Five acclaimed young chefs and a leading sommelier from Benchmark Hospitality International bring an inventive selection of wild game, regional dishes, and thoughtfully paired wines to the James Beard House in New York City. Scheduled for Dec. 11, the Benchmark Holiday tasting will present a five-course winter feast highlighting wild game and locally sourced ingredients from Washington State, Texas, Colorado, Illinois, and Virginia.
Representing Benchmark Hospitality’s fine-dining properties, the participating chefs include Jordan Mackey of Hotel Contessa in San Antonio; Bobby Moore of Willows Lodge in Woodinville, Washington; Ender Oktayuren of the World of Whirlpool in Chicago; Timothy Ralphs of Cheyenne Mountain Resort in Colorado Springs; and Jason Smith of The Inn at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia. Max Kiebach, food and beverage director and sommelier at The Inn at Virginia Tech, will be on hand to present wine pairings and discuss selections that complement the menu.
“We are thrilled to welcome back the chefs from Benchmark Hospitality to the James Beard House,” said Izabela Wojcik, director of house programming for the James Beard Foundation. “Game On is their theme this year. Every time Benchmark’s chefs cook at the Beard House, they bring exceptional skill and creativity. Their return has become a cherished holiday tradition for our guests and foundation members.”
Guests interested in attending can reserve a seat by calling the James Beard House at 212.627.2308. Ticket prices are $130 per person for members of the James Beard Foundation and $170 per person for the general public.
This Bench-marked collaboration showcases not only the chefs’ skill with wild game and regional produce but also their commitment to seasonality and thoughtful wine pairings. The tasting dinner provides an opportunity to experience diverse culinary perspectives from across the country, with each course reflecting the unique ingredients and techniques of the chefs’ home regions. From Pacific Northwest game preparations to Texas-inspired flavors, Colorado mountain influences, Illinois urban creativity, and Virginia’s local traditions, the menu promises a balanced and memorable winter dining experience.
Attendees can expect a carefully paced five-course menu where each dish is paired with a wine selected to enhance flavors and textures, explained by the sommelier. The event offers both members and the general public a chance to enjoy a festive culinary showcase while learning about ingredient sourcing, preparation methods, and pairing rationale directly from the chefs and wine professional.
Whether you are a regular guest at the James Beard House or new to its events, the Benchmark Holiday dinner is designed to celebrate regional talent and the spirit of the season through innovative dishes and expert wine pairings. Reserve early, as seating is limited and the event is a popular holiday attraction for food enthusiasts and members of the culinary community.