Gaffney to bring pan-Asian taste to chef cook-off Sept. 27

The Milton Historical Society welcomes the participation of Chef Mary Gaffney of A Different Kitchen in the third annual King Cole Cannery Celebrity Chef Cook-off and Basket Raffle fundraiser, set for 5:30 to 8 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 27, at the Milton Fire Hall on Front Street in Milton.

At an early age, Gaffney began working in restaurants and developed her love and talent for cooking and managing a kitchen. She honed her skills at renowned eateries in Rehoboth Beach. These included the Back Porch Café with its creative global fusion dishes, where she was mentored by Executive Chef Leo Medisch, and the former Yum Yum Restaurant.

Gaffney remains particularly grateful for her training at Yum Yum where her appreciation of the beauty of Asian flavors developed. She learned how to use fresh herbs, fresh limes and lemongrass, so important in Asian cooking, and to balance the flavors among sour, sweet and savory.  Preparing delicate dumplings and bao buns became one of her particular talents.

It was a natural fit when owner Deirdre Smith approached Gaffney to help open A Different Kitchen offering pan-Asian comfort food in 2016. The restaurant space was transformed into a serene oasis to relax and enjoy a delicious menu featuring pan-Asian flavors and inspired seasonal specials. Having celebrated its first anniversary in May, A Different Kitchen was recognized by Delaware Today as the 2018 Best Place Almost Off the Beaten Path.

For tickets to the Celebrity Chef Cook-off, contact the Milton Historical Society at info@historicmilton.org or 302-684-1010. Tickets are $35 for members if purchased by Friday, Sept. 21, and $45 for nonmembers or after Sept. 21. Attendees will enjoy live music, complimentary appetizers and desserts, chances to win fabulous prizes, and a cash bar. A highlight of the evening will be the auction of a four-digit Delaware license tag. All proceeds go to support the Milton Historical Society’s many programs and exhibits.