Welcome, Hoosiers, to an epicurean adventure like no other! As champions of all things Indiana, Indiana Owned is thrilled to shine a spotlight on the upcoming Culinary Crossroads Spring Dinner Series—a celebration of our state’s rich culinary heritage and top-tier talent. Set against the backdrop of the illustrious Highland Golf and Country Club, this series promises a gastronomic journey that will tantalize taste buds and leave everyone craving for more.

Explore the Culinary Lineup

The Culinary Crossroads Spring Dinner Series brings together the crème de la crème of culinary talent—from Indianapolis to the far reaches of our great state. These culinary maestros are teaming up to curate multi-course menus that are nothing short of sensational. And let’s not forget about the pièce de résistance, Hattie Shoemaker of Peterson’s Restaurant, the mastermind behind the delectable desserts that will tantalize your sweet tooth.

• Monday, April 8 
  • Chef Chris Eley from Smoking Goose 
  • Chef Toby Moreno from Highland Golf & Country Club
  • Chef Marcus Daniel from Bridgeport (Fort Wayne) 

• Monday, April 15
  • Chef Tracey Couillard from Public Greens
  • Chef Eli Laidlaw from The Alexander
  • Chef Charisa Perkins from Copper House (Evansville)

• Monday, April 22 (SOLD OUT)
  • Chef Alan Sternberg from Bluebeard
  • Chef Tyler Shortt from Tinker Street
  • Chef Ming Pu from Brooklyn & the Butcher, The Exchange and Outcast (New Albany)

• Monday, April 29
  • Chef Ryan Nelson from Late Harvest Kitchen
  • Chef Patrick Russ from Newfields
  • Chef Jeff Ford from J. Ford’s Black Angus (Terre Haute)

Experience the Flavors: A Taste of the Menu

Attendees are encouraged to prepare their taste buds for a flavor explosion! The previously mentioned culinary virtuosos will take guests on a culinary journey like no other. From inventive appetizers during cocktail hour to sumptuous main courses bursting with local flavors, every bite is a celebration of Indiana’s culinary diversity.  Of course, don’t forget about libations; options include sparkling wine, signature cocktails, and local beer selections. There’s something to complement every dish and delight every palate!

Dine to Donate: The Greg Hardesty Culinary Scholarship

At Indiana Owned, we believe in giving back to our community, and the Culinary Crossroads Spring Dinner Series does just that. Through the Greg Hardesty Culinary Scholarship at Ivy Tech, each participating chef makes a $500 donation, honoring the legacy of the late Chef Greg Hardesty and supporting aspiring culinary talent in our state. It’s heartwarming to see our culinary community come together to make a difference in the lives of future chefs.

Looking Ahead: Culinary Crossroads’ Impact and Future Endeavors

As we savor the flavors and revel in the camaraderie of the Culinary Crossroads Spring Dinner Series, we’re reminded of the incredible impact of our culinary community. From supporting local chefs and artisans to showcasing Indiana’s culinary prowess on a national stage, Culinary Crossroads is paving the way for a brighter future for Indiana’s food scene. And with the World Food Championships coming to Indianapolis in November 2024, the culinary world will once again turn its gaze to our beloved Hoosier state.

Hoosiers, raise your glasses to the Culinary Crossroads Spring Dinner Series—a celebration of Indiana’s culinary excellence, creativity, and community spirit. Purchase your ticket today and savor the flavors, support our local chefs, and make a difference in the lives of future culinary stars. Cheers to good food, great company, and the indomitable spirit of Indiana!