Today’s KellyGram is centered on an wonderful fundraiser being hosted by my dear friend Chef Ryan Whittaker. I met Chef Ryan when I started frequenting his incredible restaurant, 116 Espresso and Wine Bar on State Street in West Columbia. We quickly developed a close friendship, and over the years I’ve watched Chef Ryan receive well-deserved recognition for his accomplishments both in the kitchen and, more importantly, in the community. When Ryan was named among The State Newspaper’s “20 Under 40” 2014 class, I had the pleasure of attending the ceremony along with his wife and parents.

Ryan is always giving back to his community, as well as his friends and family, through his time, talent and treasure. He donates food and his skills to fundraisers for numerous non-profits such as Palmetto Place and South Carolina Philharmonic, along with many others. Now, Chef Ryan has taken on yet another honorable cause and is hosting a fundraiser dinner with The Charitable Plate for the benefit of the Wanek Family and a fellow local chef, Damian Wanek. Mr. Wanek tragically lost his wife three weeks ago, and his four young children lost their mother and full-time caregiver. The dinner will take place at 116 Espresso and Wine Bar on Monday, April 23rd at 6:00 pm. Proceeds will be used to fund caregiving services for the Wanek children.

Not only is this event benefitting a tremendous cause, it is sure to be an elegant (and delicious!) affair. Along with Chef Ryan, other local chefs of note in Columbia’s emerging food scene will be participating, including Mike Deevy and Henry Griffin (Ristorante Divino and Kingsman), Robert Stegall-Smith (Performance Foodservice), and David Grillo (Cantina 76). Additionally, there will be very exclusive wines served with dinner.

Please come out to support the Wanek family and enjoy what is sure to be an amazing event. For more information and ticket purchases, please visit the fundraiser’s site here.