NYC Top Chefs Gather for the Anne Saxelby Legacy Fund Annual Benefit
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The life and impact of the renowned artisanal cheesemaker and pioneering advocate of the American farmstead movement, Anne Saxelby, will be celebrated at the second annual benefit for the Anne Saxelby Legacy Fund (ASLF) on Wednesday, September 13, from 6 – 10 pm. Expanding upon the successful inaugural benefit in 2022, Chelsea Market will be transformed into a gastronomic showcase to raise money to support the ASLF, which matches individuals with family or community-run farms with fully paid apprenticeships – including salary, travel, room, board and all other expenses paid – so that they may learn sustainable practices and contribute to the continuity of local, organic farming.
Over 100 top chefs and artisans from some of New York’s finest restaurants and purveyors will prepare dishes for the over 2,000 benefit-goers who will convene with Saxelby’s community to honor her contribution to the worlds of food and farming and to inspire future generations of visionaries.
ASLF – established immediately after Saxelby’s sudden passing in October 2021 – endows monthlong apprenticeships for young adults to live on sustainable farms to work, learn, and create change in their communities and beyond. Since the Fund’s inception in late 2021, nearly 100 apprentices have been placed on 40 farms in 15 states, doubling in size since the inaugural benefit in 2022. Through the support of the food community and supporters of ASLF, the nonprofit hopes to continue its momentum of growth to cultivate the future of the food and agriculture industry through its apprenticeship program.
“ASLF is thrilled to be partnering with Jamestown and Chelsea Market for this incredible event honoring not only Anne’s legacy, but also celebrating this unprecedented roster of chefs and artisans,” said Susie Cover, Executive Director of the Anne Saxelby Legacy Fund. “We are so grateful for the outpouring of support that has facilitated over 60 apprentices to work on 40 farms in our 2023 season!”
Ticket Holders will enjoy an array of individually curated bites from culinary favorites, including Chefs Riad Nasr and Lee Hanson of Frenchette, Michael Anthony of Gramercy Tavern, Mario Carbone and Rich Torrisi of Carbone, Lena Ciardullo of Union Square Cafe, Max Ng of Momofuku, Alice Waters of Chez Panisse, Trigg Brown of Win Son, Rich Ho of Ho Foods, Rita Sodi of I Sodi, Jody Williams of Buvette, and many more (full list available here). Cocktails, wine, and beer will be served by vendors Grand Army Bar, Fort Defiance, Pebble Bar, Cain Vineyards, Chamber Street Wines, Red Hook Winery, Threes Brewing, and others, in addition to inventive desserts by Caroline Schiff of Gage & Tollner and Fany Gerson of La Newyorkina.
Alongside them will be many of Saxelby Cheesemongers’ fellow Chelsea Market vendors, serving the foods that have helped transform the iconic marketplace into one of the world’s top culinary destinations.
The evening will also include a silent auction and raffle featuring special culinary experiences. In acknowledgement of Saxelby’s dedication to sustainable food, farming, and waste practices, ASLF and all participating restaurants have pledged to ensure an environmentally friendly event by composting foodstuffs and disposables and minimizing single-use goods wherever possible.
Tickets for the ASLF Benefit can be purchased through Eventbrite at a base price of $250, with ticket packages (which include special bonuses from Saxelby Cheesemongers, Heritage Foods and event sponsors) beginning at $1,500. Specially priced tickets for active students and industry professionals are available for $125. A gift over $80 per person is tax-deductible and all funds raised through this year’s event will directly fund the 2024 program and ensure the network of apprentices and farms continues to grow.