Taste of the Nation

This star-studded tasting gala benefits local programs that combat childhood hunger. The lineup of more than 50 restaurants includes many of the city's most celebrated establishments: Eleven Madison Park, Jean-Georges Vongerichten's ABC Kitchen and Food & Drink Award winner Kin Shop. Sip cocktails made by drink slingers from the likes of Dram and Painkiller, then chat up boldfaced-name authors such as Amanda Hesser and Gabrielle Hamilton at book-signing stations.