2019 Port Pairings Charity Competition

Planned Again for Fall 2020

 

Congratulations to Oregano Pizzeria and Ristorante for winning the Best Port Pairing 2019 in Pennies’ recent Port Pairings competition. Their Ravioli di Funghi paired with Raspberry Rose Sangria drew the most votes by a slim margin. Michael’s Harborside, Sea Level Oyster Bar, Brick & Ash, The Paddle Inn, and Loretta Restaurant also competed for the title with delicious and innovative pairings.

All the restaurants generously donated the pairings and made room for the event in their restaurants. Pennies will direct all proceeds from the charity competition to nine local non-profits that enable people in Greater Newburyport to get needed food, housing, and emergency assistance.

Thank you to our community for your attendance and support.

 

Sunday, June 9^th, 4:00-6:30 pm

 

UPDATE ON SUNDAY, JUNE 9, AT NOON: ONLINE TICKET SALES HAVE CLOSED. YOU CAN STILL BUY TICKETS UNTIL 5;30 PM (CASH ONLY) AT GREETINGS BY DESIGN, 1 REAR WATER STREET, NEWBURYPORT.

 

Spend a festive afternoon with friends or family sampling the savory bites and two-ounce drinks prepared by some of Newburyport’s best restaurants. At the end of the afternoon cast your vote for your favorite pairing. The winning restaurant’s offering will be designated the “Best Port Pairing 2019.” One hundred percent of proceeds from this Pennies’ fundraiser will benefit nine non-profit organizations that help neighbors in need in the Greater Newburyport area.

Tickets are $40 per person (must be age 21 or older).  A limited number of tickets are offered.  Buy tickets at online at https://portpairings.brownpapertickets.com or Greetings by Design, 1 Rear Water Street, Newburyport.

The day of the event, show your ID to pick up your program pass, starting at 4 pm, at the Port Pairings table at Michael’s Harborside, 1 Tournament Wharf, Newburyport, MA. Then begin your stroll through town.

Participating restaurants include Michael’s Harborside, Loretta Restaurant, Oregano Ristorante, Brick and Ash, The Paddle Inn and Sea Level Oyster Bar.

FAQs

What will each restaurant serve? – More details will be provided one week in advance.  You will receive a small bite with and a 2-ounce beverage tasting at each of the participating restaurants.

Where Should I Park? – Please park at one of the several lots located in downtown Newburyport, or if you can find street parking, park in the street. We ask that you please do not park at Michael’s, the starting point.

Will the participating restaurants be able to accommodate special dietary restrictions? – Sorry, but for this group event, they will not.

Is there a guide for the Port Pairings Competition? – Port Pairings is a leisurely “stroll at your own pace event.” After check-in, participants are given a program with a map and are free to head in any direction they would prefer. Actually, it is helpful to restaurants if participants disperse and create their own routes.

How do I vote for the winner? – A ballot is provided in each of the participant’s programs. After completing their rounds, participants will leave their vote in one of the ballot boxes provided at each of the participating restaurants.

What does a restaurant get for winning the “Best of Newburyport Port Pairings” – First and foremost, bragging rights!  The winning restaurant will receive publicity via social media and press – as well as a framed certificate.

What do I do when I get to the restaurant? – A Pennies for Poverty volunteer will be at each location to welcome you and to provide some direction.

What if it rains on the day of the event? – The event will take place rain or shine.

What if I purchase a ticket and I am unable to attend? – You may give your ticket to someone else over 21 years. Unfortunately, refunds cannot be issued.

What if I am unable to attend but would like to make a larger donation to Pennies? – If you are unable to attend the event and would like to make a donation to Pennies, please click here.