By Rachel Galvin

Seasons 52 held a special event at the Galleria Mall in Fort Lauderdale on October 10 to benefit Kids in Distress and Family Central. Guests were able to enjoy a presentation by executive chef Wally Toro and be served a three-course meal with wine pairings. He talked about each ingredient and a representative from the restaurant also gave a backstory about the different wines presented.

The first course was basically one of the ever-so-popular versions of avocado toast (called Avocado Stack) followed by cauliflower au gratin and then meatballs with a touch of marinara on top of grits. The small plates were unique tastings and each partnered well with the California wines, which included Emmolo by Caymus, Sauvignon Blanc from Napa and Solano counties, Sea Sun Pinot Noir from Monterey County and Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley. The chef was available to go from table to table and answer questions and also took suggestions along the way.

A representative from Kids in Distress talked about how they have helped more than 20,000 children and have acquired Family Central. They have expanded the types of services they offer to go beyond just helping children in foster homes.

This event is part of the Galleria’s “Celebrate You: A Beauty, Wellness & Lifestyle Experience,” which is designed to inspire seasonal shopping and self-care with in-store product spotlights, styling tips, beauty demonstrations, fitness activities, wellness experiences as well as special offers from participating retailers.

For more information about the Galleria Mall, visit galleriamall-fl.com. To learn more about Seasons 52, visit seasons52.com/locations/fl/fort-lauderdale/fort-lauderdale-galleria-mall/4502. For more information about Kids in Distress, visit kidinc.org.

All photos by Rachel Galvin.