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INTRODUCING THE 2026 CULINARY INNOVATION THEATER HEADLINER: TYLER FLORENCE
Join us for an unforgettable experience for a fireside chat with star restaurateur, author and Food Network host Tyler Florence at the Culinary Innovation Theater. 100 copies of Tyler's new book "American Grill" will be distributed to the audience following the presentation.
Tyler’s reach and influence extends well beyond his cooking shows, as he has authored 17 cookbooks, including his latest book, American Grill (Abrams), and built an ever-expanding business empire across many platforms. He is a proud graduate of Johnson & Wales University ’94, and a two-time James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef West Coast, Tyler launched his award-winning flagship restaurant, Wayfare Tavern, over a decade ago. In June 2024, San Francisco Magazine bestowed upon Tyler the coveted title of “Chef of the Year.” His highly acclaimed San Francisco restaurant, Miller & Lux, located in the Chase Arena, home of the Golden Gate Warriors was named Best Steakhouse in the Bay Area by San Francisco Magazine 3 years running. The restaurant was recently named #4 on the list of 50 Best Steak Restaurants in No. America and named #25 Best Steak House in the World by Upper Cut Media House headquartered in London, UK. In 2023, Tyler opened his second, hugely popular, award winning outpost of Miller & Lux in Hawaii, at the Four Seasons resort, which Honolulu Magazine named the Gold Winner for Best Hawaii Island Steakhouse and Bronze Winner for Best Steak. The Honolulu Star-named Miller & Lux Hualalai as the Best Neighbor Island Restaurant.
In 2017, Tyler created a full-stack production company, Monarch Collective, Inc. His debut film Uncrushable, a documentary about the Northern California wildfires, was the catalyst for the company; since then, he has produced content for television and digital media, and created advertising/marketing videos for a variety of well-known clients including The Venetian Resort, Red Bull, The Four Seasons, and The Food Network/Discovery. His insatiable quest for what’s current and interesting in the food and lifestyle space has always positioned him at the forefront of new trends, gaining him a large and engaged social media following, that extends above the 1M mark. He calls Corte Madera, California home, where he lives in an 1890’s-era Bernard Maybeck home with his wife and children
SUNDAY, AUGUST 23RD SCHEDULE
NELSON GERMAN
EXECUTIVE CHEF/OWNER, SOBRA MESA
12:00 - 12:45 PM
Chef Nelson German is the Executive Chef and Owner of Oakland’s acclaimed Sobre Mesa and alaMar Dominican Kitchen & Bar, and Executive Chef and Partner at Meski
BRIAN CONNORS
MANAGING PARTNER, CONNORS-DAVIS HOSPITALITY
3:00 - 3:45 PM
Discover the secrets to pairing food and wine like a professional with expert guidance from Professor Brian Connors. In this interactive course, you'll delve into the science behind flavor profiles and learn how to perfectly match wines with a variety of dishes. From classic pairings to bold, unexpected combinations, you'll explore how elements like sweetness, acidity, spice, bitterness, and richness come together to enhance the dining experience. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a culinary novice, this seminar will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to create memorable food and wine pairings for any occasion. This hands-on seminar teaches: Understanding core flavor profiles and their impact on pairings. Mastering classic and innovative food and wine combinations. Gaining confidence in creating memorable dining experiences.
MONDAY, AUGUST 24th SCHEDULE
SHERIEF SHAWKY
SHERRY YARD
12:00 - 12:45 PM
Elevating Culinary Performance with Sherry Yard, Chef Sherief Shawky and UNOX
TYLER FLORENCE
RESTAURATEUR, AUTHOR AND FOOD NETWORK HOST
1:00 - 1:45 PM
Join us for an unforgettable experience for a fireside chat with star restaurateur, author and Food Network host Tyler Florence at the Culinary Innovation Theater. 100 copies of Tyler's new book "American Grill" will be distributed to the audience following the presentation.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25th SCHEDULE
SHAWN OSBEY
THE TRAVELING CHEF, MEDIA PERSONALITY and CULINARY STORYTELLER
11:00 - 11:45 AM
Join Chef Shawn Osbey known as “The Traveling Chef.” Chef Shawn is not just a chef – he’s a media personality, culinary storyteller, destination explorer, and creator of immersive food experiences rooted in community, culture, and connection. He is a celebrated innovator known for his bold flavors, creative plating, and the ability to connect deeply with food/drink enthusiasts domestically and internationally
DREW NIEPORENT
RESTAURATEUR AND AUTHOR, MYRIAD RESTAURANT GROUP
12:00 - 12:45 PM
Drew Nieporent, will discuss his new book “I’m Not Trying to Be Difficult” and what it takes to become an award-winning restaurateur.
100 copies of Drew's new book "I'm Not Trying to be Difficult" will be distributed to the audience following the presentation.