Fundraiser to support the Research Chefs Association and help bring Charlie Trotter’s back to life

During this two-night fundraiser, chefs will create dishes inspired by what Charlie Trotter once said, “The food I create really evolves from one simple question: what do I like to eat?”

To participate as a chef for the 2027 Research Chefs Association Event at Charlie Trotter’s, chefs must:

• Be a current dues-paid member of the Research Chefs Association
• Commit to pay or have your company pay $500 towards team meals, family meals, and brunch
• Commit to bring at least $25 cash to tip out the kitchen manager at Charlie Trotter’s
• Commit to pay or have your company pay your travel and lodging expenses associated with participation (arriving on Sunday, May 23 to help with load-in and prep, and staying through brunch on Wednesday, May 26th)
• Commit to pay or have your company pay the food ingredient expenses associated with your dish(es) for 85 each of the two nights (170 portions total)
• Have the ability to create a dish and/or dishes appropriate for a very high-end coursed dinner for 170 people over two nights around the theme of "What do I like to eat?"
• Be willing to work collaboratively with other chefs in creation and execution

Applications closed October 9, 2026.

Legacy of Charlie Trotter

Charlie Trotter’s wasn’t just a restaurant. It was a place that challenged expectations, raised the standards of hospitality, and shaped a generation of chefs. The revived experience is not about recreating the past but honoring it, building on it, and creating something meaningful for today.

"After love, there is only cuisine." - Charlie Trotter

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