On Tuesday, March 31st, Autism Speaks will host its 19th annual Celebrity Chef Gala at Cipriani Wall Street, transforming the iconic venue into one of New York’s most meaningful—and delicious—philanthropic events of the year.
The evening brings together nearly 50 of the world’s most celebrated chefs, including Daniel Boulud, Bobby Flay, Chris Bianco, Gabriel Kreuther, Andrew Zimmern, Brooke Williamson, and Maneet Chauhan. These culinary leaders will set aside their kitchens to support a mission centered on autism acceptance and inclusion.
An Evening of Table side Excellence
The gala offers a uniquely immersive experience that sets it apart from standard charity dinners. The evening begins with a lively cocktail reception, where guests can mingle while sampling bites and specialty drinks crafted by notable chefs and mixologists.
The main event is a spectacle of intimate luxury. Unlike a typical seated dinner, award-winning chefs will execute four-course meals table side for their dedicated table of ten guests. This format allows for a rare, personal interaction with the culinary masters, turning dinner into a live, curated performance.
Maneet Chauhan will serve as the evening’s host, guiding guests through the night’s festivities. Adding to the emotional resonance, the gala will feature a special performance by Abbey Romeo, a beloved figure from the Emmy-winning series Love on the Spectrum.
A Legacy of Impact
For nearly two decades, this event has solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of New York’s philanthropic food scene. Over the past 18 years, the Autism Speaks Celebrity Chef Gala has raised more than $20 million to support programs that help autistic individuals and their families access essential resources, services, and opportunities.
This year, the event will also introduce the Bob Wright Philanthropy Award, named in honor of Autism Speaks’ co-founder. Wright, a former NBC Universal CEO, turned his family’s personal experience into a global advocacy movement. The award celebrates visionary investments in the autism field, recognizing individuals or organizations with a profound impact on improving lives across the spectrum.
How to Participate
For those looking to experience this unique intersection of haute cuisine and high impact, tickets and sponsorships for the March 31st event are still available. Supporters who cannot attend can also contribute through donations.
For more information on purchasing tickets, securing a table, or donating to the cause, visit the official event page at autismspeaks.org/chefgala.
