On June 8th, the culinary world gathered at Cipriani South Street in Manhattan for the 38th Annual Chefs’ Tribute to Citymeals on Wheels. Olio Piro was honored to participate in this long-standing gastronomic tradition, uniting with top chefs to raise awareness and critical funds for New York City’s homebound elderly.
The impact of the evening was historic:
- Funds Raised: $1 million.
- Direct Impact: 100,000 life-sustaining meals funded for older New Yorkers in need.
A Gathering of Culinary Excellence
For nearly four decades, the Chefs’ Tribute has brought together the nation's most decorated culinary professionals in support of a singular, compassionate mission. The walk-around tasting stations featured an impressive roster of culinary innovators.
Among the celebrated names in attendance were Daniel Boulud and Romain Paumier (Café Boulud), Alex Guarnaschelli (Clara and Butter), Andrew Carmellini (Carne Mare), Charlie Palmer & Adam Raskin (Charlie Palmer Steak IV and Akoya), Emma Bengtsson (Aquavit), Marc & Larry Forgione (Forgione), and Einat Admony (Balaboosta, Moondog HiFi).
“Every dish served tonight helps deliver not just nourishment, but dignity. These meals help older New Yorkers stay in their homes and communities—where they want to be.”
— Legendary Chef and Board Chair Daniel Boulud
Piro’s Ambassadors: Community, Compassion, and Comradery
Representing the Olio Piro family were our wonderful friends and collaborators: Piro Ambassador Chef Che Spiotta (official winner of Season 7: MasterChef Junior at just 12 years old), Chef Alberto Marcolongo, and EVOO sommelier Christian Vitti.
The event fostered fantastic moments of connection. A highlight of the evening was when Chef Che Spiotta met Chef Daniel Boulud, Board Chair of Citymeals on Wheels.
"It was an honor to meet Chef Daniel Boulud and I appreciate how involved he was with the entire event. He even watched the Knicks game with us!"
— Chef Che Spiotta, Piro Ambassador
Echoing the spirit of a truly winning team, Chef Alberto Marcolongo captured the essence of the night perfectly:
"Great food really does bring people together; a great cause gives it purpose."
— Chef Alberto Marcolongo
It was indeed a Big Night in the Big Apple—proof that exceptional, shared food really can change lives.
Picture of Cipriani South Street taken by EVOO sommelier Christian Vitti
Throughout the evening, Piro also had the pleasure of offering a small token of appreciation to many of the participating chefs. Those returning home locally received our 250 mL luxury tasting bottle, while chefs traveling home were gifted our convenient 100 mL travel-size bottle—perfectly sized to fit in a carry-on suitcase.
It's a small detail, but one inspired by the way today's chefs live and travel. Supporting culinary professionals means understanding their world, whether they're in the kitchen, on the road, or inspiring the next generation.
Explore more of Olio Piro's culinary journey:
- Read about our Convergence of Excellence with Eleven Madison Home
- Discover Piro at Nationals Park’s Stadium Chef Series with Chef Ryan Ratino
