by tony reverditto
Mark your calendars for an extraordinary night of culinary excellence with a purpose! On Sunday, July 27, from 5 to 10 p.m., the lush lawn of the Newport Beach Country Club will be transformed into a gourmet wonderland. This prestigious event, known as the Festival of Chefs, has become a staple in our local community, celebrated for its unique blend of gourmet offerings and philanthropic spirit.
Hosted by the renowned Santa Ana-based nonprofit KidWorks, this exclusive annual event brings together more than 75 of Southern California’s most celebrated chefs, top wineries, and spirit sponsors to treat guests to an unforgettable evening filled with diverse flavors, live entertainment, and meaningful community impact. This year’s festival anticipates welcoming 450 invited guests and aims to raise over $1 million in support of KidWorks’ life-changing programs for youth and families in underserved communities. The atmosphere will be vibrant with laughter and the clinking of glasses, as attendees indulge in the culinary creativity showcased by these talented chefs.
Guests will begin their evening with elevated tastings from a curated roster of culinary powerhouses. Each chef will present their signature dish, from bold bites that showcase the fusion of flavors to premium wines and artisanal spirits crafted by local distilleries. The experience is meticulously designed to engage all the senses, allowing guests to savor the artistry on each plate. After indulging in these gourmet creations, attendees will enjoy decadent desserts that promise to delight every palate, followed by a seated program that highlights the vital mission of KidWorks and how their efforts are transforming lives in the community.
Adding energy and excitement to the night, the ever-popular dance and party band Tijuana Dogs will take the stage at 8 p.m. This performance will ensure the event ends on a high note, filled with music, dancing, and celebration under the stars. Guests will be encouraged to join in the festivities, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that blends culinary excellence with a vibrant social scene, making it a night to remember for all attendees.
Founded in 1993, KidWorks has become a beacon of hope in central Santa Ana, dedicated to “restoring at-risk neighborhoods—one life at a time.” The organization offers holistic, wraparound services that include a fully licensed preschool, afterschool tutoring, mentoring programs, college readiness workshops, parenting classes, health education, and more. The Festival of Chefs serves as the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, and it is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when community, cuisine, and compassion come together. Each dollar raised at this event directly supports the programs that empower the next generation of leaders in our community.
“Festival of Chefs is more than just a celebration of great food—it’s a celebration of opportunity, transformation, and hope,” said KidWorks Executive Director. “Every plate served and every dollar raised helps empower students and families to build a better future. By attending this event, you are not just enjoying a night of culinary delights; you are contributing to a noble cause that has a lasting impact on our community. The shared experience of dining together fosters connections among guests who may become future advocates for the mission of KidWorks.
From culinary enthusiasts to community changemakers, the Festival of Chefs is the summer soirée you won’t want to miss. This event promises to be not only a culinary adventure but also a platform for networking and collaboration among like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference. As guests mingle and interact, they will have the opportunity to learn more about the impactful work being done by KidWorks and how they can contribute to the cause.
Tickets are available now. For more information or to purchase, visit kidworksoc.org/chefs. This event not only promises an exceptional evening of food and fun but also serves as a crucial fundraiser for KidWorks, making every ticket purchase a step toward empowering youth in our community.
This year’s festival is particularly special as it marks a significant milestone in KidWorks’ journey. Attendees can look forward to a variety of new and exciting experiences, including interactive chef demonstrations and opportunities to meet the culinary artists behind the dishes. These moments will deepen the appreciation for the skilled craftsmanship that goes into each meal, highlighting the connection between food and culture. Additionally, the festival aims to promote sustainability by featuring local, seasonal ingredients, showcasing the best of what our region has to offer. It’s an event designed not only to tantalize the taste buds but also to inspire conversations about community, responsibility, and the role of food in our lives.
Sip, swirl, and see it all—join Tony on the Town for his Temecula Valley winery tour.