The Abbey Resort to Host “An Italian Winter’s Night” Benefit Dinner for the James Beard Foundation on January 31, 2026

The Abbey Resort to Host “An Italian Winter’s Night” Benefit Dinner for the James Beard Foundation on January 31, 2026

Celebrity Chef Fabio Viviani to Join Executive Chef Noah Gümüstekin for an Unforgettable Culinary Weekend

CHICAGO, IL & FONTANA, Wisc. — The Abbey Resort is proud to announce An Italian Winter’s Night at The Abbey, an exclusive James Beard Foundation benefit dinner taking place Saturday, January 31, 2026. The evening will feature an inspired four-course menu created collaboratively by The Abbey’s Executive Chef Noah Gümüstekin and celebrity chef Fabio Viviani, best known for his breakout role on Top Chef and his acclaimed nationwide restaurant group.

This special culinary event brings together Mediterranean flavors, world-class technique, and the shared passion of two distinguished chefs—all in support of the James Beard Foundation’s mission to advance equity, sustainability, and leadership within the culinary industry.

Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception at 6:00 p.m., followed by a seated dinner at 7:00 p.m. The unforgettable experience continues Sunday, February 1, with a VIP Champagne Brunch at 10:00 a.m.

A Weekend of Culinary Excellence

Chef Noah and Chef Fabio have crafted a menu that balances elegance, comfort, and Mediterranean warmth, featuring dishes such as:

• Amuse: Scallop Ceviche with Golden Osetra caviar, calamansi, and aji amarillo (Chef Noah)

•First Course: Seared Bronzino with Manila clams, fennel–citrus salad, pickled Fresno, and Sambuca broth (Chef Noah & Chef Fabio)

• Second Course: Short Rib Fagottini with parmesan foam, scallion ash, and basil oil (Chef Noah)

• Third Course: Carved Chateaubriand with farro risotto, porcini–woodland mushrooms, and gremolata (Chef Fabio)

• Dessert: Fabio’s Tiramisu featuring espresso, mascarpone, and white chocolate pebbles (Chef Fabio)

Each course will be complemented by thoughtfully selected wine pairings designed to elevate the flavors and enhance the evening’s culinary story.

Event Details

Date:

Saturday, January 31, 2026

Cocktail Reception: 6:00 p.m.

Dinner Service: 7:00 p.m.

$200 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity

Sunday, February 1, 2026

VIP Champagne Brunch: 10:00 a.m.

$80 per person, inclusive of tax and gratuity

Location:

The Abbey Resort

269 Fontana Blvd

Fontana-On-Geneva Lake, WI 53125

Overnight Weekend Package

Guests may elevate their experience with a special overnight package starting at $729 for two, which includes:

One-night guest room stay

Two dinner tickets for the January 31 benefit

Banquet brunch for two on Sunday

Exclusive in-room amenity

Rate excludes resort fee and applicable taxes.

Tickets & Reservations

Reservations for the dinner and VIP brunch are available through the event landing page: www.theabbeyresort.com/things-to-do-lake-geneva/fjbf-dinner.

Located on the shores of Geneva Lake in Fontana, Wisconsin, The Abbey Resort is the area’s only full-service lakeside resort. Just 90 minutes from Chicago, it offers modern accommodations, exceptional dining, the renowned Avani Spa, and a full calendar of year-round events and family-friendly activities. From lakeside dining and seasonal celebrations to relaxing spa escapes, The Abbey Resort is where memories are made in every season.

For more information, visit www.theabbeyresort.com or call 1-800-709-1323.

Chef Fabio Viviani is a celebrated chef, restaurateur, hospitality developer, bestselling author, and television personality. His rise to national fame began on Bravo’s Top Chef, where he earned “Fan Favorite.” Today he leads Fabio Viviani Hospitality, operating or partnering in more than 50 restaurants across the country. With deep Italian roots, unstoppable energy, and a passion for sharing great food, Fabio remains one of the most dynamic figures in the culinary world.

Chef Noah Gümüstekin brings more than two decades of global culinary experience to The Abbey Resort. Originally from Ankara, Turkey, he has honed his craft at luxury properties around the world. His approach centers on food as a connector—bringing people together through thoughtful flavors, seasonality, and artistry. Since joining The Abbey, Chef Noah has embraced the Lake Geneva community and continues to create memorable dining moments for guests.

The James Beard Foundation (JBF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to leading chefs and the broader culinary industry towards a new standard of excellence. Our guiding principle, Good Food for Good®, informs our vision of a vibrant, equitable, and sustainable independent restaurant industry that stands as a cornerstone of American culture and drives towards a better food system. For nearly 40 years, JBF has been instrumental in recognizing, amplifying, educating, and training the individuals who shape American food culture. Today, our mission comes to life through the prestigious James Beard Awards, industry and community-focused programming, advocacy and policy initiatives, and exciting culinary events and partnerships around the country—including at our new Platform by JBF® event space in New York City. Learn more at jamesbeard.org, sign up for our emails, and follow @beardfoundation on social media.

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