ESPH Chef Fest

THANK YOU to everyone who made Chef Fest 2026 unforgettable. From the chefs, guests, sponsors, vendors, volunteers and behind the scenes staff who made it happen, we are incredibly grateful.

Our Culinary Connections Students dazzled the crowd with their tasty sweet treats, incredible hospitality and work ethic. Cheers to each of them and their bright futures ahead. 👏👏👏

🏆🥇Two inaugural awards were chosen by a panel of culinary professionals:

🌊 .eats.and.drinks “Living La Vida Locavore” Award was presented to Chef Julie Aubrey of &PersonalChefServices for her creative, Coastal Virginia–inspired Blue Oyster Rockefeller

👨‍🍳 The Tall Toque Award honored outstanding culinary excellence and was presented to Chef Paul Benton of for his impressive Goat Cheese and Lobster Cheesecake

The guests also had their say and selected their favorite dishes:
🏆 Chef Fest Champ (Favorite Entrée): Chef Pam Smith of -Fork
🍰 Sweet Champ (Favorite Dessert): Chef Brittney Batts of 'sCateringbyChefBrittney

Check back soon for more highlights from this special event.

Get excited for Chef Ty McDuffie with Still Worldly Eclectic Tapas who will be serving up flavor at Chef Fest : A Taste of Joy!

Chef Ty enjoys bringing people together though food using heritage, technique and hospitality. Come experience his artistry and cheer him on next Wednesday!

We’re thrilled to welcome Scott Dunn of Gaston’s Italian Steakhouse to the lineup for Chef Fest: A Taste of Joy! 🍽️💛

Known for hearty flavors, expertly cooked steaks, and Italian-inspired dishes, Chef Scott is bringing his signature flair to the event. Guests won’t want to miss a bite!

We’re excited to feature Stella Pomianek of as part of the incredible lineup for Chef Fest: A Taste of Joy! 🍽️💛

Chef Stella is known for her creative dishes, fresh flavors, and passion for delivering unforgettable culinary experiences. Guests are in for a treat at Chef Fest!

We’re excited to feature Chef Paul Benton of Zoës Steak and Seafood as part of the talented lineup for ESPH Chef Fest: A Taste of Joy! 🍽️💛

Chef Paul brings passion, creativity, and incredible flavor to every dish he creates. We can’t wait for guests to experience what he’ll be serving up at Chef Fest!

We’re excited to welcome Evan Vang of to the lineup for Chef Fest: A Taste of Joy! 🍽️💛

Chef Evan is known for bold flavors and creative dishes that bring people together. We can’t wait to see what he’ll be serving up at Chef Fest—it’s sure to be a crowd favorite!

HELLO SWEETIE: Chef Stacy Harksen joins in as one of the competing chefs for ESPH Chef Fest: A Taste of Joy!

Stacy is the owner and pastry chef of Hello Sweetie Cheesecakes in Olde Town Portsmouth. She is known for her rich flavors, creative combinations and a gourmet touch, through decadent cheesecakes that bring people together. 🍰

🍴 Club Cuisine: Where Every Class is a New Adventure! 🌟

At Easterseals PORT Health, our Club Cuisine classes are all about learning, laughter, and flavor! Each session brings something new—seasonal recipes, special techniques, and even student-inspired ideas. 💛

One of our biggest hits? Sushi Night! 🎌🍣

It started as a student suggestion and was such a success that we’re bringing it back—this time with even more delicious rolls to create and enjoy together.

From cozy fall cooking to creative desserts, every class is a chance to build confidence, connect with friends, and celebrate abilities through the joy of food. Because when we cook together, we grow together. 💫