More than 550 attendees dined at Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park for QPC’s 30th Annual “Evening of Fine Food” on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Photos Courtesy of Kyle Stevens/@ thekylestevens
There were 165,000 reasons to celebrate at Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park when Queens Center for Progress hosted the 30th annual “Evening of Fine Food” on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The organization raised an impressive amount of money to support over 1,200 children and adults with developmental disabilities.
More than 550 people were on hand to celebrate the important milestone, bringing together prolific chefs, media personalities, and iconic Queens representatives under one roof. The best of the best were in the house, dishing out flavorful meals to those who graciously donated to an uplifting cause. Notable figures who were on hand included New York City Council Member James Gennaro, Council Member Shanel Thomas-Henry, and multiple representatives from the offices of Assemblyman David Weprin and Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. QPC also put a spotlight on its 2026 Chefs of the Year. The list included Patricia Ornst (Delta Air Lines), Richard S. David (Con Edison), and Ben Guttmann (Queens Economic Development Corporation). The Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award was given to Loycent Gordon, founder and owner of Neir’s Tavern.
Max Bratwurst und Bier (47-02 30th Ave., Astoria) served up scrumptious samples.
“This 30-year milestone is a testament to the strength of the Queens community and the unwavering support for the people we serve. 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,” said Terri Ross, Executive Director of Queens Centers for Progress.
Restaurants who kept everyone well-fed and nourished were 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.
Patricia Ornst is seen addressing the crowd while accepting her award.
Wendy Gennaro, QCP Director of Development, said, “For three decades, Evening of Fine Food has been where great food meets a great cause. This year’s event captured that spirit perfectly: a full room, incredible energy, and a powerful impact that will be felt throughout the year.”
Readers can learn more about Queens Centers for Progress (QCP) by visiting www.queenscp.org.
Richard S. David strikes a pose after being honored by QCP.
Kaieteur Restaurant & Sports Bar was one of the many food vendors who kept the party going all night long.