Gerard Craft to host fundraiser for young chefs at Expat BBQ
The tasting event benefits a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and training aspiring chefs
On Thursday, Nov. 7, Niche Food Group, led by James Beard Award-winning chef Gerard Craft, will host An Evening with Gerard Craft and Friends, bringing together some of the Midwest's brightest culinary stars for an unforgettable night of fine food and shared purpose. This unique tasting event, held at Craft’s Expat BBQ at City Foundry STL, celebrates a collective commitment to advancing culinary excellence in partnership with Ment’or, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and training young American chefs to compete on the global stage.
Ment’or stands at the crossroads of culinary tradition and innovation. Founded by the late Paul Bocuse, alongside renowned chefs Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller and Jérôme Bocuse, it supports the U.S. team competing in the prestigious Bocuse d’Or competition. This biennial showcase in Lyon, France, highlights the skills and creativity of top chefs from around the globe. By investing in young culinary talents, Ment’or not only prepares competitors for the Bocuse d’Or but also aims to elevate American cuisine through mentorship, hands-on training and financial grants. “It’s such an amazing experience,” said Craft. “[It] is very unifying for us and really makes you feel proud of the place you come from.”
The evening kicks off at 6:30 p.m. for VIP and early admission guests, with general admission starting at 7:15 p.m. Guests will indulge in an engaging walk-around tasting event spotlighting 20 acclaimed chefs, each presenting a thoughtfully curated dish that showcases the diversity and creativity of modern American cuisine. Notable participants include Justin Carlisle from Milwaukee’s Ardent, Joe Flamm from Chicago’s Rose Mary, and local talents such as Niche Food Group’s own Suji Shaw, Craig Rivard from Little Fox, and Amy Mills from 17th St BBQ, among others.
It’s a night where food serves as a bridge between local passion and international ambition, with every bite supporting a dream of culinary greatness. As guests savor the exquisite offerings, they will also have the chance to bid on live and silent auction items featuring culinary-inspired packages, with proceeds benefiting the mission of Ment’or to support aspiring chefs through scholarships and mentorship programs.
Since its inception, the organization has awarded over $2 million to rising culinary talent, reinforcing its commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders in the culinary world. “The Bocuse d’Or not only elevates American culinary talent on the global stage but also propels our entire industry forward,” explained Craft, who has served as a member of Ment’or’s Culinary Council for more than a decade. “Supporting this cause means giving passionate young chefs the opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of their financial situation.”
Tickets for An Evening with Gerard Craft and Friends are available at various levels, each offering a unique experience to enjoy the evening’s festivities while supporting a worthy cause. Join fellow culinary enthusiasts and industry leaders in championing the future of American cuisine. More about the Ment’or program and the history of the Bocuse d'Or can be found on the official Ment’or website.
