2026 Culinary Affair
The Iowa Restaurant Association’s Culinary Affair, an exclusive seven-course, wine-paired dining experience, returns to the downtown Des Moines Embassy Club on Sunday, April 12. Held 33 stories above the city, the evening will feature seven courses prepared by seven chefs, each paired with a complementary wine from E. & J. Gallo Winery and set against breathtaking 360-degree views of downtown Des Moines.
The curated lineup of chefs represents the greater Des Moines area’s vibrant culinary community. Each chef will present a unique course, offering guests the opportunity to experience a range of culinary styles, techniques, and flavors throughout the evening. Tickets are $150 and include the full seven-course dinner with wine pairings, tax and gratuity. A silent auction featuring top restaurants, hotel stays, and unforgettable experiences across the state will take place throughout the evening, benefiting the Iowa Restaurant Association Education Foundation. Seating is extremely limited for this one-of-a-kind culinary showcase. Reservations are available at www.restaurantiowa.com or by calling 515-276-1454.
2026 Culinary Affair Chef List
• Hors d’oeuvres: Chef Zack Boyke, Aura Restaurant & Lounge (Clive) assisted by state culinary competition champions Cedar Rapids Prairie High School ProStart students
• Soup: Chef Joe Poindexter & Chef Kat Louk, Gateway Market (Des Moines)
• Salad: Chef Arturo Mora, Roots 95 & Flame Group (Johnston
• Fish: Chef Jacob Kono, Trostel’s Greenbriar (Johnston)
• Intermezzo: Chef Matt Uitermarkt, The Des Moines Embassy Club (Des Moines)
• Entrée: Chef Anthony Nace, Park Street Kitchen + Bar, Hilton Des Moines Downtown
• Dessert: Chef Jessica Robertson, Oak Park (Des Moines)
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3539981-0
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3539981-2
