Austin Film Festival's Film and Food Returns On 10/20

There's a lot going on in Austin's food scene this month, but sometimes events do seem to have a unique twist to them. If you've ever considered asking actor Edward Burns a question, like perhaps "how does one manage to win the Sundance Film Festival, convince Tom Petty to soundtrack your ideas, and marry Christy Turlington?", then this may be the evening to get your answer. Burns, The Blind Side director John Lee Hancock, and Braveheart screenwriter Randall Wallace will all appear as featured guests at the Austin Film Festival's 8th Annual Film + Food next Wednesday at the Driskill Hotel.

Lest you think that the celebrity spotting means that the "food" portion may suffer, think again. Snacks and small plates will include Duck 3 Ways from Driskill Grill, Crab Cakes from Eddie V's, Tuna Bocaditos from Garrido's, Braised Mole Short Ribs from Maria Maria, Ceviche from Parkside, Seared Ahi from Ruth's Chris, Rabbit Rillette and Hamachi from The Carillon, and Pork Stew from Roaring Fork. The Belmont, Siena, Ranch 616, Moonshine, 1886 Cafe, Dragon Gate, Austin Cake Ball, and Carmelo's will also be in attendance and serving up specialties on the evening. There will be an open cocktail and wine bar from Twin Liquors to complement your dinner.

One other item of note: there is also a fancy silent auction happening during the event. Items up for grabs include a dinner for 12 at Uchiko, signed "True Blood" memorabilia, a diamond bracelet, private parties at the Alamo Drafthouse and the Stephen F. Bar, a chef's table dinner at El Albol, an Antonelli's/Salt and Time gift basket, and stays at the Hotel Havana and the new W here in Austin.

Proceeds from the both the ticket sales and event auctions benefit the Austin Film Festival’s Young Filmmakers Program, which encourages students ages 9-18 to explore their creativity and improve their literacy skills through the arts of screenwriting and filmmaking in free classes provided in AISD schools.