Rising Star Chef Nominations Open for Wine & Dine for the Arts

The Albany Chefs' Food & Wine Festival - Wine & Dine for the Arts - returns January 12-14, 2017 at the Hilton Albany in Downtown. Drawing thousands of people to the weekend-long event, the drool-worthy festival includes a Rising Star Chef competition, the 6 winners of which are invited to cook at the two grand tastings. Nominations for the Rising Star Chef are open now through October 6 and can be made here. Ten finalists will be announced on October 13, then voting for the top 6 will be conducted from October 13 to November 1.

Last year, Downtown was represented by Rising Star Chefs Stephanie Gaddy (Soul Kitchen Albany), Ken McCorry (Angelo's 677 Prime), and Anna Weisheit (The Hollow Bar + Kitchen).

Chefs must work in the Capital Region and meet two of the following criteria:

• Chef or chef-owner of a restaurant that has been open for less than two years.
• Is using innovative techniques in food production.
• First-time executive chef or executive sous chef.
• Has shown a commitment to community service.
• Demonstrates originality and creativity in menu design.
• Promotes and utilizes local produce and ingredients whenever possible.

2017 will mark the 8th annual event, and in the first 7 years over $660,000 has been raised to support area arts organizations including Albany Center Gallery, Capital Repertory Theatre, and the Palace Theatre.

Learn more about the competition | Wine & Dine for the Arts details