Who and What: The John Besh Foundation and the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience are partnering for the first time to create a star-powered event on May 25th: the: “Funkin’ It Up” Fundraiser. Celebrity guest chefs join John Besh and his executive team of chefs to serve up delicious dishes you won’t soon forget. “Funkin’ It Up!” will feature live music performances and a live auction, including “one-of-a-kind” experiences, benefiting the John Besh Foundation and NOWFE, featuring experiences you won’t want to miss.

This year’s celebration honors the lifetime achievement of one of New Orleans’ great community members, Ms. Leah Chase. In addition, the John Besh Foundation will announce the 2013 John Besh and Bride Mayor Chefs Move! Scholarship recipients for Culinary and Pastry Arts at the International Culinary Center in New York.

Several of the hottest chefs from around the US will come together to present an amazing evening of incredible food and fun for a great cause, including Danny Bowien (Mission Chinese Food), John Currence (City Grocery), Donald Link (Link Restaurant Group), Michelle Bernstein (Michy’s), Aaron Sanchez (Food Network, Mestizo Restaurant), David Slater (Emeril’s), Jacques Torres (Jacque Torres) and New Orleans’ own John Besh.

Where: Hyatt Regency Ballroom, 601 Loyola Ave

When: Saturday, May 25th from 7 – 11 p.m. (6:30 PM VIP admission)

Cost: General admission tickets are available at ticketmaster.com for $250 each. VIP after-party tickets are $100 and VIP Admission to both events is $325. VIP Tables, which include VIP Admission for 10 plus a reserved table at both parties, are $5000. 

Tickets and Details: Information and links to purchase tickets at www.nowfe.com/events/funkin-it-up. For more information about VIP tables, please email giveback@chefjohnbesh.com.

Following the event, join the chefs at the VIP after party at Borgne for late night snacks, flowing drinks, and special musical performances from Kermit Ruffins, Young Fellaz Brass Band, and Mia Borders until 1 a.m.

The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience and the John Besh Foundation are non-profit organizations. The proceeds from this event will be shared between the two organizations.