January 24, 2026  | 6 p.m. Reception & 8 p.m. Dinner
Albany Capital Center

This year the Albany Chefs’ Food and Wine Festival proudly presents The Grand Gala Disco Ball, a dazzling Saturday night celebration of culinary artistry and 1970s glamour. The evening begins with a sparkling welcome and champagne toast before guests are swept into an unforgettable reception showcasing the region’s most talented chefs.

Then it is time to feast, disco style. Our Signature Chefs, true culinary hit-makers, are teaming up to create an out of sight five-course dinner designed to wow, groove, and delight. This year’s menu is crafted by an all-star lineup including:

Five-Course Dinner Chefs

• Chef Peter Darves-Bornoz, Josie’s Table
• Chef Noah Freese, Noah’s Italian
• Chef AJ Richards, farmacy
• Chef Jaime Ortiz, Primary Food Group
• Chef Peter Calhoun, Mazzone Hospitality

Vegetarian Course Chefs

• Chef Rachel Mabb, Rosanna’s
• Chef Stacy Tecler, Stacy’s Scratch Kitchen

Cocktail Hour Food Display Chefs

• Chef Ric Orlando, Ric Orlando
• Chef Franco Rua, Cafe Capriccio
• Chef Noah Frese, Noah’s Italian
• Karlee Brown and Victor Lobo, Baldor Foods

Each chef brings bold flavors, signature flair, and a touch of 1970s inspiration, creating a culinary soundtrack worthy of a night under the disco lights.

Live art performances add a layer of magic to the evening, and for the first time ever, a funky dance floor invites guests to show off their grooviest moves. Our live and silent auctions offer exciting opportunities to support local arts in style.

More than just a gala, this is The Disco Ball, a celebration of community, creativity, and culinary brilliance.