Join Us for Why We Cook
Experience the passion, skill, and purpose that drive some of Baltimore’s most celebrated chefs in our Why We Cook event series. Each event is a unique culinary journey, showcasing the talent and stories behind the dishes while supporting a greater cause—building brighter futures through the Franciscan Center’s Dignity Plates program.
Each evening, you’ll enjoy
- Exquisite tastings prepared by the featured chef
- Pairings to complement each bite
- Personal stories and insights from the chefs themselves
Attend one or join us for all four experiences.
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Event 1: August 25 with Zack Mills of True Chesapeake.
2025 Chef of the Year from the Restaurant Association of Maryland
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Event 2: September 30 with John Shields of Gertrude’s Chesapeake Kitchen
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Event 3: Date TBD with Jasmine Norton of Urban Oyster
James Beard Semifinalist: Best Chef Mid-Atlantic
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Event 4: DATE TBD
Reserve your seat today!
Space is limited for these intimate dinners.
Only 40 seats are available per evening.
$175 per person or sponsor the entire evening for 40 guests for $6,000.
Only 40 seats are available per evening.
$175 per person or sponsor the entire evening for 40 guests for $6,000.
Sponsored by:
By attending, you’re helping support aspiring culinary professionals through the Franciscan Center’s Dignity Plates program – reminding us that the journey behind the plate matters just as much as the final dish.