James Beard Foundation Announces Taste of America Schedule
Phoenix is among the cities The James Beard Foundation has announced for its 2018 Taste America national culinary tour. The traveling series will bring unique dining experiences and educational opportunities to 10 culinary destinations this fall. In addition to spotlighting delicious food around the country, Taste America focuses on amplifying JBF food waste and sustainability initiatives and will directly contribute to the foundation’s scholarship programs.
In the Valley, the weekend-long itinerary will kick off Thurs., Sept. 27, with a welcome reception at Dominick’s Steakhouse in Scottsdale. Guests will meet and greet participating chefs while enjoying a cocktail and tasting reception.
On Fri., Sept. 29, at Mountain Shadows, Paradise Valley, a collaborative dinner benefiting the James Beard Foundation will take place. The evening will begin with a reception featuring cocktails and hors d’oeuvres from local chefs and restaurateurs. These include Scott Holmes, Little Miss BBQ, Phoenix; Danielle Leoni, The Breadfruit & Rum Bar, Phoenix; Chrysa Robertson, Rancho Pinot, Scottsdale; Doug Robson, Gallo Blanco, Otro Café, Phoenix; and Samantha Sanz, Talavera at The Four Seasons Resort, Scottsdale. Afterward, guests will be seated for dinner prepared by a Taste America Visiting All-Star; Charles Wiley, host chef, Hearth ’61 at Mountain Shadows; and Taste America Local All-Star Charleen Badman, FnB, Scottsdale. A dessert reception will follow, featuring Martin Nakatsu, Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch; Sarah Chisholm, Tempe Public Market; and Helen Yung, Sweet Republic, Phoenix and Scottsdale.
Amy and Tim Louis are chairs of the benefit dinner. News anchor Sean McLaughlin, CBS5, will emcee.
PHOTO COURTESY JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION
