Posted by Rebecca Zamon in charities, events, events upcoming on May 30, 2008 at 4:56 pm

Between food shortages (and their consequent price increase) around the world and local food diets that keep avocados from ever entering our dishes again, it's a relief to find a program that lets dining out turn into a good deed. Amnesty International's Taste for Justice, now entering its fourth year and taking place June 1st to 15th, helps raise money for the organization's Stop Violence Against Women campaign by asking restaurants across Canada to donate a portion of their proceeds to the cause. A separate "Dine In" option encourages homeowners to host dinner parties where guests donate money.

So what is the tie in between Amnesty's good works and eating out in restaurants? Nothing on the surface, per se, except that it does afford one's usual dining to become part of a larger whole. And taking a look at the restaurants involved, it also gives these businesses the opportunity to put their money, as it were, where their mouth is. It's no coincidence that many of those participating are the ones who tout a vegetarian-friendly, organically produced table setting.

Roncy's socially conscious Tinto Coffee House, for example, goes above and beyond the promise of cash to hosting an Amnesty International speaker and special menu items for the event, while other supporters have selected specific foodstuffs that will inspire the donation (the organic tofu burger at Free Times Cafe, anyone?). Other small outlets, like Sadie's Diner on Adelaide and Mangiacake Panini Shoppe on McCaul demonstrate the culinary and geographical reach of the project.

Eager to spread its "more than just a chain" public relations persona, Springrolls is listed as a partner for all of their locations, agreeing to donate a minimum of $750 and spread the message to patrons who may not frequent the juice bars or coffee shops where such charitable events can usually be found. Il Fornello, whose introduction of the "all Ontario" menu last summer gained it some foodie cred, has jumped on the very worthy bandwagon as well. Many of the other usual suspects (Fresh, Alternative Grounds, Dufflet's) are taking part, with some surprises (Sneaky Dee's, Rodney's Oyster House) proving that a restaurant needn't wear its heart on its sleeve in order to show a little soul.

A launch event tonight (May 30) at the Rivoli kicks off the 15-day fundraising effort, which Amnesty International hopes will raise not only $30,000, but awareness that the universal issue of violence against women takes place every day as well.

For more info on Amnesty International's Taste For Justice event, or to see the full list of restaurant participants check out their website.