Ricky Ly

“In the worst moments of humanity, the best of humanity always shows up.” — Chef José Andrés

What an inspiring week in Winter Park with world-renowned chef, restaurateur, and humanitarian José Andrés, founder of World Central Kitchen!

Last week, more than 1,600 guests gathered at Rollins College for an unforgettable and inspirational conversation with Chef Andres hosted by the Winter Park Institute, presented by Orlando Health, and moderated by WESH 2’s Nancy Alvarez.

From childhood lessons cooking paella with his father to founding World Central Kitchen and feeding communities affected by disasters and war, Andrés shared powerful stories about leadership, food, and humanity.

“Everybody wants to do the cooking. Nobody wants to do the fire. Control the fire, and you can do any cooking you want.”

The conversation continued this past Monday evening at The Ravenous Pig in Winter Park with A Seat at the Table: Celebrating Central Florida’s Culinary Community, a special Winter Park Institute gathering in partnership with Visit Orlando.

The evening featured a José Andrés-inspired dinner and a panel of local culinary community leaders:

• Casandra Matej – President & CEO, Visit Orlando
• Pam Brandon – Food writer and cookbook author
• Chef James Petrakis – Chef and co-owner, The Ravenous Pig
• Chef Jamilyn Salonga Bailey – Chef and co-owner, Kaya
• Mike Garcia – Farmer and co-owner, Everoak Farm

Together, the panel explored what makes Central Florida’s culinary community special, opportunities for collaboration, and how food and hospitality can help care for our neighbors.

The initiative also supports Special Hearts Farm, a local nonprofit creating agricultural training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Food is often more than nourishment - It’s culture, connection, opportunity, and a way to make a difference in people’s lives.

Thank you to the Winter Park Institute, Orlando Health, Visit Orlando, and everyone involved in bringing these conversations to Central Florida!

#JoseAndres #WorldCentralKitchen #WinterPark #OrlandoFoodie #TastyChomps @nancyalvareztv @chefjoseandres @winterparkinstitute @visitorlando @kenpozek @baeelay