× Expand Photo courtesy of Pattie Tierney, from her Olla-Podrida blog.

If you've ever bemoaned the loss of that St. Louis classic, the French onion soup from Famous-Barr, here's a great opportunity. Chef Manfred Zettl, who ran the Famous-Barr kitchens and who perfected the recipe that became the house's trademark dish, is not just appearing at a benefit, he's telling stories and making the soup in front of the audience.

Zettl, who was a celebrity chef long before the phrase was invented, became known not just for his food but for his appearances on shows like KMOX's "At Your Service". His skills were deployed in many places besides the department stores. There's a story about him at a pig roast, slicing up the pig with the skill of a transplant surgeon — using a pocket knife.

STL Village, a nonprofit group that supports older adults who want to remain in their homes and stay active in their community, is the beneficiary of the "Soup's On!" fundraiser, which will be held on March 13.

Soup, wine, and dessert will be served as part of the $25 admission. To purchase tickets, call STL Village at 314-802-0275 or click here.

The Second Presbyterian Church

4501 Westminster Place

Sunday, March 13 at 4 p.m.