CHEFS: Big Apple

After more than three decades of bringing together farmers, producers, and culinary visionaries to support the Regional Food Bank, one of the Capital Region’s most beloved culinary traditions continues to evolve. This year, CHEFS returns with a bold new theme: “Big Apple – New York, NY.”

For one unforgettable evening, guests will be transported to the glamour and flavor of New York City. Inspired by the city’s legendary dining scene, CHEFS will feature an exceptional lineup of talented chefs and innovative beverage artisans bringing the creativity and energy of the Big Apple to the Capital Region.

The evening begins with a lively tasting reception featuring culinary and beverage partners, highlighting NYC street foods. Guests can also enjoy an elegant four-course farm-to-table dinner, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients inspired by the award-winning dining experiences of New York.

Set against a backdrop of New York–inspired nightlife, the evening will also feature the presentation of the Mark Quandt Service Award to the Purnomo Family and Chef Ric Orlando, and opportunities to learn more about and support the Regional Food Bank’s mission to fight hunger.

Join us for a night of culinary artistry, New York-inspired glamour, and meaningful impact, all in support of nourishing hope and strengthening our community.

Tuesday, September 29, 2026
5:00 PM – Tasting Reception
7:00 PM – Dinner Courses

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Our 2026 CHEFS: Big Apple Featured Chefs

Chef Paul Rother, Capital Region BOCES

Apple Smoked Trout Roulade with a Butternut Squash Reduction, Leek, Bánh Mì Pickled Vegetables

Chef Aneesa Waheed, Tara Kitchen

Apple Bastilla over Burnt Tomato–Chili Jam, Beet Dusting

Chef Gabe Moya, Restaurant 605

Roasted Maple Al Pastor Chicken, Apple & Elote Creamed Corn, Goat Cheese Queso, Basil Oil

Chef Rachel Mabb, Rosanna's

Herb and Hazelnut Porchetta with Apple Mostarda, Roasted Beet Purée, Kale Crisps

Featured Tastings

Adirondack Winery

Allied Brewing Company

BMT Hospitality

Chef Ric Orlando

Crispin Lane Hard Cider

DeFazios at 216

Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery

El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant

Extreme Heights Cidery

Grandma Apple’s Cheesecakes

Hattie’s Culinary Lab by SEAT Center

Indian Ladder Farms Cidery & Brewery

Latitude Beverage 90+ Wines

Maria’s Home Catering

Mazzone Hospitality

Nine Pin Ciderworks

Students at Capital Region BOCES

Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee

Truly Delectable Delights

 

Thank you to our 2026 sponsors!

       

Cerity Partners  •  Farm Family  •  Kingsway Community  •  Trustco Bank

Arrow Bank  •  Deloitte  •  Fancy Foods  •  KeyBank  •  Lemery Greisler, LLC  •  NBT Bank  •  Brown & Weinraub, PLLC

Albany Capital Center

55 Eagle Street
Albany, NY 12207

Check out 2025 CHEFS: Palm Royale