In Support of SA Food Bank, August 31
FROM THE WIRES...
San Antonio’s vibrant culinary landscape continues to grow in bold new directions, defying expectations of traditional Tex-Mex cuisine with contemporary dishes that honors the city’s heritage and culture. At the forefront of this progression is James Beard Finalist [6 consecutive years] Chef Steve McHugh of Cured. And, McHugh also exercises his innovative skills at his newest endeavor, Landrace at The Thompson Hotel, known for celebrating the pastoral beauty of ingredients native to the state. McHugh’s mission to build community and positively enact change begins in the kitchen but extends well beyond the plate. In support of the San Antonio Food Bank, McHugh is hosting a one-night-only epicurean extravaganza – A Night at the Chef’s Table – featuring the best and brightest culinary talents in the city. McHugh is gathering fellow James Beard nominees – Chef John Russ [Clementine,] Chef Esaul Ramos [2M Smokehouse,] and Chef David Cáceres [La Panadería] – to come together for a four-course dinner at Landrace [$400++ per person] on Wednesday, August 31, 2022, beginning at 6:30PM with a cocktail reception. McHugh hopes to raise awareness and funds to support food equity in San Antonio so that all people have the ability and opportunity to grow and to consume healthful, affordable, and culturally significant foods. As a longtime activist seeking to increase food security, McHugh is also a proud member of the Food Policy Council of San Antonio. One of the council’s most meaningful initiatives has been the recent Padre Park Food Forest Project – providing a source of fresh local food that fosters resilience, wellness, and connections to the flourishing community. And as a leader in culinary sustainability, McHugh is passionate about offering resources to empower meaningful changes in responsible sourcing and environmental stewardship. As a result of his efforts, McHugh is one of only three chefs in all Texas recognized as a Leader in the James Beard Foundation’s Smart Catch Program. And, in 2022, the International Fresh Produce Association announced McHugh as a recipient of the Produce Excellence in Foodservice Award. These talented chefs hope to gather diners with a mutual invested interest to celebrate the city’s diverse culinary culture in support of The San Antonio Food Bank – a beloved institution, needed now more than ever! Tickets are available to purchase HERE. 25% of proceeds benefit the San Antonio Food Bank. Founded in 1980, the San Antonio Food Bank serves 90,000 individuals weekly in one of Texas’ largest service areas. ABOUT THE PARTICIPATING CHEFS
John Russ is the owner of Clementine. Born and raised in New Orleans, Russ worked in fine dining at the Ritz-Carlton and with The Capella Group. In 2012, Russ moved to San Antonio, starting with pop-up dinners, then in 2016 established his own restaurant group. The James Beard Foundation Awards recognized Russ as a 2022 semifinalist for Best Chef: Texas.
Esaul Ramos built his restaurant 2M Smokehouse BBQ from the ground up and officially opened to the public in 2016. The James Beard Foundation Awards recognized Ramos as a 2022 semifinalist for Best Chef: Texas.
In 2014, David Cáceres opened La Panadería with his brother José. After growing up selling their mother’s fresh baked bread in Mexico City, he took over the homegrown business and started baking on a large scale throughout Mexico. Cáceres expanded to San Antonio, and in 2022, the James Beard Foundation Awards recognized Cáceres as a 2022 semifinalist for Outstanding Baker.
Landrace | 111 Lexington Ave, San Antonio, TX 78205 | @landracetx