About Chef's Best
One of the region's most anticipated culinary events, Chef's Best brings together top chefs, mixologists, and community leaders to support Food & Friends' mission to deliver medically tailored meals, groceries, and nutrition counseling to individuals living with serious illnesses.
This year's event is expected to raise $1 million to support Food & Friends' programs across the D.C. region, ensuring that neighbors facing life-challenging illnesses receive the nourishment they need.
33
Years Running
$1M
Goal for 2026
50+
Chefs & Mixologists
500+
Guests Expected
Chef Chair: Chef Mauricio Chirinos
We are proud to announce Chef Mauricio Chirinos of Pisco y Nazca Ceviche Gastrobar as the Chef Chair of the 33rd Annual Chef's Best Dinner & Auction.
Chef Chirinos is widely celebrated for his bold, soulful approach to Spanish and Peruvian cuisine at Pisco y Nazca, where vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and cultural storytelling are at the heart of every dish. In 2025, he was honored by the Embassy of Peru with the Promotion and Diffusion of Peruvian Culture in the United States Award.
"Food is more than nourishment, it's care, dignity, and connection. Food & Friends embodies everything I believe about the power of food to heal and bring people together."Register for Chef's Best
— Chef Mauricio Chirinos
Event Details
📅 Date & Time
Sunday, June 8, 2026
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Cocktails & Silent Auction: 6:00 PM
Dinner & Live Auction: 7:30 PM
📍 Location
Marriott Marquis Washington, D.C.
901 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20001
🍽️ What to Expect
- ✓ Tastings from 50+ top chefs
- ✓ Craft cocktails from leading mixologists
- ✓ Silent & Live Auction
- ✓ Live entertainment
Tickets & Sponsorship
Individual Tickets
$250
Includes full access to the event, chef tastings, cocktails, and auction participation.
Purchase TicketsPatron Package
$500
VIP access, reserved seating, and exclusive pre-event reception with the chefs.
Purchase PackageSponsorship
Starting at $5,000
Corporate and individual sponsorship opportunities available with premium benefits and recognition.
Become a SponsorLeadership Committee
The Chef's Best Leadership Committee raises sponsorship funds to support Food & Friends' mission.
Joe Maloney
Co-Chair
President and CEO, Sports Betting Alliance
Kate Abel
Co-Chair
Director of Political Programs, Merck
For sponsorship inquiries, please contact info@foodandfriends.us.
For Chefs & Mixologists
Are you a chef or mixologist interested in participating in Chef's Best? We'd love to have you join us!
Chefs and mixologists play a vital role in making Chef's Best a success. Participating provides:
- Exposure to 500+ guests and media coverage
- Opportunity to showcase your culinary creations
- Connection with the Food & Friends community
- Supporting a meaningful cause