Our exclusive dinner, benefiting the Friends of the James Beard Foundation, pairs our Executive Chef, Noah Gümüstekin, with Celebrity Chef Fabio Viviani for a night of culinary delights, fine wine, and harborside hospitality.
On Saturday, January 31, experience an enchanting evening of culinary magic as Executive Chef Noah Gümüstekin and celebrity Chef Fabio Viviani host An Italian Winter's Night at The Abbey, benefitting the Friends of the James Beard Foundation. The chefs have collaborated to create a four-course menu for this special event, inspired by the Mediterranean flavors of their roots, which will be complemented by the perfect wine pairings for each course. Gather around our table for a memorable evening that treats the senses while supporting an organization dedicated to moving the culinary industry to a new standard of excellence.
VIP Champagne Brunch
Enjoy a delicious brunch in our iconic A-Frame as Chef Noah Gümüstekin and The Abbey Resort Culinary Team wish you a fond farewell.
10:00am | $80 per person* inclusive of tax and gratuity
*A service fee will be charged at time of ticket purchase. Chef Fabio Viviani will not be in attendance.
One easy package includes all the weekend's activities. Our overnight package includes:
Guest room for one night, tickets to the Benefit Dinner event on Saturday, tickets to the VIP Brunch on Sunday, and an in-room welcome amenity.
Fabio VivianiChef Fabio Viviani is a celebrity chef, restaurateur, hospitality developer, bestselling cookbook author, and television personality. He began working in professional kitchens at the age of 11, and studied under culinary legends in his home of Florence, Italy, then moved to the US in 2005 to continue his growth.
He rose to national fame in 2008 on Bravo's Top Chef, where he earned the title of "Fan Favorite." From there, he went on to appear on Top Chef:All Stars, Life After Top Chef, Cutthroat Kitchen: All-Star Tournament (Winner), Beat Bobby Flay, Tournament of Champions, and more. Fabio is also a regular guest on national television, appearing on Good Morning America, Rachael Ray, The Chew, The Talk, and more.
Fabio leads one of the most prolific chef-driven restaurant groups in the country, Fabio Viviani Hospitality, owning, operating, or partnering in over 50 restaurants across over 50 US markets, including LAGO (Lake Zurich), Giostra (Chicago), aiPazzi (Las Vegas), Zingaro (Cincinnati), and Seville (Chicago), among many others.
Along with these accomplishments, Chef Fabio has published four cookbooks, released his own lines of cookware, kitchen cutlery, wines, and Italian pantry goods, supported charitable organizations from the Alzheimer's Association to No Kid Hungry, and holds charitable supper club events at his private estate near Chicago. With unmatched energy, vision, and heart, he remains one of the most charismatic and influential figures in the culinary and hospitality industries today.
Noah GümüstekinExecutive Chef Noah Gümüstekin brings over 20 years of exceptional culinary expertise to The Abbey Resort, having honed his craft in five-star resorts and hotels across the globe. A native of Ankara, Turkey, Chef Noah’s journey in the culinary arts has taken him through a diverse range of cultures and cuisines, enriching his understanding of flavor and presentation.
Chef Noah’s culinary philosophy is simple yet profound: food is a universal connector. Whether it’s sharing a large family meal, gathering around a weekend barbecue, or enjoying an intimate dinner, he believes food enhances life’s most memorable moments. His menus are thoughtfully crafted with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, combining familiar comforts with innovative twists that excite the palate and delight the eyes.
A recipient of numerous accolades, including multiple awards from the American Culinary Federation, Chef Noah’s culinary journey has earned him respect and recognition within the industry. Now residing in the picturesque Lake Geneva area, Chef Noah has embraced the region’s welcoming Midwestern culture, and in his free time, enjoys exploring the scenic beauty around the lake—often on his motorcycle. At The Abbey Resort, he is excited to create unforgettable dining experiences for guests, blending his global experience with a deep passion for exceptional food that brings people together.
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.
Accommodations Reservations Lake Geneva Winterfest
**For bookings of 10 or fewer, a full refund will be issued for cancellations made at least 72 hours before the event. For cancellations made less than 72 hours before the event start time, no refund will be issued.
