Guests are invited to an exceptional evening that brings together great food, community, and impact. The event features tastings from 20 nationally recognized and regional chefs, presented through a thoughtfully curated multi-course dining experience. Every element of the night is designed to deliver outstanding hospitality while supporting the mission of ensuring children have access to nutritious meals, locally and nationwide.

The 2026 dinner brings together chefs from across the country and the region, organized into collaborative teams of four per course. Each team is led by an experienced guest chef and supported by local restaurant partners to ensure consistency, quality, and seamless execution—allowing chefs to focus on creativity while delivering an exceptional guest experience.

Culinary Teams

Subject to Change

Course 1 — Red Team (Cold Appetizer)

• Team Lead: Ted Cizma — Local LA Catering & Events, Los Angeles
• Rei Wibowo — Rein Sushi & Hibachi
• Bari Abe — Rein Sushi & Hibachi
• Sam Walker — Gaskins on Emma

Course 2 — Yellow Team (Hot Appetizer)

• Team Lead: Lambert Givens — Hunter's Kitchen & Bar, Boston
• Jason Knapp — Performance Foodservice
• Coby Smith — CARTI
• Maudie Schmitt — Café Rue Orleans

Course 3 — Green Team (Fish Course)

• Team Lead: Joe Flamm — Rose Mary and BLVD Steakhouse, Chicago
• Sammy Sayvongsa — Gaskins on Emma
• Will Mauk — Bienvenue and Bistro 16
• Elliot Hunt — Atlas

Course 4 — Blue Team (Meat Course)

• Team Lead: Vinnie Cimino — Cordelia, Cleveland
• Darwin Beyer — Meiji
• Hayne Begley — Nosh Nola
• Neal Gray — The Preacher’s Son

Course 5 — Purple Team (Dessert)

• Team Lead: Rebecca Masson — Fluff Bake Bar, Houston
• Vince Pianalto — Brightwater
• Rachel Anderson — Theo’s
• Rob Nelson — Brightwater

Event Partnership and Impact:  Jones Center is proud to serve as the fiscal agent of this event. Net proceeds of at least $150 of every ticket sold will support the No Kid Hungry national campaign, helping provide children with consistent access to nutritious meals.

Sponsorship Opportunities and Ticket Reservations:  Sponsorship opportunities are available. Individual tables and single tickets are also available. All net proceeds directly support the No Kid Hungry mission to end childhood hunger in America.