Celeb chefs talk the talk at Reading Between the Wines

Two of our state’s most recognizable chefs will come together for a night of gastro jib-jab and tête-à-têtes at the 10th annual Reading Between the Wines – the annual fundraiser for the Adult Literacy League taking place Wednesday, April 12, at the Orlando Science Center.

Chef Art Smith, who was born in 

Florida but made a name for himself in Chicago, will pair up with chef Norman Van Aken, who was born near Chicago (in Diamond Lake, Illinois) but made a name for himself in Florida, as they speak on all matters culinary with local author Bob Morris moderating.

The James Beard Foundation Award winners have 10 books between them (Van Aken even found it in his heart to write the foreword to Gourmet Breakfasts for the Genius by yours truly) but, more than that, have a gift for gab.

The raconteurs will undoubtedly regale the audience with sundry anecdotes and observations throughout the three-hour event, then sign copies of their books.

Prior to the discussion, tapas-sized bites will be offered by a host of local restaurants, including 1921, Homecomin’, 4 Rivers, Swine & Sons, Raglan Road, Olde Hearth Bread Co., Fiorenzo Italian Steakhouse, Carmel Cafe and The Palm, with Darden and PRP Wine providing the wine pairings.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Adult Literacy League’s tutoring programs and literacy classes, as well as help fund the purchase of books and teaching materials.

Reading Between the Wines
April 12, 6-9 p.m.
Orlando Science Center
$90

This article appears in Mar 29 – Apr 4, 2017.