It’s totally normal to salivate over A La Lucia‘s Rigatoni with Spicy Sausage and Cheesetique‘s creamy/crunchy Mac ‘n Cheese. Going back for seconds (or thirds) of Del Ray Pizzeria‘s savory shrimp and grits is a must. And don’t even think of resisting Alexandria Cupcake‘s Guinness mini 
with Bailey’s Irish Creme frosting.
This isn’t just scrumptious food. It’s spectacular philanthropy — the yearly anticipated Carpenter’s Shelter Cook Off.
The 11th annual event, held at the Birchmere in Alexandria Sunday afternoon, started with a live broadcast of Foodie & the Beast and continued with music by the Alpha Dog Blues Band as attendees tasted plates from a plethora of popular area restaurants. The afternoon featured an entertainment and 
travel filled live auction, and ended with the announcement of some foodie favoritism.
Neighbors shared in a day of cuisine and community, all to benefit Northern Virginia’s largest homeless shelter, Carpenter’s Shelter, which provides not only housing, but guidance and education.
After tucking in to all of the tastes, a panel of judges — to include KSM’s Kate Michael, ABC7’s Jeff Goldberg, Bitches Who Brunch’s Cori Sue Morris and Pizzeria Orso’s Will Artley — awarded The Majestic “Best Appetizer” for their
famous She Crab Soup. Pork Barrell BBQ‘s ribs top honors for “Best Entree” and Brabo‘s remarkable Rhubarb Tart took the Blue Ribbon for “Best Dessert.” (The Majestic also took home “People’s Choice” for several years running.)
It was a drool-worthy day for doing good.
