Visit Oakland has partnered with Platform by the James Beard Foundation (Platform by JBF) to host curated immersive culinary experiences throughout the month of July. Located in New York City’s brand-new Market 57 food hall at Pier 57, Platform by JBF is a state-of-the-art show kitchen, event space, and educational hub for outstanding culinary arts programming.
Oakland’s Culinary Journey: Visit Oakland Teams Up with James Beard Foundation’s
In partnership with Platform by JBF, Visit Oakland will present an array of events featuring diverse local chefs — offering guests from NYC and beyond a chance to experience food from the great city of Oakland. From flavorful Latin American-inspired dishes to delectable soul food to mindful indigenous cuisines, each event will highlight the city’s unique culinary offerings.
The schedule of events will include:
A Taste of The Town: The Best of Oakland Collaboration Dinner Presented by Visit Oakland
A special dinner with Oakland Chefs Nelson German, Michele McQueen, and Crystal Wahpepah
Thursday, July 20, 2023 7:00PM
Oakland, California, fondly known as “the Town,” is home to a diverse mix of cultures and cuisines. For one night only, three of Oakland’s top chefs will be at Platform for a collab dinner that highlights the culinary spirit of this vibrant city. Featuring Indigenous cuisine from Crystal Wahpepah, soulful comfort food from Michele McQueen, and Pan African fare from Nelson German, this special dinner brings Oakland’s finest all the way to New York City.
Tickets and menu here
Cocktail Party: An Evening with Top Chef’s Nelson German Presented by Visit Oakland
Friday, July 21, 2023 7:00PM
At his Oakland restaurants Sobre Mesa and alaMar Kitchen & Bar chef Nelson German explores his Afro-Latino heritage through flavors and ingredients. His menu is a celebration of culture and transports diners to delicious destinations, channeling his Dominican roots and drawing on cuisines from Trinidad, Jamaica, and New Orleans. For this exclusive cocktail party, chef Nelson will combine the spirit of Sobre Mesa and alaMar for Platform guests, accompanied by live music from DJ CherishTheLuv.
Tickets and menu here
Demo: My Native Kitchen with Crystal Wahpepah Presented by Visit Oakland
Saturday, July 22, 2023 11:00AM
Born and raised on Ohlone land in Oakland, California, James Beard Emerging Chef nominee Crystal Wahpepah is an enrolled member of the Kickapoo nation of Oklahoma. Join us for this exciting demonstration on the art and tradition of Native cuisine and the reciprocal practices of mindfully choosing Indigenous food sources. During this demo, chef Wahpepah will explore the deep and powerful role that food has in our lives through her recipes and techniques. The demonstration culminates with a special and delicious Native lunch.
Tickets and menu here
Brunch: Southern Gospel Brunch with Chef Michele McQueen Presented by Visit Oakland
Sunday July 23, 2023 1:00PM
At Town Fare in Oakland, California, chef Michele McQueen is known for her comforting classics that remind people of home. Chef McQueen is bringing that soulful energy from her West Coast restaurant to New York with a Sunday brunch featuring her famous Southern fried chicken, blackened catfish, and cocktails. The spirited brunch will be accompanied by live gospel music that is sure to make your heart soar.
Tickets and menu here
Oakland is known as one of the most progressive and diverse cities in the U.S. with 125 languages spoken in The Town. “We are extremely proud to partner with such a prestigious and notable organization like the Platform by JBF” commented Peter Gamez, President & CEO of Visit Oakland. “We are excited to highlight the incredibly talented chefs in Oakland who are creating innovative and delicious dishes for all to enjoy as well as share their remarkable stories that’s helped shape their cuisine into what it is today.”
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Events will be held at Platform by JBF within the Market 57 food hall at Pier 57 (25 11th Ave, New York, NY 10011). Learn more and purchase tickets on the Platform by JBF website.
