Twelve area chefs will be challenged to cook up their best to impress celebrity judges in an upcoming Wish-upon-a-Chef event.

Planned for March 17, the annual event is hosted by Make-A-Wish Eastern North Carolina and sponsored by Wilmington Dermatology Center.

Proceeds from the event will help create life-changing wishes for children debilitated by critical illnesses. “Wishes have the proven physical and emotional benefits that can give kids a higher chance of survival,” said Janis Netherland, director of philanthropy for Make-A-Wish in the Wilmington area.

“Creating those experiences wouldn’t be possible without the proceeds raised by such critical events" like Wish Upon a Chef, she said.
 
The evening will offer gourmet dining paying tribute to the culinary excellence delivered by local chefs. Chefs from Burney’s Sweets and More, True Blue Butcher and Table, Double Happiness and more are slated to participate. 
 
Guests will be greeted with an appetizer and the two remaining categories will be served tableside.

The event will be hosted by actor and comedian Orlando Jones and WWAY TV-3’s Donna Gregory. In addition to the meal, a live and silent auction is planned along with some surprise elements. Attendees will get the chance to meet local "wish kids" and hear their inspiring stories.
 
The event, originally planned for January, had to be rescheduled due to COVID-19 concerns. Wish Upon a Chef will take place 6-10 p.m. at UNCW's Burney Center on St. Patrick's Day. The event is currently sold out.