Yes, Chef! Middlesex County REPLENISH Hosts Annual 'Dine Below the Line' Hunger Awareness Dinner a

Representing "The Pantry" at the Princeton Alliance Church in Plainsboro, East Brunswick's Chef Maricel of Maricel's Kitchen put up a tough fight in Middlesex County's REPLENISH annual hunger awareness dinner on July 11 as she "faced off" against Chef Brian Karluk of Steakhouse 85 in a cooking competition in which he sliced and diced, representing Sharon Baptist Food Pantry in New Brunswick.

Things were really getting heated up in the "Dine Below the Line" competition.

The chefs demonstrated their culinary skills by creating unique, flavorful, and budget-friendly dishes using staples found at food pantries. Over 200 attendees enjoyed these creations and had the opportunity to vote for their favorites.

The attendees were evenly split on selecting a winner, resulting in 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 tie-breaking decision.

They named Chef Brian Karluk 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,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “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, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov/replenish.