The Southern Arizona culinary scene and the region's creative chefs will get a national spotlight when the famed James Beard Foundation comes to Tucson on December 16, 2023 to highlight locally nominated and winning chefs in a progressive holiday brunch experience.
All proceeds from this collaborative chef-driven event will provide critical program support for both the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance's youth education and artist support programs, as well as helping the James Beard Foundation achieve its Good Food for Good® mission, rooted in advocacy, racial equity, sustainability, and women's leadership.
Kristopher Moon, President/COO of the James Beard Foundation, who will be the guest at this celebration.
Raising a glass to honor Southern Arizona culinary traditions, leaders, and flavors, 'The Toast' will highlight local chefs who are past semifinalists, nominees, and winners. The fundraiser will take place on Saturday, December 16, 2023, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Ventana Canyon Club & Lodge in an outdoor progressive brunch experience. Attendees will move throughout indoor and outdoor garden spaces, experiencing traditional and seasonal flavors from an array of Tucson's best chefs and discover the stories behind their culinary inspirations. Tickets are $100 each and include over 10 menu courses, unique arts experiences, and local libation pairings.
The James Beard Awards are among the country's most prestigious honors recognizing outstanding achievement in the culinary and food media industries. Acknowledging these prestigious honors indicates industry excellence and a candidate's positive impact within their community.
The mission of the James Beard Awards is to recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.