The Thomas Jefferson Foundation, the private, nonprofit organization that owns and operates Monticello, announced today the launch of Culinary Diplomacy at Monticello. Presented in partnership with The Culinary Diplomacy Project, this dynamic new series will feature prominent chefs, culinary experts, and historians exploring the intersection of food, history, and culture.
Inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s legendary dinners which were renowned for their cuisine and conversation, this series will share how food has been—and continues to be—a bridge for cultural understanding and communication.
“Food has always been a vehicle for connection, and there’s no better place to explore the power of culinary diplomacy than Monticello,” said Jane Kamensky, president of Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. “By inviting today’s most innovative chefs to interpret historic recipes and share their stories, we continue Jefferson’s tradition of using food to foster community, curiosity, and conversation.”
Culinary Diplomacy at Monticello will launch during Civic Season 2025 and continue throughout 2026 with quarterly events. The inaugural Culinary Diplomacy programming this June will feature Chef Marc Murphy…