The inaugural Flavors of Passion Awards, recognizing four Hispanic chefs, will serve as a red-carpet event for a distinguished list of local and international guests on July 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Dallas' historic Warwick Melrose Hotel. Plans include a reception with gourmet hors d’oeuvres prepared by award-winning celebrity chefs, as well as a full open bar of sponsored specialty spirits and wine tasting. As the evening comes to a close, the honorees (below) will all be recognized and presented with their customized awards:
  • Local Dallas-Fort Worth Award: Dunia Borga, executive chef and owner, La Duni, Dallas
  • Texas State Award: Polo Becerra, executive chef and owner, Post Oak Grill, Houston
  • National Award: Jesse T. Perez, executive chef, Nava, Atlanta
  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Roberto Santibañez, executive chef, chef consultant and chef advisor for Sabores Authenticos de Mexico "Truly Mexican" New York City
The inaugural campaign will be conducted by Flavors of Passion founder and executive chef Felipe Gaytan; honorary chair City of Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Elba Garcia; and a Steering Committee made up of local and international community, civic and corporate leaders. The Flavors of Passion Awards aim to bring recognition to the contributions of the Latino culinary culture, providing a showcase of the "Best of the Best" Latino chefs in the United States. For more information or to register, visit www.flavorsofpassionawards.com.