Recap: Food Network’s Pat & Gina Neely Host Keep A Child Alive Benefit At Neely’s Barbecue Parlor

July 17th, 2012

On Wednesday, July 11, Food Network‘s Pat and Gina Neely threw a southern soiree to celebrate Neely’s Barbecue Parlor’s one-year anniversary and raffle to support the Keep a Child Alive foundation.

The Keep A Child Alive foundation provides essential nutrition, shelter, support, medication and education to help fight HIV/ AIDS in Africa and India. KCA is dedicated to providing life-saving AIDS treatment, care, nutrition, support services and love to children and families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India by directly engaging the global public in the fight against AIDS.

The Neelys Barbecue Parlor (Photo Credit: neelysbbqparlor.com)

The Neely’s Barbecue Parlor brings authentic barbecue to New York City. With their Food Network TV show “Down With the Neelys”, Gina and Pat Neely became known for their Southern Comfort food cooking and expertise barbecue. Upon walking into the Barbecue Parlor, I immediately felt transported to the south. With vintage furniture, accessories and a cigar bar on the bottom floor, the restuarant excuds Southern charm and hospitality.

With a comforting atmosphere and a knowledgable staff, the Neelys have brought Southern charm to New York City. Guests attending the July 11 soiree left with a full stomach as they were able to try some of the Barbecue Parlor’s specialties and cocktails. Comfort food such as the collard greens quiche, a mac & cheese/mashed potato bar, blacked catfist on crostini and chopped brisket sliders were served.

The Neelys Barbecue Parlor Salted Caramel Cupcakes

Salted Caramel Cupcakes (Photo Credit: Brennan Keeler)

The Candy Bacon was definitely one of the most obsecure treats on the menu, and it was my favorite (I highly recommend ordering it as an appetizer). Cocktails with a southern twist such as the Spice Fairy Sangria and the Green Tomato Sangria were must tries on my list, and I was not disappointed. The Green Tomato Sangria was sweet and light as a summer cocktail, but held an earthy after taste from the tomato ingredient.

The Neely’s One Year Anniversary party was truly a great event. Upon meeting Gina and Pat Neely, I was surprised at how down to earth and welcoming they were. Gina danced with a group of guests in a side room, while Pat wandered around thanking everyone for their attendance.

After the food was served, the Neely’s Barbeque Parlor Chef Wade came out and talked with the crowd. Although he wouldn’t divulge the Candy Bacon’s secret recipe, he talked about his expertise in the different types of Barbecue. Although full, it enticed us to come back to try more of the menu! Overall, the event was great and we had a good time supporting such a good cause. For anyone looking for authentic Southern comfort food, I highly suggest visiting the Neely’s Barbecue Parlor.