Queens Centers for Progress Presents the 30th Annual “Evening of Fine Food”

Known for its vibrant blend of cultures, Queens offers a culinary landscape as diverse as its people. And on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the flavors of the borough will again come alive at the Queens Centers for Progress’ 30th annual “Evening of Fine Food,” an event that celebrates community through cuisine and camaraderie.

More than 700 people are expected to come together at Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park to sample dishes from some of Queens' finest restaurants and drink purveyors, as well as to support QCP’s mission.

Both longtime participants and newcomers alike are expected to sign up for what promises to be another signature dynamic event, complete with food and drink from the finest restaurants and beverage purveyors in the area, networking opportunities, and so much more.

The in-person benefit will raise funds to support QCP’s programs and services, assisting more than 1,200 individuals with developmental disabilities to lead more independent lives.

“Reaching the 30-year milestone for our Evening of Fine Food speaks to the strength and generosity of the Queens community and the partners who stand with the people we support,” said QCP Executive Director Terri Ross. “This year, as we celebrate three decades of sharing incredible food and even more incredible stories, every ticket and every sponsorship helps ensure that children and adults with developmental disabilities can live with greater independence, dignity, and opportunity.”

At the event, QCP will honor “Chefs of the Year” who have made an impact and a difference in the community: Patricia Ornst, Director, New York State and Local Government Affairs at Delta Air Lines, Richard S. David, Director, Queens Corporate Affairs, Con Edison, and Ben Guttman, Executive Director, Queens Economic Development Corporation. In addition to being honored, the “Chefs” will serve their community in a different way – by cooking a family specialty! QCP will also present the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award to Loycent Gordon, founder and owner of Neir’s Tavern.

“During the pandemic, I reconnected with my heritage by learning to cook traditional Guyanese dishes,” Richard S. David said. “It’s incredibly meaningful to now use that passion to support QCP and the children and adults with developmental disabilities who benefit from its work every day. I’m grateful to QCP for this honor, proud to serve as a Chef of the Year, and inspired to keep cooking for a cause that strengthens our entire community.”

"For generations, QCP has been tirelessly working to make this borough one of the most supportive and inclusive communities anywhere in the world,” Ben Guttmann said. “It's an honor to join them as a 'Chef of the Year' – and I can't wait to celebrate with my fellow friends and honorees. And frankly, I also can't wait to taste all the food from some of Queens' best restaurants!"

“A community is only as strong as how it cares for its most vulnerable members, and that’s what QCP does for Queens every day,” Loycent Gordon said. “Like many of the people QCP supports, Neir’s Tavern is still here because of our Neir’s Ambassadors Club members and supporters who believed in us. I’m honored to receive the Claire Shulman ‘Spirit of Community’ Award as we stand with QCP in helping children and adults with developmental disabilities live more independent lives.”

Participating restaurants to date: Aigner Chocolates, Bevo's Kitchen, El Buho Mezcal, Il Nonno Ristorante, Kaieteur Restaurant, Marbella Restaurant & Catering, Mayaheul Restaurant & Bar, MumsKitchens NYC, One Station Plaza, Rincón Salvadoreño Restaurant, Rudy’s Bakery and Café, Special Sweets, The Dessert Venue and The Wine Room of Forest Hills.

Sponsors to date include: Veronica Tsang (Diamond Sponsor); Gerald J. Caliendo, Architects, Tarek M. Zeid PE PLLC Consulting Engineer, TotalCareRX, Valley Bank and BDO (Corporate Sponsors); Boro-Wide and Mutual of America (Casino/Photobooth) and Ray-Block Stationery (Restaurant Underwriter). QCP will announce a full list of sponsors later this month.

“I am proud to support QCP and the amazing work that they do,” said Veronica Tsang, a 2013 Chef of the Year. “I know my contribution will be put into good use. I encourage everyone to be generous to QCP and its cause. Give whatever you can, no gift is too small or too big. Cheers!”

The event takes place at Terrace on the Park at 52-11 111th Street in Corona. Tickets are $150 per person. The event begins with a sponsor VIP reception at 5:30 PM, followed by general admission from 6:30 to 9:00 pm. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/dnyYLg?vid=1n6h99

“For three decades, this event has been where great food meets a great cause, and the energy in the room just keeps growing.” “Guests discover new favorite restaurants, reconnect with neighbors, and leave knowing they have played a real part in sustaining QCP’s vital programs for more than 1,200 individuals with developmental disabilities each year,” said QCP Director of Development Wendy Gennaro.

Keep an eye out for our upcoming list of participating restaurants and sponsors!

For sponsorship opportunities or more information, please contact Wendy Gennaro at (718) 380-3000, ext. 325, or email WPhaffGennaro@queenscp.org

About Queens Centers for Progress (QCP)
Queens Centers for Progress is committed to providing person-centered services and supports to children and adults who have developmental disabilities. The goal of these services and supports is to promote independence, community involvement, and quality of life. Learn more:
www.queenscp.org
www.facebook.com/QueensCP
www.linkedin.com/company/queenscp
www.twitter.com/QueensCP