Area restaurants dished out delicious soups for residents who participated in Thursday’s Empty Bowls luncheon in Bradenton. Held on World Food Day, which gives awareness to local hunger, a steady crowd flowed into the Renaissance on 9th to contribute to a good cause while tasting soup in hand-crafted bowls.
Proceeds from the event benefitted The Food Bank of Manatee.
The ninth-annual “Empty Bowls” attracted long-time attendees like Anne Lee of First Bank, Bradenton resident Jennifer Newman and Don and Lori Brunner.
“We believe it’s a wonderful cause,” Lori Brunner said. “I’ve come every year.”
Newcomers, like Erin King with Center for Sight and Bradenton resident Lois Metzler. also filled the ballroom. Both said they have heard so many great things about “Empty Bowls” that they had to come.
Kristen Theisen, development director for Meals on Wheels Plus, who coordinated the event, said the event seems to be bigger every year.
Local potters and ArtCenter Manatee made 1,000 ceramic bowls for guests at the fundraiser. But many guests treasured the bowls so much they didn’t want to get them dirty. They ate chicken chilli soup, lobster bisque, chicken corn chowder, red pepper soup and more.
The restaurants were strong in number and hearty on soup. They included Harry’s Continental Kitchens, Atlanta Bread, Manatee Technical Institute Culinary School, Ortygia Restaurant and others.
A table full of carrot cake, brownies and dessert bars made for a nice end to a wonderful meal.
As the crowd enjoyed helpings of soup and other goodies, Chuck Caudill and his guitar provided the entertainment. He was all smiles.
January Holmes, features writer, can be reached at 745-7057.
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