2026 So-Cal Chef Open: A Taste of Temecula Valley

Every summer for the past 18 years, Southern California’s top chefs, foodies, and philanthropists from around Southern California have gathered under the stars for a the So-Cal Chef’s Open, a fundraiser benefitting the Oak Grove Center’s Culinary Arts Vocational Program. This program helps prepare thousands of Southern California’s at-risk and special needs youth for adulthood, by teaching them employable skills and offering real world experience. (You can visit Oak Grove Culinary Creations, a bakery in Old Town Temecula to see this program in action—and taste some delicious treats while you’re at it.)

Historically, the So-Cal Chef Open has been an evening of friendly competition as dozens of chefs compete for the honor of winning the top prize, the Pinnacle Award, from a panel of industry judges, and the People’s Choice Award from the event’s guests. Past winners have included Chef Rosie O’Connor of Food Network and Cooking Channel fame and Chef Matthew Steffen of nearby Murrieta Hot Springs Resort.

2026 So-Cal Open Event Details

This year, the concept is evolving from a competition to a showcase of the regions best culinary talents. Guests will enjoy delicious small plates prepared by local chefs on-site at beautiful Galway Downs. For food enthusiasts, there will be the opportunity to interact directly with the chefs at the gathering.

The event will also highlight local wineries, breweries, and cocktails from popular bars. There will be live music and Galway Downs is promising an “elevated, social atmosphere.”

2026 Participating Restaurants, Chefs, Wineries, Breweries, Bartenders, and Bars

This is an initial list, more participants will be added as they are announced.