The greater culinary community of the Palm Beaches and South Florida is mourning the loss of Ilia Gonzalez, the co-owner of Driftwood in Boynton Beach.
Gonzalez and her husband, chef Jimmy Everett, founded the restaurant 10 years ago. In that time, it became a beloved community spot renowned for its creative farm-to-table fare. Everett announced via Instagram October 31 that Driftwood would close. It hosted its last service November 1.
A benefit event will take place at Swank Specialty Produce in Loxahatchee November 12, with proceeds going directly to Jimmy and his 13-year-old son, Maxon, as they navigate this difficult transition.
Culinary talent contributing to the evening include Michael Hackman of Aioli, Robert Bellini of Pistachioli.com, Bryce Dangerfield of Curds & Corks, Jon Sarmiento, Tori Rivera, Ernie DeBlasi, Daniel Diaz, James Strine, Tommy Pozzuto and Glenn Rogers of Elev8ted Chefs, Matt Reilly of Tempesta Artisans Salumi, and James Cruz of Second Rodeo. Guests can expect a variety of chef stations, including a grazing station, grilled meats with chimichurri, a pasta station, seafood, salads, a Swank whole hog, and a dessert buffet plus mocktails from Sweetwater and BootlegGreg Cocktail Co., and live music by Andy Thomas.
Tickets are priced at $125 per person and can be purchased here.
