Finding Inspiration in a Time of Grain Innovation – Research Chefs Association

The New England and New York/Philly Metro Regions have joined forces to host an in-depth cultural and culinary event in Portland, Maine from April 28th through April 30th, 2023.

Tristan Noyes, executive director of the Maine Grain Alliance will a session titled:

Finding Inspiration in a Time of Grain Innovation – Beginning with the first Kneading Conference in 2007, the Maine Grain Alliance has provided opportunities to learn and share how best to grow and use grains to thousands of individuals across the world. The Maine Grain Alliance promotes beneficial uses of grain for good health, food independence, and purposeful jobs within viable communities. The organization connects people and supports the economic, environmental, and nutritional importance for establishing regional grain economies. In his talk, Tristan will share inspiring stories of today’s passionate grain community, their successes and challenges, and how they have helped shepherd in a new era of organic collaboration across industries.

More about the Super Regional – The Portland Culinary Experience

Portland, Maine represents a region rich in natural and man-made resources. Known for its world-class lobster, fresh seafood, craft breweries, craft coffee, potato donuts, and rising chefs, it’s an under-tapped epicenter of creativity and innovation. When traveling to Portland, many focus on finding the area’s quintessential staple: The “lobstah” roll, featuring fresh Maine lobster generously stuffed in a split-top New England-style buttered roll with warm butter or mayo. However, this is akin to visiting New York City just for bagels. Portland has gained much recognition over the past few years as a “Killer Food Scene” and “must-visit destination” by Todd Plummer of Boston Magazine on August 31, 2021, as well as being included in Vogue Magazine’s 2021 Travel Guide.

Each morning will kick off with a continental breakfast followed by a series of educational presentations. We are honored to announce that the keynote speaker will be Cathy Nash Holley, Publisher/Editor in Chief for Flavor and The Menu Magazine. This event will also include The Portland Culinary Experience, featuring 5 of Portland’s finest restaurants serving small plates representative of their house specialties directly in the comfort of the hotel ballroom. Guests may sample from each establishment while interacting with the chefs to learn about the restaurant, its cuisine, and inspirations, delivering exposure to new ideas, tastes, trends, preparations, and regional ingredients.