Culinary Careers Program to Host 2026 National Benefit Honoring Chef Chintan Pandya

Culinary Careers Program to Host 2026 National Benefit

The Culinary Careers Program, widely known as C•CAP, has disclosed details for its upcoming National Benefit scheduled for April 13, 2026, from 6 to 9 PM at the iconic Chelsea Piers in New York City. This event, which celebrates the achievements of students in the culinary arts, will honor Chef Chintan Pandya, a celebrated figure in the food industry and the executive chef and partner of Unapologetic Foods.

Co-hosted by the renowned chef and long-time C•CAP co-chair Marcus Samuelsson, this benefit promises to bring together influential figures and supporters from the culinary world, creating an environment dedicated to promoting education and mentorship for aspiring culinary professionals. The benefit will serve as a platform for over 30 distinguished restaurants from New York City and beyond, providing a unique progressive tasting experience to attendees.

Among the restaurants participating are Dhamaka, Naks, The Musket Room, Gage & Tollner, Lola's, and Tatiana, showcasing a wide array of culinary excellence. Attendees will not only enjoy exquisite food but also have the opportunity to connect with C•CAP’s inspiring students and alumni.

In a statement, Chef Chintan Pandya expressed his commitment to mentorship in the food and hospitality sector, stating, "C•CAP creates access at the very beginning of a young person's journey, and that early investment can change the trajectory of a lifetime. I’m proud to support an organization that opens doors for young people and helps build a more inclusive future for our industry."

The impact of C•CAP is profound, with its Executive Director Christina Grdovic noting, "C•CAP is about transforming potential into opportunity. Seeing chefs, restaurateurs, and supporters unite around our students reminds us of the profound effect that education and opportunity can create. We are proud to honor Chef Chintan Pandya, whose mentorship aligns beautifully with C•CAP's mission."

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the C•CAP National Benefit are now available, with all proceeds going toward C•CAP’s programs that provide culinary education and job training for over 25,000 students annually across the United States. Since its inception, C•CAP has uplifted nearly 400,000 students and awarded more than $76 million in college scholarships, making a significant impact in the lives of young culinary enthusiasts.

To learn more about how to participate in this exciting event or to purchase tickets, visit CulinaryCareers.org.

By attending the benefit, guests will not only enjoy a remarkable culinary experience but also support the next generation of culinary talent, reinforcing the vital role of education and mentorship in the food industry. Together, we can help pave the way for aspiring chefs and industry leaders to thrive in a competitive and evolving landscape. Let's contribute to building a future where culinary careers are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their background.