an evening with Tom Colicchio and omaha's top chefs
Join us as we welcome eight-time James Beard Award-winning chef, owner of Crafted Hospitality, author, producer, social justice advocate, and current judge of Bravo’s Top Chef— Tom Colicchio along with some of Omaha’s top chef’s for our first Culinary Cook-off on Thursday, March 6, 2025.
As the growing demand for food assistance continues to increase, your support will help the Food Bank raise 2.1 million meals.
Experience a night of food and fun and see if your favorite chef wins this exciting culinary competition! The event will also feature an auction, pre-event celebrations and a gourmet meal.
Our cook-off chefs have revolutionized Omaha’s restaurant scene and include Tim Nicholson—executive chef of Boiler Room and four-time James Beard nominee, and most recently named a 2024 finalist for Best Chef: Midwest, Nick Strawhecker—chef and owner of Dante, Omaha’s first restaurant specializing in Neapolitan pizza, and David Utterback—chef and owner of Yoshitomo, Koji, and a James Beard Award first finalist (and previous three-time semifinalist) for Best Chef: Midwest. Yoshitomo was also a 2024 national semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurant.
Our judge panel includes long-time Omaha food reporter Sarah Baker Hansen and Advanced Sommelier and General Manager of V. Mertz, Matthew Brown.
A third judge will be announced soon!