EP!C’S 15TH ANNUAL BON APPÈTIT TO HOST CELEBRITY CHEF LEAH COHEN

For 15 years, a local non-profit has been bringing big-name chefs to Peoria in the name of charity. From MasterChef’s to Chopped Judges and Royal chefs to Top Chef stars, this year’s event won’t disappoint.
 
This Thursday, March 19, 2026, EP!C -- Empowering People Inspiring Capabilities - will host their 15th Annual
Bon Appétit with help from Chef Jonathan Scrivner and the team at the Par-A-Dice. Voted as the area’s Best Local Event from the Journal Star Community’s Choice awards, this culinary evening features a four-course meal by a celebrity chef, cooking demos, along with opportunities to support EP!C’s mission. Proceeds from the event help to raise critical funding that allows EP!C to provide the many services necessary for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. 
 
“We are excited to bring Chef Leah Cohen to Peoria, IL. Guests have watched her on TV and will soon be able to watch her in person.” says Colleen Halberg, EP!C’s Director of Major Gifts & Planned Giving. Chef Cohen is best known for being cast on season 5 of Bravo’s Top Chef and her regular appearances on top Food Network shows like Beat Bobby Flay and Tournament of Champions, just to name a few. Leah celebrates her Filipino heritage at her acclaimed restaurant Pig & Khao in NYC. Her tropical vibes will transport guests out of the Midwest and right into a Southeast Asian paradise.
 
During Bon Appétit guests will also have the opportunity to:
 

• Participate in a robust Silent and Live Auction
• Enter for a chance to win designer pieces of jewelry and handbag from Bremer Jewelry
• Enjoy a one of a kind, crafted meal from one of America’s top celebrity chefs.
• Help EP!C move its mission to empower people with disabilities!