Coming Together to Help Feed Food-Insecure Children in Northern Virginia

Great News! Real Food for Kids’ collaborator Silver Diner officially opened its doors to its new South Riding location today!  This will be the restaurant’s 24th location.

Giving back to the community in which it serves is at Silver Diner’s core. To celebrate the new opening, Silver Diner has launched a 4-week raffle series where 100% of donations will go towards Real Food for Kids’ work to end hunger in Northern Virginia.

SILVER DINER – SOUTH RIDING (NOW OPEN!)
44050 Pointe Plaza, Chantilly, VA 20152
Learn More: https://www.silverdiner.com/south-riding

ENTER TO WIN EXCLUSIVE PRIZE PACKAGES FROM ONE OF OUR GENEROUS PARTNERS AND SPONSORS

Select the Amount to Donate

$10 Donation = 10 Entries & Feed a Child Healthy Nourishing Meals for a weekend

$100 Donation = 150 Entries & Feed a Child Healthy Nourishing Meals for two weeks

$500 Donation = 1,000 Entries & Feed a Child Healthy Nourishing Meals through the winter

Receive additional entries for sharing the Raffle link on social media and for each donation you bring in. 

One winner will be randomly drawn two days after the entry period closes.

EACH WEEK WE WILL ADD A NEW PRIZE PACKAGE.

The last day to enter all prize packages is November 19, 2023, at midnight.

EXTRAVAGANZA PRIZE PACKAGES

Guess who’s coming to dinner with Tom Sietsema? YOU. 

In celebration of the highly anticipated 2023 Fall Dining Guide’s release this month, The Washington Post Food Critic Tom Sietsema has once again teamed up with Real Food for Kids for a great cause, offering a special treat.

Donate as little as $10 to Real Food for Kids Chefs Feeding Families and enter to win this once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. (The more you donate, the more chances you have to win!) The lucky winner and a guest will have the opportunity to accompany Tom Sietsema on an anonymous visit to a Washington, D.C. hot spot or one of the District’s finest dining destinations for an unforgettable dinner.

100% of your donation will support Real Food for Kids’ mission to end hunger and ensure nutrition security for children and families in Northern Virginia.

The more you donate, the more chances you’ll have to win!
Enter today, and often! The deadline to enter is November 19, 2023, at midnight EST.


RULES

  • Must be 21 years old to enter and participate.
  • Restaurant owners, chefs, restaurant managers, agents, advertising, fulfillment, marketing, and promotion agencies for anyone in the restaurant and hospitality industry are not eligible to participate nor be a guest.
  • The dinner offer is redeemable until November 1, 2024.
  • The date of the dinner is to be agreed upon directly between Tom Sietsema and the winner.

 


About Tom Sietsema

Tom Sietsema has been The Washington Post’s food critic since 2000. In leaner years, he worked for Microsoft Corp., where he launched sidewalk.com; the Seattle Post-Intelligencer; the San Francisco Chronicle; and the Milwaukee Journal. A graduate of the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, he has also written for Food & Wine, Gourmet, GQ, Travel & Leisure, and other national publications. In 2016, he received an award from the James Beard Foundation for his series identifying and rating the “10 Best Food Cities in America” the previous year.

Tom Sietsema is an avid supporter of Real Food for Kids and served as a judge for the 2020 Real Food for Kids: Culinary Challenge competition – an annual event where middle and high school students compete to craft healthy and delicious menu items that meet USDA guidelines and adhere to strict per-meal budgets.

Experience the Art of Dumpling Making with a Culinary Master in this Private Dumpling Class and Dinner for Six.

Donate to Real Food for Kids: Chefs Feeding Families, and you could win an exclusive private dumpling class and dinner for six with award-winning Chef Tim Ma, the creative force behind popular Chinese-American restaurants like Lucky Danger and Laoban Dumplings. This one-of-a-kind experience provides the perfect setting for family and friends to come together and create delightful memories at Chef Ma’s latest culinary venture, ‘Any Day Now,’ which was recently praised by The Washington Post Food Critic Tom Sietsema as ‘shining from morning to night’.

Chef Tim Ma, recognized as a culinary maestro with expertise in modern Asian cuisine, brings a wealth of experience to this hands-on dumpling class. His passion for blending traditional techniques with contemporary flavors will elevate your dumpling-making skills to a whole new level.

But there’s more to this opportunity than savoring delicious delights; your generous contribution today will ensure that hungry children in our communities receive nourishing meals, spreading joy and warmth during the holidays – a time that’s meant for giving.

THE EXPERIENCE

This private dumpling class offers an immersive experience that combines education, fun, and the joy of sharing a meal. During this private class, you and five other guests will:

  • Learn the Basics: Chef Tim Ma will introduce you to the world of dumplings, including the history, types, and techniques involved in their creation.
  • Hands-On Dumpling Making: Get your hands dirty as you learn to make various dumpling wrappers from scratch. Chef Ma will teach you how to fold, stuff, and seal dumplings with precision and finesse.
  • Signature Fillings: Discover the secrets behind Chef Tim Ma’s signature dumpling fillings. You’ll have the opportunity to create a variety of dumplings.
  • Cooking Techniques: Learn the art of steaming, boiling, and pan-frying dumplings to perfection. Chef Ma will guide you through the cooking process, ensuring your dumplings are both tender and flavorful.
  • Sauces and Condiments: Explore the world of delectable dipping sauces and condiments that perfectly complement your handmade dumplings.
  • Tasting Dinner: After all your hard work, sit down to enjoy the dumplings you’ve prepared alongside some additional surprise culinary delights prepared by Chef Ma himself.

RULES

  • Must be 21 years old to enter and participate.
  • The private dumpling class offer is redeemable until November 1, 2024.
  • The date of the dumpling class is to be agreed upon directly between Chef Tim Ma and the winner.

100% of your donation will support Real Food for Kids’ mission to end hunger and ensure nutrition security for children and families in Northern Virginia.

The more you donate, the more chances you’ll have to win!
Enter today, and often! The deadline to enter is November 19, 2023, at midnight EST.


About Chef Tim Ma

Chef Tim Ma is a celebrated chef, entrepreneur, and non-profit founder who shares his Chinese-American heritage with D.C. diners through Lucky Danger, Laoban Dumplings available in stores nationwide, and Any Day Now. Tim transitioned from an engineering career to culinary arts, with stints at renowned establishments like Momofuku Ko. He opened his first restaurant, Maple Ave, in 2009, later expanding to Water & Wall and Kyirisan. He also played a crucial role at Eaton Workshop in Washington DC.

In 2019, he became the Executive Chef of Prather’s on the Alley and the Culinary Director for Laoban Dumplings. He was recognized by the Smithsonian Museum of American History for his family’s contributions to American dining history.

In 2020, amidst the pandemic, Tim founded Lucky Danger, an innovative American-Chinese take-out concept, garnering acclaim and media attention leading to five months of complete sell-outs every night, being featured on The Washington Post cover, in the New York Times Food section, and the Wall Street Journal, among other publications.

Chef Ma co-founded Chefs Stopping AAPI Hate in 2021 with chef Kevin Tien, which expanded to four cities and raised over $200,000 to combat anti-Asian hate, earning recognition and awards for his impactful work, including being honored with the GMA Inspiration Award.

His talent has not gone unnoticed by the current presidential administration. Chef Tim Ma, along with other Real Food for Kids supporter Chef Kevin Tien of Moon Rabbit, were the first chefs to be invited to Vice President Kamala Harris’ residence to cook for her to celebrate the Lunar New Year earlier this year.

Chef Tim Ma has a long history of giving back to the community. He has been an unwavering supporter of Real Food for Kids since its inception in 2010. When the pandemic began, Chef Ma partnered with Real Food for Kids on Chefs Feeding Families, an initiative to provide free, nourishing, plant-forward meals to schoolchildren and their families impacted by food insecurity. Since then, he participated in Real Food for Kids’ first Chef Exchange Program to inspire a culture of healthful food where students learn and live, and the Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge, where students are given a voice in what gets served in their cafeterias.

This holiday season, let’s come together to spread joy and provide nourishment to food-insecure children in our community. 

The holiday season can be a time of joy, but it can also bring stress. This year, you can make a difference while treating yourself to some well-deserved pampering.

Donate as little as $10 to Real Food for Kids: Chefs Feeding Families, and you’ll not only be making a difference but also entering for a chance to win our exclusive “Pamper Yourself” prize package. The more you give, the more chances you’ll have to win, and rest assured, 100% of your generous donations will be dedicated to ensuring that no child goes hungry during this special time of year.

The “Pamper Yourself” Prize Package Includes:

  • Chef-Prepared Healthy Meals Delivered Fresh by MightyMeals  to You for Three Months: Embrace the convenience and delight of healthy, chef-prepared meals with a three-month supply of MightyMeals. Savor the flavors and savor the knowledge that you’re helping children enjoy a warm, nutritious meal during the holidays.
  • Free Day Pass to King Spa: Experience a world of relaxation and pampering with a free day pass to King Spa. Indulge in saunas, baths, and pure relaxation, ensuring a holiday season filled with tranquility and self-care.
  • Free Peet’s Coffee Delivered to You Monthly for Three Months: Wake up to the comforting aroma of Peet’s Coffee with a monthly delivery for three months. Enjoy the warmth and joy of a perfect cup of coffee while knowing you’ve made the holidays brighter for children in need.

By donating, you’ll not only elevate your own spirits but also become a beacon of hope for children who are less fortunate. Your support will help ensure that no child goes to bed hungry during this special time of year.

100% of your donation will support Real Food for Kids’ mission to end hunger and ensure nutrition security for children and families in Northern Virginia.

The more you donate, the more chances you’ll have to win!
Enter today, and often! The deadline to enter is November 19, 2023, at midnight EST.


ABOUT MIGHTYMEALS

Founded in 2015 by two fitness professionals and a classically trained chef, MightyMeals believes high-quality, healthy food should be accessible to everyone. MightyMeals, based in the DMV, is a leading name in the world of convenient and healthy meal solutions. Committed to making nutritious eating accessible to all, MightyMeals offers a wide range of freshly prepared, chef-crafted meals that cater to various dietary preferences and lifestyles. With a focus on quality, taste, and convenience, MightyMeals simplifies the journey to better nutrition. Their meals are not only delicious but also designed to support your health and fitness goals. Whether you’re a busy professional, an athlete, or someone simply looking for a more balanced diet, MightyMeals in the DMV region is your trusted partner in making eating well easier and more enjoyable.

ABOUT KING’S SPA

King Spa, located in Chantilly, Virginia, is a premier wellness and relaxation destination that offers a unique and rejuvenating experience. With a commitment to providing a serene and culturally immersive environment, King Spa invites visitors to unwind and revitalize through a variety of spa services, therapeutic treatments, and traditional Korean bathing rituals. Boasting a spacious facility featuring hot and cold baths, saunas, and relaxation areas, King Spa offers a tranquil escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, detoxification, or simply a peaceful getaway, King Spa in Chantilly provides a one-of-a-kind retreat that promotes well-being and a sense of balance.

ABOUT PEET’S COFFEE

Peet’s Coffee, founded by Alfred Peet in 1966 in Berkeley, California, is a renowned and beloved coffee company that has played a significant role in shaping the specialty coffee industry in the United States. Known for its commitment to quality and freshness, Peet’s Coffee sources premium coffee beans from around the world and roasts them meticulously to bring out their unique flavors. The company’s emphasis on dark roast coffees, characterized by their bold and rich taste, has been a hallmark of Peet’s offerings. Over the years, Peet’s has developed a dedicated following of coffee connoisseurs who appreciate its dedication to delivering a consistent and flavorful coffee experience. With a range of coffee blends, single-origin options, and a variety of brewing methods, Peet’s Coffee continues to be a go-to choice for those seeking a truly exceptional cup of coffee.

In celebration of its new South Riding/Chantilly location, Silver Diner is partnering with Real Food For Kids’ Chefs Feeding Families to give back to our local community.

Donate a minimum of $10 for a chance to win Silver Diner for a year (gift card value $1,040). All proceeds raised go to support nourishing meals for food insecure school children and families in Northern Virginia. The more you donate, the more chances you have to win.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Silver Diner has Something for Everyone updated for today’s lifestyle. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan/plant-based, gluten-free, or a traditional diner lover, there’s plenty to choose from. And with Chef Ype’s Flexitarian™ menu featuring healthier, customizable options, you can eat as healthy or hearty as you’d like.

FRESH & LOCAL INGREDIENTS

Silver Diner’s menu features the highest quality products from more than 15 local farms. Chef Ype then creates dishes that make the most of what’s in season in our area.

WHAT YOU WANT, HOW YOU WANT IT

With locations throughout the DMV, there is a Silver Diner near you. Choose from dine-in, carhop pickup, or delivery from SilverDiner.com.

100% of your donation will support Real Food for Kids’ mission to end hunger and ensure nutrition security for children and families in Northern Virginia.

The more you donate, the more chances you’ll have to win!
Enter today, and often! The deadline to enter is November 19, 2023, at midnight EST.


Launched at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Real Food for Kids: Chefs Feeding Families is a joint initiative with Washington, D.C. metro-area chefs, and restaurants to provide nutrition security to school children and their families. Chefs Feeding Families, which began as an emergency response, providing hot, prepared meals to alleviate the unprecedented demand for food assistance, also employed restaurant workers who might otherwise have been furloughed. The program has evolved to a more sustainable model, providing meal kits and produce bags that include recipes, easy preparation tips, and nutrition information in a bilingual format to inform and inspire the preparation of nourishing meals at home.

Since March 2020, Real Food for Kids: Chefs Feeding Families has provided over 350,000 nourishing, plant-forward meals to school children and their families facing food insecurity.

About Silver Diner

With restaurants throughout Maryland, Virginia, DC and New Jersey, Silver Diner is the preferred local restaurant for families seeking high-quality and healthier choices. Built on the values of integrity, quality and putting people first, the first Silver Diner was established in 1989 in Rockville, Maryland. Since then, Silver Diner has grown to own and operate 21 restaurants, serving three million customers yearly throughout the Washington, D.C. Metro Area. Executive Chef Ype Von Hengst ensures that food quality is a top priority, incorporating local ingredients wherever possible. By purchasing fresh and local ingredients, such as hormone free, all-natural meats, milk free of bovine growth hormone and free-range chickens, Chef Ype keeps menu items chef-driven and customer-focused. In addition, Silver Diner serves vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and low-calorie items. The Silver Diner Kids Menu has won national accolades for its healthy items and has been part of a Tufts University research study on what restaurants can do to effectively encourage children to eat healthy.

Since 2017, Silver Diner has been partnering with Real Food for Kids to support the annual Culinary Challenge –a student-based competition focused on creating healthier meals in schools. Since 2020, Silver Diner has partnered with Real Food for Kids to provide over 150,000 nourishing meals to food-insecure school children and their families, and helped raise over an additional $225,000 in individual donations. Learn more at SilverDiner.com.