Cleveland Culinary Awards Gala

Benefitting local hospitality students, honoring industry icons

New! What better place to honor the achievements of Cleveland's local hospitality students and food aficionados than the Fabulous Food Show? New this year, The Cleveland Culinary Awards Gala is the occasion for the region's hospitality community to celebrate among peers.

The Cleveland Culinary Awards Gala will be held on Friday, November 8^th in the I-X Center Grand Ballroom. Cocktail hour begins at 6:30 p.m. in the East Lobby with passed hors d'oeuvres and food stations highlighting the region’s finest cuisine. A four-course dinner will follow presented by celebrity chefs Alex Guarnaschelli, Marcus Samuelsson, Hugh Acheson and Jason Roberts, using local ingredients and paired with local craft beer or wine to create an unforgettable meal.

Distinctive awards will be handed out in four exclusive local achievement categories:

1) Tri-C Hospitality Management Center Presents the NEO Culinary Challenge Award: Participants from Tri-C, University of Akron and Lorain County Community College hospitality programs compete in an "Iron Chef"-style cookoff. The winner will be announced on-site.

2) Culinary Ambassador: Awarded to an individual or member of the media whose body of work exemplifies a dedication to supporting and advancing the Cleveland Culinary Scene. 2013 Recipient: Joe Crea (Northeast Ohio Media Group, including The Plain Dealer and Cleveland.com).

3) Restaurant Vanguard: Awarded to an individual or individuals whose commitment, leadership and acumen has set a standard of excellence in the region. 2013 Recipient: Carl Quagliata (Giovanni's Ristorante)

4) Beverage Trailblazer: Awarded to an individual or individuals whose vision and commitment has had a dramatic impact on the regional beverage scene. 2013 Recipients: Patrick and Daniel Conway (Great Lakes Brewing Co.).

Back-of-house and front-of-house operations will be supported by hospitality students from local colleges and universities. A portion of event proceeds will be designated toward scholarships for participating culinary school partners.

A separate event ticket is required to attend this after hours Gala, and is available for purchase online for $175.