As the anticipation builds for Classique 2025, we invite you to imagine what’s to come — an unforgettable fusion of culinary artistry, stunning design, and heartfelt purpose. From the first glass raised in welcome to the final note of celebration, each moment has been thoughtfully crafted to surprise, delight, and inspire.

Goes Live October 31 and ends November 2 at 630p

Begin your Classique experience with an elegant reception featuring hors d’oeuvres crafted by some of Monterey County’s most talented local chefs. Each bite is a masterpiece—beautifully paired with the signature wines of Talbott Vineyards, including their celebrated Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sparkling Wine.

Raise a glass, savor the flavors, and let the evening’s magic unfold.

Doors to the Grand Ballroom open—revealing a breathtaking showcase of creativity and elegance. Wander through an extraordinary collection of tablescapes, each one an original masterpiece crafted by this year’s talented designers.

Meet the visionaries behind the designs, hear their inspirations, and experience firsthand the artistry that transforms dining into an unforgettable sensory experience.

It’s time to gather around the table and experience the magic of Classique. Enjoy a heartfelt welcome and inspiring words that remind us why we’re here—to uplift, to connect, and to make a difference together. The journey ahead promises extraordinary flavors, powerful stories, and a celebration of what community can achieve when we come together.

The evening begins with an exquisite first course crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Rogelio Garcia of Auro at Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley. Renowned for blending his Mexican heritage with California’s seasonal bounty, Chef Garcia presents a dish that’s both soulful and sophisticated—an inspired start to an unforgettable meal.

For our vegetarian guests, Chef Michael Chang of Foray, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers his own artistry—an elegant, garden-forward creation that celebrates local ingredients in perfect harmony.

Together, these two visionary chefs set the stage for an evening of culinary excellence.

The second course pairs two world-class chefs at the peak of their craft.

From Las Vegas, Chef James Trees, the James Beard Award–winning powerhouse behind Esther’s Kitchen, brings his soulful interpretation of modern Italian cuisine.

Joining him, Chef Michael Rotondo of Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa presents a stunning vegetarian alternative—elevated, vibrant, and deeply rooted in California’s coastal bounty.

The third course ignites the evening with the brilliance of MICHELIN-starred Chef John Tesar, the visionary behind Knife, Knife & Spoon, Knife Plano, Knife Burger, and Outer Reef.

Renowned for redefining the modern steakhouse and pushing culinary boundaries, Chef Tesar brings his signature innovation and precision to the Classique table—crafting a dish that’s bold, refined, and unforgettable.

For our vegetarian guests, Chef Michael Rotondo of Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa once again delivers an exquisite alternative—seasonal, sophisticated, and deeply inspired by California’s coastal bounty.

Together, these chefs transform tradition into art, creating a course that celebrates craftsmanship, creativity, and the pure joy of dining.

The excitement peaks as we kick off our Live Auction and Paddle Raise—a moment where passion meets purpose. Get ready for friendly competition, unforgettable prizes, and the opportunity to make a real difference for the seniors and families Meals on Wheels serves every day.

Your bids don’t just win experiences—they deliver meals, connection, and care where it’s needed most.

The evening crescendos with a dessert crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Kelly McCown, Executive Chef of The Kitchen in Sacramento. Renowned for transforming fine dining into performance art, Chef McCown brings a career defined by passion, precision, and storytelling to the final course.

His inspired dessert will deliver a harmonious blend of comfort and complexity—a true masterpiece to close an unforgettable evening.

As the night draws to a close, we will celebrate not just exquisite food, stunning design, and shared laughter—but the true spirit of community. Being part of this unforgettable evening in support of Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula will deliver more than meals—it will deliver hope, dignity, and connection to those who need it most.

An Evening to Remember.