Thom's Table Series: Rum Tasting 101

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by Felicia D'Ambrosio

HughE Dillon (CLICK IMAGE FOR LARGER VERSION)

Native son Thom Cardwell is as ubiquitous as the gourmets at DiBruno — and twice as prolific. The executive director of the Philadelphia Film Society, president of the Greater Philadelphia Professional Network, contributing food writer for Philadephia Gay News and all-around man about town is inviting you to dine with him at Thom's Table, his new monthly restaurant series. Launching Tuesday, Oct. 2, at Rittenhouse's newish Rum Bar, Cardwell will host the dinner with owner and self-described "rum sommelier" Adam Kanter, whose passion for the sugarcane-based spirit inspired a five-course tasting menu that pairs a selection of fine rums with everything from Caribbean hearts of palm to pan-seared filet tips. 

Cardwell says he's seeking out restaurants with chefs and owners who are "on fire," meaning they're looking to "bring together all kinds of people who don't necessarily know each other, but have a common interest - dining out." Future Thom's Table dinners will feature tequila tastings, sake and caviar pairings, an Alsace French Christmas dinner and maybe even an all-tofu menu. Cardwell's enthusiasm for diversity in both people and within the Philly dining scene (or "foodie's paradise," as he's wont to call it) is matched only by his seemingly boundless energy supply — between film fests, nonprofit work and community initiatives, it's a wonder he still finds time to eat.

Tue., Oct. 2, 7 p.m., $50 per person plus tax and tip, Rum Bar, 2005 Walnut St., 215-751-0404. Ask for Adam or Brianna for reservations.