What's the best part of the meal? Dessert, of course! Indulge yourself this month and savor gourmet desserts from 16 of Chester County’s top pastry chefs and chocolatiers. Sip a cocktail, graze on light fare — all for a great cause at the annual “Sweet Charity” Event, March 23, 6 to 8 p.m. at Waterloo Gardens.

  Each delectable bite supports the Chester County Community Foundation, an organization that connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their legacies can make a difference.

  Along with a panel of expert judges, including Chef Liz Marden, Delaware Chef of the Year for Gourmet Cakes and Desserts and County Lines’ own dining reviewer Lise Monty, guests are encouraged to judge sweet creations. The best entry earns the title “Best Dessert.”

  Sample desserts from St. Peter’s Bakery, General Warren Inne, Lincoln Room, Cupcakes Gourmet, New Street Catering, Spence Café among others. Jimmy Duffy & Sons, last year’s popular vote winner for Chocoa Yuna with banana and Yuzu cream, hazelnut sponge cake and chocolate mousse, will return to defend its title. And since the event is set amid Waterloo Gardens’ lush flowers and unique garden accessories, you can shop while you sup!

  “Sweet Charity” is a major fund­ raiser for Chester County Community Foundation and its Youth Philanthropy Program. Managing over 300 funds in trust, the Foundation awards $1.5
million annually in local grants and scholarships.

  Help the community one delicious bite at a time, March 23 at Waterloo Gardens, 200 N. Whitford Rd., Exton. Tickets start at $100. For more information phone 610-696-8211; chescocf.org.