About the Event
TOAST! to the Children is hosted by Tom Colicchio of Bravo Network’s Top Chef and Head Chef/Owner of Crafted Hospitality. Children of Bellevue’s amazing annual gala brings together 16 chefs from around NYC producing a one-of-a-kind tasting event. All funds go to critical programs that support children and families throughout the year.
For 75+ years, Children of Bellevue has been a lifeline for New York City’s most vulnerable children, providing medical care, emotional safety, and hope to over 50,000 children annually.
Our 2026 TOAST! Honoree
ED BROWN
For more than 30 years, Chef Ed Brown has cultivated culinary prowess by working in some of the most celebrated kitchens in the world. In 2022, Brown assumed the leadership role of Chief Executive Officer for Restaurant Associates and an Officer of its parent company, Compass Group.
Brown’s passion and talent have earned him wide acclaim, including the coveted Michelin star and an impressive 14 stars from The New York Times for such properties as Marie Michelle, Tropica, Judson Grill, and The Sea Grill.
In 2008, Brown fulfilled his lifelong dream of owning a restaurant and opened Eighty One. The Upper West Side eatery was an immediate hit and earned a highly coveted Michelin star. Additionally, in 2009, he created the casual and authentic seafood eatery, Ed’s Chowder House. However, in March 2010, in light of a tumultuous economy, Brown decided to close Eighty One and pursue other opportunities that included a return to Restaurant Associates as the company’s Chef | Innovator.
In addition, Brown is a frequent guest on NBC’s Today Show, CBS’s Morning Show, a competitor on Iron Chef America, a judge on Beat Bobby Flay, and the author of The Modern Seafood Cook. Ed Brown’s varied experience is synonymous with an entrepreneurial spirit, quality, and culinary innovation. Ed was honored at C-CAP’s 2023 annual national benefit for his leadership in the food industry and is now on the National Board. He also sits on the board as Vice Chairman of the New York Common Pantry.
About the Need
Children of Bellevue responds with comprehensive, family-centered care through programs that go beyond medicine to heal, uplift, and empower.