley, Silk City Distillers

Luis Blasini-Sinchi, 7 Doors Down Ramen

Anthony Bucco, Landmark Hospitality

Brandon Campney, Stirling Tavern

Carlo Carbonaro & Robert Vicari, Bottagra

Thomas Ciszak, Brasserie Memere

Bianca Concepcion & Ben Del Coro, Fossil Farms

Mary Cumella & Logan Ramirez, Gioia Mia

Antonio De Ieso, Fiorentini

Lexi Dimeo, Stiir Mobile Bar Service

Leia Gaccione, South + Pine American Eatery

Felix Gonzalez, Viaggio

Alex Gorant, Axia Taverna

Matt Gregg, Barnegat Oyster Collective

Corey Heyer, Canoe Brook Country Club

Andrea Lekberg, Artist Baker

Christina Marcelli, Marcelli Formaggi

Halle Medici, Saddle River Inn

Frank Medina, Kitchen Step, Battello, Ember & Eagle

Christian Nicosia, Ghost Hawk Brewery

Sal Pisani, Jersey Artisan Co.

Hank Reed, Mazur Chocolates

Matt Rios, Gerard Bertrand Wines

Ehren Ryan, Common Lot, BYRD

Dean Schreefer, Echo Lake Country Club

Robert Sigona, Gelotti

Tom Silvestri, ORA

Melissa Stanard, the goods

Lawrence Talis, Blue Steel Pizza Co.

Joe Tartamella, Felina

Geoff Taylor, 130 Club

Bryan Tiedemann, Dirty Pelican

Chef Honoree Jamie Knott  

On this milestone anniversary, we recognize one of New Jersey’s most inventive chef entrepreneurs, the avant-garde culinary master: Jamie Knott. His diverse experience across various culinary styles has established him as a leading figure in the industry. As the chef-owner of such notable restaurants as Saddle River Inn, Saddle River Café Madame, and Kinjo—his latest masterpiece—Chef Knott warmly welcomes guests for flavorful, unforgettable dining experience focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting Knott’s commitment to quality. Jamie’s portfolio of restaurants is consistently praised and acknowledged by media and influencers alike. Educated at the New York Restaurant School, his career has been marked by innovation and a deep understanding of the culinary world. Jamie is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through his involvement with Table to Table and several other NJ nonprofits.   

Co-Chairpersons Chef Ryan DePersio and Chef AJ Capella    

Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella are the Co-Chairs, lending their culinary expertise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience. Ryan is the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step both in Jersey City as well as Ember and Eagle in Eatontown while AJ is the Executive Chef of Summit House in Summit.  

Founder’s Table Honorees  

At this year’s Chefs Gala, Table to Table will proudly welcome the new additions to its Founder’s Table: Chef David Burke, Chef Nicholas Gatti, Chef Peter X. Kelly, Eva Megerle, and the Bernard and Geraldine Segal Foundation. The Founder’s Table was established in 2023 by Table to Table’s Founder Claire Insalata Poulos to recognize individuals, companies and foundations that have provided extraordinary support to the nonprofit over its 25-year history.  

Sponsors for this year’s Table to Table’s Chefs Gala include: American Express (Presenting), American Airlines, Arca Restaurant and Lounge and Crestron (Grand), Inserra ShopRite Supermarkets and Summit Associates (Platinum); Takasago and Wegmans (Silver) and Peapack-Gladstone Bank (Bronze). 

For questions about the event, please contact Joey Mazza, Director of Events and Restaurant Partnerships, jmazza@tabletotable.org  

For 25 years, Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue, has bridged the gap between food waste and food insecurity. The organization partners with supermarkets, distributors, restaurants, and others to rescue surplus, quality food, and delivers it directly to nonprofit community partners serving children and families, seniors, veterans, and other neighbors in need.   

What began in 1999 with one food rescue in a donated van, has flourished to become an efficient and impactful operation and a force for change that—to date—has resulted in the rescue and delivery of enough food for over 311 million healthy meals throughout northern New Jersey. To mark their milestone anniversary, the nonprofit has set a goal of rescuing/delivering enough fresh food for 25 million meals this year, via its fleet of 6 trucks and volunteer-based app, Table to Table I-Rescue. The 2024 Chefs Gala is poised to raise enough for 5 million meals.  

To help Table to Table in their mission to reduce food waste and address food insecurity in New Jersey, you can make a donation today – every dollar you contribute provides resources for the organization to rescue and deliver food for 10 healthy meals. For more information on Table to Table, visit www.tabletotable.org.  

About Table to Table  

Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org), NJ’s first food rescue organization, collects fresh and perishable food which would otherwise be wasted and delivers it to organizations that serve people experiencing hunger in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic counties in Northern NJ. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 200+ partner organizations including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, we touch a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Table to Table raises all its own funds annually, and last year delivered enough food to provide over 23 million meals.  

Press Contact:  

Maria Sinopoli, Director of Marketing Communications  

msinopoli@tabletotable.org  

As Table to Table approaches its 25th anniversary, the New Jersey-based food rescue organization is preparing for its most ambitious event yet—the 2024 Chefs Gala. Scheduled for September 25th at the Edgewood Country Club in River Vale, NJ, this reimagined gala will bring together 25 of New Jersey’s finest chefs in an avant-garde culinary experience, celebrating the organization’s quarter-century of impact.

Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue organization, has been at the forefront of addressing food insecurity and food waste in the state. Since its inception in 1999, the organization has rescued and delivered enough food or over 311 million healthy meals throughout northern New Jersey.

“Table to Table is dedicated to collecting fresh and perishable food that would otherwise be wasted and delivering it to organizations serving people experiencing hunger in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic counties,” noted Heather Thompson, Table to Table’s Executive Director. “Our mission is to provide nutritious food to those in need, free of charge, ensuring good nutrition is accessible to families, children, veterans, and older adults.”

Thompson’s rich background in non-profit work, focusing on food insecurity and poverty, has been instrumental in driving the organization’s mission forward. “I started my career at City Meals on Wheels in New York, ensuring homebound elderly people received the nourishment they needed. Joining Table to Table felt like coming home for me, as I live in Essex County and have always been passionate about addressing food insecurity.”

The upcoming Chefs Gala on September 25th is set to be a unique event, where celebrated chefs will cook tableside, crafting a delicious multi-course feast for guests. This year’s event is particularly special as it marks Table to Table’s 25th anniversary. “We’re elated to celebrate our silver anniversary by putting a fresh new twist on a celebrated event. What better way to celebrate 25 years of impact—reducing food waste and nourishing neighbors in need—than with an un-paralleled culinary experience bringing together 25 of NJ’s best chefs, and Jamie Knott as our Chef Honoree.”

The 2024 Chef Honoree, Jamie Knott, is renowned for his innovative culinary skills and commitment to quality. As the chef-owner of notable restaurants such as Saddle River Inn, Madame, and Kinjo, Knott’s dedication to locally sourced, fresh ingredients aligns perfectly with Table to Table’s mission. “Jamie Knott’s diverse experience and deep under-standing of the culinary world make him a leading figure in the industry,” Thompson added. “His commitment to giving back to the community through his involvement with Table to Table and other nonprofits is truly commendable.”

The event will also feature Co-Chairpersons Chef Ryan DePersio and Chef A.J. Capella, who bring their culinary expertise to ensure an unforgettable experience for all attendees. DePersio, the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step, and Capella, the executive chef of Summit House, are excited to contribute to the success of this year’s gala.

As Table to Table celebrates its 25th anniversary, the organization has set an ambitious goal to rescue and deliver enough food for 25 million meals this year. This target reflects the organization’s unwavering commitment to com-bating hunger and food waste. “Our goal this year is to rescue and deliver enough food for 25 million meals.”

“It’s an ambitious target, but it’s achievable. Each dollar donated helps us rescue and deliver 10 meals. These funds fuel our operations, keep our trucks on the road, and enable us to conduct outreach to bring in more food donors and volunteers,” Thompson said.

Table to Table’s success relies heavily on the support of volunteers and food donors. The organization’s I-Rescue App has made it easier than ever for individuals to get involved in food rescues. “The Table to Table I-Rescue App allows volunteers to see available food rescues based on their location or schedule. You can download the app, sign up as a volunteer, and start rescuing food. It’s a simple process that can take as little as 45 minutes to an hour, and it guides you through every step.”

Restaurants and food services interested in becoming food donors are encouraged to join the mission. The onboarding process is straightforward, and the Table to Table team is dedicated to making it easy for new donors. “We welcome new food donors, especially those with fresh, perishable foods like produce, protein, dairy, and prepared meals,” Thompson concluded. “Our team will work directly with them to set up the donation process, ensuring it’s easy and efficient.”

Courtesy of Total Food Service magazine

Related:

Imagine a Gala unlike any other, where celebrated chefs cook tableside, personally dedicated to crafting a delicious multi-course feast especially for you and your guests. On September 25th, Table to Table will host New Jersey’s culinary event of the year: The 2024 Chefs Gala, a reimagined experience celebrating 25 years of impact and featuring 25 of New Jersey’s best chefs!

This unique personal dining experience in the setting of an elegant Gala offers unforgettable cuisine, impeccable wine pairings, an exciting live auction and so much more—all in support of Table to Table’s Silver Anniversary and our mission to rescue food, reduce waste, and relieve hunger in our communities.

On this milestone anniversary, we recognize one of New Jersey’s most inventive chef entrepreneurs, the avant-garde culinary master: Jamie Knott. His diverse experience across various culinary styles has established him as a leading figure in the industry. As the chef-owner of such notable restaurants as Saddle River Inn, Madame, and Kinjo—his latest masterpiece—Chef Knott warmly welcomes guests for a flavorful, unforgettable dining experience focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting Knott’s commitment to quality.

Chefs Ryan DePersio and A.J. Cappella have joined the event as Co-Chairs, lending their culinary expertise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience. Ryan is the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step both in Jersey City as well as Ember and Eagle in Eatontown while AJ is the Executive Chef of Summit House in Summit. 

For 25 years, Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue, has bridged the gap between food waste and food insecurity. The organization partners with supermarkets, distributors, restaurants, and others to rescue surplus, quality food, and delivers it directly to nonprofit community partners serving children and families, seniors, veterans, and other neighbors in need.  

Courtesy of Montclair Patch

Related:

Imagine a Gala unlike any other, where celebrated chefs cook tableside, personally dedicated to crafting a delicious multi-course feast especially for you and your guests. On September 25th, Table to Table will host New Jersey’s culinary event of the year: The 2024 Chefs Gala, a reimagined experience celebrating 25 years of impact and featuring 25 of New Jersey’s best chefs!

This unique personal dining experience in the setting of an elegant Gala offers unforgettable cuisine, impeccable wine pairings, an exciting live auction and so much more—all in support of Table to Table’s Silver Anniversary and our mission to rescue food, reduce waste, and relieve hunger in our communities.

On this milestone anniversary, we recognize one of New Jersey’s most inventive chef entrepreneurs, the avant-garde culinary master: Chef Jamie Knott. His diverse experience across various culinary styles has established him as a leading figure in the industry. As the chef-owner of such notable restaurants as Saddle River Inn, Madame, and Kinjo—his latest masterpiece—Chef Knott warmly welcomes guests for flavorful, unforgettable dining experiences focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting his commitment to quality.

Jamie is deeply committed to serving those in need in New Jersey, and is a long-time supporter of Table to Table.

At this year’s Chef Gala, Table to Table will proudly welcome Chef David Burke and three others to its Founder’s Table, which was established in 2023 to honor those who have provided extraordinary support to the nonprofit over its 25-year history.

Chefs Ryan DePersio and A.J. Capella have joined the event as Co-Chairs, lending their culinary expertise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience.

Ryan is the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step both in Jersey City as well as Ember and Eagle in Eatontown while A.J. is the executive chef of Summit House in Summit.

Courtesy of: allevents.com

Imagine a Gala unlike any other, where celebrated chefs cook tableside, personally dedicated to crafting a delicious multi-course feast especially for you and your guests. On September 25th, Table to Table will host New Jersey’s culinary event of the year: The 2024 Chefs Gala, a reimagined experience celebrating 25 years of impact and featuring 25 of New Jersey’s best chefs!

This unique personal dining experience in the setting of an elegant Gala offers unforgettable cuisine, impeccable wine pairings, an exciting live auction and so much more—all in support of Table to Table’s Silver Anniversary and our mission to rescue food, reduce waste, and relieve hunger in our communities.

On this milestone anniversary, we recognize one of New Jersey’s most inventive chef entrepreneurs, the avant-garde culinary master: Chef Jamie Knott. 

As the chef-owner of such notable restaurants as Saddle River Inn, Madame, and Kinjo—his latest masterpiece—Chef Knott warmly welcomes guests for flavorful, unforgettable dining experiences focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting his commitment to quality.

Jamie is deeply committed to serving those in need in New Jersey, and is a long-time supporter of Table to Table.

Chefs Ryan DePersio and A.J. Cappella have joined the event as Co-Chairs, lending their culinary expertise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience.

Ryan is the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step both in Jersey City as well as Ember and Eagle in Eatontown while A.J. is the executive chef of Summit House in Summit. 

Date: September 25, 2024 6:00 PM-10:00 PM

Location: Edgewood Country Club | River Vale

Admission: Individual tickets cost $650

Courtesy of edible Jersey

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