Image courtesy of Mental Health America of Los Angeles. All other photos by Asia Morris.

The very first benefit dinner in support of the Long Beach-based nonprofit Mental Health America of Los Angeles (MHALA) will take both the fine tastes and togetherness a good meal can bring to its consumers and highlight some of the city’s best chefs in the process, all the while raising support for those in the community who need it most.

Under the Toque, nodding to the French word describing the tall white hat traditionally worn by top chefs, invites MHALA supporters to sit at a table of 10 with one of 12 of the city’s best local chefs, to learn about their process, to dine and, even, to take home the recipe at the end of the evening.

On Monday, October 3 at 5:00PM, the Courtyard Long Beach Downtown will open its doors to the underlying theme of Under the Toque, “It Takes a Village.” All proceeds from the culinary event will benefit MHALA’s programs for Long Beach residents living with financial hardship and severe mental illness, according to the invitation.

David MacLennan of James Republic, Arthur Gonzalez of Panxa Cocina, Paul Buchanan of Primal Alchemy, Andrew Herman of Padre, Eric Samaniego of Michael’s Restaurant Group, Felix Nappoly of The Hyatt, Janine Falvo of Renaissance Hotel, Jose Lopez of Marriott Long Beach and John McLaughlin of At Last Cafe are several of the chefs set to attend, according to the Downtown Long Beach Associates (DLBA)’s announcement.

“We know that people living on the streets are very familiar with our name and the work we do because they depend on our services every day,” said Dr. David Pilon, president and CEO of MHALA, in a statement to the DLBA. “However, much of the larger community is not nearly as familiar with us and our work. We need events like this to help get the word out about the critical work that we do. We are so grateful to have supporters like The Downtown Courtyard Marriott, the DLBA, The CVB, and Emissary Media Group, who are willing to help us in this effort.”

The event will take place on Monday, October 3 at the Courtyard Marriott Long Beach Downtown from 5:00PM to 9:30PM.

For more information, visit the Facebook event page here. To purchase tickets or make a donation, click here. 

The Courtyard Marriott Long Beach Downtown is located at 500 East First Street.

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