The Chicago chapter of DIFFA ( Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS ) hosted its annual Dining By Design "Table Hop & Taste" on Saturday, Nov. 9 on the eighth floor of Merchandise Mart.
The event was part of the "Dining By Design," tour, which ran Nov. 7-9 at the Mart. This year's program was themed "Beauty and the Feast."
Designers, paired with donor "table hosts," were asked to create a three-dimensional dining instillation as works of art in 10' by 10' spaces.
Amongst the various, elaborate table designs that were featured for viewing, some of Chicago's top restaurants featured tastes. ( La Crema Winery and Patron Tequila provided wine and spirits. ) The event also featured a silent auction with items ranging from live entertainment tickets, furniture, and jewelry up for bid. The event was open to the public for $50 admission at the door ( $40 in advance ).
The event was preceded by a public viewing Nov. 8 and followed by a gala dinner later Nov. 9.
According to its website, DIFFA is a not-for-profit fundraising and grant-making foundation that distributes funds to HIV/AIDS service agencies that provide direct services, preventative education and outreach to people who are HIV-positive, living with AIDS or at risk for infection.