South Florida foodies celebrate Festival of Chefs to benefit culinary students

Savor the flavor

Foodies of Florida united last month at the 33rd Annual Festival of Chefs to benefit the Easterseals South Florida Culinary Arts High School, while sampling some of the best from the area’s food, wine, and spirits scene. The event raised over $90,000 and honored the culinary creations of two very talented amateur chefs.

The 33rd Annual Festival of Chefs took place on Thursday, January 11, 2024, and featured South Florida culinary luminaries including Chef José Mendin who served as the event chef chair. Kelly Blanco served as emcee and Puerto Rican singing sensation Jay Wheeler inspired the attendees.

Easterseals National President and CEO Kendra Davenport was on hand at the event that attracted an anticipated 700 food, wine, and spirit enthusiasts eager to taste the culinary offerings from some of South Florida’s hottest chefs and restaurants.

Davenport highlighted the success Easterseals South Florida Culinary Arts High School enjoys providing vocational training and job placement assistance to students with developmental disabilities like autism.

“The Easterseals South Florida Culinary Arts High School is a perfect example of our commitment to 100 percent equity, inclusion, and access for people with disabilities,” Davenport said. “By preparing students with autism and other disabilities for a career in the culinary industry, our school is helping graduates lead independent lives.”

“Winning this award as a first-time attendee is a blessing totally unexpected,” said Chef Ty who won the Golden Chef Award for Best Dish (Savory). “I am humbled that those in attendance were able to enjoy the love I put into my work, enough so to vote me as best dish.”

“This award is a reminder that with passion and perseverance, one can turn their dreams into reality,” said Chef Christian, whose Signature Cafecito Brownie won the Golden Chef Award for Best Dish (Sweet). “Never give up on the journey to create something extraordinary.”

Davenport extended a special thank you to Mendín, Wheeler, and the “remarkable array of chefs” who participated in the event. Mendin returned the high praise, saying he was “truly honored” to be asked to serve as event chef chair.

“Year after year, I find immense joy in being part of this event and giving back to such a meaningful cause,” Mendin said. “The Easterseals South Florida Festival of Chefs is more than just a culinary celebration, it’s an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of those with disabilities and special needs.”

Wheeler also said he was honored to attend, but revealed his participation also had a deeply personal note.

“I’ve always wanted to support a cause like this, not only as an advocate for those with disabilities, but for my brother,” said Wheeler. “I want him to know we are always here for him, and working with Easterseals is one of the best gifts I could’ve given to him.”

Keep scrolling to see the sweet and savory pic from the 33rd Annual Festival of Chefs benefiting and celebrating the Easterseals South Florida Culinary Arts High School.