Over the weekend, the prestigious culinary community came together at Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack, to honor Padma Lakshmi. The annual Chefs & Champagne fundraiser is literally the event of the Summer is hosted by the James Beard Foundation (JBF). JBF does an excellent job of celebrating and nurturing people who are making America’s food culture more diverse, delicious, and sustainable for everyone. In addition to Chefs & Champagne, JBF administers the James Beard Awards; grants scholarships for culinary students; produces national events like the Taste America tour, and creates educational programs for the culinary community and food lovers.
Speaking of food lovers, more than 35 chefs from around the country, gathered under the tent at Wölffer Estate Vineyard to feed about 900 foodies and philanthropists at Chefs & Champagne. Everyone was there to not only nosh on the many offerings, sip Champagne Boizel, wines, and ciders from Wölffer Estate Vineyard, but to celebrate Padma Lakshmi. JBF’s newest CEO Clare Reichenbach shared “It was fantastic to honor Padma Lakshmi and to recognize her inspiring contributions to the culinary community.”