Table talk

Local First is sponsoring its second annual fund-raiser Thursday, 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the Rico Foods Warehouse, 545 E. 700 South. There will be a sampling from local restaurants, including Caputo's, Squatter's, Mazza, Trio, Fresco and Hell's Backbone Grill, and a silent auction. Tickets are $30 per person or $50 per couple (456-1456 or www.localfirst. org).

Providence City is hosting its annual Sauerkraut Dinner and Bazaar Friday, 5-7 p.m., at the Springcreek Middle School, 350 W. 100 North, Providence. A car show takes place from noon to 5 p.m., and there are craft booths and free children's games and balloons. Tickets are $8.50 in advance at the city offices, $9.50 at the door for the turkey dinner; an alternative hot dog meal is $3.50 in advance and $4 at the door (435-753-4546).

The Fifth Annual Day of the Dead Celebration takes place Nov. 1, 6-9 p.m. at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center, 1355 W. 3100 South. This is a Mexican holiday to remember deceased loved ones and friends, to enjoy traditional Mexican music and dance. The Day of the Dead altar display is Oct. 27-Nov. 1, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (965-5108).

The Counter burger chain is opening Monday at The Gateway at 188 S. Rio Grande. The restaurant offers more than 312,120 possible burger combinations. Proteins include 100-percent natural, freshly ground, certified humanely raised and handled Angus beef, all natural chicken and turkey, and a veggie patty. They can served with selections of 10 cheeses, 28 toppings, 18 made-from-scratch sauces and three types of buns. Prices range from $5.95 to $14.75.

The Counter was named one of GQ Magazine's "Burger You Must Eat Before You Die" and featured on Oprah Winfrey's "The Best Burger in America Discovered!" It will be open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. (www.thecounterburger.com).

Benihana is participating in a "Round Up" program to benefit Best Buddies International through Nov. 20. Diners can round up their check to the amount they'd like to give. Benihana will match guests' contributions up to $50,000. Best Buddies offers friendships and jobs to individuals with intellectual disabilities (www.benihana.com).

---

E-mail: vphillips@desnews.com