Savor East Sac Chef's Challenge

An unforgettable evening. Extraordinary chefs. One coveted title.

Kick off Savor East Sac with one of Sacramento’s most exclusive culinary events as six of East Sacramento’s most talented chefs go head-to-head in an elevated competition for the title of Top Chef of East Sac.

Hosted at the beautiful Cannery Place Events & Gatherings, this intimate evening offers guests a front-row seat to an unforgettable culinary showcase featuring award-winning chefs from some of East Sacramento’s most celebrated restaurants. Previous competitions have featured award-winning talent, with Chef Rafi Salmeron of Cervecería by Urban Roots earning the coveted title in last year’s challenge. 

This year’s theme, Sacramento Bounty, celebrates the region’s incredible agricultural heritage. Each competing chef will create an original dish highlighting at least two seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the creativity, technique, and flavors that have made Sacramento America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital. 

New for 2026 

This year introduces an exciting new twist: a blind tasting competition.

Guests will know the participating chefs and restaurants before the event, but every dish will be presented anonymously. You’ll judge each creation on flavor, creativity, and execution alone before casting your vote for the coveted People’s Choice Award. The chefs’ identities won’t be revealed until after the votes are in, making every bite part of the competition. 

To close the evening on a sweet note, we’re also introducing our inaugural Pastry Chef Challenge, where talented pastry chefs will compete for dessert supremacy. 

Whether you’re a passionate foodie, an adventurous diner, or simply looking for one of Sacramento’s premier culinary experiences, the Savor East Sac Chef Challenge is an evening unlike any other. 

Friday, July 24
5:30–9:00 PM
The Cannery Place Events & Gatherings

Tickets are $150 and extremely limited to preserve the intimate experience. Attendees will receive access to all of the event details above, a welcome glass of champagne, and beer and wine to drink during the event. Additional champagne and cocktails will also be available for purchase at the bar. Participating chefs, restaurants, and judges will be announced soon. 

Reserve your seat today and experience one of East Sacramento’s most anticipated culinary events before it sells out.