Kitchen Kapers

A Pinch of History:

After many years of holding a successful antique auction, the Quota Club of Winchester wanted to have a fundraiser of a different kind. After the Club did some brainstorming with ideas presented by club members, one suggestion was made to have a tour of kitchens. A member who had moved here from Columbus, Ohio had attended a kitchen tour annually for many years and thought this might be something fun and different to present.

It would be a tour of interesting kitchens; new kitchens, historic kitchens, or kitchens that were unique in some way. Patrons would be able to see the latest and newest things that were being featured in kitchens. You might see faux painting for the first time, refrigerators specifically made for storing wines at precisely the correct temperatures, beautiful cabinetry, things you might never imagine. You would have the opportunity to gather ideas you may like to incorporate into your own kitchen. Sometimes we are privileged have “before” and “after” pictures to show the dramatic changes. You may even get the chance to meet the homeowner, architect or builder.

We would also give our guests the opportunity to see guest “celebrities” such as a local guest chef or a cookbook author. Our guests may be able to have a taste of wine, a sampling of cheese or perhaps purchase some fresh homemade bread to take home.

So, in May 2000, Quota of Winchester held their first Kitchen Tour. We have always had the most gracious homeowners, many of them allowing us a look into the rooms beyond their kitchen. We have seen beautiful imports, gardens and much more. There have been some changes made since our first year. We try to make each year’s event a bit different from the previous year. We want to keep our tours fresh, interesting, and always exciting.

And……..we even have our very own “chef” logo.