Host Chef/Owner
Michael Lugo
VIVA Hospitality, Michael’s, Pesca, La Nouvelle
St. Augustine, FL

Director of Culinary
Natasha “Tash” Olivera
VIVA Hospitality, Michael’s, Pesca, La Nouvelle
St. Augustine, FL

Beverage Director
Shamen Balzer
VIVA Hospitality, Michael’s, Pesca, La Nouvelle
St. Augustine, FL

Executive Chef
Matthieu Landillon
La Nouvelle
St. Augustine, FL

Chef/Partner
Joshua Agan 
Routes Culinary Travel
Jacksonville, FL

Pastry Chef/Partner
Intan Sari-Agan
Routes Culinary Travel
Jacksonville, FL

Chef/Owner
Henry Salgado
Spanish River Grill
New Smyrna Beach, FL


Rooted in Excellence at Michael’s 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.