Bradenton Chefs, History Highlighted at Bradenton’s next Long Table Event

BRADENTON, FL — Bradenton’s longest table event returns to downtown to celebrate local chefs, cars, cuisine, and history at the Long Table at Jake’s Automotive, Saturday, April 13, 2019, 6:30–9:30 p.m. Hosted by Realize Bradenton, the event will feature Chef Rich Knowles of EnRich Bistro, Chef Richard Demarse of Chiles Group, and Chef Paul Mattison of Mattison’s City Grille Bradenton Riverwalk. Each chef will prepare two courses of locally-inspired cuisine to 150 guests at a 100-foot long table in a historical automotive landmark, surrounded by classic and exotic cars. Vegan alternatives for each course are available. Tickets are $175 per person and are available at BradentonLongTable.com. Proceeds from the event will benefit the downtown Bradenton Farmers’ Market.

“Downtown Bradenton boasts a unique blend of assets that we are underlining at this highly anticipated event—premier chefs, local cuisine, and rich history,” said Holly Eisemann, events and creative services manager for Realize Bradenton. “With a collection of award-winning chefs and chef-owned restaurants, Bradenton quickly is becoming a destination for foodies. Sprinkle in the deep, local history and you have a truly unique recipe for all visitors to enjoy. Guests will experience these assets at Long Table at Jake’s Automotive as they dine on an inspired, six-course meal in a distinct historical landmark. Courses will be paired with fine wines and locally-brewed craft beer.”

In addition to the meal, guests will enjoy the sounds of the string guitar of Renesito Avich, who will complement the unique experience with classical, jazz, and world music.

“Jake’s Automotive has served the Bradenton area for over 72 years, said Gary Bogart, owner. “Harley ‘Jake’ Johnson began repairing vehicles at a service station near our current location. Constructed in the 1940s, our facility was the original Buick dealership owned by the Pruitt family. In those times, all of the big-name automotive brands were in downtown. You can feel the history here—the original red iron beams and trusses are visible when walking through the garage and our waiting room was the showroom for new Buicks. Our garage is a fantastic backdrop for this car-themed, long table event. I am looking forward to pairing and sharing two of my favorite things: classic cars and fine dining.”

Long Table at Jake’s Automotive is more than just a meal. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Bradenton Farmers’ Market, allowing the market to expand educational activities for children and families, and cooking demonstrations by local chefs. Realize Bradenton is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)3 and a portion of each ticket may be tax deductible.

“Once again I am pleased to partner with Realize Bradenton and my fellow, local chefs,” said Paul Mattison, chef and proprietor of Mattison’s City Grille Bradenton Riverwalk. “The cooperation between local restaurants and businesses in support of the Bradenton Farmers’ Market is an important cause that has proven and long-lasting benefits to our community.”

Additional event information, including online ticket sales, are available at BradentonLongTable.com.

Long Table at the Jake’s Automotive sponsors are Realize Bradenton; Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau; Mark Boehmig, Realtor; Boyd Realty; Fawley Bryant Architecture; Florida Lawn Guy’s; Jake’s Automotive Repair Center; The Loaded Barrel; Mattison’s City Grille Bradenton Riverwalk; Pittsburgh Pirates & Bradenton Marauders; Dr. Austin & Mindy Hill; Kimley Horn; NDC Construction; Dr. John & Carol Peters; Janet Trettau; Yoga Arts.

Diced Yellowfin, Avocado, Red Onion and Cilantro with Ginger-Sesame Sauce, Fried Wonton Chips, Wasabi Kale Slaw.

Geraldson’s Family Arugula, Red Leaf Lettuce and Butter Crunch, Cucumbers, Daikin Mozzarella, O’Brien’s Family Farm Tomatoes and Strawberries, Fried Leeks, Strawberry Balsamic Vinaigrette.

Anna Maria Island Sheepshead with Gamble Creek Farm Seminole Pumpkin Puree and Braised Gamble Creek Farm Kale.

Fennel and Spring Mushroom stuffed FreeBird Chicken with Sweet Pea Risotto and Pork Belly Lardons.

Niman Ranch Braised Short Rib with Parsnip and Carrot Puree and whole roasted Homestead Hydroponic Farms Cherry Tomato and Shaved Brussel Sprouts.

Jubilee Orchards Blueberry Cheesecake.

# # #

Realize Bradenton is a nonprofit organization that promotes redevelopment and economic growth in downtown Bradenton by transforming places, engaging people, and realizing possibilities. For more information visit: RealizeBradenton.com.

The Bradenton Farmers’ Market, a production of Realize Bradenton, features more than 35 vendors who offer locally grown fruits, vegetables, plants, organic products, prepared foods, and the work of local artists and craftspeople. Live music, demonstrations by local chefs, and free family activities are also part of the fun. The market, located on Old Main Street, between Manatee Avenue West and 3rd Avenue West in downtown Bradenton, is open on Saturdays, October through May, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Parking is free and dogs on leashes are welcome. For more information, visit: BradentonFarmersMarket.com.