James Beard Celebrity Chef Tour makes a comeback to Darwin's on 4th

Sarasotans can’t dine at James Beard House without taking a trip to New York. But, they can have a similar experience in their own backyard with the Celebrity Chef Tour. In fact, the tour associated with James Beard House, started in 2004 and now visits more than 20 cities featuring more than 100 chefs. Two of those chefs are Sarasota's.

Last year’s event sold out, and its popularty could indicate that this year's return to Darwin’s on 4th will also sell out. Chef Darwin Santa Maria will host the event featuring three visiting chefs along with Sarasota’s own Steve Phelps, chef of Indigenous.

The three visiting chefs are Steven Meese host of PBS's "A Chef’s Journey"; Miami-based Diego Oka of famed Mandarin Oriental; and Kentucky-based Anthony Lamas who’s been recognized by many leading food publications such as Food Network, Bon Appétit and Wine Spectator and a revolutionary in the "Farm to Table" movement.

This year's dinner takes place at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, at Darwin’s on 4th, 1525 Fourth St. Tickets are $200. Call 343-2165 or visit clebritycheftour.com or darwinson4th.com for more information.