Photo credit Kathryn Powell Photography
Before Vicia co-owners Michael and Tara Gallina even opened their vegetable-forward Central West End restaurant, they started sourcing produce from EarthDance Organic Farm School, using it for pop-up dinners. Now the couple is lending their star power to a fundraiser for the Ferguson-based farm.
The couple will act as honorary chairs for EarthDance’s 2018 Farmers Formal (nicknamed the "Farmers Ball"), October 5 at Union Station. The nonprofit—the region's only organic farm school—has hosted the event the past 10 years to raise money for its 14-acre farm and agriculture programs. Last year, 30 local farms paired with 50 local chefs and beverage purveyors to provide small plates and drinks to more than 500 guests. They raised over $360,000 to benefit EarthDance, the nonprofit said in a press release. Included in that is the Farm & Garden Apprenticeship program, which helps new farmers and gardeners acquire agricultural skills.
“With Vicia, we have a lot of access to guests who are interested in learning more about what EarthDance does," Tara Gallina says. "It gives us an opportunity to have another level of outreach and to help their organization.”
Photo credit Jonathan Gayman
EarthDance hopes that the Gallinas and Vicia will attract people to the event. The restaurant has won a number of accolades since opening in 2017, including being named a 2018 James Beard Award semifinalist and making Esquire and Bon Appétit’s best new restaurants lists.
The Gallinas’ involvement in the fundraiser stems from a growing partnership between Vicia and EarthDance.
Vicia still gets some of its produce from EarthDance’s farm, and it has a couple of employees who have apprenticed there, Tara Gallina says. The Gallinas also participated in the organization’s formal last year by providing food for the event and hosting a feast as an auction item.
“I’m hopeful that this event, and the events they do each year, will help them grow and reach more people,” Tara Gallina says.
To donate to St. Louis biggest foodie fundraiser or purchase tickets, click here. The benefit begins at 6 p.m.
