The Cook’s Nook is once again hosting “Texas Table: A Feast for A Cause” event on February 25, 2025, at Lenoir in South Austin. This event is more than a fundraising dinner — it’s a movement to advance food equity and to support organizations making a real impact in our communities. This is the fourth year and the only event of its kind in the city, focusing on food access, resilience, and health outcomes.
Through a unique culinary experience, Texas Table aims to raise funds that directly help innovative organizations working to strengthen local food systems across Texas. Our mission is to build a broader network of support for nutrition and food access initiatives, combat hunger, address health disparities, and promote sustainable food security for all.
Proceeds from this event will directly benefit two impactful nonprofits working toward equity in our community, and allow them to push forward new programs that impact nutrition access and equity:
Alliance for African American Health in Central Texas (AAAHCT) — empowering the Black community through health education, advocacy, and resources to eliminate health disparities.
Austin Youth River Watch (AYRW) — combining environmental stewardship with youth development by mentoring underserved high school students in hands-on environmental education and water quality monitoring.
Fundraising efforts like Texas Table are critical in supporting these organizations’ missions. By attending, guests will contribute to empowering youth, promoting food equity and access, and even protecting the environment — all while enjoying a meaningful evening filled with food, live music, a silent auction, and communal connection.
This event brings together some of Austin’s finest chefs for a one-of-a-kind dining experience that blends culture, community, and purpose. Guests will enjoy a carefully curated five-course dinner, each dish inspired by Texas’ diverse culinary traditions and crafted with intention by renowned chefs.
Chef Uyen Pham: We are honored to have Uyen Pham, Executive Chef and Instructor at the Culinary Institute of America and UNESCO Chef Ambassador, joining us for Texas Table: A Feast for A Cause! This culinary mastermind will present the hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour. Uyen’s culinary expertise and global perspective make her an exceptional addition to this year’s event.
Chef Todd Duplechan: We are thrilled to feature Todd Duplechan, chef and owner of Lenoir, a 2024 Michelin Recommended Restaurant, to Texas Table: A Feast for A Cause! Todd’s culinary expertise and unique approach to blending local ingredients with global flavors make him a standout in Austin’s culinary scene. He’s been named Chef of the Year by Thrillist and Local Hero by Edible Austin.
Chef Michael Fojtasek: We are so excited to have Michael Fojtasek, chef and owner of Olamaie, a Michelin Star recipient in 2024, as part of Texas Table: A Feast for A Cause! Michael’s innovative approach to Southern cuisine, rooted in authenticity and elevated techniques, will make this evening truly special. Michael was a James Beard finalist — not to mention, his restaurant has been named Austin’s best several times.
Chef Damien Brockway: We’re beyond excited to have Damien Brockway, chef and owner of Distant Relatives, a 2024 Michelin Bib Gourmand honoree, as part of Texas Table: A Feast for A Cause! Known for his innovative fusion of West African and Virginia culinary traditions, Damien’s dishes are sure to leave you craving more.
Chef Julie Ratzesberger: We’re thrilled to have Julie Ratzesberger, Culinary Manager at The Cook’s Nook, bringing her expertise to Texas Table: A Feast for A Cause! Julie’s passion for crafting culturally relevant, nutritious meals is at the heart of Cultura Cuisine and is one of the driving forces of the nutrition solution program that addresses food insecurity with dignity and choice.
We’ll kick off the evening in style with a cocktail hour presented by Milam & Greene Whiskey, featuring expertly crafted drinks to set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Plus, enjoy amazing pairings with wines from partners such as Wine for the People, elevating each course with exceptional flavors. Enjoy live music from the talented Ryan Townsend Trio to make the night even more special, creating the perfect ambiance for an evening of great food, fine drinks, and lasting impact!
Then bid big and support local youth and community!
Our Texas Table silent auction is filled with exclusive offerings from some of Austin’s most incredible partners, and 100% of the proceeds will support Austin Youth River Watch and Alliance for African American Health in Central Texas, two organizations dedicated to empowering local youth and strengthening our community.
This year’s auction features packages from:
Milam & Greene Whiskey
Kendra Scott
Independence Brewing
Emmer & Rye
Canje
Antonelli’s Cheese Shop
Wine for the People
And more!
This event is more than just an incredible dining experience—it’s an opportunity to make a real impact. Your participation helps fund education, environmental stewardship, and health initiatives for underserved communities in Austin. Click here to check out our highlights for this year!
Be part of this meaningful celebration of resilience, health equity, and the transformative power of food. Don’t miss your chance to bid on these amazing packages while supporting a great cause. Tickets are selling fast—grab yours today!
Purchase your tickets here, or become a sponsor for the night. Join us and make sure you’re a part of this always impactful event. We look forward to seeing you!
