Popular Chefs Face Off In Middlesex's ‘Dine Below The Line’ Dinner

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ - Middlesex County’s REPLENISH, located in Easte Brunswick, hosted its annual hunger awareness dinner at Princeton Alliance Church on July 11.

This year’s event featured reigning champion Chef Brian Karluk of Steakhouse 85, representing Sharon Baptist Food Pantry in New Brunswick, facing off against Chef Maricel of Maricel’s Kitchen, representing “The Pantry” at Princeton Alliance Church.

The chefs demonstrated their culinary skills by creating unique, flavorful, and budget-friendly dishes using staples found at food pantries.

Over 200 attendees enjoyed their creations and had the opportunity to vote for their favorites.

Selecting a winner was tough, as attendees were evenly split on. The result was a tie for the “People’s Choice Award.”

The “Celebrity Judges,” including Dave and Cathy Decker of the Royal Neighbors; Chef Joel Hannold of Orchardside Farm Food Truck; Middlesex County Commissioners Charles E. Tomaro, Charles Kenny, Leslie Koppel, and Claribel A. Azcona-Barber; and Middlesex County Surrogate Claribel Cortes; provided the tiebreaking decision.

They named Chef Brian Karluk of Steakhouse 85, in partnership with the Sharon Baptist Food Pantry in New Brunswick, the 2024 Dine Below the Line Champion.

“Dine Below the Line is a unique and exciting program that resonates deeply with Middlesex County residents. It supports a crucial cause and furthers our mission to eradicate hunger in our communities,” Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios said. “I want to thank REPLENISH, our participating chefs and pantries, and all who attended for making this event a success.”

In addition to raising awareness about food insecurity and encouraging donations, REPLENISH facilitates access to fresh food through the Middlesex County Healthy Foods Map.

This innovative, interactive tool, accessible via smartphone or computer, helps residents locate nearby food stores, farmer’s markets, food pantries, and transportation options, making it easier to access healthier foods. The Middlesex County Healthy Foods Map can be found at middlesexcountynj.gov/healthyfoodsmap.

For more information about REPLENISH, upcoming events, or to donate supplies or volunteer, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/replenish.

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