Last week, my husband and I attended a charity dinner event benefiting the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties. The dinner and wine pairing were held at A Mano in Philadelphia’s Fairmount neighborhood. Proceeds from the event went to the YMCA’s programs for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

A Mano holds a place on Philadelphia Magazine’s 50 Best Restaurants list, so we were excited to sample dishes while supporting a good cause. We enjoyed sparkling wine before sitting down to dinner. The wine was presented by Kobrand Wine & Spirits with an explanation of each pairing as the meal progressed.The meal began with roasted cauliflower served family style and Hamachi crudo. The first course was paired with a Pinot Grigio and proved to be a refreshing start to the meal. Next up was the pasta course of cavatelli with escargot, mushroom, bone marrow and roasted garlic; and lumachelle with guanciale in a spicy red sauce. Both pastas were served family style. I preferred the lumachelle, as escargot is not a favorite of mine. This and the main course were served with red wines. We were given the option of chicken Milanese or braised short ribs as a main course; I chose the latter. The tender, rich beef was served with a puree of carrots and a side of mushrooms and olives. For dessert we enjoyed a chocolate mousse with cardamom and raspberries paired with port.

Overall, it was an enjoyable meal for a good cause. I recommend A Mano as a great dinner spot in Fairmount.

— Katie Skrzek, vice president/digital director