FRIDAY, MAY 16TH, 2025
at
THE IRONBOUND FILM & TV STUDIOS
Savor Newark 2025:
Discover America’s Authentic Food Capital is an exciting one-day symposium that celebrates Newark's rich culinary heritage and its growing influence in the future of food — taking place on Friday, May 16, 2025.
This immersive event brings together acclaimed Michelin-starred Chef Gil Fernandes of Fortaleza do Guincho in Cascais, Portugal—often referred to as the "Portuguese Riviera"—alongside Newark’s own top chefs, restaurateurs, culinary entrepreneurs, students, and food enthusiasts.
Through engaging discussions on culinary traditions, sustainability, and innovation, the symposium highlights Newark’s unique food culture while positioning the city as a leading hub in America's authentic food movement.
Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative conversation shaping the future of food in one of the most vibrant cities in the U.S.
Newark: A City of Multicultural Influence and Culinary Innovation
Newark is a city where diverse cultures come together, creating a vibrant food scene that celebrates its rich history and global connections. Known for its immigrant energy, Newark’s culinary landscape is a direct reflection of the people who call it home.
Each culture contributes its unique flavors and traditions, resulting in an authentic and diverse dining experience. From the Portuguese, Brazilian, and Spanish influences in the Ironbound district to the growing African, Caribbean, and Asian offerings across the city, Newark is a true culinary melting pot.
This fusion of tradition and innovation not only honors Newark’s past but also shapes its exciting future, making it one of America’s most authentic and dynamic food destinations.
Special Guest:
Michelin Star Chef
Gil Fernandes is a Michelin-starred chef renowned for his innovative culinary style and profound respect for Portugal’s rich gastronomic heritage.
At just 35 years old, he leads as Executive Chef at the prestigious Fortaleza do Guincho in Cascais, masterfully blending tradition, creativity, and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
Chef Fernandes began his culinary journey at the age of 14, studying at the Escola de Hotelaria de Estoril, and later sharpening his skills in some of Europe’s top Michelin-starred kitchens.
Since taking the helm at Fortaleza do Guincho, at just 28 years old, he has successfully upheld its Michelin star, cementing his reputation as a rising star and influential voice in the world of Portuguese fine dining.
The event attracts a diverse group, including:
● Industry Professionals: Chefs, restaurateurs, food manufacturers, sustainability experts, and food tech innovators.
● Students & Food Science Researchers: Culinary students, aspiring chefs, and researchers focused on nutrition, food security, and sustainability.
● Consumers: Food enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, trendsetters, and eco-conscious consumers.
● Government & NGO Representatives: Local officials, non profits, and organizations focused on food security, sustainability, and community development.
● Media Representatives: Journalists, food bloggers, influencers, and broadcasters.
● Sponsors & Investors: Businesses and individuals invested in the food and hospitality industries.
FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2025
at
The Ironbound Film and TV Studios
164 Delancy St., Newark
7:30 AM Check In & Breakfast Reception
8:15 AM Chair Welcome Speech
Councilman Michael Silva
East Ward Council Member
City of Newark
8:20 AM Mayor Remarks
Remarks by City of Newark Mayor
Mayor Ras J. Baraka
40th Mayor of the City of Newark
8:30 AM
The Power of Local: Exploring the Intersection of Health and Sustainable Food Systems
This insightful panel explores the essential role of local food systems in advancing public health and environmental sustainability.
Leading experts in nutrition, agriculture, and community development will share the benefits of sourcing and consuming fresh, locally grown foods. Attendees will learn how local produce supports better health outcomes, how reducing food miles benefits the environment, and how to build stronger communities by supporting local farmers and food entrepreneurs.
Ideal for health advocates, sustainability champions, and anyone passionate about creating healthier, more resilient food ecosystems
Moderator
Nancy Painter
Founder & CEO
Edible Jersey
Fallon Davis
Founder & CEO
STEAM URBAN, Urban Farmer & Community Healthcare Worker
Kate Klinger
Chief Systems Transformation Officer
Newark Alliance
Claudia Mataloto
Director
Food Lab Cascais
Cascais, Portugal
Emilio S. Panasci
Executive Director / Co-Founder
Urban Agriculture Cooperative
9:20 AM
Culinary Entrepreneurship: From Kitchen to Startup
This insightful panel explores the journey of transforming a culinary passion into a thriving food business. Industry leaders in hospitality and entrepreneurship will share proven strategies for building a strong brand, scaling operations, securing funding, and overcoming the unique challenges of the food and beverage sector.
Attendees will gain actionable insights and practical advice to help turn their culinary dreams into successful ventures, while learning from real-world experiences that inspire innovation and resilience in today’s competitive food industry.
Moderator
Sakina Spruell Cole
Founder & Managing Partner
Cole Media Inc.
Dato Khabuliani
Co-Founder &
Managing Partner
Sihana Hospitality Group
Elizabeth DaSilva
AVP of Business Development & UEZ Coordinator
Invest Newark
Luis Nobre
Vice President
Sol Mar Restaurant
10:00 AM Mid-Morning Reception
Presented By Newark Alliance
10:30 AM
The Future of Culinary Education: Shaping the Next Generation of Chefs.
This dynamic panel explores how culinary education is evolving to meet the fast-changing demands of today’s global food industry. Leading educators, innovative chefs, and industry experts will discuss the integration of sustainability, technology, cultural heritage, and entrepreneurship into modern culinary training.
The session will also highlight the critical role of mentorship, access, and equity in creating a more inclusive and future-ready generation of chefs, prepared to lead diverse and dynamic kitchens worldwide.
Moderator
Mark Beal
Gen Z Expert, TEDx Speaker, Author, Marketer, Professor, Executive Director Rutgers Global Sports Business
Rutgers University
Jason Wallace
Culinary Strategist, Educator & DEI Advocate
The Restaurant Scientist
Karisa Neis-Lopez
Principal
Newark Vocational High School
Mark Speight
Chef - CTE Culinary
Newark Vocational HS - The Culinary Arts Academy
Luis Maldonado
Senior
Newark Vocational HS - Culinary Arts Academy
11:20 am
Navigating Global Flavors:
A Culinary Demonstration with Michelin-Starred Chef Gil Fernandes and Local Chefs
Join Michelin-starred Chef Gil Fernandes — Portugal’s youngest Michelin chef — along with top local culinary talents for an inspiring live demonstration.
This engaging session will showcase how to blend international ingredients and global cooking techniques while honoring cultural traditions. Attendees will learn p0to master flavor profiling, enhance their dish creation, and embrace the power of diversity in the kitchen.
Perfect for chefs, culinary students, and passionate food enthusiasts looking to elevate their skills, expand their creativity, and deepen their connection to global cuisine.
Michelin Chef Gil Fernandes
Fortaleza do Guincho
Cascais, Portugal
Brian Lopes
Chef
Mercado, Montclair, NJ
12:00 PM Governor Video Remarks
Remarks by New Jersey Governor
Governor Philip 'Phil' D. Murphy
56th Governor of New Jersey
12:10 PM
Chat & Bites with Ashley Mays (Newark Alliance & Newark Happening and Vince Baglivo (IBID): Serving Up Change
Serving Up Change: How Food is Transforming Newark
In this engaging session, Emmy Award-winning journalist Carissa Lawson leads a dynamic conversation with two of Newark’s leading voices in economic development, Ashley Mays and Vince Baglivo. Together, they will explore how Newark’s vibrant food scene is driving small business growth, fostering cultural pride, and fueling inclusive urban revitalization.
The discussion will highlight the Ironbound’s rich culinary heritage, Newark’s expanding food-centered entrepreneurship, and the vital role food plays in shaping the city’s evolving identity and strengthening its social and economic fabric.
Moderator
Carissa Lawson
News Anchor
CBS News
Vince Baglivo
Executive Director
IBID
Ashley Mays
Chief Marketing Officer & President
Newark Alliance &
Newark Happening
12:45 PM Lunch Reception
1:45 PM
Yelp 101 Presentation: Building Consumer Trust and Maximizing Your Online Presence
Unlock the Full Potential of Your Yelp Business Page.
This essential session will guide participants through the keys to building consumer trust and strengthening brand reputation in today’s digital marketplace.
Attendees will learn how to claim and optimize their Yelp listings, discover best practices for responding to customer reviews, and explore strategies to boost visibility and engagement. The session will conclude with a live Q&A, offering personalized advice and actionable tips.
Perfect for local business owners, entrepreneurs, and marketing professionals seeking to enhance their online presence and drive meaningful results.
Sara Bunge
Senior Community Director
Yelp.COM
2:30 PM
Michelin Stars and Local Chefs in the Art of Authentic Cooking: Honoring Tradition with Innovation
This inspiring panel brings together Michelin-starred Chef Gil Fernandes and top local culinary experts to explore how chefs balance culinary excellence with cultural authenticity.
Industry leaders will share insights on the challenges of sourcing authentic ingredients, preserving traditional culinary techniques, and fostering innovation in fine dining. Attendees will learn how Michelin recognition shapes a chef’s creative approach and how local chefs maintain cultural roots while introducing fresh, inventive flair to their dishes.
Perfect for culinary professionals, food enthusiasts, and anyone passionate about the intersection of tradition and innovation in global cuisine.
Moderator
Carlos Ferreira
Co-Founder & COO
Plusable
Gil Fernandes
Michelin Chef
Fortaleza do Cascais, Portugal
Vonda McPherson
Founder & CEO
Vonda's Kitchen
Brian Lopes
Chef
Mercado, Montclair, NJ
3:30 PM Mid-Afternoon Reception
Presented By Invest Newark
4:00 PM
Building Culinary Communities: Food Justice and Access
.This panel will explore the critical challenges and emerging opportunities in ensuring equitable access to healthy food in urban communities, with a focus on cities like Newark.
Experts in urban agriculture, food policy, and community health will share strategies to combat food deserts, empower local food entrepreneurs, and advance food justice initiatives. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how community-driven solutions and innovative policies can help build sustainable, inclusive food systems that support underserved neighborhoods and promote public health.
Moderator
Saul Bautista, M.D. MPH
Director of Medical Education & Community Engagement
Ethos to Farm Health
Mark Dinglasan, MBA
Executive Director
NJ OFSA and Hunger Free New Jersey
Nicole Hewitt-Cabral
Chief Sustainability Officer
City of Newark
Barbara Mintz, MS, RD
System Senior Vice President, Social Impact and Community Investment
RWJBarnabas Health
4:45 PM
Navigating the Global Supply Chain: Challenges, Opportunities & Sustainable Solutions
This panel will explore the complexities of the global food supply chain, highlighting critical issues such as supply chain disruptions, sustainability challenges, and shifting consumer demands.
Industry leaders will offer insights into how businesses are adapting through innovative strategies like local sourcing, technology integration, and sustainable practices.
Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the global food system and discover practical approaches to building more resilient and sustainable supply networks.
Moderator
Hank Zona
Wine & Food Writer
Eater.COM / Edible Jersey
Adam Seabra
Executive Vice President
Seabra Group
Luis Janota
President
Ocean Seafood Depot
5:30 PM
Bites & Beats:
A Networking Reception with Forsa La Familia
This exclusive reception combines delectable culinary offerings with vibrant entertainment, creating the ultimate event experience.
Attendees will enjoy mouthwatering food, connect with industry professionals, and unwind to the energetic sounds of Forsa La Familia. Whether you're looking to network or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere, Bites & Beats is the perfect way to cap off the Savor Newark 2025.
Don’t miss this opportunity to end the event on a high note while celebrating Newark’s thriving food scene and cultural diversity.
7:00 PM See You Next Year!
Register To Attend
Savor Newark 2025
Friday, May 16, 2025
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Thank You To Our
Partners
Sponsors
Official Airline of Savor Newark 2025
Media Partners
Plusable is a dynamic, award-winning public relations agency specializing in strategic communications that build visibility, credibility, and impact. Based in downtown Newark, New Jersey, the agency serves clients both locally and globally.
With a trilingual team fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, Plusable is uniquely positioned to connect brands with diverse audiences across cultural and ethnic markets. The agency offers a comprehensive suite of services, including media relations, brand reputation management, crisis communication, content production, digital marketing, event curation, and podcast production.
Plusable’s mission is to blend innovation with authenticity, creating meaningful human connections that elevate brands and amplify their voices. Guided by purpose and powered by relationships, Plusable is redefining modern public relations in today’s evolving media landscape.
LOCATION
THE IRONBOUND FILM AND TV STUDIOS
164 Delancy St., Newark, NJ 07105
Contact Us
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (917) 733-0363
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