Temple’s tasting event June 6

Jack Murtha

MARLBORO — Magic will be in the air at Temple Rodeph Torah’s first “A Taste of New Jersey” culinary showcase to be held from 6:30-9:30 p.m. June 6 at the Grand Marquis, Old Bridge.

Magician and entertainer Ran’D Shine, who performed at President Barack Obama’s inaugural banquet and ball in 2009, will bring his act to the charitable event being put together by the Marlboro synagogue.

“He’s supposedly excellent … Our event is not just about the food,” said Jena Friedman, who is coordinating the evening with Jodi Zukoff. “We are having this famous magician and that is a unique thing among food tastings.”

According to his website, Shine “has become a global phenomenon by wowing the most diverse and wildly appreciative audiences for more than a decade.”

In his quest to win over the crowd at the food showcase, Shine will provide “roving entertainment” which will bring him directly to diners’ tables, Friedman said.

About 40 local vendors are slated to donate dishes ranging from filet mignon courtesy of Chris Michael’s Steakhouse to treats from Fred and Murray’s Kosher Deli, Friedman said. Attendees may also eat fare from Sam Vera Restaurant, Paco’s Tacos and Posh Pop Bake Shop.

“We are going to have kosher and non-kosher styles, so it’s for everybody,” Friedman added.

A live quartet and a DJ will provide music for the event, which will feature a cash bar and a raffle drawing, she said.

All funds raised will support Temple Rodeph Torah’s programs and educational initiatives, along with a variety of local charitable causes, said Larry Rosen, the incoming president of the temple.

“Our temple is committed to tikkun olam, which is Hebrew that translates to ‘repairing and healing the world.’ It is a call to social action,” Rosen said. “That is a philosophy our temple proudly espouses.”

For Friedman, the benevolent side of the temple has changed her life, she said. Through the synagogue, Friedman’s autistic daughter will receive her bat mitzvah, she said.

“That’s not something we really found anywhere else,” Friedman said. “I think Temple Rodeph Torah is a special place.”

The showcase is expected to draw 300 people, she said. To purchase tickets to the tasting, call 732-308-0055 or visit tasteofnj.trt.org. Tickets are $65 per person prior to the event, $75 at the door, and $550 for prepaid tables of 10.