Chef, restaurateur, author and community activist Melba Wilson — a woman who often is referred to as the “Queen of Comfort Food” — has been named the 2023 Chefs Gala honoree by Table to Table.
Wilson, who created and runs Melba 550 in Newark, is one of the most successful African American women in the restaurant and catering businesses.
The honor, which is awarded to a prominent chef based on their culinary excellence as well as support of Table to Table’s mission, is given at the Table to Table Chefs Gala, the organization’s most anticipated and vital event of the year. Presented by American Express, Table to Table’s Chefs Gala will take place Sept. 27 at the Edgewood Country Club in River Vale and highlights celebrated chefs who meticulously prepare their delicious selections, expertly paired with the finest wines. Every dollar raised helps deliver enough food for 10 meals to hungry neighbors.
A sought-after event by foodies and philanthropists, the 2022 Chefs Gala sold out weeks before the event and in record numbers. It is truly an unforgettable evening of impeccable dining and altruism, benefiting neighbors experiencing food insecurity. Plus, the live auction features extravagant travel, food and wine experiences.
About Table to Table
Table to Table is New Jersey’s first food rescue organization. Committed to feeding our hungry neighbors in North Jersey, Table to Table rescues and delivers healthy, fresh and perishable food from grocery stores, food distributors and restaurants, and, in doing so, nourishes the community while helping our environment. In partnership with hundreds of recipient organizations like food pantries, senior centers and school programs — along with its powerful network of volunteers — Table to Table supports health and wellness for all. Since its inception in 1999, Table to Table has rescued and delivered the equivalent of more than 214 million meals and saved nearly 107,000 tons of potentially wasted food from landfills.
Table to Table is proud of its Charity Navigator 4-Star Rating for 12 consecutive years.
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Wilson’s style, poise, and love of entertaining have made Melba’s Restaurant a New York landmark frequented by music, TV and movie stars. But it hasn’t stopped Wilson from playing an active role in supporting causes that impact her community, such as alleviating food insecurity.
Wilson said she was grateful for the recognition.
“I am honored to have been named Table to Table’s 2023 Chefs Gala honoree, as food insecurity is an issue that I am incredibly committed to,” she said. “Food is not a luxury, it is a necessity; therefore, it is critical that we all do our part to help our neighbors in need.”
Denise Andersen, executive director of Table to Table, said the group was thrilled to honor Wilson.
“Not only is Melba an extraordinary chef, but also she is a tremendous advocate for food insecurity in communities of need,” she said.
