Celebrity Chef Culinary Extravaganza
FOOD and WINE PAIRING, COMMUNITY, and sCHOLARSHIP GIVING
EST. 1995
Annual event since its founding
SELLS OUT
Every year without exception
$1.3M+
Given back to the WNY community
PREMIER EVENT
Food and wine pairing experience
Our Mission
An evening of excellence in honor of Ilio’s Legacy
The Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Committee is proud to host its Annual Celebrity Chef Dinner, a premier event that has become one of Western New York’s most celebrated scholarship fundraisers, selling out every year since its founding in 1997.
About the Event
A culinary evening built on community
The Annual Celebrity Chef Dinner is the cornerstone fundraising event of the Ilio DiPaolo Scholarship Fund. Each fall, supporters from across Western New York gather for an exceptional evening of food, wine, and community spirit, all in service of a mission that has never wavered.
The event features a curated food-and-wine pairing by Empire Merchants & Empire Merchants North, transforming each course into a memorable culinary experience. Tables fill up quickly, and this event has sold out every single year it has been held.
Established in 1997, the Scholarship Fund has given back over $1.3 million to our WNY community through scholarships, donations, and support for local charities and athletic programs. Every seat at this dinner is a direct contribution to that mission.
What to Expect
An evening you won’t soon forget
Celebrity Chef Experience
Each year’s event showcases culinary talent in a setting that blends fine dining with genuine WNY warmth. An unforgettable evening of food, story, and celebration.
Food and Wine Pairing
A masterfully curated food and wine pairing experience by Empire Merchants and Empire Merchants North, each course paired with wines selected to complement and elevate the flavors.
Scholarship Giving
Proceeds from every ticket directly fund scholarships for Western New York student athletes, continuing the legacy of education, athletics, and community that Ilio DiPaolo built.
With Gratitude
Thank you to everyone who makes this possible
From every guest who fills a seat to every donor who gives generously, this event exists because of your commitment to Ilio’s values and to Western New York’s student athletes.
We extend special thanks to our featured partners whose contributions make the Celebrity Chef Dinner the premier event it has become:
Empire Merchants
Food and wine pairing partner
Empire Merchants North
Food and wine pairing partner
