By KATIE HURST/Lifestyles Editor

Among servings of lobster spinach queso, chicken and sausage gumbo and rich layers of strawberry cake, guests at the fourth annual Taste of Shelby County can stuff their bellies while giving back to a good cause.

Hosted by the Greater Shelby Chamber of Commerce, Taste of Shelby County is held annually to benefit the Greater Shelby County Education Foundation, said chamber president Jennifer Trammell.

This year’s event will be held April 14 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center off U.S. 280 from 6-8:30 p.m.

Guests will enjoy a buffet with samplings from more than 20 Shelby County restaurants and wineries while enjoying live music from Marc Phillips and Groove Daddy.

The event, usually held each fall, has grown every year since its debut, Trammell said. She said she believes the unique set up and delicious food make the event different from your average charity dinner.

“I think it’s unique enough that people want to keep coming back every year,” Trammell said. “It’s an inexpensive way to come out, have a good dinner and enjoy entertainment and fellowship.”

By raising money for the Greater Shelby County Education Foundation, the event helps provide teacher grants, teacher internship programs and many other projects for Shelby County Schools throughout the year.

“As business leaders, we recognize that the school system we have in Shelby County affects every aspect of our lives in the county,” Trammell said. “Our economic development, growth and the quality of life that we enjoy are all positively impacted because of Shelby County Schools.”

Tickets for the event are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. The first 250 participants to arrive will receive a commemorative wine glass. Tickets can be purchased at the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce office at 1301 County Services Drive in Pelham or online at Shelbychamber.org. For more information, call 663-4542.

Taste of Shelby County Menu:

To include these and other dishes

Lobster spinach queso with tri-colored chips and cheesecake bites

Provided by Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Rigatoni Strapicciata and strawberry cake

Provided by Joe’s Italian

Grilled shrimp and sirloin tips

Provided by Texas Roadhouse

Friday pasta

Provided by Tazikis Mediterranean Café

Chicken salad and sandwiches

Provided by Momma Goldberg’s

Lasagna and dessert

Provided by Nino’s Italian Restaurant

Chicken and sausage gumbo

Provided by Bistro Provare at Jefferson State Culinary and Hospitality

Pimento cheese and sausage with tea

Provided by Jim ‘N Nick’s of Alabaster

Queso and chips

Provided by Moe’s Southwest Grill

Various wines

Provided by Morgan Creek Vineyards and Vizzini Farms Winery

Assorted varieties of ice cream

Provided by Blue Bell Creameries