- What is a beefsteak? A beefsteak is a type of banquet in which sliced beef tenderloin is served to diners as all-you-can-eat finger food. Beefsteak banquets originated among the working class of New York City in the mid-1800s as celebratory meals or “testimonials”. The meal would generally be set up by an organization wishing to laud or raise money for politicians, newly promoted friends, or celebrities. Tammany Hall regularly threw beefsteaks as political fundraisers, often enough that it was a large portion of beefsteak business in New York and “when Tammany Hall [got] a setback, beefsteaks [got] a setback”. Early beefsteaks were held in a relaxed, men-only atmosphere, with diners sitting on crates and eating with their fingers off of rough, improvised tables in saloons, rental halls, or residential basements. Food and drink were the focus of the evening, and entertainment often consisted simply of those present telling stories and singing amongst themselves.
- Are women invited? OF COURSE… although historically beefsteaks were men only, we are looking forward to both men and women attending.
- What is the dress code? We are suggesting that guests wear business casual. Don’t be afraid to dress up too, whether it be a suit or coat and tie for men or a dress for women. All guests will receive an apron, which is a common accessory at a beefsteak.
- Where is the Tucson Beefsteak? The Tucson Beefsteak is located at 198 S Granada Ave., Tucson, AZ, 85701.
- Where do I park? There will be parking available on site and guests may park in designated areas. Guests are strongly encouraged to take a taxi, Uber or other ride sharing service.
- Will there be wine and alcohol in addition to beer? Yes, in addition to a complimentary local craft beer garden, there will be a cash bar for wine and mixed drinks.
- What is Empower Coalition? Empower Coalition is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was started in 2016. Our mission is to improve lives in the greater Tucson community by empowering charitable organizations with resources necessary to carrying out their missions.
- Who are the beneficiaries of the Tucson Beefsteak? In our first event, the 2017 Tucson Beefsteak, Empower Coalition was proud to giveaway $60,000 to two Tucson veterans’ organizations: Fort Lowell Chapter 442 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and Tucson Community Cares. These funds directly contributed to our local veterans’ community and helped with several different initiatives and programs. In 2018, Empower Coalition donated over $110,000, with funds provided to YMCA Community Military Ball, Tucson Area Marine Moms, Military Order of the Purple Heart, and VeloVets. In 2019, we shattered our previous efforts by raising over $400,000 and highlighted the event with a video appearance by President George W. Bush. Our featured beneficiary was Southern Arizona Honor Flight, where Empower Coalition was able to donate $75,000 to help their mission. We hope to continue our success in fundraising and awareness for our Tucson veterans. All proceeds raised from the Tucson Beefsteak will benefit local veteran’s organizations.