What is Chef Center Stage?
Chef Center Stage is an annual fundraising event to benefit the Springfield Regional Opera. Held at the newly renovated Discovery Center in downtown Springfield, guests are invited to participate in a silent auction while enjoying culinary treats prepared by some of the area’s top chefs as well as a delicious selection of fine wines, all accompanied by beautiful live music. The evening’s main even is the live charity auction of these talented chefs’ private services.

Garcia Brings Favorite to Life. Ah, La Bella Vita!
Avanzare's Chef Tony Garcia

A favorite Chef Center Stage participant, veteran Chef Tony will prepare a private meal for eight with succulent dishes inspired by the foods of northern Italy, an area renowned for both its cuisine and its excellent wines. Delizioso!
Culinary Tour de Force Brings Out Best of Jalili!
Touch - Flame - Bubbles Executive Chef Mike Jalili

Chef Mike offers a truly exceptional experience! The winning bidder and five guests will travel first class via J. Howard Fisk limousine service on a progressive dinner tour with stops at Touch Restaurant for four course appetizers with wine pairings from Brown Derby International Wine Center, Flame Steakhouse and Wine Bar for a four course dinner with wine pairings and a final stop at the newly opened Bubbles Champagne Lounge for a four course dessert complete with champagne.
“Black Box” Still a Big Hit!
Gallery Bistro's Chef Peter Tinson

Reprising the role he helped create, Chef Peter offers a “Black Box” dinner for six. Inspired by the winning bidder’s choice of cuisine, Chef Peter will prepare a delectable variation sure to delight!
Clary Showcases Talents in Small Venue
Clary’s Chef James Clary

Join Chef James at his kitchen counter while he prepares an eight course tasting menu for eight guests. Prepared as you watch, each course will be paired with a wine that brings out its distinct taste.

Exotic Tastes Premiered By Chef Alex
Kai After Dark & Haruno Executive Chef Alex Kim

Enjoy the exotic food, cocktails and atmosphere of one of Springfield’s hottest spots! Six guests are invited to enjoy an eight course dinner at the popular night spot, Kai. If you enjoy sushi, this is for you!

Favorite Fare Seen at Local Stage!
Nonna's Chef Martin Almaraz

Delight in Italian fare prepared by Chef Martin especially for you! A six course feast awaits six lucky gourmands in their home from this downtown favorite.
Real Treat Seen From Reprised Role!
Tong’s Thai Cuisine Chef Tong Trithara

Enjoy a personal chef as you get ready to cheer for your favorite team at your next tailgating party. Thai cuisine and game days go together when the food is carefully prepared by Chef Tong!
American Adaptation Sure to Please the Crowds!
Twilight Grille’s Chef Keith Fuemmeler

Springfield star Chef Keith invites you to enjoy an excellent meal of eclectic American inspiration. The winning bidder and seven friends will be treated to a five course meal any diner would be sure to relish!
South American Tour of Flavor!
Rodizio Brazilian Grill - Argentina Steakhouse Chef Angel Kim

Chef Angel would like to invite the winning bidder and seven guests to a progressive dinner, starting with a four course appetizer sampling - with wine pairings! - at Rodizio Brazilian Grill. The night ends with dinner for 8 at the fantastic Argentina Steakhouse.