ST. LOUIS — Saint Louis University chef Daniel Brewer, MS, RDN, is hosting a special fundraising event at his home this weekend featuring an innovative taco menu that draws from a variety of global influences. 

The fundraiser will be held on Saturday, May 24, from 4 to 7 p.m. at 2831 Shenandoah Ave. in the Fox Park neighborhood. Brewer said proceeds will benefit Action St. Louis, which is assisting with tornado relief efforts for the north and west sides of St. Louis. 

“I'm just a guy who likes sharing food with people, organizing this gathering to support communities often overlooked during crises,” said Brewer, an assistant professor of nutrition and dietetics.

Brewer initially planned to support the International Institute of St. Louis with this fundraiser. However, after a devastating tornado struck St. Louis on Friday, May 16, Brewer decided to redirect his efforts.

One of the standout offerings includes a lamb shawarma taco, combining Middle Eastern ingredients such as amba (a tangy, green mango-based condiment), pickled green mango, with Mexican-style pico de gallo. This fusion exemplifies Brewer’s creative approach to cooking and his appreciation for diverse culinary traditions while accommodating dietary restrictions. The menu is also inspired by the talents and creativity of students from SLU's nutrition program. A carnitas taco, featuring smoky pork and strawberry morita salsa, was influenced by a student’s recipe for sweet and savory pork tamales. 

Another unique creation, the Taco Dorado, integrates Indian flavors such as poha (a traditional method of preparing rice) and curry leaves, alongside Mexican staples like queso Oaxaca and refried beans. This dish was inspired by Shrutiben Bhakta, a former student who now spearheads the local Indian street food pop-up Chaat Walla. 

Brewer's dedication to the Jesuit mission, which emphasizes service to humanity, is evident in his efforts to support the local community. He believes in the importance of sustained commitment to addressing social issues, especially in times of crisis.

“I feel like people will move on, but this is a marathon, not a sprint,” he said. “Everyone has skills. My skills just happen to be food. I would encourage people to do what they can to support relief efforts.”

To learn more about the taco fundraiser, click here. To support Action St. Louis, click here. For a list of support services, including shelter, donation opportunities, and ongoing volunteer efforts, visit the May 16 Tornado Recovery Resources page.

About Saint Louis University

Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic research institutions. Rooted in Jesuit values and its pioneering history as the first university west of the Mississippi River, SLU offers more than 15,300 students a rigorous, transformative education that challenges and prepares them to make the world a better place. As a nationally recognized leader in research and innovation, SLU is an R1 research university, advancing groundbreaking, life-changing discoveries that promote the greater good.