More than 3,000 people filled Houston’s Discovery Green Park for what turned out to be Southern Smoke Foundation’s most successful single fundraising event.
$1.7 million was raised at the event Saturday and will directly support the organization’s mission of providing emergency relief and no-cost mental health services to people throughout the hospitality industry.
“We are so proud and inspired by the outpouring of support at this year’s Southern Smoke Festival,” said Lindsey Brown, Executive Director of SSF, in a news release. “Raising $1.7 million is more than another milestone for our team—it’s a lifeline for food and beverage workers nationwide who turn to SSF in times of need. Every ticket purchased, chef who cooked, beverage pro who poured, and partner who showed up helps ensure that we can continue to care for the people who make our industry thrive day in and day out. This year proves what’s possible when our community comes together, and we left feeling more energized than ever before.”
The founding director of Southern Smoke Foundation is James Beard award-winning chef and “Eat Like a Local” host Chris Shepherd, whose show can be seen Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KPRC 2.
For the second year in a row, KPRC 2 proudly partnered with the Southern Smoke Foundation to livestream the Yeti Culinary Stage at the festival.
The stage, manned by chef, YouTube personality, and New York Times bestselling author Brad Leone was the venue for cooking demonstrations presented by top chefs from across the country. From a flaming dessert to corn you’ll crave and more, check out the demonstrations below.
YETI Culinary Stage Demonstrations
Aaron Bludorn (Bludorn, Navy Blue and Bar Bludorn - Houston)
- CHEF DEMO: Pan Fried Flounder & Wild Mushroom Risotto
Angie Rito & Scott Tacinelli (Don Angie and San Sabino - New York City)
- CHEF DEMO: Don Angie Lasagna
Rodney Scott (Rodney Scott’s BBQ - Charleston, SC)
- CHEF DEMO: King St. Corn
Shuai Wang (Jackrabbit Filly & King BBQ - Charleston, SC)
- CHEF DEMO: Pan Fried Pork Dumplings
Caroline Schiff (New York City)
- CHEF DEMO: Baked Alaska
Erick Williams (Virtue Hospitality Group - Chicago)
- CHEF DEMO: Hoe Cakes with Lobster in Spicy Remoulade, Pickled Onion and Dill
Watch the KPRC 2+ livestream anytime through the free KPRC 2+ app on your phone or Smart TV or on click2houston.com/watchlive.