Noshing Around

Philanthropy With Phlavor

During the entire month of June, diners can donate 5 percent of their tab (before tax and tip) to one of 40 charities when dining at Pastiche. For the past eight years, owners Pat and Julie Connors have sponsored Philanthropy With Phlavor in June and October. To date, they have donated more than $80,000 to various charities. Sounds like a win-win proposition to me at 3025 N. Campbell Ave.; 325-3333.


Fundraiser at RA

RA Sushi hosts its fourth annual Nicky's Week fundraiser through May 31, benefiting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. RA will donate 100 percent of the proceeds from the sales of the tootsy maki, edamame, pork gyoza, Fiji water, Red Bull and other select beverages. All of RA's 19 locations are participating. Check out RA Tucson at 2905 E. Skyline Drive at La Encantada; 615-3970.


Cooking Classes for Kids

Enroll your budding cooks in week-long classes at Oro Valley's Cuisine Classique cooking school, featuring menus from around the world or across the country. Kids also receive an apron to decorate, their own cookbook and a diploma. View the specifics at the school's Web site, or call 797-1677.


Cooking Classes for Adults

Join Chef John Mertes of A-Z Eatery and Grand Slam Catering at Tucson Botanical Gardens in June, July and August. All cooking classes come with recipes, interactive cooking demos and food to eat. Visit the Botanical Gardens Web site for more info, or call TBG at 326-9686, ext. 19.


Summer Specials

It's that time of year again when we watch the weather reports and think about ways to stay cool. Once again, many Tucson restaurants are offering some hot deals to entice us out of our kitchen and into theirs. During the next few weeks, I will try to mention some of the deals, but in the meantime, check out the Tucson Originals Web site.


Kids Eat Free

At Taco Bron, kids younger than 8 years old eat free when accompanied by adults on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; they also have access to a jumping castle, at 6910 E. Tanque Verde Road; 722-4302. Taco Bron serves Sinaloa-style food from northwestern Mexico.

Also: What was the Taco Bron at 3200 N. First Ave. is under new ownership, called Pancho's and Beer.