FOJBB: Kansas City, MO

A five-course chef-driven dinner with curated wine pairings.

Featured Participants

Executive Chef
Jacob Moeller
The American 
Kansas City, MO

Pastry Chef
Giovanna Henrique
The American
Kansas City, MO

Sommelier
Jasen Foster
Vintegrity
Kansas City, MO

Chef/Owner
James Beard Award Semifinalist® 
Swetha Newcomb
Of Course
Overland Park, KS

Executive Chef/Co-Owner
James Beard Award Semifinalist®
Romain Monnoyeur
Westport Cafe
Kansas City, MO

Chef/Owner
Guroux Khalifah
District Biskuits
Kansas City, MO

Chef
Andrew Longres
Acre
Parkville, MO

Join us for the 25th Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner at The American, an iconic restaurant whose history has been intertwined with culinary excellence since its opening in 1974, when James Beard himself helped shape its original vision as a restaurant consultant. This milestone evening celebrates both that enduring legacy and the future of American food by bringing together an exceptional lineup of acclaimed chefs, sommeliers, and hospitality leaders for a thoughtfully curated five-course dinner. Featuring seasonal ingredients, expertly paired wines, and the bold creativity of Kansas City's culinary community, guests will experience a one-night-only celebration of hospitality, storytelling, and the lasting impact of great food.

The 25th Annual Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner 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.