Charlotte’s best chefs are teaming up for a James Beard Foundation dinner in NYC

Ten of Charlotte’s top chefs and mixologists are teaming up for a special New York City dinner at Platform by the James Beard Foundation on Thursday, Feb. 5.

The dining experience, sponsored by the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority for a curated lineup of special guests, will feature food “inspired by Southern culture and culinary heritage.” Platform is a James Beard Foundation space that provides a “stage for award-winning chefs and emerging talent who are aligned with the foundation’s mission to showcase their work to a global audience.”

Guests for the dinner include national culinary media, content creators, food entrepreneurs and meeting planners, all invited to learn more about Charlotte’s growing reputation for its “depth of culinary talent, ambition and cultural range,” a news release about the event says.

Hors d’oeuvres, passed appetizers, family-style entrées and desserts are all on the menu, paired with signature cocktails and craft beer from Pilot Brewing Company. Representatives from Charlotte-based Bojangles will also be on hand, serving its beloved biscuits in honor of opening the chain’s first NYC location last month.

Participating Charlotte food and beverage professionals include:

“From serving as the host city for ‘Top Chef’ to earning growing recognition in the Michelin Guide, Charlotte’s culinary scene is having a defining national moment. This James Beard Foundation showcase will share the talents of some of our most dynamic chefs and mixologists on one of the industry’s most influential stages,” Laura White, CRVA chief brand and strategy officer, said in the news release.

“With 33 million visitors generating $9.1 billion in annual spending — 25% tied directly to food and beverage — Charlotte’s culinary momentum is translating directly into visitor spending, jobs and economic opportunities.”

Bravo’s award-winning series “Top Chef Carolinas” premieres Monday, March 9, bringing the competition to Charlotte. Cochran is among the show’s Season 23 contestants.

Soon after the premiere, Savor Charlotte will run March 11–28, featuring events and special offers that highlight the city’s chefs, mixologists and other tastemakers.