Queens Centers for Progress Celebrates 30th Annual “Evening of Fine Food"

Queens Centers for Progress (QCP) marked a major milestone on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, with its 30th Annual Evening of Fine Food, bringing together more than 550 attendees at Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park. The beloved culinary fundraiser raised $165,000 to support QCP’s programs and services for more than 1,200 children and adults with developmental disabilities.

The event showcased the extraordinary diversity of Queens’ food scene, featuring dishes and beverages from dozens of local restaurants and purveyors, while celebrating the borough’s spirit of generosity, inclusion, and community.

Elected officials in attendance included New York City Council Member James Gennaro, Council Member Shanel Thomas-Henry, and representatives from AM David Weprin and Borough President Donovan Richards offices.

Queens Public Television (QPTV)’s Roslyn Nieves and PIX11 reporter and eight-time Emmy Award winner Monica Morales served as emcees, joined by special guest co-host Queens foodie Rick Bedrosian, who helped guide guests through an evening of dining, networking, and celebration. The event was broadcast live on QPTV’s website.

“This 30-year milestone is a testament to the strength of the Queens community and the unwavering support for the people we serve,” said Terri Ross, Executive Director of Queens Centers for Progress. “Because of the generosity of our attendees, sponsors, and restaurant partners, QCP can continue expanding opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and purpose.”

During the evening, QCP honored its 2026 Chefs of the Year: Patricia Ornst (Delta Air Lines), Richard S. David (Con Edison), and Ben Guttmann (Queens Economic Development Corporation). Each prepared a culturally relevant specialty dish for attendees to sample. QCP also presented the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award to Loycent Gordon, founder and owner of Neir’s Tavern, recognizing his enduring commitment to community and inclusion.

Participating restaurants and food businesses included (aged.), Aigner Chocolates, Alba's Pizzeria & Restaurant, Austin's Ale House, Bevo's Kitchen, Bourbon Street, El Buho Mezcal, Fuzi Pasta Co., Gyro World, Il Bacco NY, Il Nonno Ristorante, Kaieteur Restaurant, Kam Rai Thai, MadeFresh Organic, Marbella Restaurant & Catering, Maxbratwurst und Bier, Mayahuel Restaurant & Catering, Mighty Oak Roasters, MsSauce Plates Culinary Horizon, MumsKitchens NYC, Neir’s Tavern, Nick’s Bistro, One Station Plaza, Rincón Salvadoreño Restaurant, Rudy's Bakery and Café, Schmidt’s Candy, Special Sweets Bakery, Stop & Shop, The Dessert Venue, The Wine Room of Forest Hills, Thomas Edison, Tipsy Tequila and Taco Bar, Trattoria 35, and White Radish.

Sponsors included Delta Air Lines, Metropolitan Park, and Veronica Tsang (Diamond Sponsors); Con Edison (Platinum Platter Sponsor); Long Island Employee Benefits Group and OTG (Golden Delight Sponsor); Amazon, D&F Development Group, Gerald J. Caliendo, Architects, JFK IAT, JFK Terminal 1, Merritt Engineering, Resorts World NYC, Tarek M. Zeid PE PLLC Consulting Engineer, and TotalCareRX (Silver Spoon Sponsors); BDO, Flushing Rotary Charitable Trust, Maspeth Federal Savings, Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, QPTV, SafeTech USA LTD, TD Bank, Valley Bank, and Zara Realty Holding Corporation (Bronze Grill Sponsors); BoroWide and CLEAR (Casino), Mutual of America (Photobooth); Ray-Block Stationery, ConnectOneBank, Law Office of Donna Furey, Turner Construction Company and USTA (Restaurant Underwriters).

Media Sponsors included Queens Ledger, Queens Courier, Queens Gazette, NYC Hospitality Alliance, QNS, Queens Eagle, Queens Public Television, Times Ledger, and Yelp.

“For three decades, Evening of Fine Food has been where great food meets a great cause,” said Wendy Gennaro, QCP Director of Development. “This year’s event captured that spirit perfectly — a full room, incredible energy, and a powerful impact that will be felt throughout the year.”

About Queens Centers for Progress (QCP)

Queens Centers for Progress is committed to providing person-centered services and supports to children and adults with developmental disabilities, promoting independence, community involvement, and quality of life. Learn more at www.queenscp.org.