We are excited to announce Chef's Best 2026 presented by Harris Teeter with Featured Celebrity Chef Tom Colicchio!
Join us on Friday, August 21, 2026, for the annual Chef's Best fundraiser, presented by Harris Teeter. This year's theme, A Summer in Italy, promises an evening of Italian-inspired cuisine, entertainment, and philanthropy all in support of Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. It’s an evening you won’t want to miss!
Evening Highlights:
Aperitivo reception featuring a culinary welcome of curated bites by Chef Tom Colicchio. Silent auction and a jewelry pull featuring exclusive items. Seated dinner with a live auction and culinary demonstrations led by Chef Tom Colicchio, bringing the flavors of Italy to life.
New for 2026 - Chef's Table VIP Experience:
Chef's Table sponsors will receive exclusive VIP access beginning at 5:15pm with Chef Tom Colicchio and Harris Teeter executives for a private reception with passed hors d'oeuvres and spirits.
When & Where
August 21, 2026
Aperitivo: 6:00pm
Dinner: 7:00pm
Charlotte Convention Center - Crown Ballroom
501 S College St., Charlotte, NC 28202
For more information please contact Celia Farmer at cfarmer@secondharvestmetrolina.org.
Featured Celebrity Chef Tom Colicchio:
Tom Colicchio is an 8-time James Beard Award winning chef, and the owner of Crafted Hospitality, which includes New York City’s Craft, Temple Court and Vallata; Las Vegas’ Craftsteak, and Small Batch in Garden City, NY. Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Tom made his New York cooking debut at prominent New York restaurants including The Quilted Giraffe, Gotham Bar & Grill and Gramercy Tavern before opening Craft in 2001.
A vocal and outspoken social justice advocate, Tom executive produced the 2013 documentary “A Place at the Table” about the underlying causes of hunger in the U.S. This eye-opening experience led Tom on a journey to Washington DC where he has been a mainstay in our nation’s capital in the years since. From holding members of Congress accountable on their voting records around food to working with former FLOTUS Michelle Obama on the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act, Tom has established himself as the leading “Citizen Chef” advocating for a food system that values access, affordability and nutrition over corporate interests.
For Chef Tom Colicchio's full bio, click here.
Thank you to all of our Chef's Best 2026 Sponsors!
Presenting Sponsor
PRIMO SPONSORS
Official Print Sponsor
