The Grand Gala closes out the festival’s 1970s-themed weekend with a night of culinary excellence, live entertainment, and disco-era fun. The evening begins with a 6 p.m. reception, followed by a five-course dinner created by an all-star lineup of signature chefs: Chef Peter Darves-Bornoz of Josie’s Table; Chef Robert Ryan of Nicole’s Catering; Chef AJ Richards of Farmacy; Chef Jaime Ortiz of Primary Food Group; and Chef Peter Calhoun of Mazzone Hospitality.
Reception attendees will be treated to a curated selection of cocktail-hour delights prepared by regional culinary masters: Chef Ric Orlando; Chef Franco Rua of Café Capriccio; Chef Noah Frese of Noah’s Italian; and Karlee Brown and Victor Lobo of Baldor Foods.
Vegetarian courses will be prepared by Chef Rachel Mabb of Rosanna’s and Chef Stacy Tecler of Stacy’s Scratch Kitchen. Each chef brings signature flair and a touch of 1970s inspiration to a menu designed to surprise and delight guests.
“The Grand Gala is an unforgettable celebration, and this year we’re turning up the energy with a Disco Ball theme that brings the creativity and nostalgia of the 1970s to life,” said Marcus Q. Pryor, board president of the Albany Chefs’ Food & Wine Festival. “Our chefs, performers, and arts partners are ready to deliver a night that supports the arts while giving guests a chance to dance, dine, and celebrate in style.”
Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy live art performances and, for the first time, a disco-inspired dance floor with music from Capital Region favorite DJ Trumastr. The gala also features silent and live auctions, with proceeds supporting Albany-based nonprofit arts organizations. This year’s beneficiaries include Empire State Youth Orchestra, Black Theatre Troupe of Upstate New York, Albany Barn, Albany Center Gallery, Capital Repertory Theatre, Albany Symphony Orchestra, and the Palace Performing Arts Center.
The Grand Gala Disco Ball serves as the culminating celebration of the Albany Chefs’ Food and Wine Festival, a three-day event featuring tastings, seminars, competitions, Rising Star Chefs, craft beverages, and live entertainment running Jan. 22–24, 2026.
