Greer's OC

MaxLove Project’s Chef’s Table Friendship Dinner isn’t your typical gala—it’s a night of delicious food, great wine, and even better company. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of open-flame cooking, community, and connection!

Set for Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 5 p.m. at Tanaka Farms in Irvine, this one-of-a-kind dinner features a multi-course, family-style feast crafted by Chef Cathy McKnight and a dream team of local chefs, known as Team Green. Think gourmet cooking under the stars with ingredients harvested from the farm just steps away.

The evening starts with appetizers, cocktails, and live music as you take in the breathtaking views from a hilltop perch. Everyone gets a fun tractor-pulled wagon ride to the main venue—yes, it’s as charming as it sounds! Then, settle in for a meal cooked over fire and served family-style, blending rustic vibes with culinary delights.

This year’s talented chefs include Whitney Aronoff from Starseed Kitchen, Paul Buchanan from Primal Alchemy, Richard Mead from Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens, and Michael Puglisi from Herd & Grace, along with talented student volunteers from Orange County School of the Arts.

Wine Tasting Fun: It wouldn’t be a celebration without some amazing wines! We’ve got a fantastic lineup from Rombauer Vineyards, Bob Cabral Wines, Postino WineCafe, and Far Niente Winery. Plus, Sonoma County legend and master sommelier William “Bill” Traverso will be there to guide you through the tastings and share some great stories.

And, of course, every MaxLove Project event has a heart behind it. The Chef’s Table Friendship Dinner is all about hope, healing, and coming together as a community to support children and families facing childhood cancer and rare diseases.

Event Details:

• Guests arrive at 5 p.m.; parking is free onsite.
• Enjoy appetizers, cocktails, and live music to start the evening.
• Dinner is a multi-course, family-style meal cooked over fire.
• The program includes inspiring stories and fun ways to give back.
• The event wraps up around 9 p.m..
• Attire is “farm chic”—festive, fun, and farm-friendly footwear.

Chef’s Table Friendship Dinner
Saturday, May 3, 2025
Tanaka Farms, 5380 ¾ University Dr., Irvine

 For more info or to support this incredible cause, visit MaxLove Project’s Chef’s Table Friendship Dinner.

Image Courtesy of Marc Gewertz