Kitchen samaritans and diner donations

Those who benefit from two top dining fund-raisers might never set foot in one of the exclusive restaurants whose chefs make the events possible but they'll appreciate the fine diners' good work.

The annual Dinner with the Angels for Anglicare is on November 19 at Peninsula, Docklands, and in its 10th year sees 25 of Victoria's best chefs donating their time and produce to cook for more than 600 to raise money to support children, young people and families in need. This year's chefs include Paolo Masciapinto from Sarti, Oliver Gould from Stokehouse, Tony Twitchett from Taxi, and Simon Arkless from Terrace at All Saints Estate. Tickets are $300 a person, details 9412 6157.

When DineSmart began in 2003 to help the homeless, 16 businesses signed up. This year, 146 restaurants are involved, including Chin Chin, Cutler & Co, Ladro, Izakaya Den and Union Dining. The beauty of Dinesmart is its simplicity: dine at one of the participating restaurants during the silly season, add a $2 donation when paying your bill, and leave with the satisfaction of knowing all the funds raised will be distributed to local charities.

DineSmart runs from November 11 to December 31. For a list of restaurants, visit
streetsmartaustralia.org/dinesmart.

HILARY MCNEVIN AND VEDA GILBERT