Give Back Gig 2025

Culinary Celebration for a Cause

The Visit Austin Foundation and the Austin hospitality and culinary community celebrated National Travel & Tourism Week (NTTW) on May 7, 2025 at Assembly Hall for a night of incredible flavors, live music, and philanthropy. NTTW recognizes the vital impact of our industry on Austin’s economy, vibrant culture, and community connections.

This year’s Give Back Gig brought together Austin’s hottest chefs alongside rising talent from Travis Early College High School’s culinary program for an unforgettable tasting experience. Guests enjoyed a special tasting menu crafted in collaboration with these esteemed chefs, specialty beverages, and a live performance by Austin musician Angélica Rahe.

Featured Chefs

Chefs Amanda Turner & Michael Fojtasek | Olamaie
VIP Chef Experience
The powerhouse duo behind Olamaie, Austin’s MICHELIN Starred Southern restaurant, Chefs Amanda Turner and Michael Fojtasek have redefined modern Southern cuisine with their elegant and heartfelt dishes. Their focus on tradition and innovation makes them a must-see at this year’s Give Back Gig.

White plate, sitting on a blue napkin topped with a large leaf overflowing with corn and diced vegetables and a sweet potato "chili". Sweet Potato Tamal. Credit Arts + Labor.

Chef Alexa Mejia | Emmer & Rye
Sweet Potato Tamale
A key figure at Emmer & Rye, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand and Green Star recipient for its dedication to sustainability, Chef Alexa Mejia is known for her innovative approach to seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. With a passion for whole-grain cooking and ethical sourcing, Mejia brings a fresh perspective to modern American cuisine.

Line of stewed beef topped with delicate slices of radish, red onion and cilantro, surrounded by a rich-colored broth in a white bowl. Chile Colorado. Credit Arts + Labor.

Chef Edgar Rico | Nixta Taqueria
Chili Cachetada Taco
MICHELIN Guide Texas 2024 Young Chef Award Winner Edgar Rico is the creative force behind Nixta Taqueria, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurant known for its dedication to masa and heirloom corn. His bold flavors and deep appreciation for Mexican culinary heritage shine in every dish.

Miso glazed carrot chunks beautifully plated with a bright green sauce, thinly sliced radishes and herbs. Miso Glazed Carrots. Credit Arts + Labor.

Chef Evan LeRoy | LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue
Miso Glazed Carrots
A trailblazer in Texas barbecue, Chef Evan LeRoy’s LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue is a MICHELIN Starred barbecue joint, recognized for pushing the boundaries of smoked meats with inventive flavors and techniques. Expect bold, expertly crafted bites that showcase his mastery of cooking techniques.

Three mini tostadas topped with thin slices of antelope ceviche, cilantro leaves and mini chipotle pepper rings on a dark grey stone plate. Antelope Ceviche. Credit Arts + Labor.

Chef Jesse Griffiths | Dai Due
Venison Ceviche
As the owner and chef of Dai Due, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand and Green Star recipient for its commitment to sustainability, Jesse Griffiths is a champion of hyper-local, sustainable cooking. His dedication to utilizing Texas-grown ingredients and whole-animal butchery sets him apart as a leading voice in ethical, farm-to-table cuisine.

Special Guest & Emcee

Jess Pryles | Hardcore Carnivore
Renowned live-fire cooking expert, cookbook author, and founder of Hardcore Carnivore, Jess Pryles will be the evening’s emcee, bringing her passion for Texas cuisine and hospitality to the stage.

Supporting the Visit Austin Foundation

Proceeds from Give Back Gig support the Visit Austin Foundation, which provides scholarships, mentorship, education, and job training for current and aspiring hospitality and tourism professionals. Since its founding in 2019, the Foundation has helped individuals achieve their career goals and strengthen Austin’s hospitality workforce.