to Celebrate Culinary Mentorship and Austin’s Hospitality Community

The Visit Austin Foundation is proud to announce the return of its annual Give Back Gig, taking place on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. This year’s event is centered on celebrating Austin’s culinary industry and the chefs, mentors, and rising talent who continue to shape the city’s culture, community, and future.

Give Back Gig is a unique tasting experience that brings together some of Austin’s most acclaimed chefs with students from the Austin ISD culinary program to develop and serve a collaborative tasting menu. The event highlights the power of food to connect people, create opportunity, and honor the stories, traditions, and mentorship that fuel Austin’s culinary scene.

Rooted in the belief that food is community, Give Back Gig celebrates Austin’s chefs as leaders, mentors, and storytellers. It also recognizes the culinary community’s impact in supporting local farmers, strengthening food systems, advancing sustainability, and investing in future industry professionals.

Guests will enjoy a special tasting menu created in collaboration between chefs and students, specialty beverages, and live music from local Austin musicians. 

Participating Chefs Include:

  • Executive Chef Rick Lopez | La Condesa

  • Executive Chef Ali Clem | la Barbecue

  • Executive Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph | Canje

  • Chef de Cuisine Kevin Cannon | Barley Swine

  • Chef Amanda Turner | Olamaie

  • Executive Chef Mark Dayanandan | Hilton Austin

With a special guest and emcee for the evening, Mando Rayo of United Tacos of America.

Music:

What’s an Austin evening without incredible live music? We are thrilled to announce the musical lineup for this year’s Give Back Gig.

  • The VIP Experience: The Watters

  • The Main Event: DJ Chorizo Funk

When:

  • Wednesday, April 29, 2026

  • 5:30-6:30 pm – VIP Reception

  • 6:30-9:00 pm – General Admission

Where:

  • SKYBOX on 6th
    501 W. Sixth St., Fourth Floor
    Austin, TX 78701

Tickets:

  • Tickets can be purchased via this link.

  • VIP - $200

    • VIP Reception from 5:30 - 6:30 pm includes exclusive bites prepared by Give Back Gig Alumni Chef Amanda Turner of MICHELIN-Starred Olamaie, live music from local Austin musicians, specialty craft cocktail, complimentary self-parking, and a chance to win an exclusive VIP raffle item. All GA benefits apply as well. *Limited supply of VIP tickets available.

  • General Admission - $150

    • Enjoy live entertainment, hors d'oeuvres and drinks, participate in the event raffle and prize drawings, and help celebrate Austin’s next generation of culinary talent. General Admission experience begins at 6:30 pm.

Give Back Gig proudly supports the mission and vision of the Visit Austin Foundation, Good Work Austin, and Urban Roots.