Format: Walk-Around Tasting with 20+ Chef and Beverage Stations

Featured Chefs

Organizer
Youssef Boudarine
J'adore Pastry and Bluebeard
Indianapolis, IN 

Executive Chef
Craig Baker
Serliana and Astrea Rooftop Bar
InterContinental Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN

James Beard Award Semifinalist®
Avishar “Danny” Barua
Joyas
Worthington, OH
Agni
Columbus, OH

James Beard Award Semifinalist®
Jonathan Brooks
Beholder and Milktooth
Indianapolis, IN

Nick Detrich
Magdalena
Indianapolis, IN

James Beard Award Nominee®
David Jackman
Wildweed
Cincinnati, OH

James Beard Award Semifinalist®
Regina Mehallick
R2GO
Indianapolis, IN

James Beard Award Semifinalist®
Thomas Melvin
Vida
Indianapolis, IN

James Beard Award Semifinalist®
Abbi Merriss
Culinary Consultant
Indianapolis, IN

James Beard Award Semifinalist®
Steven Oakley
Oakleys Bistro
Indianapolis, IN

Patrick Russ
Newfields
Indianapolis Museum of Art
Indianapolis, IN

Pete Schmutte
Leviathan Bakehouse
Indianapolis, IN

Tyler Shortt
Tinker Street
Indianapolis, IN

James Beard Award Semifinalist®
Alan Sternberg
Bluebeard
Indianapolis, IN

Featured Beverage Professionals

Marjan “MJ” Akhavan
BSide Selections

Jan Bugher
Jampagne All Day

Leanna Chroman
Huse Culinary

Sarah Dilick
9th Street Bistro

Jay Fields
Johnson Brothers

Zoë Hayes
Ambrosia Hospitality Group

Jared May
Vida

Amanda McLaurin
Solely Wine

Lindsay Jo Whirley
Newfields


Join us for a vibrant showcase of celebrated chefs across Indiana and beyond at the newly opened, luxurious InterContinental Indianapolis. The walk-around reception, presented by Epicurean Indy, highlights the city’s global food scene and promotes a robust culinary culture. Enjoy tasting bites, beverage pairings, music, and art at this special gathering.

Epicurean Indy is part of the Friends of James Beard Benefit series; events hosted by generous people, businesses, and organizations outside of JBF that provide critical funding for our programs. Each event supports our mission to champion a standard of Good Food for Good® anchored in talent, equity, and sustainability.